The new PlayStation 4 Pro games console will be launching towards the end of this year on November 10th, 2016, priced at $399. However, it is important to note that despite being an Ultra HD 4K console, it will not be able to play 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray discs. This limitation has sparked discussions among gaming enthusiasts and industry experts alike.
PlayStation 4 Pro and Its Competitors
The new PlayStation 4 Pro will be available alongside the original PlayStation console, as well as a slimmer version. This slimmer version is designed to compete directly with the newly announced Microsoft Xbox One S. The Xbox One S, which also supports 4K video streaming and has a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player, is priced competitively, making the absence of 4K Blu-ray playback on the PS4 Pro a notable drawback.
The PS4 Pro boasts 4K compatibility, and teaser clips have been shown for upcoming games such as Insomniac’s Spider-Man, Rise of the Tomb Raider, For Honor, and Watch Dogs 2. These games are expected to take full advantage of the enhanced graphics and processing power of the PS4 Pro. Additionally, the PS4 Pro supports HDR-compatible games, including popular titles like Days Gone, Uncharted 4, and Infamous First Light. HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology enhances the color and contrast of the visuals, providing a more immersive gaming experience.
Missed Opportunities and Market Implications
It seems a shame then that the PlayStation 4 Pro 4K console is unable to play 4K Blu-ray discs. This omission appears to be a missed opportunity for Sony, especially at the higher $399 price point. Many consumers expected the PS4 Pro to be an all-in-one entertainment system, capable of handling both high-end gaming and 4K Blu-ray playback. The lack of this feature may influence purchasing decisions, particularly for those who are looking for a comprehensive media solution.
This limitation has provided Microsoft with a window of opportunity to catch up. The Xbox One S, with its built-in 4K Blu-ray player, offers a more versatile entertainment package at a similar price point. This could sway consumers who are on the fence about which console to purchase, especially those who value multimedia capabilities as much as gaming performance.
Moreover, the decision not to include 4K Blu-ray playback in the PS4 Pro could be seen as a strategic move by Sony to push its digital media services. By focusing on 4K streaming and downloadable content, Sony may be aiming to drive more users towards its PlayStation Store and other digital platforms. However, this strategy comes with its own set of challenges, such as the need for a stable and high-speed internet connection to fully enjoy 4K streaming.
In conclusion, while the PlayStation 4 Pro promises to deliver an enhanced gaming experience with its 4K compatibility and HDR support, the absence of 4K Blu-ray playback is a significant drawback. This decision has opened the door for competitors like Microsoft to capitalize on the gap in the market. As the launch date approaches, it will be interesting to see how consumers respond and whether Sony will address this limitation in future iterations of the console.
Source: Game Informer
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