PS4.5: An ‘Apple Approach’ to Console Gaming?

I have a penchant for Apple products. In my home, at least three of Apple’s slightly-overpriced gadgets and nestled here and there, which I use on a daily basis. But I’ve never owned a ‘1st generation’ device. As of this month, there have been 13 different iPhone models, closely followed by 12 different iterations of the iPad. Purchasing an Apple product is risky; buy too early, and you could miss out on a major upgrade that enhances the user experience by a great deal.

Console gamers have never really had to face this crisis. Although arguably, consoles have never been born, then allowed to carry out their lives without being outshone by a shinier, slightly more improved younger brother. The Xbox 360 launched in 2005 with two versions; ‘Premium’ or ‘Core’ and in 2007, Microsoft’s everlasting ‘black is the new black’ approach saw the release of the Xbox 360 Elite. Finally, the Xbox 360 E was announced in 2013; a godsend for parents who could deceive their children into thinking (at least for half a minute) that they’d splashed the cash on a shiny new Xbox One. However, despite multiple iterations, the only real variable aside from aesthetics was the HDD space.

At least an unspoken agreement between Apple and its users exists. ‘Buy this now if you want it, but we both know there’ll be a better one next year’. Console gamers are not used to this agreement. But if recent conversations are to be believed, console gaming is due to get a whole lot more expensive.

The rumour mill hit boiling point as a list of specifications were leaked for the PS4.5, codenamed ‘Neo’. Austin Walker of Giantbomb reports that several sources have provided documentation listing the hardware improvements boasted by the yet-to-be-confirmed console, which include significant improvements to the original’s CPU, GPU and RAM. This additional boost would see higher, more stable framerates and could potentially support 4K output.

But how else will this power be used? Surely early adopters will be alienated by their inability to access the intended performance of certain titles, or be unable to play them altogether? Well, yes and no. The documentation appears to allay these concerns, stating that all titles developed for the PS4 will need to function on both machines. Additionally, online experiences will not be segregated with games running ‘cross-platform’. Although, with increased power, comes quicker loading times as well as the ability to support higher local multiplayer numbers.

It all reads as relatively minor, although consider this: How many people do you know that play current-generation consoles on standard-definition TVs? With the increasing availability and reducing prices of 4K TVs, they are soon to be the norm. But in order to maximise my sparkly new 4K TV, I also have to shell out for a brand new PS4? Previously, gamers envious of another console’s HDD only had to open up their console and replace their hard-drive with a bigger one. Or make use of an external drive. But this modular approach isn’t viable for current PS4 users.

Should it be imperative that I have three separate devices plugged into my console, just so I can join the ‘Neo’ master-race? PC gamers are no strangers to improving their hardware. Perhaps a modular solution would be more financially viable for console gamers who don’t want to be left outside in the cold.

Will Sony offer the option for gamers to house a Frankenstein’s Monster of a console beneath their TVs?

Unlikely.

Furthermore, you need to consider Sony’s other originally-Wachowski-themed hardware. Aside from the additional cost, Playstation VR currently requires extra processing power to be delivered in the form of an in-line breakout box. Will this requirement be void for owners of the PS4.5? Obviously, this is all conjecture. If this new development becomes fact, I’d love to take the red pill; take the plunge and be awakened to the true possibilities of Sony’s hardware. Unfortunately, due to the inevitable cost of purchasing a new console to access benefits that are otherwise inaccessible, I feel that Sony is forcing me and many others to choke on the blue pill. At least until our wallets open.