Sony's latest PlayStation 5 console covers arrive next month
The Nova Pink, Starlight Blue and Galactic Purple plates were first announced last year.
Sony PlayStation 4
86
Engadget Review
The PlayStation 4 has always focused on doing one thing incredibly well: playing video games. Two and a half years after hitting store shelves, a few unforeseeable issues have cropped up, but the PS4 is still the best console experience money can buy.
It's still imperfect, but it's also still the best.
Timothy J. SeppalaJune 29, 2016
Pros
- Fast
- Powerful
- Great gamepad
- Beautiful design
Cons
- Short gamepad battery life
- Weak game lineup at launch
View All Critic & User Reviews
Sony PlayStation 4
- Critic Reviews (30)
- User Reviews (89)
- 82AVERAGE CRITIC SCORE30 ReviewsAllThingsD80Sony PlayStation 4 Makes Right Play for GamersIf gaming is your first priority, the PlayStation 4 is a great package, and delivers on performance, though you should compare game catalogs before committing to either console.PC Mag80Sony PlayStation 4The first fully redesigned PlayStation in seven long years sports a fresh look, an all-new interface, some unique features, and a much more comfortable controller.TechCrunch80The PS4 Is Sony's First Shot In The Next-Gen ConSony has polished the PlayStation experience to a high shine and it’s clear that they knew exactly where to tweak the PS3 to make a true next-gen console.Ars Technica80PlayStation 4 hardware review: Off to a mixed starThe PlayStation 4 has an excellent controller, decently powerful hardware, some intriguing, well-executed new features, and an interface that shows belated acknowledgement of some of Sony's most user-unfriendly past designs.Joystiq90Review: PlayStation 4The PlayStation 4 is a well-designed console that packs a lot of features into a single package while still keeping games front-and-center.Engadget80Sony PlayStation 4 review: fast, powerful, worth iSony's fourth PlayStation console is fast, sleek and powerful. Its new DualShock gamepad is the best Sony's ever made. And the console is just getting started.CNET80PlayStation 4 review: The next generation is here.The PlayStation 4's beautiful graphics, blazing interface, and near-perfect controller make it a worthy successor to the PS3, but it would be wise to wait for more titles and features before you buy.Tom's Guide70Sony PS4 ReviewOverall, the PlayStation 4 is the console of choice for those looking for a gamer-centric experience.Popular Science70PlayStation 4 Review: A Lot Of The SameUnless you are desperately jonesing to play a game like the new Killzone, then no, or, at least, you should wait as long as you can. This doesn't feel like a step forward; it feels like a step sideways.Gizmodo80PS4 Review: The Future Is Finally HereThe PS4 is a good console. There is nothing aggressively wrong with it as to scare away or displease a devoted fanboy. You will like it, you will be happy. But if you're relatively console neutral, or even just open-minded? Wait.EngadgetNot RatedHere's a look at what's inside the Sony PlayStatioIf you've been faithfully following gaming news all year, then you won't find many surprises inside the PS4 box. There's just a mono headset, AC power cord, micro-USB cable and DualShock 4 controller to accompany the system.GizmodoNot RatedHere's What the PS4 Looks Like in PersonIs it possible to be striking and understated at the same time? The PS4 might be just that. Though the early jokes had pointed it as just being an italicized Xbox One, the sharp angles of the rhombus add a lot more character in real life than they do in pictures.EngadgetNot RatedPlayStation 4 hands-on: DualShock 4 and games (vidThe PS4 Eye works efficiently and interestingly in tandem with the new controller, and the console loaded demos quickly and without pause.Pocket-Lint80PlayStation 4 reviewIf you are a Sony fan you won't be disappointed in the PS4. You know and trust that everything will, eventually, get better. But for now you'll have to be patient, very patient, before the PS4 delivers the true knock-out that it can - and will - in the months and years to come.TechHive70PlayStation 4 review: Sony's best console yet is oSony's latest console is a powerful, intelligently designed gaming machine without a game to recommend it. It's poised to perform well in the years to come, but it's an underwhelming proposition at launch.Pocket-Lint80Playstation 4 reviewIf you are a Sony fan you won't be disappointed, because you'll know everything will, eventually, get better, but for now you'll have to be patient, very patient.Pocket-LintNot RatedSony PS4 hands-on video reviewThe remote play feature is astounding. Use your Vita as a screen through which you can play any PS4 game, and be amazed by just how slick it is ... Graphics, of course, are improved. The problem is, it's going to take a long time to fully realise this ... we have to say it's one of the nicest controllers we've ever used.Pocket-LintNot RatedPS4 user interface explored: Hands-on with a simplIt's particularly good at making sure you get more from your games - especially if you are social. What's most important is that the interface is very quick. If all you want to do is play games, you'll be able to do that very quickly and certainly more so than ever before. We like it. A lot.ABC News80Playstation 4 Review: Sony Takes a Strong Shot inThere's no one feature that could be called the Playstation 4 selling point, but instead, it's several smaller upgrades, like better graphics and improved controllers, that together create a gaming experience greater than the sum of its individual parts.Mashable90Sony's PlayStation 4: Inviting Console That AvoidsAfter seven years of waiting, we have finally experienced next-generation gaming. Sony's PlayStation 4 gives us hope for more powerful, jaw-dropping video games, and leaves a lot to the imagination for the future.Polygon80Playstation 4 The ReviewBut the PlayStation 4's focus on gaming — and only gaming — is undermined by a distinct lack of compelling software. That failing is sure to improve — better games and more of them will appear on the PlayStation 4 — but right now, this is a game console without a game to recommend it.Time80PlayStation 4 Review: Sony’s Comeback Console MYou’re still buying a promise, but for once it feels like a promise made on solid, well-trodden ground.Kotaku80The PlayStation 4: The Kotaku Review (In Progress)The PS4 seems like it'll be a hell of a console, but it's mostly potential and a bunch of new tools in need of some awesome games for them to work on.Pocket-LintNot RatedSony PS4 hands-on pictures and videoWhat we love though, is the way the ports and Blu-ray disc slot just vanish into the machine. If you look at the PS4 on its own, it really looks like it has no connections, everything is just so well designed into the case... speaking of controllers, the redesigned version that comes with the PS4 is actually a big improvement.Pocket-LintNot RatedHands-on: Sony PS4 review, our first impressions fFrom our time with the console, playing games, and talking to Sony it is clear the focus here is very much about delivering a state of the art games machine and trying to deliver as many games as possible to those who aren't fussed with anything but.Wired UKNot RatedUp-close and personal with the PlayStation 4: WireThe PS4 console itself strongly resembles the PlayStation 2, aesthetically at least. It's a bit smaller than the Xbox One, with a footprint similar to the PlayStation 3.T380Sony PS4 reviewThe PlayStation 4 is a fast, great-looking, powerful console at a not-silly price that also packs the best controller that's adorned a PlayStation so far.The Verge80Sony PlayStation 4 reviewIf you're desperate for a new console, rest assured that eventually the PS4 will be one; it has plenty of power, a great controller, and a lot of good ideas about how we can play games better and how we can play them together. But for right now, they’re mostly still just ideas.FortuneNot RatedPlayStation 4 review: Not quite yet worth itThink of the PlayStation 4 as a device with great potential, just one that developers haven't tapped into much yet -- at least, based on my limited time with it. There isn't any one feature or game I've played that screams "next generation."Penny ArcadeNot RatedLess expensive, more powerful, fully operational:The PlayStation 4, in contrast, is a simpler system, and I mean that in the best possible way. It’s smaller, easy to set up, and doesn’t come with anything you don’t need. It focuses on games and, at least in the initial batch of games, it’s delivering more power.IGN80PS4 REVIEWThe PS4 is compact, gorgeous, and powerful with promising features built for the future.TechRadarNot RatedHands on: Sony PS4 reviewThe PlayStation 4 is a living room computer, more so than the PS3 ever was. Not just because of its specs and AMD-based architecture, but because of its robust feature set.The VergeNot RatedPlayStation 4, connected: first impressions out ofWe've had only a precious couple days with the PlayStation 4 — and even less time with its online capabilities. At first glance, it feels like Sony's gone a long way toward fixing what ailed the PS3, and toward enabling a much better and more impressive gaming experience going forward.NBC News80PlayStation 4 review: Fantastic console looking foIs another "Killzone" and a slick new controller enough to earn this trust? For Sony's legions of fans that have upgraded at every possible opportunity, ... yes. But for everybody else, you'd be better off waiting to see what this new generation of PlayStation can really bring.TechRadarNot RatedHands on: PS4 reviewWith its cheaper price point and less restrictive DRM policies, the PS4 already seems to have the Xbox One on the run. We still think it would be naive to consider Microsoft's system down for the count, though.T3Not RatedSony PS4 review: Hands-onWhile it's far too early to reach any genuine conclusions on the PS4, what with all games way off completion, few actually playable, the UI and Share features yet to be shown off and the full hardware setup hidden from view, the controller and the implementation of new technology bodes well.Expert Reviews100PS4 reviewWith more graphical horsepower, a simpler interface and a great controller, the PS4 is our pick of the next-gen consoles.FlatPanelsHD80SONY PLAYSTATION 4 REVIEWThere is so much potential that we feel confident that the PlayStation 4 will be a success.TrustedReviews80Sony PlayStation 4 reviewThe PS4 is a powerful, great looking console that is need of some killer PS4 exclusives. These are bound to come in time, but there's no doubt that it's the more powerful of the two consoles and that Sony has produced a leaner, more gamer orientated console compared to the Xbox One.BGR90PlayStation 4 review: Sony scores a direct hit inFor a full $200 less than the PS3 at launch, Sony is offering a system that, in spite of a potentially worrisome failure rate, is immediately more powerful, accessible, and future-proof than its last effort. If you’re in the market for a next-gen console, get excited — the next generation has finally arrived.The Next Web80PlayStation 4 review: Technical issues hold back SBetween the scattered quality issues and the fairly lackluster launch lineup, our recommendation is that you hold off on the PS4 until Sony has sorted everything out.Destructoid80Review: PlayStation 4The $400 offering they've released in response is a sleek beauty with plenty of power under the hood to usher in the next generation of video games ... it's clear that there's enough power and potential to eventually get us to where we want to be.Digital Trends90SONY PLAYSTATION 4 REVIEWSleeker, faster and more flexible than ever, Sony’s PlayStation 4 turns out to be a formidable force in the living room.Stuff100Sony PS4 reviewSlick, powerful and packed with stand-out features, the PS4 delivers on the next-gen console promiseBusiness InsiderNot RatedI Spent One Glorious Hour Playing Sony's PlayStatiSo the PS4 is a slick looking system, but you knew that already. Up close though, getting a handle on the thing and actually touching it, lifting it up, it feels solid.TrustedReviewsNot RatedSony PlayStation 4A better initial software line-up, the more powerful specification and the more relaxed approach to used and borrowed games is likely to give PS4 some impetus with hardcore gamers and early adopters.StuffNot RatedSony PS4 hands-on reviewIt might not be the sleekest or sexiest console design ever seen, but at least the PS4 looks as though it's actually been designed – which is more than can be said for the VCR-like slab that is the Xbox One.
- 84AVERAGE USER SCORE89 ReviewsLeviNot RatedAugust 4, 2019Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!PS4 f****** blow there is no reason anyone should have to wait an entire day to be able to play ONE GAME period... I thought maybe it was play worthy I was wrong Sony should quit while there aheadEngadget Reader20April 21, 2017Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Owning a PS4 for two years I have no problem when I say the machine is a f***** piece of trash and an awful mess. Let me share my grievances with the product. The fan and how it blasts out like a jet engine no matter where I put the PS4 really annoys the hell out of me and everyone in the household and will never shut it's self off unless I don't play for 30 minutes and when I do resume it will start back up in seconds I NEVER experienced something like this on PS3. Next I absolutely despise limitations Sony has put on popular games like Fallout 4 that could have made it a thousand times better. As soon as I got my console the power button was broken due to the garbage touchscreen design. Don't even bother trying to make it better I had completely broken my PS4 controller trying to take it apart to fix a sticky trigger and to my surprise the springs were impossible to put back once they fell and It didn't even work at all when I put everything back together. I tried the same for the console and now it is unplayable an atrocious audio shudder as well as delayed buttons plagues my experience it constantly takes me out of the action when I hear an irritating muffled sound play completely dissapear come back and go away once again. I can't even seem to hold my controller in a comfortable position because I will experience this issue even when moving 1 foot away oh and also, It slows down the buttons functions and causes me to not be able to press a button or intitate an event in my video game as soon as I wan't to and delays it by 5 seconds, this is a gamers worse nightmare. My final regret about purchasing it is the cables at the back while the PS3 actually seemed capable of securing the cord the PS4 has a loose grip and the cable will fall to the ground and shut the console off after a light pull it is also annoying to try and put back on and I often find myself holding onto the cable and moving back the machine back to it's normal position. I can't even get a decent experience out of my console which has led me to hate it and I know it isn't like that for everyone but unfortunately the amount of frustration just won't stop for me and no information I can find online has lead to any solutions. When I try solving a problem it just ends up creating an even worse one. I hate Sony and I hate the PS4 coming from a Playstation gamer.stefangadget100January 22, 2016Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Blows the Xbox 1 out of the water. Great console, sweet form factor; couldn't ask for more.Engadget Reader90November 6, 2015Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!when i play a game it makes to much noise, and I know that is with all PS4 consoles. because I check that on my cousin´s ps4Engadget Reader100September 7, 2015Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader100August 8, 2015Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90May 2, 2015Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90January 12, 2015Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90January 11, 2015Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90December 31, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Competes with Xbox one rather well, but it isn't better or worse, PS4 has some amazing graphicsEngadget Reader70December 10, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A dependable product that doesn't really stand out from the competition. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80November 26, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetSebastian60November 23, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A forgettable product. It isn't bad, exactly, but also doesn't do anything particularly well. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90November 11, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90November 9, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80November 3, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I'm playing video-games since i was a little child. At the beginning i played just at my friends houses cause for me the best thing was play togther with my dudes but when i first played nintendo-64 i really wanted that. But some weeks before that i came to a friends house who had bought his first playstation one, that was in the end of the 90's. I fall in love with it ! Some months after that, when i passed the school year with my good notes, my mom's bought a Playstation one, the grey one not the slim. It was the first video-game that was just mine ! My fist and second games was the spider man 1 and 2 sequel and the Crash bandicoot pack with the 3 Crash's games. Since the playstation one i developed a big love on the Playstation's consoles. 4 years after i got my ps1 i goted the playstation 2. That was really good to me, the best console ever cause no other consoles get close to the fame and glory of playstation 2. And finally, after more 4 years i get a xbox 360 on my birthday, cause the playstation 3 was more expensive in that year. About one year later the xbox had the 3 red lights issue and a i realize that i should bought a ps3 instead xbox ... So i bought a PC, for me the best plataform since this xbox red light issue. And after my PC stayed on my brother's house just to regular use, i bought i xbox 360 slim with kinect just cause i thinked that this will be the future of the games, the kinect especially. Some months after that i realize that it's to far from a really futuristic motion sensor, it was really childish . So i sold my xbox slim and bought a ps3 that my father trow on the floor when i make a party on his house without his permision. So, after 1 year, i bought a playstation 3 again with my first work money and it still with me until july when i bought the playstation 4. So you can see my love story with playstation and my headaches with the others consoles . Thank's for the atention, be cool ! Evolve !Engadget Reader90November 3, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Best system Sony has ever made.I own 1 and i do not regret buying it.The only bad thing about the ps4 right now is the lack of games.:/Engadget Reader80October 27, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The launch tag was "For the Gamers". And it is, and not much else. What a console, amazing graphics, incredible design, but not much more than gaming. Speaking of which - where are the games? Looking forward to having a broader library of games and exclusives in 2015. On the Plus Side (Pun intended) the monthly free games tide you over between major releases.Do yourself a favour and get Tomb Raider Definitive Edition, and Destiny to see the best the PS4 has to offer.Biggest things needing attention - Controller Battery Life. Music playback. Compatibility with original Play TV would be nice too.Engadget Reader70October 27, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A dependable product that doesn't really stand out from the competition. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80October 27, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The first Home Entertainment Console I own. While I knew I was going to buy a PS4 eventually, I didn't expect myself to jump onboard with the Destiny bundle so early. In accordance with my review, PS4 weakest area right *now* is its' exclusive titles and features. I'm envy of XBoxOne and WiiU users here. They have Halo, Smash Bros, Mario Kart, and Monster Hunters, games which I love. Right now, I can't use the PS4 for anything apart from playing game. We have no NetFlix or Hulu in NZ, the only decent app is IGN and Youtube right now which I don't really use considering my console is sitting next to my PC.Engadget Reader80October 27, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 27, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I admit that I've never been a serious PlayStation gamer - I grew up with computers, GameBoy, NES, and N64, and more recently have only console-gamed on Xbox/360.I've always been enamored of PlayStations, and picked up a PS2 years after release for Persona 3 and Final Fantasy 12, but have been locked into Xbox with some of the exclusive titles (Halo and Forza are the big ones for me). When the Xbox One came out, and none of the exclusives really interested me, I decided to take the plunge into PS gaming.I haven't regretted my choice for a second.Favorites in my library:- Battlefield 4: I was a big Battlefield gamer on PC, but have very much enjoyed the PS4 version- Transistor: fun, cool, moody, funny, and beautiful, with incredible music/sound. Oh, and cheap.- Madden 15: Coming from Madden 25 on 360, I've been very happy with the newest iteration on PS4 (I definitely understand that Madden games are pretty polarizing, though)- Diablo 3: Another title I have extensive PC experience on that I absolutely love on PS4.- Destiny: Can't really comment if it lives up to its hype, but fun, easy to get into, and I love the Borderlands-esque roaming and loot acquisition....and I'm eagerly awaiting GTA V's upcoming release.Engadget Reader80October 27, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetBen70October 27, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!As some back story I lost allot of love for sony with the PS2. At the time compared to the xbox it was a dinosaur and it made the switch to Xbox to easy. I loved the ps1 and played well over 200 games on it.With the new system I was ready to give Sony another shot.So far I'm still liking it. I only get the exclusives at this point on my PS4 and what I have I really like.I have not had many technical issues with the system. I would say I have less issues technically at this point with the PS4 over my Xbox one.The interface is streamlined (maybe a little too much so).The controller is my #2 after the xbox. It's very small for my hands and the battery life is terrible. This is made worse by the fact that I can't switch the battery. Might last 1.5 nights before needing a recharge. Really bad since I have a large living room and I have to sit on the floor while it charges and I play.From a capability perspective it is streamlined for games. Not as user friendly to me when using apps n such. I probably play this 20% and Xbox 80%.The controller is by biggest issue. I would rather suffer through xbox issues and deal with a dead controller. Not sure if this can be fixed is a major issue.Engadget Reader90October 27, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetMadenz90October 27, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The PS4 I Awesome! I'm going to stop at that.Engadget Reader90October 16, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90October 15, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100October 6, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader80September 19, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader60September 10, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I came from the Xbox 360 because my friends were switching over to PS4, and ultimately, that's the only saving grace with this box. I don't feel like it's any faster or better than my Xbox 360. The major complaints I have:Controller:I personally prefer the Xbox controller over the PS4 due to the thumb position. However, that's really not a reason to dislike it. It's generally comfortable but it really feels cheap. There have been numerous reports from my friends that the rubber has been rubbed off of the sticks within a few months of owning the console.Unlike the Xbox controllers, there is no way to swap out a battery. Let's face it. We should all be using rechargeable batteries. However, when that battery runs out, it's easy to keep a spare for the Xbox (or even use disposable in a jif), but this isn't even an option for the PS4. I'd have to use the cord that came with the controller (which is not long enough for me to be in a comfortable playing position) and plug it in to the console. Which leads me to the next issue:USB Ports:There are only two usb ports on the console. Two. One Two. Two. This is absolutely asinine. I purchased the PS Gold Wireless Headset ( http://www.engadget.com/products/sony/playstation/gold/wireless-headset/ ) which has a USB dongle that I need to plug in for the wireless connection. Now, at the end of the evening, when I want to charge my headphones and controller, I have to remove the dongle just to charge my headphones and controller. What happens when I have multiple controllers? It essentially forced me to by a third party controller docking station to charge.Software:I do not like the menuing system in the PS4. Things keep moving around in the bar so they're never in the same place. The PS Store shows me games that are for other PS platforms, like the PS3 and Vita, both of which I don't own and never want to see in the store on my PS4 device.I guess the upside in all of this is that it's still a console - it's dedicated to gaming and I generally don't have to worry about issues with it. Updates happen fairly frequently (a common complaint with the PS3 that I've heard), but are generally fast to complete (2-5 minutes). It has certainly provided for hours of fun, but if I had to do it all over, I'd probably sit this generation of consoles out.Paul90August 22, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I've mostly been a PC gamer for the last 20 years, only playing on friends' consoles. I did buy a copy of Tourist Trophy for the PS2 and borrowed the neighbor kid's console to play it... I was evaluating Buell motorcycles which were featured in the game and wound up buying a 2007 Buell XB12R. The last console I owned myself was the Super NES. My PC actually has better specs than the PS4, but I run Linux and there aren't many awesome games out for it. I was blown away by WATCH_DOGS, so I pre-ordered it and bought myself a PS4 for my birthday along with several other games. I'm very pleased with my purchase, except for the loss of sleep from staying up way too late playing it! I wish there were more cooperative 2-player games so my wife (who expressed interest) could play with me, but she does enjoy watching me play, especially as Lara Croft in Tomb Raider.Engadget Reader90August 16, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader70August 14, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The Playstation 4 is an good console with a lot of potential. The console launched with a bunch of missing features that the PS3 had, such as DLNA support and a bunch of applications. The Graphics are crystal clear, offering detail on the most minute things(NBA2k14, check out the players sneakers). The DualShock 4 is a huge improvement over the DualShock 3. Being able to plug regular headphones into the controllers is also a nice touch. Although, when trying to get to the Options button I usually hit the touch pad instead. I'm not a fan of the design of the PS4, the angular design just doesn't look pleasing to the eye, for me at least. I was surprised to hear the disc spinning and fans going while gaming with the PS4. Not as loud as the Xbox 360 but you can hear it. Games look promising, but not a huge selection right now. But with the holiday season around the corner, that shouldn't be an issue for too much longer. With some more updates from Sony the PS4 can take over this generation of consoles, but Sony has to keep listening to the players and keep up with Microsoft's updates for the Xbox One.Engadget Reader90August 8, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader70July 31, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Not much I can say about the PS4 that isn't already said or commented about.The PS4 was originally purchased for Watch Dogs and Gran Turismo. WD turned out to be delayed and there were no good launch titles, in my opinion. And even now, there aren't any good exclusives as they once were. They need to get more exclusive games (instead of exclusive content).Engadget Reader90July 25, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100July 22, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader80July 21, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Great System just needs more gamesEngadget Reader70July 21, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A dependable product that doesn't really stand out from the competition. - EngadgetRamm90July 21, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90July 21, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!great looking games, controls are familiar, its looks awesome. once playstation now is released it will be an easy 10/10.Engadget Reader90July 15, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I thought ps4 was very good. Even though this means that i cant play halo anymore but overall, it is worth it. Still i prefer if the online feature is free. I enjoyed playing nba 2k14 on it.Engadget Reader90July 15, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I have my console since February and I love it. My only regret is that I do not have as much time as I want for playing games.Engadget Reader90July 14, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I love the vastly improved graphics, processing speed, and controllers, as well as the new menus and social integration, such as Twitch. With Twitch and live streaming game play I get to watch my BFF Dave, who is a Dodgers fan, play as a Giant's pitcher in MLB Road to the Show. Thank you Sony for making this possible. I now have video evidence of my friend being a closet Giants fan.Engadget Reader90July 2, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Console is elegant and not very loud.Engadget Reader90June 25, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I really loved the PlayStation 4 when I bought it. I adored it like a cute little baby. but i still take care of it today. The console is great but there aren't many games at the moment so I recommend to just wait for a wee bit longer. But the best next-gen console ever made. SCREW YOU BIAS XBOX ONE USERS!!!!Engadget Reader90June 3, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader60May 9, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A forgettable product. It isn't bad, exactly, but also doesn't do anything particularly well. - Engadgetkevlowe90April 1, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A wonderful next-gen machine that can be a little buggy sometimes. The media share does not work properly all the time, and with HDCP enabled (although it will soon be removed) it is ridiculous that gamers cannot post videos to anything else other than Facebook.The controller life is noticeably less than the PS3DS, but the overall feeling of the controller is great!Engadget Reader80March 26, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90February 28, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90February 17, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!As of now, I only have 2 purchased games (Battlefield 4 and FIFA 14) but I've also downloaded a few games provided by Plastation Plus (Outlast and Resogun). The graphics are great as expected, the loading time for gameplay is quite fast, and the transition back and forth from in-game to playstation 4 main screen is seemless. If you're a serious gamer that doesn't need to talk to your gaming console, I strongly recommend getting the PS4. I am very excited to see the new game titles being released later this year. if anyone would like to add me to play BF4 or FIFA, my psn tag is Ink_n_gunzEngadget Reader100February 15, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader90February 5, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90February 3, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100January 27, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I have had my PS4 since day one and have no issues at all i love its quit like stealth fighter the graphics are amazing ans well as the controller the being said it only has 2 USB 3.0 ports like come on and the slant in the back does make it comber-sum to hookup the fact it has gddr5 vs Xbox ddr3 gives the x box a major issue down the the road in terms of longevityHitnRunTony90January 26, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90January 18, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I purchased the Playstation 4 yesterday and the system is already having technical difficulties. (The video output was not working after a few hours of gameplay) I was not terribly surprised based on reviews stating similar issues were experienced by other users. What did surprise me was Sony's response. When I called their customer service, they offered to mail a self-addressed stamped box for me to return the console. Once they received and verified the fault, they would mail me a replacement console. This process would take approximately two weeks. When I asked what my compensation would be, the customer service rep told me that the paid postage and box WAS the compensation. My kids and I are very disappointed by this response. We have searched our local area for three weeks looking for the console and had planned on playing over the long MLK weekend. Now we have to wait an additional two weeks to play the games we purchased with the console. Very disappointing response from Sony. I am no longer convinced that I made the right decision to go with the Playstation over the XBOX One.baileylo90January 14, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I purchased the playstation 4 a couple months after the xbox red ringed. I have not used the XBox One but I'm extremely satisfied with my PS4. I only have two minors complaints about the system, and they are extremely minor.Switching Users: To change to a different user I must first log out and then log back in. This seems a bit weird, I wish there was a shortcut.Rechargeable Controllers: What I'm about to say has never happened, but doesn't mean it won't. First off, I love the rechargeable controllers. Just plug in via USB and boom goes the dynamite. Every once in awhile, while you're playing the game, I'll see a "growl" notification telling me my controller's battery is low. While normally I play for a couple more hours and put the device in stand by and charge my controller. I wonder what would happen if I was in an uber intense game that I couldn't leave. What happens when your controller dies?I'd recommend this console to anybody.Engadget Reader90January 9, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The PS4 is definately worth the upgrade from a previous generation console, the games that are avaliable at the moment are good but they are only going to get better in time. The other features aren't great, you can't plug a USB storage device into it and search through the files to watch a video, but I think this will come in the future, and other than that there isn't much else to do on it than play games or watch Netflix. The noise is a bit loud, still no option to turn the beep off when it turns on, and sometimes it can get a bit loud when installing games, but its nothing too bad, and nothing you will notice unless your PS4 is next to you.Antti90January 9, 2014Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I sold my PS3 to get this one and I haven't regretted. Sure I did loose my 30 game library and now I am currently stuck at playing FIFA and Battlefield. Also I don't have Youtube anymore on the apps.Well the lack of games was expected so I won't complain about that. I had battlefield also on PS3 and this is much better on PS4 because sharper resolution. Also the controller is so much better that I can't even touch the old PS3 controller any more.Only downside is, that the battery lasts maybe 1/3 of the PS3 controller.I was happy to notice that both Netflix and Viaplay, which I have both subscribed to, were available since the day I bought this system.Currently its a bit hit and miss to recommend this system since there is not so much stuff available yet. Still this is investment for the future and I am sure that this will offer me hours and hours of fun for at least 6 years to come.Engadget Reader80December 28, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Game Library: I'm not going to lie, the game library was the only thing that made me reluctant about picking up a PlayStation 4. If I hadn't received it as a gift during Christmas I would have had no qualms about waiting 6+ months before getting one. Seeing as how I already picked up Battlefield 4 and Call of Duty: Ghosts for PC, there was little incentive for me to dive into either of the eighth generation consoles. Sony does offer an upgrade program for those that purchased either of the two aforementioned titles on PS3 (and there are other games, but none that I really cared for); however, the program doesn't cover premium memberships or DLC. Overall, the game library is dismal at best. My PlayStation Plus membership eased the burden a little bit by letting me get Resogun and Contrast for free, but my PS4 will probably end up collecting dust not too long from now while I wait for something worth getting to come out. Considering most of the games that were once console-exclusive are now getting a PC release, there's no telling how long the wait will be.Graphics: They're great, they really are. Killzone: Shadowfall (the one game I bought) is absolutely gorgeous and it makes me happy to once again experience a feeling of awe while playing a console game. Like with the PS3, I can almost guarantee that the games that will shine the most are the ones developed for it exclusively. Other than that, I can't say much because I still haven't had a great deal of hands-on play with the current library of games.Controller: I'll just make a list for this category:The controller is a bit heavier and it also feels much sturdier than the Dual Shock 3. I no longer fear dropping the controller (not that I would want do so deliberately).The touchpad is a nice touch and I look forward to seeing its potential in the future. Hopefully Sony (and other developers) will draw inspiration from Nintendo's use of touch surfaces and put it to good use.The L2 and R2 buttons now bend outward instead of inward. One of my biggest gripes with the Dual Shock 3 was the change they made to these two buttons (and I assume it was a common complaint because Sony eventually released a $5 mod to address this design change). The status light is just plain neat. Seeing it change from bright green to orange and then to red as my character's health declines (in Killzone) is a nice touch. Hopefully more games will use the controller's light in creative ways such as this. From what I've read the camera will make use of it, but because I don't have the camera I can't say much about this.Design and Form Factor: Eh, I can't really complain about the design. It's small, light, and runs cool (and quietly!) when in use. Now that I think about it, the PlayStation 4 is a pretty sexy device and it goes well with everything else on the entertainment center. The parallelogram-like shape (as opposed to rectangular) is a little odd, it's not noteworthy enough to complain about.Other Features: I'll preface this part by saying that I didn't get a camera with my PS4 and I am a PlayStation Plus subscriber. Also, I haven't really invested much time in its media center capabilities either (I have a Roku 3 to address most of those needs). With all that said, the "other features" that the PS4 possesses is reminiscent of the PS3 except now with an extra dose of social media and live-streaming integration. I don't particularly care that my friends see everything I do every step of the way, so I disabled most of the social features right out of the box. Additionally, The PSN ecosystem, while slightly more fleshed out (finally, party chat has arrived!), still feels very segmented compared to Xbox Live. Depending on who you ask, this can be a positive or negative aspect--personally I am indifferent.Noise: There is practically no noise. The power light is generally the only way I can tell if it's on or not. There's a slight hum as it boots, but afterward it's very quiet. Fear not, bedroom gamers, the PS4 won't wake your significant other as it tries to read disc-based games (this is of course a non-issue for those that prefer a digital game library).Engadget Reader90December 20, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80December 14, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100December 13, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A great console that works much better than the one before it. They added great features, have a great looking design and the controller is great now!Engadget Reader100December 11, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader80December 6, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetChristopher Harrison100December 6, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader70December 5, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I had the PS4 for a brief period starting on launch day. I hooked it up, and started messing around with it. The interface seems pretty good and I like the feel of the controllers. I didn't have any games - honestly the selection of games at launch was very un-appealing to me. I played some of the free games available from the PSN store and they were good (Resogun and Contrast stand out, IMO.) I'm not a huge fan of FPS games on consoles, so titles like BF4 were not appealing to me. I didn't see much coming out that looked interesting to me. I'm sure they'll have some good titles in the future, but for now, I'm not ready for a PS4. I ended up boxing it back up and returning it to Costco.Engadget Reader90December 4, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90December 2, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader100December 1, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!A gadget unicorn - EngadgetEngadget Reader100December 1, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Go and buy a PS4 now. You won't regret it.Engadget Reader90November 30, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Despite the Wii U launching in the previous year, the war for the best console in the next generation has just begun with the debut of the PS4 and the Xbox One. The PS4, with 8GB of GDDR5 Ram is an incredibly strong opponent to the Xbox One's 8GB of GDDR3 RAM. The PS4's form factor includes a very beautiful gloss and matte black parallelogram with a simple light bar separating the gloss from the matte on the top part of the console, a feature that is appealing to the eye but also lets the user know whether the console is on, off, or in sleep mode. Personally, I believe the console is sleek and sexy, an attribute not held by the Xbox One. The controller is incredibly comfortable to hold and to use, a major improvement from the Dualshock 3. The light bar on the back/top of the controller can be a little impeding if you play in the dark, but it is also a cool feature to be used with the Playstation eye. Overall the console and the controller go incredibly well together and provide for a great gaming experience for both the casual and the experienced gamer. The game library is currently rather small, but will grow very quickly in spring of 2014. Either way, whether you decide to buy an Xbox One or a PS4, there aren't going to be an immense amount of games out right now for either. I would highly recommend picking up a Playstation 4 and becoming a part of the next generation of gaming!Engadget Reader90November 29, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I chose the PS4 over the Xbox for a few personal reasons. The fact that the PS4 was $100 less at launch and the PS+ service is $10 less per year than Microsoft were part of that choice. I also liked the fact that the PS4 has a faster processor and RAM. Plus, it didn't hurt that most launch titles, like Call of Duty, are displayed in 1080p versus only 720p with the Xbox One. These were my major decision points. I do like some of the features offered by Microsoft but their price ultimately deterred me.Engadget Reader80November 28, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - Engadgetkstagg80November 27, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I loved my PS3 - and was hesitant to sell it. But I'm a sucker for new tech to be honest. When the PS4 came out - I wanted to be there when it happened. It's a beautiful console. Very sleek hardware and so minimalist that it even fits in the narrow cabinet underneath our flat-screen TV. It could just as easily look beautiful out in the open - either way it's great. Matte black with accent of gloss black.The minimalist interface once you log into the system is a nice refresh from the old menu of the PS3. Everything you don't normally access is tucked into a neat row of icons above your pics of the block of game pics and so forth. It kind of threw me when I didnt see the PS Store on there, but it turns out it is in the narrow strip about the main window of the interface - represented by an icon out in the open. Again - everything is so clean. No more moving in/out of every screen to find what you need.The controllers? Wow. With the PS4 you have the ability to insert any headset/mic combo with mini USB to play online. Also - audio is fed through the speakers in the controllers as well. Rumble has increased also. Controllers feel chunkier. There is a touchpad/click button on the controller but no implementation of it that I can see yet. One of the things which annoyed me about the old PS3? When you were watching a DVD - if you didn't put the controller down carefullly - I mean like you were putting down a bomb - the DVD would skip. No more worries with this controller. Huge improvement all the way around. Haven't really had a chance to really test out the media/online features yet so I can't really rate that fairly.Technically, you do NOT need a PS+ membership to play games on the PS4. But like the PS3 - I had one (it carries over from the PS3 if you had one then too). In order to play multiplayer online - you WILL need a PS+ membership. But for $49 it is amazing how many discounts you get. Seriously - its incredible. You'll either get games for free, heavy discounts, or early betas of upcoming games. I picked up Sony Online Music last year for $14 as a PS+ member for an entire year. Normally that's $50.I haven't been able to push the graphics to the limit or anything. Will plan on trying that out this thanksgiving weekend.Engadget Reader10November 25, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Thank you, SONY, for ruining my grandsons' Christmas. I preordered the PS4, wrapped it for Christmas, bought Christmas snacks & treats, and invited my Grandsons to my house for an early Christmas surprise. They were so excited to get the PS4 and were, naturally, anxious to play. DOESN'T WORK!!!! Called Sony help line - no clue. So... I have spent a fortune for junk, I have 2 very disappointed grandsons (this was their entire birthday + Christmas), and... of course... there are no replacement systems available. I will not be purchasing any more SONY products.Engadget Reader80November 21, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!So I've had this PS4 for about a week now, and have been using it almost every day in some way. I've kind of held back from a review because I believe the console is too new to say "GO BUY IT NOW IT'S THE BEST THING THERE EVER WAS", but a few people have asked my thoughts on it so I figured I would put some things down. What I have done:Played gamesUsed available appsDownloaded and played games while they were downloadingInstantly uploaded game footage to facebookBrowsed through the menus and features of the consoleWhat I haven't done:Used the PS4 cameraStreamed a game liveI don't have any of the console exclusive games yet, but I have the big 3 cross gen titles. In saying that, they don't play much different (if at all) than the previous generation, but they do look absolutely stunning. The graphics are clean and incredibly smooth with lots of detail. The console exclusives seem to be just as clean looking, with the exception of Killzone, as it truly is the console pusher, astonishing graphics across the board. That being said, none of these games take advantage of the "new" or exclusive features of the new console. I haven't used the touch pad for anything yet. You can't use it to navigate the menus, you can't use it to click on anything, you can't use it as a mouse for the browser. So far it's a feature that is there, and seems really cool to have, but has zero use, even within the console menus. The speaker that is built into the controller is also something of question as it doesn't quite provide anything useful, I've only heard it being used on the arcade title "resogun" and in it, it simply repeats what the voice is saying on the screen. What would have been useful, was a built in microphone. Sharing is clever and incredibly easy. With one button press you have a screenshot, from there you can decide if you'd like to upload that screenshot, upload video (of the last 15 minutes you've played, which you can then edit to any length within 10 seconds), or start streaming to twitch or ustream. I mean it is one thing to say how easy it is, but once you try it you will have a smile put on your face. It's literally that fast, and that easy to do. No holding a pattern of buttons, no calling out actions, no double presses of anything. One click done. Once you've picked out what you're uploading, you instantly go back to your game. It uploads while you continue playing. Wondering about the web browser? Well its just as good? bad? as it was before for the ps3. Not much has changed for functionality or usefulness. It could be that the console over-all is faster, but I did find everything in the browser loaded a lot faster in comparison to the PS3. Other than the speed, everything is about the same didn't notice any differences. I guess its a case of "if it ain't broke don't fix it" kind of deal. Which I'm not upset about, because really if I really wanted to use a internet browser I would use either my laptop or my phone. The UI aka XMB2, is very fast. From anywhere at all, be it the web browser, a game, a movie, or even an app, simply press the PlayStation button and you're back to the full main menu. Programs run in the background unless they take priority, for example if I was playing a game and wanted to launch netflix, netflix would take priority and suspend my game while I watched netflix. Other then that, the XMB is fully functional, you're not forced to close apps to get into something else, you can browse other things with ease, as well as fix your settings on the fly. It is seamless, and how it should have always been. Simple and extremely fast. A double tap of the PlayStation button brings you back to your last used app (should that be a game, app, or menu). Now, as brilliant and beautiful as it is, it does lack customization. By lack, I mean there isn't. You can't change a background, you can't change the colour, you can't change the font, everything the way you see it is the way it stays. Something that I am slightly bothered by the PS4 is the fact that it has USB 3.0, but the only thing you can really do with it, is use a flash drive as an external memory card for game saves. Even that is quite particular. You can't use a flash drive or hard drive and add your media to the PS4, as the PS4 doesn't have a media player, it only has it's two music and video apps (which I will talk about in a minute) that only play music and video that is purchased. So you're left with a very fast media hub that you can't use. Speaking of music and video, Video Unlimited and Music Unlimited are a huge money grab. Music unlimited works throughout the console no matter what you're using (minus videos of course), and you're able to control it by holding down the PlayStation button, or double tapping to go back to the main app. But, you will come into disappoint when you notice every time you switch back to look for a new song you will be hit with a loading screen. Music playback throughout the console experience is convienient and amusing, but gets dry once you realize you're spending $10/month for that shotty (but legal!) source of music. Video Unlimited is something I can't really complain about as it is simply the place where all your purchased videos go. It doesn't work in the same where you pay so much per month to get unlimited videos. In saying that, I suppose it does what it is supposed to and there isn't much else to critique on that. Another quick feature to mention is that the PlayStation Store no longer sucks. It isn't a seperate app that takes 5 minutes to load.. it isn't an unorganized mess of content at your face.. it's what it should be, and I am perfectly fine with that. Content is perfectly laid out, extremely similar to the PS3, but with categories that make sense and you are going to want to look for. There is virtually no load times between menus, and the experience is just as you want it. It's a store, and it brings you to the content you want to buy without trouble. Friends and notifications are perfect. Some people have complained about downloads being in notifications but I believe that completely makes sense. You are notified when games that are being downloaded are ready to play, when they are ready to be fully installed, when you get a message, a friend request, or when you get a trophy. It's easy to navigate and very useful. Friends integration feels a lot more personal with full names, having a wall of things you and your friends have done straight from the home screen seems interesting, social and natural. Think of it as your Facebook newsfeed for only PlayStation stuff. Overall I think the PlayStation 4 is a next-gen console worthy of calling itself "next-gen". While the gap may not seem too drastic, it is adding everything you need to make things easier down the road, while adding social integration that seems to fit our current trend in life. The graphics are great, the console is fast, and what is available is fun and easy to use. Sharing is incredibly easy and really useful. The advice I would tell someone right now who was looking to buy a PlayStation 4, is to hold off and wait for a bit. If I didn't have a pre-order for mine I would have. Right now the console is fun, but it's lacking in a lot of ways that you can tell are going to be getting better soon. I can't really call this as bad, as this is the consoles first week of launch it shouldn't be expected to have hundreds of things available from the get go. I believe as a launch console it performs well with no major hickups. There are things to be improved on, but these are things that will definitely be patched in the comings months. Game selection isn't great but A LOT more games are coming very soon. It performs well for what it is now, and most importantly, it's ready for the future.I give it a final score of 8/10, as there are still things to be improved on.Engadget Reader90November 21, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!PS4 is a fantastic console in my opinion. The UI is surprisingly simple, snappy and easy to use, from which you can easily tell that PS4 is all about games. If you use your console only to play games and don't care about motion gaming and voice control (like me), then I think PS4 offers a much better value than xbox one. And 3rd party games actually run better on PS4, which I did not expect.In terms of media features and voice commands, PS4 is definitely a lot weaker than xbox one. PS4 offers some media features like Netflix, but none of those features are unique to it. And the voice commands absolutely suck on PS4. They RARELY work, and no 3rd party games or even 1st party games really utilize the PS camera. So if that's your thing, PS4 is not for you.Engadget Reader80November 20, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!Overall I like the system because I can see where Sony is going with it. I'm looking foreword towards some of the games coming out next year. I've always been a PlayStation guy so it was a no brainier that I wanted it. Just wish more titles and a smoother online experience was guaranteed at launch. There is no excuse for lacking online and downed servers.Engadget Reader90November 18, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I haven't owned a home console since the PS2, so I never had to deal with some of the hardships disgruntled PS3 owners have complained of. However, I love the PS4. Sure, there are improvements to be made, but I'm really happy with my purchase.Games: Arguably there are not a lot of interesting games at launch of the PS4 system. And many have received poor critic reviews. The must have game of the system has to be Resogun. It's free if you have Playstation Plus, and is the most beautiful and fun space shooter. It has endless replay ability and I'm trying to get all the Trophies for it. It should be the first game you get and play on your new PS4. I never played Flower on the Vita or the PS3 before, so I got that game with the $10 Sony included with my system. That also looks incredible and is a very relaxing game. I'm liking Knack, and I'm several hours into it. It received poor reviews, but despite it's faults I'm having fun playing it, and that's most of what matters to me. I've played a little of Assassin's Creed IV, which happens to be my first Assassin's game, and it seems pretty good. I feel like the graphics in it aren't as "next-gen" as I've seen with other games, but it looks ok. (I just realized game launch was 900p, they just released an update for full high res, looks much better now.)Dualshock 4: Man oh man is this a comfy controller. Every good thing you've heard about it is true. I haven't really had a chance to try the touch pad, but it seems nice. The Share button works as promised. So far, I haven't had the problem of accidentally pressing it as others have mentioned.That parallelogram: The console itself is gorgeous and I love that it's so small it fits under my TV next to the TV stand. I like the light and button design as well. Some have complained about how small the "power" and "eject" buttons are, but I disagree. It makes for a more cohesive design.Remote Play and Sharing: Remote play works well enough, although I don't know that my WiFi could handle me trying to play on my Vita on the other side of the house. I want to try to connect it on a different WiFi network than my home network, and see if that works. If it does, that would be a great reason for anyone to buy a Vita along with the PS4. The Share button works to easily share a screenshot, share a video of gameplay, or stream your gameplay. It's very easy to use, the only downside being it downgrades the video quality to 720p I believe.Quiet and lukewarm: The system doesn't make any noise whatsoever except when you first insert a disc. Even then, you can barely hear it. My system hasn't been warm at all, even after playing games all day, the warmest it got was "lukewarm", that is to say just barely warmer than room temperature.I was lucky enough to not have some of the problems others have complained about, including non-functioning systems. I won't be getting an Xbox One, and I have no interest in doing so. I certainly hope there are more games lined up soon after the holidays, even just downloadable Indie games, but I could be happy playing Resogun until then. This is the next-gen system I was hoping for this year.Engadget Reader80November 18, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I have been looking forward to the PS4 since February. Waiting 6-7 years for a console upgrade was excruciating. After a few days with the PS4, here are my thoughts;Games/GraphicsThis is a mixed bag. Games like NBA 2K14 show that this system is capable of producing some amazing games. However, games like Assassins Creed, Madden 25, and FIFA don't show off the power of the console and if anything help detractors who claim it is a minor upgrade. I was really looking forward to a next gen version of Madden, but was completely shocked at the average graphics, the poor gameplay and the overall lack of polish. On the other hand, NBA 2K14 shows that this system is truly capable of some amazing games. The graphics in 2K14 are simply amazing. After playing 2K14 and seeing gameplay of NBA Live 14, do not waste your money on NBA Live. I also picked up Killzone and Call of Duty and can say that while the graphics are pretty good, they won't blow your socks off. InterfaceThe interface/OS is pretty confusing and poor. Sort of a Sony trait, but I was hoping for some improvement. Updating games is confusing and can lead to frustration as the updates will download in the background but need to be applied before playing the game. Additional frustration is evident in the requirement to install every game to the HDD. I only have 6 games and literally half my hard drive is already used with mandatory installs. I would be okay if they made the games play faster with minimal load screens but I still find the loading screens, so i am not sure what advantage it is to install the game. My recommendation is that if you plan on having a large library of games, anticipate upgrading to a 1 to 2TB drive.I was really hoping that the PS4 would allow for quick on and off, much like an iPad. But it really doesn't; maybe that will come. However, the PS4 offers a sleep mode which I thought would lead to a quick on/off, but it isn't as instant as you would think.ControllerThe DualShock 4 is also a mixed bag. On the one hand, it feels great to use and is a substantial improvement in form factor over the DualShock 3. On the other hand, the glow light which adds NO value at all consumes a substantial amount of battery and I find the battery to last about 1/3 the time that the DualShock 3 lasts. My hunch is that Sony will phase out the light requirement either through software or through new hardware.Buy or Wait? Or get the Xbox One?I am fairly impressed with the PS4. I think the focus on games is the right strategy. There is no doubt that the delay of DriveClub and Watch Dogs was a big blow to this launch, but I still think over the long haul games like Gran Turismo, MLB The Show, God of War, and Uncharted will make you thankful you chose the PS4. However, much like the last generation, what we have now will likely not be what we will get in 3-4 years as the console evolves and new games come out.Engadget Reader90November 18, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!This system is everything I expected and more. There are some missing features, but they have made this console in such a way that updating it should be no problem. I can't wait to see what this console can do a year from now.Engadget Reader90November 18, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90November 17, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!The best in its category. We highly recommend it. - EngadgetEngadget Reader80November 17, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!There's a lot to like about this in spite of a few flaws. - EngadgetEngadget Reader90November 15, 2013Feedback submitted!Unable to submit feedback!I decided to give #teamplaystation a go this time around in the console wars. I'm coming from an Xbox 360 (before that I had a regular Xbox but before that I did a foray with Playstation as I owned a PS2), so it had been a while since I played on Playstation.I was a little concerned when I first booted it up, was the next gen consoles worth shelling out the money? I had bought Battlefield 4 for Xbox 360 and had been playing that. Playing the same game, Bf4, I wasn't seeing that much of a difference in the opening title sequence and menus, but then I started playing the multi-player, and holy crap, it's so smooth; the animation of you bringing up your gun, moving around, and seeing other objects move is so smooth it's quite a noticeable difference. The distance in which you can see everything that has rendered, in detail, is just impressive. And the textures - it's like putting on your glasses or the first time. Being able to have 64 people in a match in BF4, compared to only 24 players that the last gen systems could handle, makes it feel like a completely different game.The controller has cool features like the futuristic-looking light on the back and the rectangle touchpad on the front. The size is better than last one, so I don't get the same hand cramping I'd get playing on PS3 after playing Xbox for so long. However, the controller feels cheaper compared to an xbox controller, maybe it's the plastic. Using usb cables is nice and replaceable, but these cables also make it feel cheap (although really, they're just for charging the wireless controllers, so who cares I guess).PS4 OS sadly feels old compared to even xbox's current dashboard. It's cool how everything feels like an app, and at any moment in a game you can quickly jump back to the PS4 home screen. Games load up really quickly, and a nice new features is games that can download updates in the background while you actually play that same game.Overall, I'm happy with upgrade. If you've got a game you want like BF4 that utilizes these next gen consoles for what their good for, go for it. If the games you wanna play don't however, save your cash till there are games you gotta play that do, and you can maybe grab the console at a cheap price point.I'll update the review when I've tried out more games, online video services, gameplay video sharing, remote control gameplay, and experience the new controller trackpad more.
Key Specs
GAME FORMAT
Optical, Downloadable
ONLINE FEATURES
Multiplayer, Voice chat, Video chat, Store, Browser
DRIVE CAPACITY
5001
CONTROLLER TYPE
Wired, Wireless
MOTION CONTROLS
Yes
VIDEO OUTPUTS
HDMI
BACKWARD COMPATIBLE
No
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