Believe it or not, we're now three years into the PS5 generation — about a third of the way (probably more) through its lifespan before the inevitable PS6. Sony's system has come a long way in that time, and the platform holder is determined to see it a success, aggressively pushing hardware and crafting top tier games to justify a purchase. While the journey's far from over, the anniversary has us feeling reflective, especially as these first few years have been anything but smooth.
Starting at the start, the PS5 launched during a period of worldwide tumult. The COVID-19 outbreak of course had a global impact, but despite this obstacle, Sony pushed to release its brand new console before the end of 2020. The good news is that the console sold out immediately — on the face of it, a great start. The bad news is that the pandemic meant manufacturing new machines to meet demand became much slower than required, resulting in PS5 shortages that would become a thorn in Sony's side for the first couple of years.
At least the console launched with a healthy batch of software. Sony itself published lots of fantastic games alongside PS5, including the excellent Demon's Souls remake, a rock solid side story in Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales, and the charming Sackboy: A Big Adventure. That's not to mention the fantastic Astro's Playroom, installed on every PS5 to demonstrate the DualSense, the console's fancy new controller. Of course, there was more than just these first-party treats; other launch day highlights included big hitters like Assassin's Creed Valhalla and Call of Duty Black Ops: Cold War, as well as indies like Bugsnax and The Pathless. While the launch lineup of software was largely very good, there were some duds. Online action game Godfall didn't measure up, and Watch Dogs Legion's play-as-anyone conceit left it feeling faceless.
The games lineup has only gone from strength to strength, with Sony's own studios in particular releasing some cracking titles for PS5. Barring some exceptions, though, a lot of games on PS5 are also on PS4. The cross-pollination of software hitting both consoles has been far higher here than in any previous generational switch. While the likes of Returnal, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Marvel's Spider-Man 2, Baldur's Gate 3, and Final Fantasy XVI are a few examples of current-gen-only releases, a lot of other high profile games also launched on Sony's older console. Noteworthy exclusives like Horizon Forbidden West, God of War Ragnarok, and Gran Turismo 7 are all brilliant, but all cross-gen. That arguably doesn't matter when the games are of this quality, but that we're only starting to see PS4 being left behind now, about three years into PS5's cycle, means the newer machine has had fewer opportunities to really sing.
All that being said, even the games that are cross-gen often feel much superior on PS5. The ultra-fast SSD means current-gen titles load considerably faster than ever; the machine's built-in 3D audio solution gives games spatial sound; and the DualSense's haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, when used to their fullest, can be transformative. The games built only for PS5 highlight all these benefits even further, with the aforementioned Returnal and Rift Apart being prime examples.
But another part of PS5's success so far — it's keeping pace with PS4's sales trajectory, launch aligned, despite the early stock issues — is Sony's commitment to hardware and accessories. Games drive console sales, but it's important for that hardware to be attractive, and the platform holder has provided a range of add-ons that make PS5 feel unified and premium. Alongside the console, the company launched the HD Camera, Media Remote, and Pulse 3D Wireless Headset, and DualSense Charging Station — all following the PS5's curvy, white and black design.
Since then, we've had various new DualSense and cover plate colours, the DualSense Edge and upcoming Access controller, and the PS Portal, which launches in a matter of days. On top of all that, of course, is the brilliant PSVR2 — an enormous step forward from the original PSVR in many ways. Closing in are also the Pulse Explore earbuds and Pulse Elite headphones, and a revised PS5 model has just hit retail too. It all speaks to this idea of PS5 being something bigger than just a console and some cool games.
An under-appreciated part of the machine that extends this idea of unity is the integration of the PS Store into PS5's UI. Browsing and buying on PS Store is a night-and-day improvement over PS4, where a separate, sluggish app takes its time to boot up and load pages. It's probably the most successful part of PS5's interface, which many might argue is a step back in some regards. Firmware updates arrive fairly swiftly, but a handful of quality-of-life features from last gen have yet to transition over. Still, PS4 took a while to get where it is today.
It was also during this three-year period in which Sony completely overhauled PS Plus. The three-tier system we're now used to extends the subscription's value, with the higher tiers rivalling Xbox's Game Pass in terms of bang for your buck. It's a big improvement overall, letting users choose a membership that suits them best. There are weaknesses here — the retro games collection offered with PS Plus Premium is still pretty lacklustre — but over time, we're hopeful these will improve.
All in all, then, we'd say PS5 is doing pretty great three years in. Its Achilles' heel, we suppose, has been a general lack of current-gen-only games. While they do exist, and there are some truly excellent ones, the industry is struggling to let go of the PS4 generation, presumably due to a temptingly large install base. We imagine this will fade away over the next few years, though, and PS5 will really find its voice.
Anyway, that's what we think, but what about you? How are you feeling about PS5 now we're three years down the line? Take part in our poll, and have your say in the comments section below.
Comments 113
Cross gen has gone on too long. Love my PS5 though.
It's been the best three years of gaming for me, in terms of both games played and the amount of games I've completed, love the dualsense controllers and the clean simple UI with no ads in site. There's been a VR add on and now a remote play device so it's definitely been a impressive first 3 years from Sony.
Only thing missing now is some more first party exclusives and for the love of God make Astro a proper game!!
Loving it. Never had it better if you're a gamer.
The PS5 is the first console I've ever owned since launch, and it became my default console faster than any other. There's no denying that playing on it is just more fun than any other system I've owned. And I have a feeling that the best is still yet to come. And considering the offerings we've gotten so far, that's a really exciting feeling.
Best gaming of my lifetime has happened on this wonderful console ❤️🙏
I have a day one ps5 and I have had to take it apart twice to remove the dust. Otherwise it overheats and turns the system off. Besides that I really love this device, even if it looks like an awful alien ship
I love my PS5. Fantastic console and the Dualsense is excellent. Great bunch of games released as well so far between first and third party. That backlog just keeps growing. May be a slow year for first party but I've had plenty of fun playing the games we've been treated to this year.
First console was the PS1 and owned all the Sony systems since. I've never enjoyed a console as much as I have the PS5. Demon's Souls out of the gate was nuts.
If anything, with the advent of services like PS Plus, I feel pretty paralyzed by choice more than anything. Demon's Souls, Ratchet and Clank, Returnal, Horizon, Gran Turismo 7, God of War Ragnarok... It's been a ride.
Could go on about the amazing third party stuff. Final Fantasy XVI, Elden Ring, Dead Space, Resident Evil 4, Cyberpunk 2077 2.0, and so much more. Then all the awesome indie titles like Inscryption, Cult of the Lamb, Sea of Stars, Stray, etc... it's just sort of mind boggling.
Cross gen lasted way too long for my liking though and slowed progress down.
for me it just feels as though its just getting going
I like my PS5 but it feels like we are only just beginning with it. Really hope we have quite a few years left till they replace it with PS6. PS3 is still the best console for me but PS5 is getting closer.
I still loved the ps3 better , the jump from ps2 to ps3 was a real game changer for me but do like my ps5 alot👍🏻
"Talking Point: As PS5 Turns 3, How Are You Feeling About It?"
Old, I guess?
For me it's been a great continuation of the PS4. Don't mind Sony having a go at some of these gaas games if there's still roughly the same amount of top tier must play single player 1st party bangers to come and enjoy. Hoping the 2nd half of PS5 gen improves just like it did with the PS4s 2nd half banger after banger
Well to me its as one of the most powerfull computers money can buy. That is pretty great in opinion
I'm feeling luke warm about it personally. The device itself is cool but the library hasn't really been to my tastes thus far.
Elden Ring is the only game I think I'll remember fondly for years, and that was a cross gen game I could have played on a ps4.
3 years already. I love my PS5 so much I have 2. And I don't miss my Jet fan of a PS4.
It’s certainly quieter than my PS4. And I like that the turbo drive let me play Pillars 2 without the insane 2 minute load times. Not much else to say unfortunately!
I bought it in anticipation of VR2 so I’m very happy with it. Would have liked its power to be used more, but with the limitated stock it’s understandable the cross gen period ran longer. Looking forward to what the future brings.
Not sure consoles need to get much more powerfull then this (at least not in the near future). Which again is kind of great.
@DonkeyFantasy
Totally, I'm still waiting for a true PS5 first party exclusive I want to play.
I think the PS5 is a fantastic console from a hardware perspective, but I can’t help but feel a bit let down by the games so far. 3 years in and there’s only a couple of games that have really wowed me or felt like a big step up from PS4
Part of me still thinks it's a bit PS4.5 but that's probably down to cross-gen games still being released.
When I actually stop and think about all the great games I've played on my PS5, it's very hard to complain.
Also at a point now where if a game has a loading screen that's over a few seconds long, it's super noticeable.
Probably the worst Playstation I've owned. I've owned all of them except for the PS2.. And I can easily say the 5 is my least favourite one. No custom backgrounds, no folders, no more Gravity Rush or Infamous type games.. Just more generic open world games and live service ones.. I only find myself playing PS4 games on the 5, as there's simply nothing to play on it that isn't a generic open world game. However, Ratchet and Clank Rift Apart was really friggen good. But then, Insomniac Games seems to be the ONLY developer actually putting some effort into their games these days.. for Playstation anyway.
Damn shame. The PS1, PS3 and PS4 were amazing consoles.. and I heard good stories about the 2 as well. Too bad I ditched that one in ''favor'' for the Gamecube back in the day
it’s still the worst playstation i’ve ever had.
very weak library & no features.
@Shaunholio
My feeling is there aren't many games that have that "wow" factor in terms of purely graphics, although I'd nominate Ratchet and Clank and the Demon's Souls remake as being among the prettiest games I've ever seen on any system.
I want to see the cross gen period ended so we can get something that really pushes the needle forward like Uncharted did for the PS3 generation.
All these conversations about a PS5 Pro are pretty presumptuous to me, considering it seems they haven't even unlocked the potential of the base model system yet.
Great console no doubt, but cross gen games are really holding it back from its full potential now, it needs to stop. I want to see more PS5 only games next year and to see how far it can be pushed.
I love it! It's my 2nd favorite PS behind the PS2. If it had more fantasy RPGs (not turn-based) like the PS2 did, it would be my favorite PS console.
Enjoying the speed and performance.
Sadly, the PS store download speeds are still ***** even after all these years.
The console is great, game offerings not so much. It lacks the variety that the early PS1 and PS2 era had to offer.
I'm shocked that a lot of decent older games are still missing such as FFXIII, the older franchises such as Fight Night, and some of those older Tiger Woods games.
I still think Sony are missing a trick or two overall, but the console is holding up very well on it's own.
I love it. Silent as a whisper, super fast loading times, smooth UI and an excellent controller.
In terms of game catalogue, between regular PS4 games that I haven't got round to, PS4 games that received a free update, the PS5 versions of cross-gen titles and genuine PS5 games, I've never had a greater wealth of brilliant games available to me on a single platform.
And it feels like the gen has only just begun, so I'm sure there are great things ahead.
I've enjoyed it.
It hasn't gotten much use for the past few months since it's an exclusives-only machine, but the exclusives I have played have been great.
No need for one now that Nintendo is the only one of the big three releasing proper exclusives.
I'm actually a fan of this move, though, since it means I can play them in hybrid form on PC/Steam Deck now.
In terms of their first-party catalogue... I miss Japan Studio. The Horizons and God of Wars are good, of course, but there just isn't much in the way of exclusive software to draw me in like there was with previous consoles.
@nomither6
I think if you look at the system just in terms of its "exclusives," a very specific type of person could say the library isn't too hot. I wouldn't agree, but some people might not dig what Sony is offering, especially since they focus on 2-3 specific genres.
But the library includes third party stuff too. Capcom, FromSoft, etc. have been on fire. Indie games have been plentiful and amazing as well. I'd say AA stuff is the biggest casualty of this gen, but there is some of that too in games like Evil West and Psychonauts 2. Just not as much as I'd like, but if you include PS4 back compatibility you have a positively gargantuan library representing every genre and taste. We are absolutely spoiled this gen.
@Ralizah Precisely my point! Japan Studio provided some really cool and interesting new titles, like Gravity Rush and even Knack. That same charm is just missing with the PS5.. It's just generic open world 1 (Horizon), generic open world 2 (Spider Man) and Generic semi-open world 3 (God of War). That's all there is to play. It's sort of ridiculous.
Nintendo really is the only one that's actually doing it right this generation. Not all the time of course (Urgh, Paper Mario Origami King). But still loads better than Sony or even Microsoft.
Cyberpunk 2077 looks and plays amazing on it.
@Mauzuri lol I actually loved The Origami King, but I take your point. They publish a variety of games every year, from low-budget niche remakes to AAA megahits. It provides an environment where there's always something fun to buy and play. Sony used to have more variety in that vein in generations past.
I've been replaying Gravity Rush Remastered lately. It's so much fun, even as imperfect as it is, and it makes me incredibly salty that this incredible studio was nuked from orbit by HQ.
Finally was able to score one April last year (a little late to the party). Only ‘complaint’ I have is that the inside probably needs a good dusting, which I am too lazy and more so unskilled to do.
Probably my least favorite PlayStation overall so far, there's barely any variety with the exclusives and it feels like we're getting far less of them. Despite the PS5 being several times more powerful then PS3 (and PS4) it has allot less features 😐
Great hardware, but weak library of native PS5 exclusives. The cross-gen continued for too long now, which made this feel more like a PS4 Pro 2, instead. Hopefully this generation finally gets going for real, next year, even though half of this gen, might have passed already.
I hope the PS6 have a better start, with no cross-gen games.
Same goes for Xbox this generation.
PS3, had lots of problems with framerates, but still, that felt like the last generation, where the AAA industry still took risks.
So damn tired of all the remakes, remasters, sequels, hours of cinematics and open worlds...
I say it's a super solid start. Japan Studio going away sucked, and I'd echo the overall sentiment that while I believe there is more diversity in Sony's first party lineup then they get credit for (3 platformers, a destruction derby game, an arcade rogue-like shooter, a racing game, a souls game) there are too many open world or semi-open world action games with RPG-lite elements.
I would put God of War, Horizon, Miles Morales, Spiderman 2, as well as the Ghost of Tsushima, Death Stranding, Last of Us, and Uncharted PS5 ports all in the same broad category, and it is becoming saturated.
We could use horror, flight sims, western and Japanese-style RPGs, car combat, first person shooters from Sony. We have most of that from third parties but I want to see some different genres from first party devs.
@Ralizah Yeah, that's basically what's making me so hostile towards Sony these days. Knack - in my opinion - deserved a final third game to wrap the story up.. At least Gravity Rush got the finale it deserved. I need to get back to Gravity Rush at some point; Kat is still my favourite Playstation hero, next to Spyro and (even though he's not a PS icon anymore), Crash
I haven't played a lot so far that I couldn't have played on my PS4. It's kinda a let down, I hope they drop the cross-gen stuff soon.
Demon's Souls and Spider-Man 2 are amazing!!! This is how I feel about my PS5
Pretty happy, I love the hardware and UI. I'm over the hangover from this past May's showcase fiasco, but I need to see a series of solid exclusive AAA announcements for PS5 and PSVR2 to get back to the excited place I was at 2 years ago. Would also like to see friends' trophy achievements in some sort of feed again (a la PS4)
I love mine. The performance boosts alone make it worthwhile plus I get to take my 500+ digital PS4 games with me. I also love that my PS5 isn’t as loud as my PS4 Pro was. Game-wise, we’re 3 years in and already have a Horizon, God of War, Ratchet, two Spider-Mans, Gran Turismo, on top of stuff like Resident Evil, Alan Wake, Elden Ring, etc. This console generation has been awesome.
PlayStation has been my primary console since the original and it just keeps getting better with each iteration.
The most disappointing generation from Sony thus far on a first party front. They never committed to a new generation aside from pushing hardware sales alongside mostly formulaic, safe and dated cross Gen sequels and remasterakes. The lack of innovation and variety from the first party front is more glaring than ever. Even still we have one studio that has done literally nothing this Gen other than release needed remakes with one rumored on the way for TLOU 2, alongside their sidelined factions disaster.
The 3rd party bangers have somewhat muddied those waters in terms of clarity and largely carried the generation. As there have been some amazing games on that front that are truly current Gen exclusive and been great.
It’s been very good. Now that I'm older, I have the luxury of owning every game console but less time to game. And now that gaming is bigger than ever, there are more games to play than ever before.
Taking all that in to account, this has been a great new generation for me. The PS5 exclusives have been great. They look and play awesome on my TV set. This could all be because of the whole “more games, less time” thing, but it’s been a fun ride for me. Great console.
@KundaliniRising333
Third party games have been absolutely insane. Capcom has ripped the crown from Sony first party devs this generation, and I'm just not sure they can do anything wrong at this point. And the indie titles have been on point too. Would like to see more AA experimental stuff overall though.
For every generation since the PS1, my four favorite devs has always fluctuated between Konami, Capcom, Nintendo, and Sony. Capcom is winning this round for me by a country mile. And the others (excluding Konami, RIP) aren't anything to laugh at either, so that's really saying something.
Been very good so far so good.
More concerned about 2024 and moving forward.
Hopefully all will be great in the house of Sony.
To me PS5 has really shined this year with Spiderman 2 and HFW: Burning Shores. They really showed that PS4 wasnt enough. Playing PS4 games in 60fps was a treat and now I only play in performance modes. Two Thumbs up. 👍🏽👍🏽
Got a day one PS5 and it hasn’t given me any problems whatsoever. Use it daily and the console has given me nothing but joy. This year especially has just been wild in terms of the quality of games available. Looking forward to seeing what else is cooking
@Ralizah I hear you, I LOVED the Gravity rush games. But HQ didnt nuke Japan Studio, the fans who didnt buy their games did. That and probably the enormous budget for The Last Guardian that I'm sure it never made back.
Love it. Easily the best playstation i've owned. Once cross gen parity stops holding it back its only going to get better.
As most people already mentioned, cross-gen should end at this point. That said, I think 2023 was the year that actually started the generation. We had FFXVI and Spider-Man 2.
As a PS4 Pro 2, my PS5 is fine, and no complaints as a supplementary system to my Switch and Xbox, though it might be the last PlayStation I buy (and have had them all since PS1 launch day).
Very happy with it, especially the loading times. Graphics have come so far its hard for me to notice improvements, mostly the smaller things stand out like water reflections, things like that. And the controller is amazing. Playing Wrc23 with one is like an arcade experience from back in the day.
Probably the worst gen ever due to most games still be made last gen.
I hesitated between ps5 and (for a ps5 price) a ps4 with wheel last year. Ps5 is a great console, no doubt.
But as a casual gamer (and the fact many games made both ps4/ps5), I would be better off with a ps4 and some accessories.
Some things could be better, but no regrets on getting one
@Jill_Sandwich had the same issue with mine I think. Just shuts off after about 30 mins of play.
Im at a point where I really wish they would just focus on making games fun and worry less about how pretty they look. There is a point of diminishing returns - and i’m not really someone who uses photo mode etc.
They definitely need more variety in their first party line-up. The console itself is good (on the inside at least) but I find games like The Last of Us so boring and even found Ragnarok boring too. But I can’t say it’s just linear cinematic games I don’t like because i’m over here blasting through Like A Dragon Gaiden (on gamepass). Hard to know what they could do to make PS better in my eyes but these days it’s less and less for me. SSD is great though - and the dualsense is cool but I feel like it peaked with Astrobot!
I’ll never stop saying it should have themes and game folders.
Hardware is somewhat passable for a console from 3 years ago.
It's the UI/Interface/Dashboard abomination that I cannot accept. It looks and feels like it was designed by a bunch of drunken interns over a weekend between trips to the liquor store for reloads and the Sony HQ bathroom.
Completely and utterly contemptible how many basic QOL features are missing, or replaced by what are essentially full-screen ads for games I already own.
It's on par with Microsoft's old "Windows Media Centre" for most pathetic excuse for a user interface I've ever had the displeasure of using.
I love it. It's superb. Love the enhanced backwards compatibility. Love seeing what can be done when not held back by last gen and better versions of cross gen games.
The PS5 console? Great. The PS5 exclusive library... kind of mid, to be honest. There's really only 4-5 actually exclusive games on the platform. It's definitely been a let down of a generation for Sony in my opinion.
Games, games and more games. Love it so far
I care about and play more 3rd party games in a Generation than Nintendo, Sony, Microsoft 1st party release roster combined. What sells consoles to me is that I have access to the largest pool of games possible. 1st party are an extra bonus.
Why my rule has Always been to invest in a Playstation fist each generation. Sony understands how to make solid gaming hardware (Wish they go into the PC VGA premium market now that EVGA is gone)
Sony proved the rule correct yet again. Year 3, and already amazing support from every studio and top IP I care about.
Buggy, and poorly designed both physically and in the UI. On the UI side the landing page is filled with ads (same with Xbox), navigation takes too many steps, and DLC management between accounts on the same console is poorly implemented. Physically the white plates on the console make the console larger than necessary, but also block access to the disc drive when laid horizontally. Using two controllers on the same PS5 is still buggy where if you turn on both controllers while the console is off the console will pull up the account selection for the first controller, but never the second. On shutting down the console with two players sometimes one of the controllers won't get the shut down command, and will turn the console back on. Just a few of the design issues, but there's more.
Games wise it's a mixed bag. The exclusives have been great, I just wish they weren't exclusive.
The console itself is flawless, not had a problem with it from day one.
I'm a bit let down by software though, apart from some stellar remakes there is nothing really new or interesting.
Thank god its backwards compatible with ps4 software, it would be barebones without its fantastic library.
Just my thoughts 3 years in
@Jayphex That's exactly how it started! There are a bunch of YouTube videos on how to take it apart. Spoilers, there are a lot of screws! You could also just get a can of dust off and blow a bunch of it out. This worked for a while but I eventually have to open it up.
PS5 is probably my favorite system. The load times are truly game changing IMO. FFXVI, GoW Ragnarok, Horizon FW, Returnal, Spider-Man 2, and more have made this a fantastic start to the new Gen.
The PS5 has been good so far but I still think we're waiting for its signature games. Returnal is the only first party game I've loved so far. My next favorite game belongs to Microsoft, in Deathloop.
I'm not disappointed in the console at all, but I don't think it's a slam dunk still.
Slow and steady, it’s been a console to consolidate its success in a generation that only seems to offer better reflections at the cost of performance.
@TrickyDicky99 yeah, how dare people that can't afford a PS5 or get a PS5, enjoy games, we should stop them asap!!
It is a bit letdown. When I got my PS2 I was happy to play my dream games. When I got my PS3 it was just WOW! Super graphics and perfect variety of games. Than I got PS4 Pro and it had same WOW effect. Variety of games and huge graphics leap. ...and when I got PS5 it was just... hmmm... it is faster ps4, with chaotic UI (still confused with short and long ps button press) and number of games you can count on one hand...
I have feeling like I'm still fighting with that machine. It is very unintuitive, everything is hidden behind "2 more moves or clicks"... it reminds me my transition from WinXP to Win8.1 - access to some functions are disabled or digged deeper.
I'm not happy with PS5. I still feel little robbed. And if my PS4 could have SSD loading times, I would never buy PS5 and skip this generation entirely...
Every console has pros and con’s. For me the con’s aren’t to to bad for PS5 as i only play 1st party exclusives on it and nothing else. Again since the PS1 day’s, Sony controller’s have never been my favorite and this is largely the biggest con i have with all PS consoles. There’s a few Ui upgrades i could think of that would be nice. The Ui still needs to much clicks to do things on it. But the pro’s have been nice. I beat Ratchet and Clank twice. Beat the Last of Us Part One twice also and Beat GOWR once. Thats all i own at the moment on PS5. But i look forward to seeing what set of exclusives come next. I’d give the PS5 a 7/10 and the controller a 6/10. Again that is for my play style and hands. So i understand others will say it’s the best ever.
@ShogunRok Couldn’t have said it better myself on how the PS5 feels. Surely next year, in all its secrecy, will be the year the PS4.5 grows up to 5. Love all the time I’ve played the console, but it’s time!
This gen’s been a letdown. But then I haven’t really loved any Sony First Party game since the PS3 era. But it’s nice to play some of my third party ps4 games on an ssd though. Only really bought it on a whim last year for Ragnarok, but I wound up hating it, it’s mostly gathered dust these days and it looks hideous and is a pain to find somewhere to put it due to the awkward shape.
Cross gen needs to go away end of story, maybe can realise full potential
@NinjaNicky Yaaawn. What games did Sony make that were cross-gen between PS1/PS2 . . PS2/PS3 . . PS3/PS4
Nobody then complained about poor little Timmy who couldn't play next-gen games on his last-gen console.
If you own a PS4 then you have a ton of PS4 games released over 7 years, PS5 games should be made for PS5.
Hardware is fine, but this generation remains mostly uninspired.
Good but I feel like the PS4 was the peak and we're now coming down the mountain in some respects. The console itself and the controllers feel over-designed. The lack of folders is a step back and the irritating 'cards' business can do one. Not blown away by the games either. Astro's Playroom is still my favourite thing on it.
@3Above I get that. It's hard to judge without knowing how poor sales were, or how long their games were bombing before they were shut down.
With that said, I do believe there is some truth to the argument that studios creating unique but less profitable output add value by making the ecosystem as a whole more attractive over time through the diversity they add to the manufacturer's lineup.
But the PS5 is selling as well as ever with one big first-party release a year and promises of little else other than live service titles and Marvel licensed games, so what do I know?
The sheer scale of the previous gen's victory has undoubtedly hampered this gen. I love my PS5 but there have hardly been many great next gen experiences. Most of the titles mentioned can be played on a ps4. The likes of Astro, Spider-Man 2 and Alan Wake 2 are few and far between.
Having said that, the ps5's power allowing us to play ps4 games as the devs intended (60fps 4k) has been the defining feature so far. The likes of ps5 version of gta online just want possible last gen.
For me personally it doesn’t have enough games yet. I’m really waiting for a PS5 game that can go in my all time top 10. Most of the ones I’ve been looking forward to have been disappointments so far. Sea of Stars comes close, but that’s not really ‘a PS5 game’.
I think my ps5 is an awesome console,from the dualsense to the lightning quick ssd ,the first couple yrs were hampered by covid but its certainly hitting its stride now with sales through the roof and the best Is definitely yet to come we have so many great gaming times ahead that's for sure ,and I'm going to buy a psvr2 shortly to add to the experience really looking forward to playing gt7 in vr,fantastic times to be a gamer:)
Three years in and these are my thoughts on the PS5:
DualSense controller is one of the best controller, feels great to use and the haptic feedback/adaptive triggers really add to the experience in many games. Jumping into games has been so fast too, it barely takes any time from the home menu to return to a game and loading times feel non-existent at this point. There's been plenty to play on PS5 too, a lot of quality third party games dropping all year. However one of my issues has been the lack of exclusives, next gen only games in particular. Most games that are not just third party but first party have been cross gen, leaving it to feel like the PS5 has not been able to reach the full potential of the console. Some of my most enjoyable experiences were exclusives like Astro's Playroom, Ratchet and Clank Rift Apart, Final Fantasy XVI and Spider-Man 2. I can only hope it improves as we get more games like Stellar Blade, Rise of the Ronin and Wolverine. However that brings me to another issue which is Sony's communication this generation. Feels like they just drop us small pieces of information when they feel like it. You can argue they aren't announcing stuff too early but at the same time we know very little about their plans and we need a new roadmap now most things have released the past 3 years. PS Plus Premium has also been quite lackluster with it's classic games, we've gotten some nice PS1 games but far and few between. We are getting fed PSP games now and we have yet to see anything like PS2. I was easy on Premium when it launched but it's been a year and a half now, and the offerings aren't exactly improving much.
Overall I'm mostly happy with the PS5. It's a very good piece of hardware that I enjoy to use and makes the gaming experience a lot of fun, exclusive games and the classic offerings are really my big issues three years in.
The only downside is letting go of the ps4 with just a big user base with Cross gen games but that was to be expected I think ,from here on in there will be less and less cross gen but it does unfortunately take some time to transition over to ps5 only,but it's all gd ,looking forward to what's coming in near future
For me i've voted that i have found it fine. I havent fallen in love with it yet like previous generations of playstation. Part of that is because so many games are still cross-gen releases, and i've never ever had to carry out so much maintenance on a console (yes i've only removed the dust from inside the console 3 or 4 times, but i also had to replace a faulty system just outside of warranty due to a power issue which left a bitter taste).
I just feel the system hasn't got going yet. Maybe its my age, but the lack of a roadmap, and a push for live service concerns me.
I am excited for the new year and i already have Yakuza, Persona 3, and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth preordered, but i want to start learning more about what Sony has on the horizon that isnt a GAAS title
I have had good experiences. I have thoroughly enjoyed Spiderman 2 so far, God of War was ace, and I loved Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart and Astro's Playroom. I also thought on balance, Final Fantasy 16 was incredible, even if it doesn't hit the heights of the series for me. Horizon was decent, but was lacking something compared to Zero Dawn imo.
There are other titles of course, and i am enjoying the haptics and playing in 60 fps.
Yet, there is that something that just stops me short of truly loving the console yet. With every piece of good news, Sony has doubled down with two negative news stories. I am fully confident they will get there though and i truly believe this gen is only just getting started
PS5 have more and more kids games I can choose like Bluey, Kao the Kangaroo, Crazy Chicken, Ben 10, Lemon Cake, Bunny Park, etc.
I love it. 😊
It's good console and my favourite of the 3 but not a great generation so far imo. It's always going to be incremental steps in generations but for me the pro upgrades actually kinda ruined the jump from 4-5 and likely will again from 5-6 (but I still buy them). Gaming feels a lot more sterile these days and the push to live service will only make this worse but still, yeah, it's been OK so far
@UnlimitedSevens “I think if you look at the system just in terms of its "exclusives,"
“a very specific type of person could say the library isn't too hot.”
“ I wouldn't agree, but some people might not dig what Sony is offering, especially since they focus on 2-3 specific genres.”
“But the library includes third party stuff too.”
“Capcom, FromSoft, etc. have been on fire. Indie games have been plentiful and amazing as well.”
“if you include PS4 back compatibility”
I love it even more than the ps4 at the same point in time
Love my PS5. The controller is easily my favorite.
Love the console and even more so for the controller. The only bad thing I would say about it is the games. I love the games but the games makes it feel like we're still in the PS4 days and some of them PS3 days. I'd like to see some unique games that makes the PS5 itself stand out that when we look back at it someday, it has a reason to stand out to be the better console than the ones before it.
The ps5 is amazing.easily one of the greatest console ever.word up son
I like the console a lot. But it does have some nagging issues. Nothing major that spoil my experience. But more like my changing lifestyle (my kid was born last week) and just the nature of modern AAA gaming.
I see myself playing my Switch a lot more from now on.
@Ralizah I totally agree with you and I wish we could have smaller more creatively interesting titles. It definitely adds value. I remember the days when PS was the brand known for letting g their creatives "cook" and giving alot of freedom (not that they dont now but clearly they'remaking adjustments). I feel that was good thing. Maybe one day they will get back to that
If you're stuck on the PS4, there's not as much reason to upgrade to PS5... until about this year when the good new games came out. Since I got my PS5 day one, I've been happy, getting the better version of games.
It's the worst generation by far.
Not more than 2 exclusives worth mentioning in 3 years. Beyond pathetic in a way.
But still have goodwill for Sony since the next few years should finally have those masterpieces you're expecting from the platform.
Probably all coming out 1 year prior to the PS6 😄
@InsaneWade Which good exclusive games came out this year?
I voted love BUT with caveats:
1. With Sony, Atlus, and others going multiplat I feel like my PS5 is less needed than I did when I got it at launch.
2. My new Steam Deck has really taken some value from my PS5 as well. It can’t do ultra high quality AAA visuals but it still can run most games at a lower price to buy and with a better digital ownership model including free cloud saves.
3. The direction of live service/multiplayer, higher prices, and fewer weird titles causes me concerns.
Edit: 4. This is my first PlayStation and I experienced many PS4 games on my Ps5. I imagine I would rate it lower if I had already played them.
Don't own one and while I hear things from family/online I still don't care. Few third parties I care about for it exclusively. First party no interest. Ratchet/GT7 disappointed like PS4 so nope, the cinematic IPs don't appeal to me so that limits a lot. Dreams/Astro/Sackboy otherwise...............
GT7 the only thing I like is the VR is deeper than GT Sport otherwise eh.
Rift Apart's rifts are scripted and boring/don't push tech and that makes me mad/sad. Give me dynamic Rifts Insomniac. Give us a gadget to use the yellow ones (or dynamic rifts cycling for a boss fight not garbage like the forced rift for Nefarious City from that one planet and it's just invisible walls/brief anyway it lacks detail from afar anyway your not fooling anyone) not put them around some areas of levels.
It makes Portal and Prince of Persia Forgotten Sands for the Wii look so much better than you Rift Apart in terms of gameplay/ideas also on HDD Crack in Time in 2009. Weak design 2023 Insomniac. Spiderman obviously got more attention which seeing as Spiderman 2018 had better laser level design uses in a side mission than the 2016 remake yeah says a lot.
Stop playing it safe/nostalgic, sure old fans, new from Rift Apart (PS5/PC players), 2016/future saga fans but like at least put effort in then 'were playing it safe for audiences' with gameplay/story (coming from an 'old fan' that wants change not nostalgia) people have waited 10+ years since Nexus, let alone a story since 2007, wrap it up already/start a new again with story/gameplay or improve your tech in gameplay not bland gameplay and use the gyro of the controller for aiming seriously already you have lock strafe, let people gyro aim in platforming/lock strafe modes.
I enjoyed Impulse Triggers on Xbox One for racing/Gears gun reloading so Dualsense triggers or Haptics/HD Rumble is cool (not got a game that uses it yet).
This gen Sony had their exclusives/third party deals happen early unlike PS4 where 2013-2015 Killzone, Knack, remasters, Bloodborne, Order 1886, but 2016+ the noteable came out. Xbox is still getting some of it's out and others in the pipeline while Sony is readying the sequels. Ghost 2, Horizon 3, Spiderman 3, DLCs and other changes and third parties/second party deals I guess, filling in gaps as always.
The thing is Japan Studio downsizing left some spaces for niche titles to fill in gaps to not.... No Last Guardian, Gravity Rush, LocoRoco/Patapon/Parappa remasters, Derasine for PSVR/Astro has been around and more. Which is what the remasters/remakes and live services I assume are for.
Astro sure, eh groups on PS5/Switch/always was on Xbox One and hate them. I use PS4 folders to keep things visible/invisible/categories, so much for hidden items on the regular scale then deeper in folders scale.
Fair updates to it I think of tech additions on the OS side and Dualsense or VR continuation even if hit and miss in some areas.
But otherwise still no interest in one.
WRC 2023 cool, Ride 5 too hard and just Ride 4 again so pass. Forspoken has it's appeal in ways. Otherwise I have gotten everything I care about on PS4. Atlas Fallen is cool in it's own way as I like AA hack n slashes and it's sandbox then deep open world is fine.
Besides old gen/new releases is always cool to me to see how they run/how limited they are and they are usually fine. Ride 1 360, BF Hardline 2 disks on 360, SBK08 on PS2, Black 2006.
Don't care about the enhancements all.
@Grimwood I have to say, for a platform where the fanbase used exclusive titles as the be-all end-all talking point, it's been really lacking in great exclusives. Like you said, I can only think of a couple that have stood out to me.
I think the dualsense triggers are by far it's best selling point, they definitely make racing games and FPS more immersive for me.
My only complaint would be stick drift, otherwise I love the PS5. Of the 4 DualSense controllers I've owned, two have crapped out within a year, and a third is still just a few months old so the jury's still out. Admittedly I play a lot, but still that's way too high of a failure rate, even considering the small sample size. I played just as much PS4 and never had a DS4 get drift on me.
Honestly, I quite like it. The console itself is nice step up from the PS4, and the new games have been pretty fun for the most part. My only complaint is a lack of themes, and that’s probably tricky to do with this UI, so atm I’m not too fussed.
cross gen didn't bother me because its like having a pc , you can play a game with less pc specs , but that doesn't mean it will play well. but if you play it on a higher spec pc , it plays much smoother and gives you a better over all experience. same with ps4 games running better on the ps5 , i'd take the ps5 version of the game over the ps4 version any day. but the 24-26 should be big years for the ps5 with a lot of the projects they've been working on being shown off soon.
I haven’t even played one yet. My “slim” is scheduled for delivery tomorrow though. Honestly, having most of the games come to PS4 has been great for me. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the game that I’m finally making the jump for. Not saying there aren’t other great games I’ll enjoy, but that’s the game that is pushing me over the edge.
I am excited to play some of my PS4 library in upgraded form however. Less loading and smoother frame rates will be nice.
That said, I enjoy my Switch and Xbox Series S a whole lot, and quite enjoy them overall. I am sure I will enjoy PS5 as well. It’s the games for me. Systems are just a requirement.
The console is great but this generation of games has been nothing special. My favorite game for the PS5 is still Astros Playroom. Other than that nothing has really taken advantage of the console in an interesting way. It’s still less discounting than the Series X. PS1 and PS3 are still my two all time favorite consoles and libraries ever. I’m still hoping for more great things from PS5 though.
I love everything about the console, the dualsense controller, ssd, console design, and easy to clean dust particles. A small nitpick is just the fact that dynamic themes are gone which is a huge shame and especially with how much work was put in for some of the themes like Persona 5. Unfortunately my main issue is first party titles. Literally the only PS5 title we've gotten since Returnal and Ratchet and Clank is Marvel's Spiderman 2 and I guess FF16, if that counts.
Only been a year since I own and I’m loving my console. There’s so many great games I’ve missed especially exclusives. Although Cross gen has gone on too long, should end mid 2024 I hope.
I love my PS5, but I feel like the cross gen games have diminished it a bit. Hopefully that's behind us now. .
I love my PS5. I don't .mind some titles are crossgen. More to come. Now awaiting the PlayStation Portal
I miss Japan studio.
I picked up a PS5 when my PS4 disc drive failed, the only thing it does better than my series X is have reasonably priced storage which I appreciate.
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