The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) is one of the most successful gaming consoles ever released. Even years after its original launch, PS4 remains popular among gamers because of its huge game library, reliable hardware, comfortable DualShock 4 controller and affordable pricing compared with newer gaming consoles.
Whether you are a casual gamer, a family looking for an entertainment system or someone who wants access to legendary PlayStation games, the PS4 can still offer an enjoyable gaming experience.
What Is Sony PlayStation 4?
The PlayStation 4 is a home video game console developed by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It was designed around high-definition gaming, online multiplayer, digital downloads and entertainment features.
The PS4 family includes the standard PS4, PS4 Slim and the more powerful PS4 Pro. The PS4 Pro was created for gamers who wanted improved graphics, higher or more stable frame rates and support for 4K output on compatible televisions. Sony says the PS4 Pro has twice the GPU power of the standard PS4.
1. Huge Game Library
One of the biggest advantages of buying a PS4 is its enormous selection of games. Gamers can choose from action, adventure, sports, racing, RPG, shooting and multiplayer titles.
Some popular PS4 games include:
- God of War
- Marvel's Spider-Man
- The Last of Us Remastered
- Uncharted 4
- Ghost of Tsushima
- Gran Turismo Sport
- Horizon Zero Dawn
- FIFA
- Call of Duty
- Red Dead Redemption 2
Many of these games are still highly regarded for their graphics, storytelling and gameplay.
2. PS4 Pro Offers Better Graphics
For gamers who own a 4K television, the PS4 Pro is particularly interesting. Supported games can take advantage of the additional processing power to provide improved graphics, higher resolutions and smoother or more stable frame rates. Sony also states that PS4 Pro can upscale lower-resolution games toward 2160p on compatible 4K displays.
This makes PS4 Pro a good match for a 4K TV.
However, it is important to remember that not every PS4 game runs natively at 4K. The actual resolution and performance depend on how each game was developed.
3. HDR Gaming
PS4 consoles support HDR video output for compatible games and streaming content. HDR can provide a wider range of colours, brighter highlights and improved detail between dark and bright areas.
To enjoy HDR, you need a compatible HDR10 television, supported content and an appropriate HDMI connection. Sony recommends connecting the console directly to the TV when configuring HDR.
This is especially useful when pairing a PS4 Pro with a modern 4K HDR television.
4. DualShock 4 Wireless Controller
The DualShock 4 controller is another major part of the PS4 experience. It includes two analogue sticks, directional buttons, shoulder buttons, a touchpad, motion sensors and a built-in light bar.
The controller's design works well for a wide variety of games, from racing and sports to action and shooting games.
Players can also connect additional controllers for compatible local multiplayer games, making the PS4 suitable for family gaming and gatherings.
5. Online Multiplayer
PS4 supports online multiplayer, allowing gamers to compete or cooperate with friends and other players.
Depending on the game and service, online multiplayer may require a PlayStation Plus subscription. Online gaming can turn a single-player console into a social entertainment system where friends can play together from different locations.
6. Entertainment Beyond Gaming
The PS4 isn't only a gaming machine. It can also be used for entertainment services and media applications, depending on the services available for the console and region.
PS4 Pro additionally supports 4K streaming from compatible services, including services such as Netflix and YouTube, according to Sony's documentation.
This makes it useful as part of a home entertainment setup.
7. Remote Play
Another useful feature is Remote Play, which allows supported PS4 games to be streamed to compatible devices.
Sony's current support documentation states that almost all PS4 games are available through PS4 Remote Play, although some games and functions have restrictions.
This can be convenient when someone else is using the main TV and you still want to continue gaming on a compatible device.
PS4 vs PS4 Pro
If you're deciding between the standard PS4 and PS4 Pro, consider your TV and gaming priorities.
Standard PS4: Best for affordable 1080p gaming and accessing the PS4 game library.
PS4 Slim: A smaller, more compact version that is convenient for users who want a streamlined PS4 setup.
PS4 Pro: Better suited to gamers with 4K TVs who want improved graphics, higher resolutions and enhanced performance in supported games.
Is PS4 Still Worth Buying?
For gamers who want access to the PS4's extensive library at a reasonable price, it can still be worthwhile. The main attraction is not simply the hardware but the huge selection of games available for the platform.
If you already own a 4K TV and want improved PS4 visuals, the PS4 Pro is generally the more attractive version. If your priority is affordability and standard HD gaming, a regular PS4 or PS4 Slim may be sufficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PS4 still good for gaming?
Yes. The PS4 has a large library of highly rated games and remains capable of providing enjoyable HD gaming. However, newer games increasingly target newer console generations.
Is PS4 Pro better than PS4?
Yes, in terms of hardware performance. PS4 Pro provides significantly more GPU power and supports 4K output, HDR and enhanced performance in supported games.
Can PS4 Pro play 4K games?
PS4 Pro can output 4K and supports games with PS4 Pro enhancements. However, the exact rendering resolution varies by game; it should not be assumed that every title is native 4K.
Does PS4 support HDR?
Yes. PS4 consoles support HDR video output for compatible games and streaming content when connected to a compatible HDR10 display.
Can PS4 play Blu-ray discs?
Yes. PS4 models support Blu-ray and DVD playback. Availability of specific media features can vary by model and region.
Can I play PS4 games online?
Yes. PS4 supports online multiplayer for compatible games. Some online multiplayer features require PlayStation Plus.
Can PS4 use Remote Play?
Yes. PS4 supports Remote Play on compatible devices, although certain games and functions may have restrictions.
Which PS4 should I buy?
For basic 1080p gaming, the standard PS4 or PS4 Slim can be suitable. For a 4K TV and enhanced graphics, the PS4 Pro is the better choice.
Final Thoughts
The Sony PlayStation 4 remains an important console in gaming history because of its enormous game library, strong exclusive titles, DualShock 4 controller and versatile entertainment features.
For budget-conscious gamers, the standard PS4 family can provide excellent access to PlayStation's extensive library. For gamers with a 4K HDR television, the PS4 Pro offers a more powerful experience with improved graphics, 4K output and enhanced performance in supported games.
If you're buying a PS4 today, check the exact model, storage capacity, controller condition, warranty and whether the console is new, refurbished or used before making your purchase.
