Best answer: Yes, you should definitely upgrade to the PS5! Doing this will allow you to experience new games designed for the next generation of consoles, while still retaining access to your PS4 library.
- Stock up on games: PlayStation Store Gift Card (From $10 at Amazon)
- Hard to find: PlayStation 5 ($500 at Amazon)
Why should I upgrade to the PS5?
The PS5 has far better specs than the PS4, allowing developers to make new kinds of games that weren't possible beforehand. A better CPU and GPU mean more complex AI, better framerates, and more detailed graphics, while the switch to a special internal solid-state drive (SSD) will nearly eliminate loading times within games. Third-party games will be able to take advantage of the new hardware, while Sony Worldwide Studios is already hard at work on a new slate of PlayStation 5 exclusive titles.
In our PS5 review, PlayStation lead Jennifer Locke noted that it was impossible to go back to the PS4 after experiencing the speed and ease of use the PS5 has to offer.
It's not just the technical improvements though. The PS5 also has an all-new controller, which amusingly hasn't been named the DualShock 5 but is instead called the DualSense. This new controller has better battery life and is slightly larger overall while incorporating new haptic feedback in the sticks and triggers. This allows developers to improve the immersion of games, increasing tension and resistance in different parts of the controller depending on the weapons being used or the types of environments being moved through.
Upgrading to PS5 What about my PS4 games?
The PS5 is already confirmed to be backward compatible with PS4 titles, meaning all of your games, DLC, and saves will carry over without issue. The option is even there for developers to allow cross-generation play, allowing PS5 owners to play with their friends on PS4 who haven't upgraded yet. Meanwhile, once you cross over to the new generation, many of your PS4 games can be upgraded into PS5 titles.
PlayStation VR (PSVR) owners are also okay, as the PS5 supports the current headset and games, since a new PSVR headset hasn't launched (or even been revealed) for the PS5 yet.
Overall, there's no reason to not upgrade to a PS5 unless you're on a budget. The standard PS5 is $500, while the Digital Edition is $400. Luckily, games are expected to be gross-generational for the first couple of years, so you're not missing out on too many games, though there will be PS5-only titles. If you want the best experience on PlayStation, you'll want to upgrade at some point.
What PS5 games can I look forward to?
The PS5 is going to have a huge roster of games, which will include third-party titles and exclusive PS5 games. This includes launch titles like Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Demon's Souls, as well as tentative 2021 games such as Deathloop, Horizon Forbidden West, the next God of War and more.
Easy to stock up
PlayStation gift cards are an easy way to grab currency for games, add-ons, themes, and more on the PlayStation Store. They also come in a wide variety of denominations.
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The PS5 has released worldwide but stock remains extremely low right now. If you see one available, we recommend grabbing it immediately. PS5 games can support ray tracing and have more realistic lighting effects than ever before, alongside higher refresh rates and overall visual detail.
