PlayStation 5 Standard Console

2 reviews for PlayStation 5 Standard Console

1. 

   Rated 5 out of 5

   JimmyJames – March 19, 2024

   **Updates at the bottom**
   So having owned and used the PS5 for just over a month now, I thought I’d share my initial impressions via this review.

   The console is big, probably the biggest I’ve owned, and I’ve had a fair few. With that said when stood vertically on the supplied stand it really doesn’t take up a great deal of space alongside a TV, or on a desk besides a monitor. Even horizontally it will only take up the same space as traditional HiFi seperate unit. It just feels looks larger due to its design and colour.

   Within that large casing it houses a substantial cooling solution. During use the fan is exceptionally quiet and I am yet to hear it step up to levels that are audible in normal circumstances. What can clearly been heard is the optical drive. You know when the BD drive is spinning. It’s a little disappointing compared to the relative serenity of the rest of the system. Thankfully its rare the drive needs to work outside of installation, or initialisation.

   Once the system is running you encounter the UI for the first time. Everything is fairly straightforward with games front and centre. Elements will be familiar to former PlayStation owners but equally other will be less so, and maybe a little confusing at first. Once you’re used to it, it’s actually better than the PS4’s but there are shortcomings. One glaring omissions is the lack of folders for your games and media. I am sure this can be added in a future update but it seems odd to exclude it in the first place. Closing games can be a little convoluted. On the PS4 it was a fairly straightforward affair, but. On the PS5 it take at least one to two additional button presses.

   Games are what it’s all about and this were the PS5 excels. So far I have played AC: Valhalla, Demon’s Souls, WRC9, FIFA21, Astrobot, No Man’s Sky, Bugsnax and Haven. These are all PS5 builds and a mix Triple A and Indie titles. In terms of performance it’s a big step up. All of these games hit 60fps with ease. This make a big difference to action titles like AC and Demon’s Souls. Couple that with the boost in visual fidelity, and lightning fast load times( thanks to the SSD) and they are joy to play. Then we have backwards compatibility. Many older games receive a significant performance boost and some first party titles receive a graphical upgrade. The now notorious Cyberpunk 2077 serves as a great example of the PS5 power. The game was poorly optimised at release for the PS4 family of consoles, to the point were it unplayable on vanilla hardware. While running the PS4 build, the PS5 can maintain a steady 60fps. Pop in is non-existent thanks to the super fast SSD and RAM, the texture pop in isn’t detectable.

   Everything isn’t rosy when it comes to games though. Storage is limited. Of the 825gb only 667gb is usable. There is an M.2 slot for future expansion, but this currently disabled due to no suitable drives being available. You can use an external to store and play PS4 games, however you won’t benefit from the boosted loading times offered by the SSD. Because of the adoption of a standardised M.2 slot this will mean future expansion will be available and get cheaper over time.

   Probably the biggest surprise is the Dual Sense. Until you pick it up and play Astrobot you don’t realise how big of game changer this could be. The haptic feedback is fantastic. The fine tuning on Astrobot allows you feel every surface and input. The adaptive trigger add depth to simple actions like drawing a bow. WRC 9 makes great use of this too by adding resistance to the brake trigger to mimic the progression of the pedal. If none of this is your thing, or you feel it will hinder how competitive you can be, it can all be disabled or tones down. Aside from the haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, the Dual Sense feels great in the hand. The DS4 was a major step up from the DS3, and the Dual Sense feels almost as big a leap. It’s easily my controller of choice now. My only criticism would be that on both my Dual Senses the R1 and L1 buttons are audible. It isn’t the sound of a micro switch, but more the sound of plastic on plastic.

   So overall the PS5 is a great starting point for a promising future.

   **Update**
   So nearly two years into ownership and things have arguably got better. Many new and useful features have been added as well as some quality of life improvements. It would have been nice to see VRR and 1440p support come sooner but it’s better late than never. I’ve added an internal m.2 NVME and have been using an external HDD for PS4 games. As of yet I’ve not issues with either. Overall the experience for myself remains excellent.

   ***Update Nov 2023***
   So with three years of ownership under my belt have my thoughts changed? No not at all. The PS5 has been solid throughout. It’s just a shame Sony haven’t given us a few more exclusives in that time. I would still recommend the PS5.

2. 

   Rated 5 out of 5

   JimmyJames – May 14, 2024

   Gather ’round, gamers, enthusiasts, and early adopters, for we’re diving into the phenomenon that is the PlayStation 5! If you were there on launch day, you’re part of a legacy that’s reshaping the gaming landscape and setting new standards for immersive entertainment.

   Aesthetic Marvel:
   The PlayStation 5 isn’t just a console; it’s a masterpiece of design. It’s like a futuristic monolith from your favorite sci-fi epic. The sleek curves, contrasting colors, and bold lines make it a statement piece that demands attention in your gaming sanctuary.

   Next-Gen Powerhouse:
   Under that elegant exterior lies a beastly core. The PlayStation 5’s hardware is like a symphony of performance and innovation, ready to tackle the most demanding games with ease. The lightning-fast SSD isn’t just a storage solution; it’s a time-traveling device that virtually eliminates loading screens and accelerates your gaming experience.

   DualSense: A Touch of Magic:
   But let’s talk about the real game-changer – the DualSense Wireless Controller. It’s not just a controller; it’s a sensory masterpiece. The haptic feedback and adaptive triggers transport you into the virtual world, making each action feel like it’s happening in your hands. Whether you’re feeling the tension of a bowstring or the rev of an engine, the DualSense turns gaming into a multisensory adventure.

   The Lineup of Legends:
   The launch lineup is like a treasure trove of gaming wonders. From exploring the haunting landscapes of “Demon’s Souls” to swinging through the New York skyline in “Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales,” the PlayStation 5 introduced us to worlds that push the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming.

   Backward Compatibility Bliss:
   And if that wasn’t enough, the backward compatibility feature means you can dive back into your favorite PlayStation 4 titles with improved performance and visuals. It’s like meeting old friends in a new, dazzling light.

   Legacy in the Making:
   Owning a PlayStation 5 on launch day isn’t just about being part of history; it’s about being part of the future. It’s about experiencing the evolution of gaming firsthand and witnessing the beginning of a new era of interactive entertainment.

   Final Level:
   For those who snagged a PlayStation 5 on launch day, you’re pioneers in a digital revolution. You’re living the dream of generations past who marveled at the possibilities of gaming. As you explore new worlds, conquer epic challenges, and create lasting memories, remember that you’re part of an extraordinary chapter in gaming history. The PlayStation 5 – a testament to innovation, a journey into the unknown, and a source of endless adventures. Game on, pioneers, game on! 🎮🚀🌟