Key Takeaways
1. The PS4 continues to receive game releases despite the launch of the PS5, showing strong support from publishers due to its loyal player base.
2. Live service games, like Genshin Impact, are increasingly transitioning to the PS5, with many companies considering dropping PS4 support.
3. PlayStation faces criticism for a lack of first-party exclusives, but is focusing on live service games for future success.
4. Transitioning away from PS4 presents risks, as many gamers have not upgraded to the PS5, leading to a potential market gap.
5. The performance limitations of the PS4 are pushing developers to abandon it for the PS5, with notable titles already making the switch.
Debuting in 2013, the PS4 has had outstanding backing, which continues into the PS5 time. Many game publishers, recognizing the loyal player base, continue to launch PS4 games. Lately, more companies have started to adopt the new PlayStation console. Live service games, like Genshin Impact, which receive regular updates, are the ones most likely to make the switch. A report from Games Industry suggests that this may just be the first of many titles to transition.
Addressing Criticism
Rob Fahey’s piece talks about the criticism directed at PlayStation, particularly concerning its supposed shortage of first-party exclusives. It also looks at how effectively the brand has set itself up for future accomplishments. A part of this discussion involves the increasing focus on live service games, which have become more important for Sony and others. When discussing Genshin Impact, Fahey points out that “many other operators of major online and live service titles also eyeing up the timeline for dropping PS4 support.”
Risks of Transition
Even though many gamers have upgraded to the PS5, dropping support for the previous console presents its own challenges. It wasn’t until June 2025 that Sony revealed the PS5 user base surpassed that of PS4 players. Fahey mentions that in some regions, PlayStation consoles are pricier than they were at the 2020 launch. This situation leads to less interest in upgrading, particularly until there are fewer new PS4 games available.
Performance Limitations
For HoYoverse’s Genshin Impact, the game is also playable on PC and mobile devices. This gives open-world RPG fans various options, especially since progress can transfer across different platforms. Regarding the PS4, developers state that the console’s performance and specifications are now too restrictive. Concerns about loading and installation times arise, with the PS5’s SSD enabling smoother updates.
A wave of other live service games has already left the aging PlayStation console behind. Battlefield 6 is a notable case, but Sony Interactive Entertainment’s MLB The Show has also transitioned to being current-gen only. If the PS4 era is indeed ending, it has recorded some impressive sales figures before bidding farewell.
Source:
Link
Leave a Reply