Tag: PS5

  • Sony surveys gamers on PS Plus value after price hike

    Sony surveys gamers on PS Plus value after price hike

    Key Takeaway

    – PS Plus price increases across Essential, Extra, and Premium are sparking questions about overall value and what would make the service feel more rewarding.
    – The survey explores value, discounts, included PS4/PS5 games, online multiplayer quality, cloud saves, and what would influence renewal decisions.
    – Potential competitive gaps highlighted include online multiplayer costs, limited older-game catalog, and a less robust Classics catalog versus competitors like Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.


    PlayStation Plus Price Rise Sparks Discussion and Survey

    The recent PlayStation Plus price increase added to the frustration over more expensive PS5 consoles. Sony’s announcement focused on PS Plus Essential, but the changes to the Extra and Premium tiers took gamers by surprise. Now, a new survey is searching for ways to improve the subscription service.

    Price Changes and Regions

    On May 20th, the cost of PS Plus Essential rose from $9.99 to $10.99 per month. Meanwhile, PS Plus Extra is now $16.99 rather than $14.99, with the Premium tier $19.99 instead of $17.99. The PlayStation Plus price increases affect multiple regions and currencies.

    Purpose of the Survey

    It’s possible the timing is coincidental, but the questionnaire has a section on overall value. Push Square shared a sample of the survey that also addresses PlayStation Store discounts. Other questions touch on included PS4 and PS5 games, the quality of online multiplayer, and cloud saves.

    Questions About Loyalty and Value

    Perhaps trying to gauge the impact on membership counts, Sony’s survey asks how likely customers are to renew their subscriptions. The gaming giant is interested in what changes would make the service “feel more rewarding to you.”

    Industry Context and Hardware Costs

    Early in April, high memory costs and challenging economic conditions prompted Sony to raise the MSRP of PS5 consoles again. While disappointing, the component shortage has a more understandable effect on hardware. Yet, many fans didn’t anticipate subscription services further stretching budgets.

    Critiques and Comparisons

    One of the most common complaints is with the increasingly expensive PlayStation Plus Essential plan. Critics note that, unlike on PCs, players must pay extra for online multiplayer. Other concerns include a sometimes lackluster selection of older PS5 games each month. By contrast, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which recently benefited from a price cut, offers day-one releases. PS3 and retro gaming enthusiasts also regularly gripe about a limited Classics Catalog in PS Plus Premium.

    Outlook and Potential Outcomes

    It’s unlikely that Sony will reverse course on the PlayStation Plus price increase. Still, using survey data, it may hope to add or improve on enough features to keep gamers invested in its ecosystem.

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  • 007 First Light PS5 Leak: Only 1st Mission on Disc Before Release date

    007 First Light PS5 Leak: Only 1st Mission on Disc Before Release date

    Key Takeaway

    – The disc-only portion is limited (only the first mission is fully playable offline; others require patches/online components).
    – A mandatory day-one patch is expected to unlock or enable broader progression beyond the initial mission.
    – The game features offline-capable modes (main campaign and a Tactical Sims mode), but online connectivity affects leaderboards and certain content.
    – Storage requirements vary by platform: ~80 GB on Steam, ~45 GB on PS5 (not accounting for patches/content).


    Ahead of the 007 First Light PS5 release date on May 27th, physical copies are already circulating. PlayStation console owners now have a better idea of how accessible the title is offline. While an internet connection isn’t needed to start spying, reportedly, only the first mission is on the disc.

    Leaked images and patches

    Leaked images for IO Interactive’s James Bond game have been shared on Reddit. The publisher previously explained that players should expect a mandatory day-one patch. They could then progress through the main campaign without staying online. It appears that’s not entirely accurate, at least with the opening mission.

    Preservation and media format

    For preservation advocates, the situation is a mixed bag. The introduction is playable without downloading a massive update on the 007 First Light release date. On the other hand, servers host the bulk of the PS5 game’s files. As digital gaming takes over, discs are becoming more like access keys than self-contained physical media.

    Installation size differences

    On Steam, the spy thriller will demand at least 80 GB of free space on increasingly expensive SSDs. Surprisingly, the console shows a lighter 45 GB installation for the 007 First Light PS5 version. Still, that total may not include the additional content and patches.

    Main menu and modes

    The second image provides a glimpse of the main menu for the IO Interactive title. Besides the main campaign, gamers can choose the Hitman-inspired Tactical Sims mode to replay missions with new objectives. Comparing performances on online leaderboards depends on an internet connection.

    That leak also confirms the presence of an in-game shop. Some players now anticipate paid cosmetics, but it’s unclear what type of items will be available for purchase.

    Spoilers and release timing

    Even if new videos emerge, James Bond fans shouldn’t fear many spoilers before the release date. Developers showcased early-game footage in a 2025 PlayStation State of Play. 007 First Light review embargo timing is uncertain amid rumors that the publisher has been stingy with codes.

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  • GTA 6 Launch Date Locked: Take-Two’s $8B Impact Risk

    GTA 6 Launch Date Locked: Take-Two’s $8B Impact Risk

    Key Takeaway

    – GTA VI release date confirmed: November 19, 2026, with Take-Two branding it as a landmark, year-one driver for strong financial performance.
    – Fiscal guidance hinges on the launch: FY2027 Net Bookings projected at $8.0–$8.2B, ~20% higher than FY2026, driven by the new title.
    – Solid financial footing: Q4 Net Bookings of $1.58B and full-year revenue of $6.66B; balance sheet strengthened with reduced short-term debt ahead of the release.
    – Platform exclusivity at launch: GTA VI is confirmed for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S only, with no PC release announced at this time.


    After years of waiting and one high-profile delay, Grand Theft Auto VI’s launch date is now cemented: November 19, 2026. Take-Two Interactive confirmed the date in its official Q4 fiscal year 2026 earnings report (published May 21), and the company’s financial projections make clear this is not a placeholder.

    In this paragraph the voice shifts to a formal journalistic tone, detailing the milestone with precise timing. It emphasizes that the date is now official and notes the publication date of the earnings report as May 21, underscoring that the announcement comes from a credible corporate disclosure. The language remains tight and factual, yet carries a sense of anticipation for fans and investors alike, acknowledging the long wait and the significance of a concrete launch window rather than rumors or speculative timelines.

    Take-Two’s initial outlook for fiscal year 2027 projects Net Bookings of $8.0 to $8.2 billion, a roughly 20% jump over the $6.72 billion the company posted this year. CEO Strauss Zelnick explicitly named the November 19th launch as the primary engine behind that forecast. He referred to the upcoming year one that will “establish new record levelsx of operating performance.” That kind of forward guidance, which has now been disclosed to investors and regulators, will carry consequences if it proves wrong — which makes a sudden delay far less likely than it has ever been.

    The second paragraph adopts a more analytical yet accessible style, discussing financial projections and management commentary. It preserves quoted phrases to reflect exact language from the report while explaining the implications of setting expectations in public forums. The cadence blends corporate numbers with strategic interpretation, and keeps the reader aware that such guidance raises stakes for future performance and potential timing shifts.

    The fiscal health backing the launch is solid. Take-Two exceeded its own Q4 guidance — the company reported $1.58 billion in quarterly Net Bookings. Full-year revenue rose 18% to $6.66 billion, driven by NBA 2K, GTA Online, and mobile titles from Zynga. The company also cleared $1.1 billion in short-term debt during the year. It improved its balance sheet ahead of what it expects to be a “landmark release.”

    This paragraph reads like an earnings recap with a pragmatic, straightforward vibe. It enumerates concrete figures: quarterly Net Bookings at $1.58 billion, annual revenue at $6.66 billion, and a debt payoff of $1.1 billion, attributing these outcomes to key product segments such as NBA 2K, GTA Online, and Zynga’s mobile games. The tone asserts that these financials strengthen the confidence surrounding the upcoming title without sensationalism, while hinting at strategic balance-sheet management pre-launch.

    GTA 6 is confirmed exclusively for PS5 (curr. $475 for a renewed unit) and Xbox Series X|S at launch, with no PC release announced.

    The fourth paragraph switches to a concise, tech-market oriented update about platform exclusivity and hardware pricing. It communicates the stated platform strategy, including the note about PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, and the absence of a PC release at launch. The narrative keeps a practical buyer’s perspective, acknowledging current resale and renewal prices for the target hardware while avoiding speculation about future PC timing or port plans.

     

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  • GTA 6 PS5 Pre-Orders Sell Out on Italian Site – Rockstar Silent?

    GTA 6 PS5 Pre-Orders Sell Out on Italian Site – Rockstar Silent?

    Key Takeaway

    – PS5 pre-orders sold out quickly in Italy, suggesting strong organic demand ahead of official announcements.
    – The €69.90 price and November 19, 2026 date appear inconsistent with typical pricing and timing, fueling surprise.
    – Lack of official Rockstar/Take-Two marketing or confirmation makes the pre-order activity and stock movement noteworthy as an indicator of interest.

    The moment ain’t got no official roar, and yet chatter spins fast as a whirlpool, with words about GTA 6 dancing in the air yet no formal clap from Rockstar. Some folks expect a big reveal, others just watch the clock and count the days, while fans argue about dates and details in a mix of hope and skepticism.

    Pricing and Availability Noted

    Earlier today, a European retailer briefly listed GTA 6 for pre-order at €69.90 for PS5 and Xbox Series X, a price lower than what many big launches demand. This number caused a ripple, since the normal rhythm for major titles often hovers around €79.99. The listing claimed a delivery date set for November 19, 2026, aligning with Take-Two’s hinted window, even as some suspect the timing could be a premature leak rather than the real schedule.

    Stock and Demand Signals

    The PS5 version quickly showed as sold out, marked Esaurito, with a notify-me option replacing the preorder button, while the Xbox Series X stock remained with 48 units listed at the time of writing. The rapid sellout on PS5 hints at a larger install base for PlayStation, matching broader market trends where Sony platforms pull more multiplatform equity, even before official word arrives.

    Market Reactions and Context

    What stands out isn’t just the speed, but the provenance: a regional Italian retailer without any Rockstar endorsement, driven purely by demand generated over weeks of leaks—lifts from emails that hinted at deals, backend entries, and stock movements around Take-Two. All of this paints a picture of organic interest that could outpace traditional marketing, at least temporarily.

    • Major storefronts like the PlayStation Store, Best Buy, and Amazon had not yet listed GTA 6, making Showgame an outlier by contrast.
    • If this momentum holds, the moment Rockstar confirms anything, the response could be even larger, given how anticipation has already bubbled up.
    • The story ties back to the timing of earnings—Take-Two was set to discuss results in late May, three days after this note surfaced, which could influence future messaging.

    So, for now, Showgame remains a curious snapshot of pre-announcement interest, rather than a confirmed pre-order wave, while buyers watch closely for any official signal from Rockstar or Take-Two. The unfolding situation could foreshadow how the launch will actually unfold when the curtains finally rise, or it might simply fade into the noise until a proper reveal lands.


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  • PS5 Now Shows Player Counts for Top PlayStation Games

    PS5 Now Shows Player Counts for Top PlayStation Games

    Key Takeaway

    – PS5 Welcome Hub beta now shows weekly top 10 and trending games with visible concurrent player counts, offering a rare CCU view for consoles.
    – Fortnite leads with 14.6 million players in the past 7 days; GTA V, Call of Duty, and Minecraft hover around 5 million each.
    – Not all PS5 store/retail titles are included; Roblox and NBA 2K appear missing, with unclear criteria (revenue or publisher opt-in may factor in).
    – The top-10 list can be repetitive week to week; trending may offer more variety, but new releases may struggle to break in.
    – Console CCU data comes from third-party sources with limited transparency, though some services offer projections to aid cross-platform engagement comparisons.

    Often, when an anticipated title launches on Steam, fans use player counts to judge its success. Similar concurrent user (CCU) data is much less accessible on consoles, making comparisons difficult for observers who rely on cross platform metrics. Yet a new beta PS5 feature reveals how many gamers are actively playing the top 10 and trending games.

    PS5 Beta Shows Top 10 and Trending Counts

    On a recent podcast, YouTuber Mystic discussed the Welcome Hub currently in testing. Gamers can choose to see a week’s 10 most popular PlayStation games or which additions are trending. What’s significant is that player counts, normally difficult to gauge, are also visible, providing a rare glimpse that fans and analysts alike have craved.

    Highlights from the Welcome Hub

    Maki on the ResetEra forums shared statistics showing Fortnite dominating with 14.6 million users in the past 7 days. GTA 5, Call of Duty, and Minecraft are all around the 5 million mark. The numbers illustrate a snapshot of the community’s engagement and where attention is currently concentrated, these days.

    Fortnite Leads and Other Big Titles

    Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem that all PS5 games sold on the PS Store or at retailers are considered. One poster noted that ultra-popular Roblox is missing, as are live-service sports titles like NBA 2K. It’s unclear how Sony makes the lists, but revenue or whether a publisher opts in may be factors.

    Missing Titles and List Criteria

    As Mystic explained, another issue is that the same top PlayStation games could appear every week. New releases would struggle to place unless they draw massive audiences, and that’s a risk with the top 10 option, though the trending category may offer more variety. For those watching across platforms, the approach hints where interest lies, yet it may overemphasize big franchises while underrepresenting smaller titles, Mystic YouTube, Maki@ResetEra forums.

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  • Starfield PS5 and PS5 Pro Crashes Key Refunds from PS Store

    Starfield PS5 and PS5 Pro Crashes Key Refunds from PS Store

    Key Takeaway

    1. The PS5 and PS5 Pro versions of Starfield are plagued with frequent crashes, overheating issues, and system lock-ups, especially on the PS5 Pro.
    2. The game requires a patch to improve stability, and current workarounds, such as disabling certain settings, have limited success.
    3. Players are experiencing corrupted save files and complete system crashes, with some having to unplug their consoles to recover.
    4. Bethesda has not yet addressed these performance issues publicly, leading to frustration and refund requests from players.
    5. The Xbox Series X version appears more stable despite some quirks, emphasizing the need for further patches across all versions.

    Starfield Launch and Initial Player Reactions

    When starfield was launched on April 7th, lots of players were thrilled to try out this new open-world RPG set in space. But very quickly, many reports started to emerge about serious technical problems. Players on PS5 and PS5 Pro are experiencing crashes and overheating, which is making their gaming experience frustrating and in some instances impossible. Because of these issues, some gamers are now asking for refunds from the PS Store.

    Performance Troubles and System Stability

    The Digital Foundry review, known for its detailed technical analysis, confirmed that the game needs an urgent update. During testing, crashes happened quite often and players needed to manually close and reopen the game from the console’s main menu. The Xbox Series X version, which received a recent update called Free Lanes, has its own problems but at least remains more stable compared to the PlayStation versions. These stability problems are a big disappointment for users eager to explore the game’s universe.

    Community Feedback and Overheating Concerns

    Players on Reddit have shared similar stories, with some saying that the game crashes “every 2 minutes”. Important to note is that no single cause for the crashes has been pinpointed, though some planets seem more prone to cause issues. On the forums dedicated to gaming discussions, users report that the PS5 Pro version often causes the console to lock up and sometimes the whole system becomes unresponsive. This forces players to unplug their consoles and can risk losing saved data, which makes the problem even worse.

    Hardware Overheating and Potential Risks

    Some think that the high-end PS5 Pro, which costs around $950, might be overheating during long gaming sessions in space. While it’s worrying, so far there are no verified cases that suggest hardware damage. Still, the overheating fears lead to panic among some players, especially when their consoles shut down unexpectedly or show error messages. The overheating hypothesis remains unconfirmed but something players keep an eye on.

    Possible Fixes and Developer Response

    In terms of game settings, Digital Foundry noted there are many options available, but finding a stable setup that fixes the crashes proves challenging. One proposed solution was turning off a feature called PSSR upscaling on the PS5 Pro, but not all testers found this helped. Bethesda has yet to release an official fix for the PS5 freeze problem, which further frustrates fans who had high hopes for a smooth launch. Some customers are requesting refunds, but the process is strict. Still, many agents are willing to make exceptions if the game is unplayable for them.

  • PS5 and PS5 Pro Price Hike Rumored Amid Memory Shortage

    PS5 and PS5 Pro Price Hike Rumored Amid Memory Shortage

    Key Takeaways

    1. Possible PS5 Price Increases: Rumors suggest significant price hikes for the PS5 and PS5 Pro in Europe, with the PS5 Slim Disc Edition potentially rising from €549.99 to €649.99 and the PS5 Pro from €799.99 to €899.99.

    2. Confirmation Needed: Buyers are advised to wait for further confirmation from multiple sources before panicking about the rumored price increases.

    3. Uncertain Impact on Digital Edition: There is no information on potential price changes for the PS5 Slim Digital Edition, which may remain unaffected by the rumored increases.

    4. Market Concerns: The console market faces challenges due to component shortages, but Sony has indicated plans to offset earnings through games and subscription services.

    5. Doubts About the Report: Some skepticism surrounds the price increase report, as it contradicts Sony’s current strategy and recent comments from CFO Lin Tao.


    Earlier in 2026, Lin Tao, who is the Chief Financial Officer at Sony, mentioned that the company was ready for the memory shortage. Still, in at least one area, PlayStation consoles might soon put a strain on wallets. A French content creator has shared leaked information about new, much higher prices for the PS5 and PS5 Pro.

    Hold Off on Panic

    Buyers should hold off on worrying until more sources confirm this news. However, the leaker, Gyo, has a track record of making accurate predictions in the gaming retail space. Some store owners have also chimed in on social media, saying they’ve heard similar news.

    Possible Price Increases

    If these rumors are true, the PS5 price hikes could affect the whole of Europe, with an announcement expected soon. It’s uncertain whether the U.S. or other regions will see similar changes.

    Gyo mentioned that the MSRP for the PS5 Slim Disc Edition might go up from €549.99 to €649.99. Furthermore, the PS5 Pro could carry a hefty price tag of €899.99, instead of €799.99. Even the PS Portal might see an increase from €219.99 to €249.99.

    Unclear Future for Digital Edition

    There was no mention of the PS5 Slim Digital, which could mean it remains unaffected. The last time EU consumers saw a price adjustment for PlayStation consoles was in April 2025. At that time, only the digital version’s price increased from €449.99 to €499.99, while the disc version stayed at €549.99. The U.S. also faced its own PS5 price hikes in August 2025.

    Despite shortages of components and tariffs, the price of the PS5 Pro had remained stable in that region. Gamers who were looking forward to the enhanced PSSR upscaling may soon experience a shock at the checkout. Typically, EU prices already include VAT, but €899.99 converts to $1038 in the U.S. before taxes are added.

    Doubts About the Report

    There are doubts surrounding this report, as it seems to go against Sony’s current stance. The memory shortage has posed risks to the console market, which has already delayed the Steam Machine’s release. Yet, Lin Tao’s recent comments indicated that the company plans to make up for lost earnings through games and subscription services.

    Rumors have suggested that Sony stockpiled DRAM before the crisis worsened. However, with PS5 sales continuing to be strong, stock will eventually dwindle. Despite their best efforts, the gaming giant might have to pass these extra costs onto customers.

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  • The Division Resurgence: PS5, Xbox, and Backbone Controller Support

    The Division Resurgence: PS5, Xbox, and Backbone Controller Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Division Resurgence offers flexible gameplay options, supporting both touch controls and various controllers (PS5, Xbox, Backbone).
    2. The game is set to release on March 31, 2026, for iOS and Android platforms.
    3. Customizable touch control settings are available, including camera sensitivity and button arrangement.
    4. Pre-registration rewards include the NYC Firefighter cosmetic set and Pure Gold weapon skins, along with benefits for Ubisoft Connect users.
    5. Ubisoft aims to differentiate The Division Resurgence in the competitive mobile shooter market with its multiple control methods and launch rewards.


    Ubisoft is taking advantage of the time leading up to the release of The Division Resurgence to demonstrate how players can engage with the mobile shooter. The company highlights that the game offers various input methods, which includes well-designed touch controls, support for PlayStation 5 controllers, Xbox controllers, and Backbone controllers. Ubisoft emphasizes that players have the freedom to combine touch and controller inputs based on their personal preferences.

    Flexible Gameplay Options

    Ubisoft aims to position The Division Resurgence as a true mobile game that can be enjoyed as either a native touchscreen shooter or with a setup similar to consoles. The game is set to be released worldwide on March 31, 2026, for both iOS and Android platforms.

    As per the recent update on controller layouts from Ubisoft, the default touch control scheme is tailored specifically for handheld devices, featuring customizable settings such as camera sensitivity and button arrangement. For those who favor physical controls, Ubisoft confirms compatibility with both PS5 and Xbox controllers, along with support for Backbone for players seeking a more specialized mobile controller experience.

    Emphasizing Variety in Control Styles

    Ubisoft frames this support as part of a larger effort to ensure The Division Resurgence feels adaptable on mobile devices rather than confined to a single control method. This flexibility could be essential for a game that revolves around third-person shooting, cooperative missions, PvP modes, and the series’ characteristic cover-based combat, which can feel distinct based on whether players utilize touch controls or a gamepad.

    The controller update coincides with Ubisoft’s continued push for pre-registration as the launch date approaches. In an announcement made on March 3, the publisher stated that players who pre-register will be able to unlock the NYC Firefighter cosmetic set and Pure Gold weapon skins when the game launches. Ubisoft also notes that players logging into The Division Resurgence with their regular Ubisoft Connect account will gain access to rewards in The Division 2.

    Key Selling Points Before Launch

    For those still on the fence about trying the game on its first day, these developments provide Ubisoft with two significant selling points ahead of the release: multiple ways to play on mobile and a limited selection of launch rewards available through pre-registration and Ubisoft Connect. With March 31 now confirmed, the lingering question remains whether these features will be enough for The Division Resurgence to differentiate itself in a competitive mobile shooter landscape.

    In other gaming news, The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin has officially moved to its full launch on March 23 after its Early Play phase began on PS5 and Steam on March 16. Meanwhile, PUBG: Battlegrounds has released its Anti-Cheat 2026 Roadmap, outlining a more extensive strategy for the year focused on improving detection, reducing false bans, and implementing stricter measures for players who have previously been banned from the game.

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  • Sony Patent Links Smartphone to PS5 DualSense Controller for Gaming

    Sony Patent Links Smartphone to PS5 DualSense Controller for Gaming

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony’s new patent suggests using smartphones as an additional input device to enhance the gaming experience with the PS5 controller.
    2. The integration of smartphones allows for expanded input options, utilizing their displays and sensors alongside the standard controller.
    3. The setup could enable games to recognize commands from both the PS5 controller and the smartphone simultaneously.
    4. Potential advantages include more natural controls via touchscreens and the use of smartphone sensors for unique gaming experiences.
    5. Developers may utilize smartphone features like high-resolution cameras to improve character design processes and gameplay.


    Several patents from Sony have suggested improvements for its standard PS5 controller. The latest concept shifts focus from the controller itself to a smartphone positioned above it. Cheat Happens uncovered the document that outlines how this additional input device could enhance gaming experiences.

    Expanding Input Options

    The aim of the patent is to “expand the variety of input control types that may be delivered by an input device.” It highlights smartphones as they are “commonly used and generally contain a display and at least one sensor.” Sony believes gamers will likely have a Galaxy phone or an iPhone close by, even into the PS6 generation.

    Controller and Phone Integration

    Images in the patent seem to show a DualSense PS5 controller with a mobile phone attached via a clip. This setup is similar to various phone mounts for controllers that are already available. Future PS5 or PS6 games would be able to recognize commands from both the controller and the smartphone at the same time.

    Potential Advantages

    Though the setup might seem clumsy, Sony sees several possible advantages. Certain games could feel more natural to control using a touchscreen rather than traditional sticks and buttons. Game developers might also use smartphone sensors that are usually not found in other gaming accessories.

    Although the Nintendo Wii U didn’t manage to win over critics, an extra screen can improve gameplay when properly utilized. The second display can allow games to show a map or present action from a different viewpoint.

    Utilizing Smartphone Features

    Developers might also discover ways to make use of a mobile phone’s high-resolution camera. Some games already let players upload selfies when designing their characters, but this process isn’t always smooth.

    The latest Sony patent is just one of many aimed at enhancing the DualSense PS5 controller and its future versions. Most pertinent to this new idea is a filing from January for a stickless and buttonless version. Instead of depending on an additional device, players could map touchscreen inputs directly onto the surface of the controller.

    Cheat Happens, Oivo, Orzly.

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  • PS Store Offers Rare Refunds for Crimson Desert PS5 After Patch

    PS Store Offers Rare Refunds for Crimson Desert PS5 After Patch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Players are experiencing performance issues in Crimson Desert, including fuzzy textures and frame rate drops, leading to refund requests.
    2. The PS Store typically does not allow refunds after gameplay hours, but exceptions exist for unplayable games, with some players successfully receiving refunds.
    3. The PS5 version has a significant map crash bug that can freeze the game for up to 30 seconds, causing frustration for players.
    4. The latest patch aims to improve stability and visual quality, but many players are still disappointed with the overall graphics and control responsiveness.
    5. The situation differs on Steam, where players can request refunds after 2 hours of play, and they are facing their own set of issues with compatibility and DRM.


    After the long wait for the Crimson Desert launch, some fans are feeling remorseful about their purchases. Many have reported issues with performance, including fuzzy textures and drops in frame rates. However, it seems like the notorious map crash bug is what has led the PS Store to start issuing refunds. The new patch for Crimson Desert on PS5 aims to fix these stability issues, which is a relief for those seeking help from PlayStation Support.

    Refund Policies and Player Experiences

    Typically, the PlayStation Store does not allow refunds for PS4 or PS5 games once players have logged hours of gameplay. Yet, there are exceptions made for games that are unplayable. Players on Reddit have had mixed results, but some lucky gamers have successfully argued that the Pearl Abyss title meets the criteria for a refund. Instead of relying on the automated chatbot, it’s better for players to talk directly to a live support agent.

    Technical Glitches and Player Frustration

    When players access the map in the PS5 version of Crimson Desert, it can freeze for as long as 30 seconds. If you’re unlucky, this can lead to crashes that add to the annoyance. Exploring the vast open world becomes nearly impossible without proper directions. One user, Rough_Estimate_3698, explained this issue to PlayStation Support and successfully received a refund for his game.

    Additional Gameplay Concerns

    Other problems encountered while adventuring in Pywel may not qualify for a refund. After Pearl Abyss took time to reveal the base PS5 performance, many players were disappointed by the mediocre visuals. In Performance Mode, the graphics are often blurry and don’t meet expectations. The latest patch for Crimson Desert introduced a feature to turn off the 120Hz refresh rate, which can enhance visual quality for some players.

    Another frequent complaint is that the controls are tough to get used to. While a game doesn’t have to be completely unplayable due to a bad layout, it can certainly hinder progress. Input lag has also been a concern, which was addressed in the update released on March 23rd.

    Ongoing Issues and Comparison with Steam

    It’s uncertain whether this latest patch will reduce the number of refund requests at the PlayStation Store. Steam users are facing their own issues, including the late announcement of Denuvo DRM protection and AI assets. Additionally, those with Intel GPUs are still waiting for compatibility solutions. Unlike Sony, Valve typically allows players to play for 2 hours before they can request a refund.

    PS5 Pro subreddit and Patch Notes

    Crimson Desert PS5 patch notes have been discussed in the PS5 Pro subreddit, highlighting the community’s ongoing concerns and hopes for improvements.

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