PlayStation 5 Review: The Pinnacle of Gaming
The PlayStation 5 (PS5) has undeniably set a new benchmark for gaming consoles, marking a significant leap from its predecessor, the PlayStation 4. Released on November 12, 2020, the PS5 has impressed gamers worldwide with its advanced features and powerful performance. Here’s a comprehensive review of what makes the PS5 stand out.
Price and Release Date
Release Date: November 12, 2020 (North America, Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand)
Price:
- Standard Edition: $499.99
- Digital Edition: $399.99
The PS5 debuted alongside Microsoft’s Xbox Series X and Series S, setting a high standard with its robust hardware and innovative design.
Design
The PS5 is notable for its imposing size and futuristic aesthetic. Measuring approximately 39 x 10.4 x 26 cm (height x width x depth) and weighing 4.5 kg, the console is the largest Sony has ever produced. Its design is polarizing, with some finding its curves and color scheme striking, while others consider it too bulky.
- Build: The PS5 features a unique two-tone color scheme and a prominent light strip that changes color based on the console’s status (blue when on, orange in rest mode).
- Ports: The front panel includes one USB-A port and one USB-C port, while the rear panel offers two USB-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, an Ethernet port, and a power connector.
Despite its size, the PS5 is designed to run quietly and efficiently, thanks to its advanced cooling system. However, it requires a stand for horizontal placement, and its glossy plastic can attract dust and fingerprints.
Performance
The PS5 is a powerhouse of modern gaming technology, featuring:
- CPU: AMD Zen 2-based CPU with 8 cores running at 3.5 GHz
- GPU: Custom RDNA 2 with 10.28 TFLOPs, 36 CUs at 2.23 GHz
- Memory: 16 GB GDDR6
- Storage: 825 GB custom SSD, with expandable storage options
Resolution and Frame Rate: The PS5 supports 4K gaming at up to 120 fps and is capable of 8K output through a future firmware update. It excels in reducing load times and handling high-frame-rate gaming smoothly.
- SSD: The console’s ultra-fast SSD significantly decreases load times, with games like Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered loading in under a second.
DualSense Controller
The new DualSense controller is a standout feature of the PS5, offering:
- Haptic Feedback: Provides nuanced and dynamic tactile responses that enhance immersion.
- Adaptive Triggers: Change resistance to simulate different in-game actions and effects.
- Built-In Microphone: Allows for voice chat without the need for a separate headset.
Features
Audio: The PS5’s Tempest 3D AudioTech delivers immersive sound, enhancing the gaming experience with spatial audio. It works with any headphones and is supported by most PS5 titles.
Backward Compatibility: The PS5 supports a wide range of PS4 games, allowing players to continue enjoying their old favorites. However, it lacks retrocompatibility with PS2 and PS3 titles.
Games Library: The PS5’s game library includes both exclusive titles and cross-generation games, with upcoming releases expected to further showcase the console’s capabilities. Notable titles include Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Horizon Forbidden West, and Gran Turismo 7.
User Interface: The PS5 features a redesigned UI that is intuitive and fast, making navigation and game management more accessible.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional 4K/120fps gameplay
- Innovative DualSense controller
- Rapid SSD speeds
- Sleek and futuristic design
Cons:
- Large and cumbersome size
- Limited internal storage (825 GB)
- No support for Dolby Vision and Atmos
Should You Buy the PS5?
The PS5 represents a significant advancement in gaming technology, delivering superior performance, impressive graphics, and a transformative gaming experience. Despite its size and some limitations in storage, it’s a worthy investment for gamers eager to embrace the next generation of gaming.
Where to Win a PlayStation 5
If you’re interested in winning a PlayStation 5, check out these resources:
For more information on the PS5 and its features, you can visit the official PlayStation website.
This review provides a detailed look at what the PS5 offers and helps potential buyers decide if this console is the right fit for their gaming needs.
PS5 Review: DualSense Controller
The DualSense controller represents a revolutionary upgrade from the DualShock 4. Notable features include adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. A mute button can silence the microphone or, if your TV has HDMI CEC, it can mute the TV as well. The DualSense controller comes with your PS5 and feels remarkably similar to the DualShock 4, offering a familiar yet enhanced experience.
A New Era of Gaming Comfort and Control
Upon first grasp, the DualSense controller is slightly heavier and better balanced, with most of its weight concentrated in the grips. The majority of the controller features a matte white plastic finish, while the underside of the grips has a slightly rougher texture, making it easier to hold and less likely to slip from your hands. Look closely, and you'll notice that this texture is composed of tiny PlayStation face buttons, a delightful detail. The two-tone color scheme extends to the classic Triangle, Circle, Square, and Cross (or X) buttons, now devoid of color, reminiscent of the minimalist PS Vita design.
Enhanced Features and Build Quality
A subtle color touch lies on the sides of the central touchpad, with the PS4's Lightbar now relocated to a less intrusive position, preventing any annoying glow on your TV screen. Unlike the convex analog design of early PlayStation controllers, the DualSense's sticks are concave like the DualShock 4, and this time around, they're significantly more durable with a textured finish on the outer edge.
Our testing over six months has shown no sign of the rubber wear common with early PS4 models, even during intense gaming sessions. New buttons, such as the mute button for the built-in microphone, add convenience. Holding this button mutes your TV speakers or headphones, which we found to be a handy quality-of-life feature. The microphone itself works best when the controller is held in a standard gaming position rather than close to your mouth, but it isn't recommended for voice chat due to its tendency to pick up ambient noise.
Adaptive Triggers and Haptic Feedback
The standout feature of the DualSense is its adaptive triggers, which allow developers to add resistance to certain in-game actions. These adaptive triggers create sensations that mimic real-world actions, such as pressing a car pedal or drawing a bowstring. This is a significant advancement for Sony's hardware haptics, replacing the traditional rumble with a more nuanced and immersive feedback system. Traversing different surfaces, like metal, through your character, the controller replicates that feeling in your palms—an impressive and delightful experience.
Durability and Battery Life
The battery life of the DualSense has also seen a considerable improvement over the DualShock 4. During our tests, we played PS5 and PS4 titles like Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Astro's Playroom, with the controller lasting 12 hours and 30 minutes before needing a recharge. However, this can vary based on the games played and the use of DualSense features. Even with potential battery degradation over time, this is a notable enhancement given the advanced technology within the controller. You can also opt to use the controller wired if you prefer.
Charging Options
To charge the DualSense, you have two primary options: connecting it to the PS5 with the included USB-C to USB-A cable or using the optional PS5 DualSense Charging Station, which can charge two controllers simultaneously through metal conduits near the 3.5mm audio jack. Additionally, you can charge via the rear USB ports or a USB-C to USB-C cable using the front USB-C port. Both methods work well, but the Charging Station offers a more aesthetically pleasing option, and third-party stations may become available in the future. We also intend to test if charging with a USB-C to USB-C cable is faster than using the USB-C to USB-A cable provided.
For those looking for even more customization and features, the recently announced DualSense Edge aims to rival the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller and its Series 2 version. Though a release date hasn't been confirmed, we'll keep you updated with more information as it becomes available.
