Why Buying A PlayStation 4 Makes More Sense Now Than Ever

The PlayStation 4 has been around since 2014, but three years on, it has only gotten better.

Late last year, the PS4 was given a ‘refresh’, and Sony split it into two models – the Slim and the Pro. While a PC is still a much better option for most gamers, these two new versions of the console make it very difficult to ignore.

Here are some reasons why.

1. It’s not just cheap, it’s cost effective

This point is beyond disputing. A PS4 Slim performs just as well as the original PS4 but with better cooling and a quieter fan. Sony’s official price is around RM1499, but we found a number of the outgoing 500GB model selling for as low as RM1,080 on Lazada! For that kind of money, you could probably find yourself a used PC of comparable power.

Our money is on the promo bundle packs that usually sell at RM1,299-1,399. These will land you two or three games along with an extended warranty.

2. A true home entertainment centre

The PS4 is built for the TV, so it’s no surprise that YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, HBO NOW and many other video streaming apps are supported. There’s even a very competent built-in internet browser that also supports video streaming.

Though it takes a while to get used to typing on the controller, most will find it adequate and intuitive. Plus, the controller has a little touchpad for the on-screen keyboard, so it makes it slightly easier for you to type.

3. Games are cheaper than you’d think

Yes, Steam provides some unbelievable deals whenever Lord Gaben sees fit. But you know what? The PS Store does sales events too. And while you’re probably not going to find AAA titles for less than RM50, you’ll be surprised by what you can find. Just last month, EA’s sale saw Battlefield 1 and Titanfall 2 at just RM100 each. That’s half price on games released less than a year ago!

There are also loads of FB groups and online resellers that will help you buy and sell used PS4 games. So once you’re done with Uncharted 4, you can trade it for the new Tomb Raider game without spending a cent!

4. They have some legendary exclusive titles

Most PC gamers are pretty happy with the rich library of games they have. But the PlayStation is home to some pretty legendary franchises as well. Metal Gear Solid, God of War, Uncharted, The Last of Us and Grand Turismo are some you can finally experience. There are loads of other one-off gems that you can discover along the way.

In fact, Insomniac Games revealed the gameplay for arguably the best-looking Spider-Man game ever. And yes, you guessed it - it is a PlayStation exclusive:

5. 4K and VR are finally accessible

Compared to your RM8,000 gaming rig, the PS4 Pro may not be the ideal 4K gaming machine, but for RM1,800 it’s certainly bang for buck. And while only a few games natively render at 4K on the PS4 Pro, its beefier specs will give you much better performance on Full HD TVs. Again, it’s not game changing, but you’re definitely getting what you pay for.

Not only that, but if you’ve already got any versions of the PS4 at home, a PSVR kit comes in at less than RM2,000. The HTC Vive and Oculus Rift are a lot more expensive and difficult to get a hold of, plus you’ll need to for out a lot more on compatible PC hardware. The PlayStation makes both 4K and VR available to the masses.

6. PlayStation Plus actually adds value

Why would anyone pay just to play online? That’s what we thought before experiencing it. Yes, it’s a little odd at first, but it’s actually not too bad.

Going for the 12+2 month subscription brings the cost down to less than RM10 a month. And for that, you get three free games monthly along with some nice exclusive discounts and extended demos. If you are an avid gamer, a year-long PS Plus subscription is actually a pretty good investment.

7. Coach (potato) gaming friendly

Let’s face it – working a 9-5 job whittles down even the most competitive gamer. Some of us just don’t have the time or energy to sit at a desk to play after eight hours of sitting at a desk to work.

We tried using a PC in the same way and ran into a number of problems. First off, most PC games were just not made for the Xbox 360 controller in mind. Even when they were, we were forced to use a wireless mouse+keyboard setup while in desktop mode. This felt cluttered and awful.

With the PS4’s Bluetooth Dual Shock 4 controller, every interface works perfectly. Plus, you can plug in your favourite headphones directly into the controller for late night sessions. And here's the best part: you can hold game nights with your closest friends every week. You'll be the coolest kid in your gang in no time.