Sony has landed a super blow to Microsoft in the next-generation consoles wars by announcing at the E3 games conference currently being held at the Los Angeles Convention Centre, that their next-generation Sony PlayStation 4 console will be region free.
The new Sony PlayStation 4 requires no online connection to play and games for the PlayStation 4 console can be sold and shared with ease. Check out the video created by video after the jump to see how easy it really is to share PlayStation 4 games with friends.
The news of the regional unlocking was announced by Sony’s Brad Douglas at E3, and Sony will allow developers to choose whether they actually wish to lock their games to a specific region. Offering a completely different option to that offered by Microsoft for the new Xbox One games console which requires an Internet connection to be made every 24 hours to validate games.
Key Features of the PlayStation 4
The Sony PlayStation 4 will come bundled with a Dual Shock 4 controller for $399, €399, and £349, with the PS4 Eye motion controller available to purchase separately for $59 if required. The Dual Shock 4 controller introduces several new features, including a touchpad, integrated light bar, and built-in speaker, enhancing the gaming experience. Additionally, the PS4 boasts a powerful AMD x86-64 Jaguar 8-core processor, 8GB of GDDR5 RAM, and a 500GB hard drive, ensuring smooth and fast gameplay.
Another significant advantage of the PlayStation 4 is its user-friendly interface and social integration. Players can easily share their gaming experiences with friends through the “Share” button on the Dual Shock 4 controller, allowing for instant sharing of screenshots and video clips. The PS4 also supports live streaming to platforms like Twitch and YouTube, making it easier for gamers to connect with their audience.
Comparing PlayStation 4 and Xbox One
The PlayStation 4’s region-free capability and lack of mandatory online connection stand in stark contrast to Microsoft’s Xbox One policies. The Xbox One initially required an internet connection every 24 hours to validate games, a move that was met with significant backlash from the gaming community. Although Microsoft later reversed this decision, the initial announcement left a lasting impression.
Moreover, the PlayStation 4’s price point is another critical factor in its favor. At $399, it is $100 cheaper than the Xbox One, which was priced at $499 at launch. This price difference, combined with the PS4’s more consumer-friendly policies, has given Sony a competitive edge in the console wars.
The PlayStation 4 also offers a robust lineup of exclusive games, including titles like “Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End,” “Bloodborne,” and “Horizon Zero Dawn.” These exclusives have been well-received by both critics and players, further solidifying the PS4’s position in the market.
In conclusion, Sony’s strategic decisions regarding the PlayStation 4, such as making it region-free and not requiring an online connection, have significantly bolstered its appeal to gamers worldwide. The combination of powerful hardware, innovative features, and a strong lineup of exclusive games has positioned the PS4 as a formidable contender in the next-generation console wars.
Source: Polygon
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.