It has been difficult to purchase a PS5 since it was released a little over a year ago. There are a few reasons for the shortage. One, the PS5 is so popular that it sells out quickly. Two, Sony can’t produce the console at the rate of the demand because there is a shortage of chips needed for the PS5. They announced their solution will be to keep producing PS4s.
Sony had originally planned to stop production of the PS4 at the end of last year, but Sony adamantly denied the report. They will continue to produce the console, which is cheaper for them to make and for customers to buy.
It is yet to be determined if there’s a demand for an eight-year-old console. Sony doesn’t seem to be worried about it.
“It is one of the best-selling consoles ever and there is always crossover between generations,” a Sony spokesperson said.
While it’s true that the price is better, a valid question is raised over whether or not it’s worth it to buy a console that may not be compatible with certain games. Some games set to be released soon, such as God of War Ragnarok and Horizon Forbidden West have already been announced to be available for both the PS4 and PS5, but there are already games that can be exclusively played on the newer console. Demon Souls, Returnal, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart and Final Fantasy VII Remake: Intergrade are only compatible with the PS5.
Kotaku’s Sisi Jiang suggests the Xbox Series S for gamers who want to be sure that their purchase will be worth it. Jiang states that the Xbox is available at most stores and can play all the games. It is also compatible with Xbox Gamepass, one of the best deals on games.