No Backwards Compatibility For PS4 and Xbox? That's Bull@%#

Antwand Pearman aka BLACKBIBLE talks about the possibility of the next gen consoles not having backwards compatibility.The lack of backwards compatibility really affects more then consumers. It affects the small and independent, developers and publishers as well. In this video Antwand Pearman talks about the pitfall of backwards compatibility, and how console creators such as Sony could fix this issue in a fair way.

[jujubee88]

Just keep the old console. :P

[BLACKBIBLE]

Here's my question what was the point in buying/making the recent HD collections if I'm not going to able to play them if I move to Next Gen. I.E Metal Gear HD collection, and Zoe HD Collection.

[xRyan]

True, next-gen not having backwards compatibility is bullcrap for gamers. It also hurts them as well because a lot more people would buy next-gen at launch if they can play their old games on it.

[aquamala]

because they can sell you Metal Gear Full HD collection, and Zoe Full HD collection

[GasTankKiller]

Who said you wouldn't be able to play them? It's not like the current systems are going to stop working once the PS4 or next Xbox release. So many people think its the end of the world because there won't be BC available.

If the concern is having the money for the next-gen system start saving now. No ones forcing you to purchase a next-gen system. Getting yourself upset about it isn't going to change the fact about next-gen systems having or not having BC.

Edit: How can someone disagree with this. If you disagree reply with why you disagree. People just love to hit disagree way to much these days.

[Cupid_Viper_3]

@ BestGamesNetwork

Sadly all evidences says the contrary. People like to moan and complain, but very few people wanted to pay $600.00 for the PS3 when Sony was already taking a $200.00 loss on it. And one of the reasons why the PS3 was so costly was because of Backward Compatibility and them having to basically include a PS2 inside the PS3.

I'm a bit bummed out about not being able to play my PS3 games on my PS4. But in no way, shape, or form do I believe that the PS4 should be compromised on what it is trying to offer, just so I could play my PS3 games on it. In the business world, for every positive, there's a negative as well. The PS4 cannot offer everything it currently does, plus PS3 Architecture for backwards compatibility. That's effectively taking 2 steps forward, and one step back.

Buy a PS3, new exclusives IP's are still being made for a reason.

[Kamikaze135]

Because you're buying PS3/360 games. Not PS4/720 games.

[Temporary]

get rid of all BC i dont care, I want my PS4 to be as cost-effective as possible. If it means getting rid of BC (which is useless anyway) then so be it.

I still have my PS3 and will continue to have it when PS4 rolls out.

[decrypt]

I been telling console gamers all along. You want to create a library PC is your only real option.

Games are much cheaper and you can get to keep them. All i ever get are disagrees lol, with remarks like "oh we can just keep the old console".

Again people you cant have multiple boxes linked up to a single TV just so you can play your old games. Cant have a PS2, PS3, PS4 all hooked up at the same time.

Bottom line is any one looking for BC should buy multiplats on PC. 25 years of BC and counting, It can play any PC game from decades, be it via Dosbox. It can play any console gamer in history (aside the PS3 and Xbox 360). PC just is the only option if you really want BC.

Now some people may whine oh PC costs too much. Thats not true if you put some research into it and build one yourselves. Beside dont just look at the price of a console and compare it to to the PC and call it expensive. Consider the games bought and the BC lost or all the cheaper games. I assure you for any real gamer PC is much much cheaper.

@temporary

A little extra money for BC would mean a ton saved on games, otherwise people would have to run out to buy new games for the new console.

If you still dont care about BC, are you going to have PS2, PS3, PS4 all hooked up at the same time?

[Imalwaysright]

1st- Moan? I don't know about you but i spent a lot of money on my games so obviously having BC ensures that the money i spent wont be going to waste. Thank God that in the real world, outside the N4g PS3 fanboy bubble, wanting to secure the investment a person has made is not considered moaning.

2nd -PS3 price had nothing to do with BC but everything to do with the Blu-ray drive so you should thank Sony for using you to win the format war. Don't pretend that at the time the PS3 launched a standalone blu ray player wasn't more expensive than a PS3.

3rd- @ GasTankKiller My PS3 died on me twice with YLOD. 1st time under warranty so i was sent a new 60GB phat. Last November my 2nd 60GB phat died so i had to buy a crappy PS3 slim and a PS2 (to secure the investment i made on roughly 70 PS2 games). Who is to say that any of those consoles won't die on me?

Edit @ Baka I replayed Vagrant Story, FFIX/10/12, all RE from 1 to 4, Canis Canem Edit, GTA3/San Andreas, Sillent Hill 2, Fatal Frame 2, all PS2 PoP, Hitman and SC games, MGS 1,2 and 3 on my 60GB phat and that is just from the top of my head.

[Baka-akaB]

"Can't have ps2 , ps3 and ps4 etc all hooked up"

Uh ? of course i can , already do (minus the ps4 but + the pc) and will do it .

You making a way bigger deal out of this than it actually is .

Everyone pretends they want it , but the truth remains than when available many of the console gamers dont bother replaying most of their old games , they move on or wait for yet other remixes .

Yeah it's better when we have the choice on PC , but only a minority care enough about that precise matter .

It's a big deal for pc gamers , wich is ok and natural , and never really was for console only gamers . And hybrid gamers just take the best from both worlds .

[SilentNegotiator]

Are you under the impression that games played via BC are "up-rendered" to HD? Because they aren't.

Your previous consoles won't evaporate when you buy a next-gen system and no one will force you to buy any remastered titles.

[Cupid_Viper_3]

@ ImAlwaysRight

to your first point. You are clearly mistaking Sony with Microsoft. The last PS1 game was released in 2005, Fifa 05. Meaning that When the xbox 360 released, PS1 games were still being made. Sony stopped the production of PS2 a few months ago, 13 after launching it, Games are still being made and PS2 is Cheaper than ever, Brand NEW! And you're telling me you want to secure your investment? Pfff... there's a already a solution, come up with a better problem.

2. Lol, yeah we should have been buying HD DVD attachments instead. Dude, a little history, when the PS2 launched, it was also the least expensive DVD player on the market, but it featured backward compatibility right? And yes, Sales numbers have proven that people prefer a more affordable console over backward compatibility.

3. and to your third point asking what happens if your PS3 dies on you? well let me ask you, what happens if your PS4 dies on you? That's right you either get it replaced if you're under warranty, or buy another one right? You can still buy every single console sony has put out in the last 15-20 years.

So like I said earlier, the solution to your non-existing problem is already there, all you have to do is come up with a real problem first.

[Imalwaysright]

1st- I dont know what you're talking about

2nd- You didn't disprove my point at all. If standalone blu ray players were more expensive than a PS3 then its obvious that the reason why Sony was charging you € 600 for a PS3 was the blu-ray drive.

3rd What happens? I would have to buy a new one. But if my PS3 died on me (again) I wouldn't have to buy old hardware IF the PS4 had BC.

4th No real problem? Not for you maybe. I dont sell my games so the PS4 not having BC is a problem.

[Derekvinyard13]

Bible it's all about squeezing the last penny from the consumer, called exploiting something

[WrAiTh Sp3cTr3]

Hopefully MS has actually came up and implemented that "upscaling chip" for games that was rumored...along with the backwards compatibility of course.

[MaxXAttaxX]

They were meant to be played on your PS3.
THAT was the point.

[Hicken]

How stupid. The point in buying/making recent HD collections was to play previous gen games on current gen formats. Backwards compatibility doesn't come into play AT ALL. Bringing up HD collections doesn't even BEGIN to make sense, here.

Backwards compatibility is awesome. But it's not some right we're entitled to. Would I like to play PS3 games on the PS4 when I get one? Hell yeah. But it's no deal breaker if it's not there: I'll still have my PS3, like I still have my PS3, like I still have my PS1.

Do you have a PS3? Yes? Then keep it. The PS3 was made for PS3 games; the PS4 is made for PS4 games, believe it or not.

[Saigon]

Did we forget that BC will be done differently this generation? So far we truly do not know the full details of what Sony is trying to do with BC other than the Gaikai Service, but for MS no details have been submitted yet, maybe next Month we will know. My point is that we are all jumping to conclusions without truly knowing any facts. I know the BC situation hurts people that do not have service, or their service is shoddy at best, but we truly do not know what or I should say how it will be implemented.

[DarkHeroZX]

no PC can emulate the PS3 without the cell. unless you want the ps4 to cost $100 or more and be bulkier by having the cell and RSX chip then yeah it should be BC. Or if your like me you'll just keep your PS3. Beside once next gen really kicks off will you even really care to play ps3 games?

[Ares84HU]

This shit has got to stop already people. I'm voting down this site as well. Fucking making up bullshit!!

Show me an OFFICAL statement from Sony or Microsoft that states that there will be no backwards compatibility on either system!!

SHOW ME AN OFFICIAL STATEMENT!!!

[Rageanitus]

this is why PC gaming tends to have a positive aspect to it. There are ways to even play games from windows 95 .

But quite honestly I personally rarely go back to OLD games. ppl should reall move on

[Jockamo]

backwards compatibility is a problem that valve will fix

[dredgewalker]

Considering that Sony switched to Ati and also ditched the Cell then backwards compatibility will most likely be a problem without putting a PS3 inside it. It's a whole lotta different architecture. I like BC but some people like me don't just sell off their old consoles when the newer one comes out and I'd rather play newer games on a newer console. I doubt the PS3 will go anywhere after the PS4 is launched.

[wishingW3L]

@Cupid_Viper_3 don't try to bullcrap me. PS3 was expensive because of the Cell's R&D and the relatively new blu-ray drive. What they did with the PS3 to reduce the cost was scrap the barrel because Sony themselves said that BC on PS3 wasn't costly. And even less on later consoles which only had part of the PS2 in it and the rest was emulated through software.

Sony removed BC to be able to sell the HD re-releases and digital re-releases and they will do it again with the PS4 because people are so dumb that they bend over and even defend their actions. Like if a corporation like Sony needed to be defended... But that's what fanboys do.

PS4 not having BC with PS1, PS2, PS3 or any of the PSN digital releases is just wrong. I was even going to buy a PS4 day 1 but not like this. And if people didn't want to play old games then they wouldn't have bought all those re-releases because the truth is that most people sell they old consoles to get the new one but now we are forced to own them all.

As technology progresses things should become more convenient don't you think? I mean, that is its point! Why have like 10 consoles under your TV when 1 should be able to do everything?

[Brian1rr]

Thats why I bougt it for the vita

[zeal0us]

Some people don't want to keep switching back and forward between consoles.

Gaikai being able to stream games to help with the BC issue is great but ppl tend to forget licensing and rights. Theres over 700+ games on the PS3 and I doubt every company will allow Sony stream their game sadly.

Also BC helps with small amount games a console have when it first launches. I recall replaying tons of xbox games on my 360 when it first launch. I did the same thing with my PS2 when it first launch.

[shutUpAndTakeMyMoney]

I am one of the few people who is fine with this. I will rather have a lower cost console.

People who complain about BC are expecting ps4 & ps3 for the price of 1.

Imagine ps5 having ps1,ps2,ps3,ps4 BC + the price of ps5? Wow then every will scream "Price to high!! F**K YOU SONY!!! ARGGHH XBOX WINS!!".

Ps4 and beyond most likely will have BC as long a they keep the x86 design. Like pc.

Never expected them to emulate the cell.

Maybe that's just me. I have the original fat ps3 that can play ps2 games and the last time I played ps2 games was when I had ps2.

[GiggMan]

I agree. Backwards Compatibility was one of the main reasons the OG PS4 was so expensive. Plus I look forward to my next gen systems sitting side by side with my current ones.

Why don't people just hold off and see what Sony has planned for their streaming service before we start moaning?

[zeal0us]

@GiggMan

One of the main reasons the Original PS3 was expensive had little to do with BC it was more with the hardware that was inside of it.

Original PS2 had BC and it was $299 when it launch.

[zerocrossing]

Consoles don't last forever, when my PS3 inevitably dies am I supposed to buy one again just because PS3 games aren't compatible with the PS4? as far as Im concerned there is no justifiable reason for a lack of BC.

It seems to me it is just another attempt to stamp out the used games market, of course Sony don't want you spending money on used games to play on a new console when you could be buying PS4 games, that's business after all.

It mite not be "anti consumer" but it certainly isn't "consumer friendly" not when the PS2 had BC and the PS3 also until they realised they could get us to buy HD versions of games we already own.

"The games industry is their to make money" and apparently making previous products redundant helps to further that.

[LOGICWINS]

"Consoles don't last forever, when my PS3 inevitably dies am I supposed to buy one again just because PS3 games aren't compatible with the PS4? as far as Im concerned there is no justifiable reason for a lack of BC."

Excellent point.

[GiggMan]

Good point but really, did people buy HD versions of games they already owned? I know I wouldn't. I thought it was mainly for people who might have missed out on something. I know I bought the God of War collection because I missed out on #2.

I'm asking an honest question because I see how that could piss you off.

[SilentNegotiator]

You must be pissed that Nintendo dropped Gamecube support and doesn't have cartridge consoles anymore....your Gamecube must be busted and your Wii will die some day too!

That's why we have emulators. No hardware lasts forever.

[cee773]

The console may not last forever but those blu rays will.
Ps3 will only continue to become cheaper as time passes.
I plan on keeping my ps3 for all my psn games, movies and music backups that alone is worth keeping to me personally.

If it dies I'll fix it bluray lens is under 20$ on eBay, thermal grease is under 6$ the key to keeping your console running a lifetime is maimtenance. Keep your console dust free and change the grease every 6+ years. You will be fine.

[Outside_ofthe_Box]

***"as far as Im concerned there is no justifiable reason for a lack of BC."***

Different architectures?

It's crazy though. As soon as Sony removed BC from the PS3 that's when sales started to pick up for it which means PRICE > BC.

People b****ed along side developers about how difficult it was to develop for the PS3 and how they hoped that the PS4 will be so much easier to develop for. Well they got that wish on the sacrifice of BC.

So what do you guys want? Affordable price? Backwards Compatibility? A developer friendly console? All three? Well good luck wishing for all 3, but realize that this is real life. If Sony can some how make the PS4 affordable while adding full BC for PS1, PS2, PS3 games to the PS4 then all credit to them, but I can't seem them accomplishing that without taking one hell of a loss on each console sold.

EDIT: @Below

***"Sony want us buying PS4 games as apposed to second hand PS3 games that Sony wont see any revenue from."***

That doesn't make sense. First off, why would one buy a PS4 just so that they can buy PS3 games? Keep your PS3 in that scenario. Second, the whole purpose of BC is so that you won't have to rebuy your old games. So if BC was implemented people would be playing games that they already own in addition to any PS4 games that interest them as I'm pretty sure by now most people have all the games they've ever wanted to play on their PS3 in their possession.

The majority of the people that would be buying PS3 games for their PS4 would be those that never had a PS3 to begin with and those are the ones that are least likely to buy a PS4 at launch anyway if at all.

[zerocrossing]

I dont think BC has been left out of the PS4 because of the different architecture or for ease of development, it's been left out because the PS3 is old news.

We wont see many more PS3 games getting released once the PS4 hits shelves so naturally Sony want us buying PS4 games as apposed to second hand PS3 games that Sony wont see any revenue from.

It's just my opinion and it mite not even be remotely true, but I think it's highly likely a contributing factor in the choice to leave BC out of the PS4.

[MikeMyers]

As people invest more and more into their online accounts it only makes sense to carry that history with you. I will be very pissed if my bought content doesn't carry over to the next gen. consoles. I don't expect full BC but I do expect my digital content to carry over. Full BC would be nice but its not a deal breaker for me.

[saint_seya]

Well lets say u dont buy a ps4, u get a xbox 720.. ull be on the same situation, or u dont buy any other console, ull be in same place...
The point, no matter what u think it could happen, the result wont be different than not having a ps4.

If u have or not a ps4, ull be facing the same situations, and your possible escenario wont change #ps3 dies, u have to buy a new one if u want to keep playing ps3 games#

If u buy a ps4 its because #i believe# u want to play ps4 games, if u buy a 720 is because u want to play 720 games. If u think that u may want old games more, then dont jump soon to next gen, enjoy your games and get a next gen console when ure done with your current games.

When people changed to dvds as the main format for movies, u saw #or see# dvd players been able to play vcr's movies? U dont think a lot of people had big collections in that format?
People had to keep their vcr's players or buy again the movies in the new format..

My point is, we are moving foward, we have to addapt. Yeah would be nice to have bc, but i rather not have it, and put ps4 in a price more affordable, so more people can enjoy ps4 games. If people want to play ps3 games, ps3's are still there to be bought.

[MikeMyers]

"My point is, we are moving foward, we have to addapt."

And in many cases they have.

"When people changed to dvds as the main format for movies, u saw #or see# dvd players been able to play vcr's movies? U dont think a lot of people had big collections in that format?
People had to keep their vcr's players or buy again the movies in the new format.."

This is where they adapted. DVD players could play CD's. Bluray players could play DVD's and CD's. When I buy a song on itunes it stays with my account even if I buy a new computer or a new iphone. Same with Steam. I bought games years ago and have had a few PC's in-between and can still play them. So why should we treat Xbox Live, Playstation Network and Nintendo Network any differently?

[Outside_ofthe_Box]

@MikeMyers

The thing is those downloadable content were designed to run on their respective console architecture. I do agree that digital content should transfer over though.

[MikeMyers]

"The thing is those downloadable content were designed to run on their respective console architecture."

Then why do PSOne games run on so many platforms? Either way they should be trying harder to make them so that they do run on newer systems.

[MrBeatdown]

"as far as Im concerned there is no justifiable reason for a lack of BC."

You know, Sony isn't just sitting on a barrel of magic backwards compatibility dust to sprinkle on the PS4 that will make it play PS3 games.

Backwards compatibility costs money.

I'd say it's far more consumer friendly to make the PS4 as affordable as possible so that more consumers have a chance to play PS4 games. Beats forcing every consumer to waste their money on a feature they might not need, probably already have, and can easily replace if need be.

[Outside_ofthe_Box]

***"Then why do PSOne games run on so many platforms?"***

Is this a serious question? Obviously because it's easier to implement and doesn't drive up the cost.

[brave27heart]

How many people upset about bc are actual gaming on a non bc PS3?
Does it bother you?

[Irishguy95]

Bothers me. My Ps2 is broke, My Ps2 controller is broke, my memory card is broke...my Ps2 games are currently useless.

[Philoctetes]

Agreed. I had a BC PS3 (until it crapped out), and I used the BC capability a grand total of once. Don't miss it at all, won't miss it on the PS4.

Backwards compatibility is the most overrated feature any console has to offer.

[brave27heart]

@Irishguy

http://www.google.co.uk/sho...

£10 mate. The cost of a couple of pints and a kebab. Ps2's are cheap now, and PS3's will be cheap to pick up if yours breaks in the future.

As for changing cables that some mentioned, you keep the PS3 and PS4 side by side, switch plug socket over, switch HDMI cable. Job done. Can be done in the time between pressing the TV power button and the screen to come on if you're quick.

[Alcohog]

Agree. I give zero shits.

[aceitman]

it was cut halfway thru the ps3 cycle and , was limited on the 360 so just like ur Nintendo ,and Nintendo 64 pull it out hook it up and play it, its not hard to do. some people have them set up just to switch channels and play. and if u want the price to stay low then let go of backwards Compatibility.

[3-4-5]

The thing is though, people like trading consoles in.

If New console A is $400 and my old console B is able to be traded in for $100 credit then the new console A only costs me $300.

* I now have $100 to spend on 2 games, thus two game developers now have benefited from this.

* If people can't trade them in, they might wait and that will then hurt the Launch numbers in terms of units sold / moved.

[miDnIghtEr20C_SfF]

Don't worry.. MS/Durango will be BC with almost all of the games. http://n4g.com/news/1161809...

[T2]

Great cant wait to play my 5 good 360 games over and over and over .... Fable 2 , halo 3 , halo 4 and kingdoms of amalur.

Edit - thats sarcasm in case u didnt notice

[ALLWRONG]

We don't know if the next Xbox will have BC or not because it hasn't been announced yet. As for the PS4, the only thing we know is you "may" have to pay for it.

[KrisButtar]

See I can understand this move to a point. They really didn't give us an adjustment period. Some said this to me
"This is the equivalent of being angry that your DVD player didn't come with a VHS tape slot and a LaserDisc drive and a 8mm film spindle. Seriously."

My reply isCompanies created DVD, and VHS Combos units when DVD's launched. To create a adjustment period.

[oldassgamer]

Your suggestion makes too much sense. There are 2 groups here. One with those of us who will keep our current console, and buy the PS4. The other contains those who must sell their current console to buy the PS4, but they want to keep their games.

[bacrec1]

Fuck that

[smashcrashbash]

They have no obligation to do that at all. It is a legitimate business decision to not allow the new console to cannibalize the old one. If the new consoles had BC then people could easily forget the old one and jump to the new one leaving them with millions of unsold consoles. You can disagree and stomp your feet and curse all you like.It means they can still sell the old console as well as the new one and get the profits from both hardware instead of only software sales.Go ahead and shower me with disagrees like I know most people will. A company's main goal is to make profit.Not saying it doesn't suck for some people but business sense dictates that this is the most profitable solution.

[BLACKBIBLE]

I won't disagree with you. Business is business but still, as a consumer, or small developer this put us in a jam. Some developers have invested in the current gen for this year. That's why I proposed limited Backwards compatibility.

@LogicWins

My point Exactly!

[ONI5]

1st) Emulating the Cell Processor would be expensive. If SONY had kept Cell Tech this would not be an issue, but they changed hardware on both CPU and GPU, which they explained was the reason for no BC.
2nd)Limited BC on the 360 was made for the games that would work as close as the original system without outstanding problems, which is why the list is only about 400 games or so. Even still, some games have horrible problems from the emulation. So imagine SONY trying to tell their investors that they have to test every PS3 game to see which ones worked with the emulation to play on PS4. Yes it would win Kudos from the customers who had a large collection, but it does not seem likely that they would spend the money needed for new IP on this.
3rd) The only real solution for this would be if the developers for every game went and added drivers for the new hardware to the games via a patch for every game separately. But this would take time away from new IPs. Developers that are just getting in this year could do this to extend their sales, but who knows if they have the finances to do so.

Anyhoo, I wish there was some easy way for it to be done other than boosting the price of the system and putting the hardware inside again.

[LOGICWINS]

I'm not going to disagree with you. Everything you said is spot on. BUT, I feel that if I have already bought digital titles on my PS3, I should have a voucher to re-download these titles for free via Gaikai.

[smashcrashbash]

I am sure they will give us several options including being able to use your old profiles for downloadable game. They themselves said they will be looking into that option.I understand why Sony did this and why people might not like it.BC would be nice but I understand why a company might be against it. It is always easy for the consumer to say things like 'Screw that Sony.Just make the PS4 BC and let the PS3 die'. But unfortunately from a business point of view that is a very bad idea to be left with hundreds of thousands or even millions of PS3 hardware sitting there being expensive paper weights.

As a consumer I want as much for my money as possible but you people need to understand that a company has to do things that are good for them as well as for us and not just what is good for you only. These things may seem like knee jerk decisions but many times they are well thought out weighing pro and cons in the process.If you were guys in Sony's shoes and the PS3 was just becoming profitable and you still had PS3 games in the pipes what would you have done? Lessen the PS3 sales by putting BC on the PS4 and only getting software sales and potentially having a ton of PS3s left unsold? Or get profits from both systems and eventually selling out your stock of PS3s? And before I get more disagrees I know how you feel that you won't be able to play PS3 games physically on the PS4 but everything a company does is not always for our benefit alone.They have to get something out of it as well. If not then why go into business at all?

[LOGICWINS]

@Black- Sony would be crazy to charge you again for Killzone 2 and GOW HD. I think the ideal situation is a $100 a year PS Plus Plus membership where you get Gaikai along with free PS3, PS Vita, and PS4 games. Slowly but surely, you will regain your entire library over the next 6-10 years.

[aquamala]

Sony is already charging you again for ps1 and ps2 classics on psn, doesn't matter if you already own them on disk.

[MariaHelFutura]

Ding! Ding! Ding! We have winner. No real B/C, might end up being the best thing for the PS4, offering all the PS3 games through PS+/Gaikai at a reasonable price for subscription. Instant game collection FOR REAL!!!!!

[rainslacker]

@aqua

Well, They didn't charge me for the ones I own on disc because I have a BC compatible PS3. I did buy a few to play on my PSP or Vita however, but that's a bit different.

However, your point is, I believe, the reason BC is being removed from the PS4. As a business Sony knows that people will buy these older games, particularly popular titles. The people that will be alienated by this decision are far less than the potential income they can bring in from increased software sales, and even many people that complain now may still purchase those game as well. It's bad PR in some ways, but it will die down and people will forget about it just like when it was taken out of the PS3.

It's understandable to not have PS3 BC, but makes no sense when it comes to PS1/2 BC as it's already available on multiple Sony devices. PS1 emulation is even available on the PSP, which is way less powerful than a PS4.

It's not the end of the world, but it's a nice feature to have. I would like it, and would spend extra on a deluxe model, but from a business standpoint it seems like it won't happen.

I'll keep my PS3 hooked up as many suggest, and luckily I have the technical knowledge to fix most failure issues that may occur with it in the future, but having it all in one system is pretty handy, particularly for those like me that appreciate older games for what they had to offer.

[GasTankKiller]

I could careless about the BC option. I plan on keeping my PS3 until it dies. Done with trading in systems. Plus, If BC was adding into the PS4 it would increase the overall price tag. Want to play PS3 or Xbox 360 games just keep those systems.

Problem solved. Or was it ever really a problem...

[T2]

Sounds good ... Ill be trading in my ps3 with all games and 6 controllers day 1 personally. Ps4 never looking back ... I bought a launch ps3 never put a ps2 game in once... Well maybe simpsons hit n run for my gf lol

[sandman224]

If you don't own a ps3/360 that's to bad. You'd had plenty of time to buy those consoles and if you do own one don't sell it. That will solve your bc.

[Hitman0769]

BLACK BIBLE i'm sorry to tell you this but this is stupid for you to complain about bro. Don't you know that the systems with optical-based backwards compatibility are always the least reliable and break the most? Not to mention you should be playing new games on new systems not old ones that is just a waste.

This is the equivalent of being angry that your DVD player didn't come with a VHS tape slot and a LaserDisc drive and a 8mm film spindle. Seriously.

Also to the people talking about getting charged twice and begging for free digital copies of the games they bought, gtfo. You are seriously missing the point of owning a next gen system if these are the first things you think about. The ideal system that holds 100% of your game collection doesn't exist and it never will. If you don't like it then don't buy it and you can keep on playing the same old sh** that the rest of us are bored of. Enjoy, I'll be on next gen not looking back...

[rainslacker]

I wish I could move on like that. I mean we've become so bored with this generation, so why would I want to go back and play older games that actually had quality content and fun game play to enjoy.

Some people appreciate gaming for the fun it brings, and not just what "new and exciting" things the current crop of money grabbing, rehash infested, mediocre game play mechanics, poor story riddled crap that has been produced this gen.

You are more than welcome to live in your dystopian future, but don't think that your view on gaming is better than those that would prefer to "waste" ourselves away on the good times that gaming has to offer. For many of us we want to play all games, and it's not unreasonable to voice our displeasure over this decision, particularly since Sony has spoiled us in the past, and even more so that it doesn't make sense to exclude all BC when it's already available on less powerful machines.

[Jek_Porkins]

Well we know the PS4 wont be backwards compatible, but we don't know about the next Xbox. Would be a huge feather in the cap if the next Xbox were BC.

The main issue with not having that feature is that new game releases for new consoles are sparse at first, so it'd make sense to be able to go and play games for current consoles on new systems. As someone who buys all the new consoles, I don't want 10 different systems hooked up just to play a game. Already have Wii U, 360, PS4 and other systems hooked up. Was already ticked that the Wii U doesn't play Gamecube games, so now I had to hook that back up as well.

Sony and Microsoft set up these ecosystems with Achievements and Trophy's, release add-on's like Move and Kinect, but then come out with new consoles a few years later and they wont let you use these things that you spent all that money on? Get outta here!

Hopefully MS comes through with some physical BC.

[Persistantthug]

If the rumors are correct that Microsoft is going with an AMD CPU, then the XBOX 3 will likely have little to no Backwards compatibility, similar to how XBOX 360's backwards compatibility with XBOX 1 was terrible this generation.
The issue with both PS3 and XBOX 360 architectures, is that they both employ PPU (IBM) designs, and PPU isn't well compatible with x86 (Intel and AMD).

We'll have to see what alternatives they may ( or may not ) offer like GAIKAI.

[Jek_Porkins]

Gaikai isn't backwards compatibility, and we don't know any facts on the next Xbox, so I will withhold my judgement on that. The Xbox 360 had some pretty good backwards compatibility in my opinion, it supported quite a few games and even the new 360's do that. I mean when compared to Sony's BC, it's 100% better because Sony offered none.

I'm waiting and seeing, hopeful though.

[Persistantthug]

PS1 backwards compatibility. Every single PS3 still has that, even though SONY sells alot of PS1games in their PSN store.
And then of course, PS3 had PS2 b/c from 2006 - 2008.

And you're right that GAIKAI isn't b/c. It's is however, a reasonable potential alternative to keep the downloadable games that people purchased without having to rebuy them.

But like XBOX 3's b/c info.... we don't have enough info on GAIKAI.

I remain hopful for both.

As a side note: We still don't yet know if the PS4 will play PS1 and/or PS2 disks or not.

[justlikeme]

I wish they would make some type of dongle that you plug into the PS4 so that it would allow backwards compatibility and charge like $100-150. I would soo buy it.

[-Falaut-]

yes, the internet would have an absolute field day with that.

[djthechamp24]

i thought we was suppose to move forward in the gaming industry not backwards

[_LarZen_]

Same thing everytime a new console comes out. "buuuhuu I cant play my old games on the system"

GET OVER IT!

How many takes out a PS2 game and go "dammmn, I cant play it on my PS3!"

Like really? Who many in the big picture? 1%? 2%?
Keep your old systems if you want to play ancient games, the rest are moving along.

[landog]

lol....how else are they gonna sell you uncharted 3 in TRUE HD with anti aliasing

Halo 3 remaster without jaggies everywhere and much higher resolutions

why give you what they can sell you

[Arai]

BC = making EVERYONE pay more when they can be paying less.
2 SKU's is the best solution IMO then everyone will be happy.

Personally I don't give a flying f... about BC.

[C0MPUT3R]

Derp* I'ma gunarunout n buy a nexgen consul fo $450+ tu play lastgengames derp.*

[SlyFamous02]

It does not make business sense to have backwards comp for the PS4, not yet anyway. Does any one realise how much money Sony will loose if the PS4 had this feature at launch because why get a PS3 if the PS4 can play PS3 games?

[from the beach]

Keep the old consoles.

[Jovahkiin]

Bullshit man, I have a collection of over a hundred Xbox 360 games.

[I_LOVE_MYSELF]

My Nintendo 64 isn't compatible with my Snes games! This is bull****!!!

[cervantes99]

If the first thing you think about is backwards compatibility - then you are not ready to move to the next generation.

Just stay with the current gen until ready. Most of those who complain about this are those who need the trade-in credit to purchase the next system. Well gaming companies are a business not a charity.

[christheredhead]

Personally, I would have to disagree with you on that one to some extent. B/C is the first thing I always think about when we hear about new consoles. I mean, I just spent 7 years building up a game library worth thousands of dollars so its definitely important. For me, this goes for all 3 systems.

I currently have 10 systems hooked up to my tv and were not even talking about ps4 or 720 yet. I have to keep all those systems plugged up just to grab a game off my shelf and start playing, so some ease of use would be so nice for a change is all. I would have no problems moving into next gen day 1, but B/C is going to hinder that decesion big time unfortunately.

Even thinking in terms of ps4 it sounds like a nightmare. I can only imagine buying 50+ games on ps4 only to have ps5 come out 6 years later with no B/C. I would once again be stacking a ps5, on top of a ps4, which is on top of my ps3, which is on top of my ps2. All that to grab a game and go. Just so many systems stacked on top of systems, that are themselves stacked on top of systems. There has to be a point where it can be condensed down into one machine. Its a bummer that its not this upcoming gen though. Although, there is still hope that 720 will pull it off.

It's true that game companies aren't a charity, they're a business. Yet, thats sort of where my complaint lies. It's just a terrible way to do business if you ask me.

[-Falaut-]

See, if Sony continued using the Cell or variation of it, and this happened, then I would full out call "bullshit". But seeing that they have moved away from that, it only makes sense, the code will simply not run.

On MS side, I don't know what going to happen. At the end of the day, its direct X on a x86 and will continue to be with the next Xbox, so I really don't see why it SHOULDN'T be BC.

I really wish someone would report on what I feel are legitimate questions when it comes to the upcoming systems, at least PS4, since it's the only one that has been announced. Like the very likely prospect of there being a Live like subscription service for PSN, when in comes to the PS4, because of the plethora of new additions that are being brought into the system that are network heavy. Or whether this might just become an extension added on top of PS+.

Cheers

[Felonycarclub8]

Why can't people just learn and understand why they are not backwards compatible especially the ps4. If only we had a better school system

[gamingisnotacrime]

the more i think about this the less i like it

The PS4 is launching when millions worldwide have a healthy libary of great PS3 games, and forcing the switch with no looking back attitude is not very welcoming for me to spend over $450 in a new console and start my library from scratch. i just dont like it, specially when the PS3 games coming out this year are so high quality and awesome.

If i were sony i would do the same thing they are doing, so it is what it is

[Felonycarclub8]

Sorry but didn't know Sony was forcing anybody to switch and why can't you keep your ps3? Just wondering

[PersonMan]

That's like selling 2 consoles in one. Why would people buy a PS3 if they knew the PS4 can play everything?

I think Sony wants to keep the console price as low as possible.

[Trago1337]

Are there really people on this site defending the decision for Sony or MS NOT to have Backwards Compatibility?!

Yes, i'm aware that it would make the console more expensive, but you dudes have to understand that it's a feature that is WELL worth the expense.

Why in hell does the thing need 8 GB of expensive RAM if, according to recent developments, only 1.5 GB is being used for games? you can cut cost right there by cutting that Ram count.

I'm just saying BC is supposed to be a STANDARD feature, because Let's make one thing perfectly clear; THESE ARE GAMING CONSOLES FIRST people, and being able to play PS3 games on my PS4 would mean not having to repurchase my library in the cloud.

[rainslacker]

I agree with you up to a point. I don't think it has to be a standard feature, but it would be a good optional feature for those willing to spend the money on it. Quite literally the added expense to the consumer could be offset by the trading in of your old system, and I've seen many on here and other forums say they would spend extra on an SKU that included it.

This just proves that for many, as you say, it is an added expense that is well worth it. To others, who don't care and dismiss others feelings on it, they could just opt to buy a less expensive system.

The whole decision likely comes down to a combination of costs and ability to resell older games as digital titles or re-releases down the road. The cost issue is understandable, albeit offset by a separate SKU, while the sales side is just annoying and a departure from Sony's historical take on the premise of BC. None of it is as black and white as most people are making it out to be.

To those that don't care, I don't know why they bother posting as it doesn't affect them, but for those of us that like the feature, I think we should be able to have our voices heard without the belittlement that we get over our preferences.

Most people I've seen that like BC have been pretty reasonable in their take on the issue, and it seems like they are really just hoping for better answers to the concerns that the new eco-system that Sony is pushing has for the content they currently own.

[Trago1337]

Which brings me back to the point i was making; WHY does the system need 8 Gigs of GDDR5 RAM if developers are only using 1.5 GB for games?

What are the other 6.5 Gigs being used for? User interface? That instantaneous feel of the system over all? Social Features?

If that's one of the main system selling points that Sony's going for, than i'm concerned to be honest. The ps3 and 360 use only HALF a gig, and their UI's are intuitive and easy to use.

We already have party chat on the 360 and i'm sure the PS4 will have it as well, so WHY not sacrifice half of those features that almost no one cares about, and give us BC?

Like i said before, we don't need 8 Gigs, I think they should cut it down to about 4, that way, it can cost less, and the games will still look the same.

this and a few other things are making me concerned about the PS4.

[rainslacker]

The 1.5GB quote was what was stated to be used for one game(Killzone I believe). It's not to say that games couldn't use more than that. Likely in the future more games will take advantage of more, and it's nice to know that memory is unlikely to be a factor in multi-plats in the future.

The whole social side is another marketing thing. It's not inherently wrong, because truthfully more people will care about that then will care about BC, especially among the casual social crowd. For me personally I'm having a hard time seeing how having a strong social aspect will really benefit game play. For the most part, games this gen that have social aspects(co-op for instance) actually take away from the game, particularly for a SP campaign. To me most of the announced social aspects of the system seemed geared more towards marketing the system and the games, all while building a social Eco-system that will play a big part in their long term market share...similar to the way XBL or PSN does now, just on a grander scale.

I find it highly unlikely that Sony's OS, and all the features currently announced and assumed will take up 6.5 GB's of memory. A standard PC can do all those things and more, while running a bloated operating system on 2GB's, although 4 is recommended for additional processing needs.

[clintagious650]

Sony has learnt the hard way with the ps3 that the small percentage of ps3's sold with BC for $599 was not as successful at all as they thought it would be. So I dont see why they should put it there if its just going to HURT them. From a business stance point its not worth it & besides that your not FORCED to buy a ps4 if your looking to play ps3 games. Simple method is dont buy a ps4 & stick with the ps3.

[fredolopez]

it will suck for people with large libraries. as cool as it would be to bring over old games, ultimately PS is in the business of selling games and if they will try to make us buy their new games. Certain titles like the Zone of the Enders: HD Collection should be allowed to transition because they owe some courtesy to their fans.

[brettyd]

I swear some gamers are the biggest cry babies, KEEP YOUR OLD CONSOLE! Do you people really buy next gen consoles to play your old games? Is it really that big of an inconvenience for you to play PS3 games on your PS3? c'mon now.

[the worst]

i dont care about Backwards Compatibility.
i have a day one ps3 and only play one ps2 game.
gamers are the bunch of F'N' crybabies

[thebudgetgamer]

Looks like burning my PS360 was a bad idea after all.

[hfaze]

Since the big 3 console makers like to do the basic/deluxe model for their consoles, why not offer a cheaper non-BC model, and a more expensive BC model.

This way, you give gamers the choice.

I would LOVE to be able to play my PS3 games on a PS4, but be able to do things like party chat (already implemented on the Vita), etc...

I guess us gamers have been spoiled by the last couple generations offering backwards compatibility, while the older generations did not offer it... But C'MON MAN!!

[nevin1]

According to this 2010 article, the cell chip was $38.

http://dlb-network.com/2010...

Blu ray was $66.

[brianunfried]

Would be nice, but not necessary. Must look to the future.

[nevin1]

lol@ people buying digital PS3 games.

[TXIDarkAvenger]

Meh, I don't care.

I keep my consoles no matter what. I will never sell them. So for me, backwards compatibility isn't much of an issue. Of course it might be a pain in the ass to plug in another system just to play that game.

[josephayal]

no way MEH! I'll keep my PS3/X and eventually when the PS4/X arrives

[jonboi24]

This is just really sad people want a cheap console and here is Sony creating a system from off the shelf parts and you still complain. You guys wanted multiplatform titles on par with each other, now your going to get and you still complain. You guys seriously can't learn how to compromise, always wanting everything your way. If you guys aren't willing to pay over $600 for a PS4 then don't b**** about it. Cause that's how much it'll cost just to get that damn Cell chip in there and the PS2 emotion engine on there.

[isarai]

look, you can't do BC forever, each generation has had extremely varied architectures, it gets very pricey to accommodate all your previous systems when your in the 4th iteration. However i wouldn't mind a premium model with all BC included at a higher price, i'd pay for that

[mochachino]

Keep the old console for the odd time you feel like playing last-gen games. Your 360/PS3s are worth so little money and will be worth even less when next-gen consoles arrive

[sonicjam]

I don't think we need backward compatible. I bet some of you guys did not had a problem from going from the nes to the snes. People were fine with no backward compatible in the past and it shouldn't be a problem today.

[rbluetank]

he looks just like James Evan from Good Times series. (John Amos was the actor) he makes alot of good points. i wish i could move over my ps3 games. i still have my ps3 so i am cool.

[IQUITN4G]

Do people honestly expect MS to just drop a side of their business model, existing games for arcade that will continue to see sales on the new hardware too. These games already exist so it's basically money for no effort on MS's part if they do have bc

Strange short sighted argument when people mention how you can just keep the old hardware. Ipad has moved things on in this respect and it's a given we will be able to play these arcade games at least. I'd also be very surprised if we couldn't play physical games although that may come about from having to buy a licence or something for the new machine. Who knows but it's it's certainly daft to think people wont mind their software all of a sudden not working and while some wont mind this, a lot of folk would be p!ssed

[arbitor365]

im not buying a PS4 to play PS3 and PS2 games. that is such a trifling issue.

you have to remember that PS3 games are made to work with the cell processor, which this console doesnt have. its a totally different infrastructure. backwards compatibility would only pointlessly drive up the costs of production.

[madjedi]

You can still find ps2s, ps3's will be around for another 5-10 yrs likely. It's not like the ps3 games will look like upscaled ps2 games on your hdtv.

If you have to trade your old ps3 in to pay for the new ps4, you should have started saving before the playstation conference. You had 6-7 yrs to get ready for the next gens, why are you waiting till the last minute.

[wishingW3L]

because life is more than just gaming. lol

[jaws14]

I would rather not have a ps2, ps3, Xbox306 + next gen consoles and all the wires, controllers, etc. Who has room for all that?

[Wikkid666]

Dammit I missed the Xbox press conference!

[rezzah]

How about people buy old console and forget about next gen consoles?

This way they can play all the old games they want and not have to worry about anything new.

[HeroPsychoDreamer]

I don't mind using my PS3 for my old gams. It works just fine.

[kostchtchie_]

sad really, glad i stop console gaming this gen, and concentrated more on my PC, this is such bad move and they should feel bad, every new version of console should allow old games to be played on it

[BrianC6234]

Some people are making too big of a deal out of this. Get over it. In the past consoles didn't have this feature and it was no problem. Sony could have included the feature in the PS4 but it would have added to the cost. Better to spend that money on 8GB of GDDR5 RAM. That's something that will be big a couple years after the PS4 comes out. Backward compatibility won't matter by then.

[SDF Repellent]

"In the past consoles didn't have this feature and it was no problem."

Well ,this is different. In the past, we didn't get things like digital distribution, gamerscores, achievements/trophies, and marketplace. For example, if I bought a online game like Journey, Shadow Complex, or a HD remake of Perfect Dark or a instant classic like Castle Crasher, wouldn't it make sense that these games that I purchased and are tied to my account can be transferred over to a single platform?

[BrianC6234]

Only if those games can run on the new console. Maybe Sony wanted to spend more money on things like RAM. There's nothing keeping you from using your old console. Everything is more expensive on new consoles. The hardware companies can't lose hundreds of dollars on every console they sell. They have to pick what they want in the new consoles. It's more important to spend that money on the future than the past. If you're worried your old console will die you can always buy a new one too. I just don't really care about playing old games on a new console. Are you willing to pay more for the PS4 or new Xbox to play old games? Sony had trouble with the PS3 early on because they tried to give us everything. They had to cut features to make the PS3 more affordable.

[USEYOURFIST]

I honestly cant believe the amount of people who dont think BC is a big issue. To me its like apple saying sorry all them songs you brought on your ipod 1st gen erm yea you cant play them on your ipod touch soz! though if you subscribe to our streaming service all that stuff you payed full price for but cant use, well guess what, you can play it via that for 'free' if you subscribe to our premium service for £49 a year.

it would be slightly different if the concept was never introduce however sony have done BC on every console so far so it feels unfiar to me from a consumer point of view

[TuxedoMoon]

If the ps4 is so almighty and powerful, then why can't it play my ps3 games? I'm pretty sure there are ways around the "cell-tech" ps3 thing. I guess they took it out to force people to buy it off of their psn services. Also is the ps4 region locked?

[wishingW3L]

I can understand that PS3 is hard to achieve because of the Cell but not even BC for PS1, PS2 and PSN digital releases? The PC can emulate the first 2 through software so why the PS4 can't? Well, of-course it can is just that Sony does not want to do it partly because of the Sony fanboys saying that they don't care about it and then the money they can make by re-releasing old games.

But fans should always ask for more so Sony can deliver, because software emulation should cost hardly nothing to them. I mean, programmers can do it on the PC and for free!

[LordHiggens]

All of these, "Just keep your old console" posts are pissing me off...maybe you want to have a clusterfuck of hardware all up in your room, I don't. I plan on trading in my consoles to minimize the cost of the next gen system. It really bothers me how many people don't care about it, I thought BC was in demand...apparently I'm in the minority. Which sucks it really does. I accepted the fact that I wouldn't be able to play my PS3 games on my PS4...I got that, but my DIGITAL titles...they won't be playable according to Sony on my PS4 and for that I call complete BULLSHIT...what's the point in moving to digital format if you can't even keep your games? People should be more vocal about this and maybe, just maybe we can get something done. But then again, it appears no one else gives a shit. It's really infuriating.

[Rhythmattic]

F*7K me...

Alot of PC Gamers Suck... Elitist little chode's

I have a decent gaming PC ("personal computer"- alot of people have one) and enjoy games at high to ultra settings...

But it does not run Killzone, Halo 3/4, Uncharted ,Gears of War 2/3 or God of war ]I[ to name a few...

PC Elitists, Whatever makes you happy... A ram upgrade, maybe a voltage tweek on the motherboard, how about a LED lit Case with a whopping 700watt PS ... Yep, you .got it all running on Ultra !!! However, refer to previous paragraph