Playstation Console - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2023
Sony has been exciting gamers for years with its PlayStation consoles—whether with eye-popping graphics, fan-favorite franchises or innovative peripherals, the PlayStation brand has delivered some of the best gaming experiences in the world.
Sony's gaming hardware has evolved into an ecosystem of devices that support each other to make gaming even better. Multiple iterations of its flagship PlayStation 4 console, along with its incredibly popular mobile gaming platform, the PS Vita, have proven time and time again why Sony is a titan of the video game industry.
When you're ready to shop, check out the product list above for our top three recommendations.
For more information on selecting a PlayStation console, keep reading!
On the couch, on the go, or both?
Sony PlayStation Games are available on both consoles that connect to your TV and handheld gaming devices, allowing you to take your games anywhere. Both systems have unique titles, and fit different niches—however, the real magic happens when you combine the two.
On its own, the PlayStation 4 is a simple video game console: plug it into your TV, plug in a controller, pop in a game, and the fun begins. While the basic experience doesn't surprise anyone, it's worth noting that the PlayStation 4 is ideal for gamers who primarily play from home and want top-notch visual and sound design. One of Sony's new features, "Remote Play," allows you to stream games from a PlayStation 4 to a computer on the same network.
As a standalone handheld gaming device, the PS Vita is a bundle of fun. The 960x544 touchscreen displays some remarkable visuals considering it's only five inches tall, and Sony has delivered Vita-specific titles from its most popular game franchises. While many gamers have migrated to their smartphones to play on their mobiles, the PS Vita proves with unrivaled gameplay that a dedicated handheld gaming system is worth having.
Together, the PlayStation 4 and PS Vita offer some unique features. For example, with specially enabled games, the PS Vita can act as a "second screen," displaying vital game information or hints to the player as they play through the main action on their TV.
Best of all, the PS Vita supports the PlayStation 4's "Remote Play," meaning any PlayStation 4 game can be streamed directly to the Vita (as long as they're on the same network). This means gamers can start a gaming session in front of their TV and then continue their same game on a PS Vita after they've gotten into bed.
Slim vs. Pro
Historically, both Sony and Microsoft have released new iterations of their flagship consoles about once every ten years, with a smaller, "budget" version of the console being released midway through the console's life cycle. Recently, both manufacturers have changed their strategies, and instead of introducing completely redesigned consoles every ten years, they are now taking a more Apple-like approach and releasing moderate updates every few years.
As a result, there are two versions of the PlayStation: the Playstation 4 Pro and the PlayStation 4 Slim.
The PlayStation 4 Slim is a slim and competent console that offers the basics. Plays all PlayStation 4 titles, and allows access to the PlayStation Plus store to purchase games and other media. It should be noted that the maximum resolution is only 1080p, which will look good, but gamers looking for 4K support will be a bit disappointed. It&rsquo's cousin, the PlayStation 4 Pro, is so marketed towards hardcore gamers that, by default, the PlayStation 4 Slim is the PlayStation for everyone else.
The PlayStation 4 Pro is a gaming powerhouse that delivers on all promises. With an upgraded CPU, a graphics processor that's more than twice as powerful as the Slim, an additional USB port, and an optical audio output, the PlayStation 4 Pro is a gaming and multimedia powerhouse. Dedicated gamers will appreciate the support for 4K gaming, and media fans will love that it can stream 4K movies and TV shows from all the major streaming services.
Sony Exclusives
Naturally, the PlayStation 4 brings a new generation of exclusive franchises to Sony&rsquo fans, so gamers can experience their favorite characters with powerful new graphics and room-shaking sound. Sony's most popular exclusive game franchises include:
The "God of War" series. Players have loved the Greek mythology motif as they fight as Kratos, a Spartan warrior out for revenge against various Greek gods. Each title has seen more intense action than the last, and loyal players have kept the franchise alive since 2005.
The "Uncharted" series. Since 2007, players have been playing as Nate Drake, a treasure hunter with a knack for finding trouble along the way. The "Unreleased" series is particularly popular due to its focus on strong storytelling, outstanding voice acting, and cinematic scenes.
The "Little Big Planet" series. Aimed squarely at kids (and adults who love kids' games), the Little Big Planet games include a series of obstacle courses for players to overcome with their handsome button-down hero, Sackboy. Little Big Planet games are great for single players, but the “build and share your own obstacle courses” feature allows players to create wild challenges for each other, creating endless fun.
Peripheric Vision
Although the PlayStation 4 offers many of the same titles and features as its main competitor, the Xbox One, there is one key area where Sony offers a gaming experience that Microsoft can't match: virtual reality. The “PlayStation VR” is a unique headset that comes with two controllers and allows gamers to enter a 360-degree world, immersing them in new environments for exciting new challenges.
PlayStation VR supports more than 100 exclusive titles, many of which create their own unique experiences. For example, "Farpoint" puts users on a foreign planet fighting hostile aliens. Other traditionally two-dimensional games offer virtual reality experiences, such as "Skyrim." There are even virtual tours of exotic real-life locations, and multiplayer options like “Star Trek™: Bridge Crew.”
PlayStation VR kits are sold separately, and can cost as much as a console — but the transformative experience of playing virtual games is definitely worth it.
Tips
Before you buy a PlayStation console, consider the following tips:
The PlayStation 4 supports “remote play,” which means you can use your Windows or Mac computer to stream games from your PlayStation 4. While game streaming often requires a robust home network, it allows you to enjoy your PlayStation 4 titles from any computer in your home. Enable game streaming by going to “Settings,” and then “Remote Game Connection Settings.”