Is it still worth buying a PS4 in 2023?
With the arrival of the PlayStation 5 on the market, is it still worth buying a PS4, one of the brand’s best-selling video games?
Sony announced that it would continue to make the PS4 in 2022 because of the problems the brand had been facing regarding the components for manufacturing the PS5, due to the 2019 pandemic. However, in 2023, they stopped manufacturing new units. However, there should be new games coming out until 2025.
So if you still don’t have a console and are thinking about buying one, whether new or used, stay with us in this article and we’ll raise some important points to consider before making your decision.
Including some information about the PS4’s competitor, the Xbox Series X.
About the PlayStation 4
Originally released in 2013, the PS4 has gained a few versions over the years. Currently, due to the original model being discontinued, there are two models available: the PlayStation 4 Slim – more compact and replaces the original – and the PlayStation 4 Pro – more powerful and runs games in 4K.
But is it worth investing in another console model? When buying a PS4, is it better to buy a new or used one?
In addition to just considering the price, we are going through some other important points to take into account when making your decision, thinking about whether it is still worth buying the PlayStation 4 in 2023.
Price
It is clear that this is a key point to be considered and that is why we are starting out here.
The price of a PS5 these days is quite considerable and perhaps a little off-limits for many people. You can purchase your new model for approximately $499.99, while the new PS4 Slim costs an average of $299, with the PS4 Pro costing $399.
The used models of the PS4 Slim can be found at around $129.99. But be careful with the models used, check the origin, check it for damage, if it has suffered any falls, and configuration details that are important when making a purchase.
And always be wary of prices far below average.
It is also worth considering the price of the Xbox Series S, as the PS4 will probably be discontinued in a few years. Currently, the Xbox Series S is found in the market at around R$299.
So consider what fits in your budget and consider the PS4’s lifespan and its discontinuation in a few years when it comes to deciding on your purchase.
Game Library
This is one of the main factors that lead consumers to choose to buy a PS4 as their purchase option, after all, Sony’s exclusive games have franchises such as The Last of Us, God of War, and Gran Turismo, as well as having just launched the long-awaited Horizon Forbidden West.
The platform’s exclusive games may end up being worth the purchase, at least for now, of this older console with a shorter lifespan than the Xbox Series S. There will always be dozens of sensational titles available in the library. The graphics and loading time might not be the best compared to the new generation, but you’ll still get good quality running these games.
Now, it has to be considered that, with Microsoft‘s acquisition of the famous developer and publisher Bethesda Softworks, the Xbox Series X, and its platform gain a new opportunity to enter the competition with the famous Sony games.
And our next topic addresses exactly that question.
Subscription: PS Plus and Xbox Game Pass
Another interesting factor that you can put on your list when considering buying a PS4 is access to the brands’ subscription services.
Sony’s PS Plus recently got a new version where it combines the old services of the platform with PS Now, which is the brand’s game streaming platform. There are more than 700 titles, owned and from partners, with three types of subscription plans.
Xbox Game Pass, on the other hand, is one of the biggest darlings around, known as the Netflix of games, as it has an incredible library, as mentioned above, titles via streaming, new games released on their debut day, and the possibility to play on PC.
With regard to prices, PS Plus currently starts its plans at $7.90 monthly and Xbox Game Pass starts its subscription price at $14.90 monthly. When buying a PS4, remember you’ll need this service to play games online.
It is important to consider the plans and subscription models, and the benefits of each. Especially considering how many free games you’ll have access to or if you’ll need to buy your favorite games in addition to the subscription fee.
Blu-ray
Some details make a difference, so it’s worth mentioning here an item that may be important for you when considering whether it’s still worth buying the PlayStation 4 in 2023.
Even though you can’t play PS5 games on your PS4, some have PS4 versions and you can download and play them. In addition, if they support crossplay, you can play with your friends who are using the PS5.
Some other console functions can help you decide if you are going for or not going for the purchase. On the PlayStation 4, for example, some services like Netflix, Spotify, and Amazon Prime Video are available, as well as a Blu-ray drive, which is not 4K like on the PS5, but will play regular Blu-rays without any problems.
Accessory variety
Last on our list, one of the main reasons consumers choose to buy a PS4: is the wide variety of supported accessories.
Accessories range from additional controllers and headphones to special gaming input devices.
Some are essential and help make your games much more exciting and fun. Others are considered expendable, but extremely desirable.
However, the PS4 is currently the only one on the market that still supports augmented reality games, as PS VR still doesn’t work with the new PS5. In addition, Sony announced the novelty, but it is still in development.
Another factor to consider is the gadgets compatible with the PlayStation 4, which are much cheaper than Sony’s solutions. There are headsets, controllers and charging pads, steering wheel simulators, musical instruments, and the well-known PS Move, to play Just Dance with friends.
Finally, it is worth mentioning that the PS5 is technically superior and can run PS4 games, but for those who are looking for a more affordable console, it is worth researching their favorite games and opting for the PlayStation 4 or Xbox Series S and calling friends to enjoy.
Sony is still a great video game brand, and it’s still worth buying a PS4.
So, do you think it is still worth buying the PS4 in 2023?
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