January 24th 2024.
The question on the minds of many gamers is whether the future of PlayStation will be shifting towards PC and mobile platforms. This topic was recently brought up in the letters page and sparked a discussion about the desirability of being a video game developer. One reader shared their enjoyment of playing Bloodborne again, which led to an interesting debate. If you want to join in on the conversation, feel free to email us!
It's fascinating to note that the boss of Sony recently gave an interview discussing the future of their game business. Although it seemed a bit scripted, it was still a rare opportunity to gain insight into their plans. Surprisingly, he mentioned that their approach will be similar to Microsoft's, with games being available on multiple systems. This could mean that in the future, we may see PlayStation games on various platforms.
It's not hard to see why Sony would want to expand their reach. With advancements in cloud computing and streaming, the potential to make their games accessible to a wider audience is too good to pass up. Perhaps we could even see a PlayStation Network app on TV screens, tablets, or PCs, similar to Netflix or Spotify. Of course, this is all speculation and may take several years to come to fruition. But it's an exciting prospect to consider, especially alongside the release of the PlayStation 6.
Some readers expressed concern that Sony's strategy is copying Microsoft's, but this shouldn't come as a surprise. It's only natural for companies to learn from each other and adapt to changing market trends. With PlayStation games launching on PC, it may affect console sales, but the potential revenue from software sales could offset this. After all, a game released a year or two later may not have the same impact as a day-one release.
There was also a discussion about subscription services in the gaming industry. While they may appeal to some players, there are also others who may not find it as appealing due to limited time for gaming. However, it's clear that the industry is evolving and we may see fewer third-party exclusives in the future. Even Square Enix has started to shift towards this model, showing that the industry is changing rapidly.
It's likely that first-party exclusives will remain, but even that may not be the case for long. Xbox games are now available on handheld devices like the Steam Deck, without Microsoft having to produce a portable device. This may have sparked Sony's interest in the handheld market, with the potential to remove barriers and make gaming more accessible. Only time will tell how this will impact the industry, but it's an exciting time for gamers.
On a personal note, one reader shared their experience with the Steam Deck and how it has changed the way they play games. They now have easy access to every modern gaming library without having to be confined to a TV, which has greatly increased their playtime. This could be a game-changer for other frustrated gamers who struggle to find time to play.
Another reader shared their love for Bloodborne and how it still holds up even after eight years. The game's difficulty and nostalgia factor make it a timeless classic for them, and they even enjoy watching new players struggle through it. On a lighter note, they also mentioned the potential rivalry between Nintendo and Pocketpair, the developers of Palworld.
However, there was also a somber discussion about the volatile nature of being a game developer. The constant threat of layoffs and the uncertainty of job security makes it a difficult career choice. It's disheartening to see that even successful companies like Activision have had to resort to layoffs, despite making over a billion dollars. This reader feels sorry for game developers, who put in hard work and dedication only to receive a pink slip in return.
One reader shared their struggle with morality in video games and how it can impact their gaming choices. They find it challenging to make decisions that go against their personal moral compass, which may lead to them missing out on certain experiences in games. However, they do appreciate games like The Last of Us Part 2 and Baldur's Gate 3, which force players to question their actions and involvement in the story.
It's a thought-provoking topic that could make for a great Hot Topic, but for now, we're looking forward to the Readers' Top 20 next week. And on a more lighthearted note, one reader expressed their excitement for the return of Baldur's Gate 3 and the potential to play as the Dark Urge in future playthroughs.
Is the future of PlayStation heading towards PC and mobile platforms? In the letters page on Wednesday, there is a discussion about whether being a video game developer is still considered a desirable job. One reader shares their enjoyment of playing Bloodborne again.
The boss of Sony recently gave an interesting and rare interview, although some may say his answers seemed a bit scripted. It was revealed that he believes the future of their game business will follow a similar path as Microsoft, with games being available on multiple systems. With advancements in cloud computing and streaming, it's only a matter of time before Sony wants to reach as many users as possible. This could potentially take the form of a PlayStation Network app, similar to Netflix or Spotify, available on TV screens, tablets, and PCs.
However, this may still be a few years away and may be introduced alongside the release of the PlayStation 6. An anonymous reader shares their thoughts, stating that all games should be available everywhere. It's not surprising that Sony is taking a similar approach as Microsoft. By launching their games on PC, they may lose out on some console sales, but they will make up for it with software sales on PC. Releasing a game a year or two later on PC just doesn't have the same impact.
The reader also agrees that subscription services may not appeal to everyone, especially as they get older and have more responsibilities. However, they do acknowledge that it's a great option for some gamers. The industry is evolving rapidly, and third-party exclusives may become a thing of the past. Companies like Square Enix are already showing signs of this shift.
The reader believes that first-party exclusives will still remain, even for Microsoft, but acknowledges that this may not be the case for much longer. With Xbox games now available on handheld devices like the Steam Deck, Sony may want to enter that market as well. By removing barriers and making games accessible to a wider audience, it will benefit the industry in the long run. However, the reader doesn't see Nintendo changing their strategy, as they have a strong hold on their market.
Moving on to another topic, another reader shares their appreciation for the Reader's Feature on the PlayStation Portal and Remote Play. They recently purchased a Steam Deck, and it has completely changed how they consume video games. They can now access their entire gaming library without having to be confined to a TV screen. They predict that Sony and Xbox will not release a handheld device, but having the option of remote play on a dedicated device is a game-changer for those who struggle to find TV time.
The reader expresses their love for Bloodborne and how it has stood the test of time since its release in 2015. They also mention their recent playthrough and how it still gives them a challenge. They also share their thoughts on Nintendo's possible success with the Switch 2 and how Sony may follow suit.
Next, a reader shares their perspective on the volatile career of a game developer. They mention the frequent layoffs in the industry and how it must be a difficult job to have uncertain job security. They express their sympathy for developers who pour their hearts into creating games, only to be let go without warning. They also predict that it may get worse before it gets better.
Another reader shares their struggles with morality in video games. They mention feeling guilty for making immoral choices in games, and how it has affected their gaming experiences. They also bring up The Last of Us Part 2 and how it made them question their decisions in the game. They mention wanting to play Baldur's Gate 3 multiple times and making different choices, but they are unsure if they have the willpower to do so. They ask for other readers to share their experiences with morality in video games and how it has impacted them personally.
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