Sony wants to make games that can “only be enjoyed on PS5” – Has no interest in PS4 playability

Microsoft made a bold move with its Xbox Series X reveal, confirming that its initial set of first-party games will be compatible with both the Xbox Series X and their Xbox One series systems. This “no Xbox user gets left behind” approach may seem admirable, but this restriction could limit the potential of their first-party library by limiting the potential of each game’s Xbox Series X version.   

In a recent interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Sony’s Interactive Entertainment’s CEO, Jim Ryan, confirmed that the company wanted to create games “that can really only be enjoyed on PS5.” Sony intends to utilise its new DualSense controller, 3D audio capabilities, RDNA-powered graphics, and SSD storage speeds to their fullest, and that requires them to leave PS4 users behind. 

Sony has no interest in making its PlayStation 5 games compatible with PlayStation 4 hardware and believes that this approach will help the company to make the most out of their new console hardware. That said, Sony doesn’t plan to abandon PS4 users as soon as the PlayStation 5 releases. Jim Ryan has confirmed that Sony plans to support PS4 users for “several years after the launch of PS5”, stating that it “represented a huge business opportunity”.

On June 4th, Sony plans to showcase “the future of gaming” by highlighting the power of its PlayStation 5 console, revealing new games, PS5 gameplay and more information about their next-generation hardware. This event will last for over an hour and be hosted on both Twitch and YouTube on June 4 at 1 pm PDT / 9 pm BST / 10 pm CEST.