The Sony Defence Has Gotten Out of Hand

First it was defending the lack of Backwards Compatibility, next it was defending the pseudo "remakes" of PS2 games on PS4, and now it's the worst defense of all. Defending PS4K, a.k.a. PS4 Neo. This needs to stop.

For the sake of simplicity, this blog will assume that the PS4 Neo is actually happening even if Sony are not talking about it at all. In fact, the very fact that they have said absolutely NOTHING about it is a great indication that it's happening.

Sony is making a really stupid move, and really stupid people are defending said really stupid move.

I've seen lines like "It's for PSVR to have better performance so it's great" and "People who wanted PSVR already were already accepting of the fact that it wasn't as powerful as HTC Vive or Oculus Rift, so having a PS4 Neo hurts no one" and even "If you can't afford one, it won't impact you anyway since PSVR will work with base model PS4s anyway."

All of these comments HAVE to be from young gamers who know next to nothing about gaming history, and/or are really blind defenders of Sony just because it's Sony and they can do no wrong this gen.

PS4 Neo is a bad idea because all incremental, .5 like console updates are historically bad ideas.

The absolute best (or worst depending on how you see it) example of this is the Sega 32X. Do you remember the 32X? I'll provide a link for a more thorough explanation, but I'll summarize as well.

The Sega 32X was a .5 if you will. It was a piece of hardware that attached to a Sega Genesis and it had extra power to boost 16bit games to 32bit games. Pretty much exactly the same concept as the PS4 Neo, only it was an attachment and not an actual console re-release.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wi...

The link above has information that should apply to this situation as well, specifically...

"Journalists were similarly concerned about Sega's tactic of selling two similar consoles at different prices and attempting to support both, likening Sega's approach to that of General Motors and segmenting the market for its consoles."

Segmenting the market is the biggest concern of all. It SHOULD matter to all of you, it SHOULD matter (and indications are that it does) to developers.

A PS4 Neo will create development hell. Costs of development will increase as the developers will either have to choose to make only a base PS4 game, or make two versions of one game for what is essentially one general platform.

If developers make two versions of one game, then sales will be affected because the user base will be segmented between those WITH a Neo and those WITHOUT a Neo.

Eventually developers will treat the difference, if they don't already from the start, between PS4 base and PS4 Neo in the same manner as they have treated cross gen development. That is to say they will not develop base PS4 versions any longer because it would be financially stupid to do so. This will have the obvious consequence of forcing consumers into a position of having to buy a PS4 Neo because the base PS4 simply won't be getting the newer games. It's not the base couldn't get the newer games, from a technical standpoint it should be similar to how lower spec'd PCs still get games but underperform compared to higher spec'd PCs. But, why would a developer want to bother with that and come away with less money? Why would a publisher even ALLOW for that at all?

And yet the blind defense of anything Sony does still continues. It's this kind of defense that breeds complacency and arrogance. The same kind of complacency and arrogance that led to Ken Kutaragi's quotes about the PS3. The same kind of complacency and arrogance that plagued the Xbox One's early launch. Do you not understand this?

Stop defending Sony when they make a stupid move. I assure you that calling them out on their B.S. WILL NOT mean Playstation goes away forever. You can help to make the brand better, as evidenced by how MS felt with the launch of Xbox One and the backlash that ensued, by voicing the very correct negative opinions about B.S. moves.

PS Neo is a bad idea. It's a bad idea for PSVR because it will segment that userbase, and it's a bad idea for games in general for the same reason. If Sony wanted a more powerful VR experience, then the thing to do is release a 32X style attachment specifically for the VR device, not a whole new console barely into the PS4's 2nd year.

[DonkeyDoner]

well 32x has it's own exclusive game and neo dont so...
all development hell you're talking about no just no, all dev gotta do make it ultra and 60 fps that's all i ask,if they can create a multiple patch after release(the witcher 3)why cant they put a little effort to it??

[DragonKnight]

Neo doesn't yet exist to have its own exclusive games. But if/when it does, you'd better believe it will have its own exclusive games. What makes you think developers want to spend more money making multiple versions of one game? They won't. They'll make the better version and say screw you to the base PS4. Why wouldn't they?

[DonkeyDoner]

no sony wouldn't allow that,did you even read that?

[DonkeyDoner]

also with this you dont have to wait for another "remaster" bullshit
oh wait maybe that's why devs are unhappy they cant make more money from it or they cant make fun "console are weak" anymore

[t-hall785]

@Kudo this is all speculation. So even if it does come out who's to say they won't allow that. The rumored gpu has double the compute units so if this is true I can't see why devs wont take advantage of that.
And even if they don't, is the ps4 now gonna get watered down ports from its big brother? A lot of things to consider.

[XtraTrstrL]

"Why wouldn't they?" Maybe because the install base of the base PS4 will always be insanely higher than the install base of a PS4.5. Developers are about making $$$, not supporting the strongest platform, otherwise PC would always rule. So, it'll be the opposite of what you think, PS4.5 will get just the default upgrade it gets for running the software on the stronger hardware in most cases, while the base PS4 will still be the lead platform.

[Ravenor]

It's an x86 PC, running the software at different detail settings and resolutions is not two versions of the same game.

[FamilyGuy]

You sound ridiculous, "All of these comments HAVE to be from young gamers who know next to nothing about gaming history" Your assumptions make YOU sound incredibly young.

Why would a developers ignore 40 million+ current PS4 owners over something like 1 million or so Neo owners? The idea is completely absurd on its own but you're ignoring the Neo rumor proclaiming that Sony won't allow Neo-only games. As far as developers are concerned, they wouldn't be "making two games". It would be one game on a regular setting and the setting turned up to high when that game was inserted into a PS4 Neo.

[TFJWM]

@DragonKnight "what makes you think developers want to spend more money making multiple versions of one game?"

Why do developers make games for the Xbox One then? It has ~1/2 the install base and is weaker than the PS4. By your logic there is no reason for them to spend money to make a version to run on it...

OG PS4 is going to have a large install base for a long time so why wouldn't they keep making games for it.

[Yetter]

as of now, the internal document that leaked that actually coins the new console as the 'neo' states all PS4 neo games must run on the base PS4. I'm more worried that they will run like totally crap on the base PS4. We already have an example of this, this generation. Hyrule warriors on the old and new 3DS. The old version is almost unplayable

[LackTrue4K]

@t-hall you're answer to all this is "speculation",
And you give you're own answer to all this Is, you're own (large speculation about the issue)

Stop playing the victim if you don't plan on buying it.

Let's all agree to wait for E3!

[donthate]

Most likely what will happen is developers will support the original PS4, and say screw you to the PS4K/Neo. When and if, the PS4K/Neo becomes the majority, they will shift over. If this experiment fails fantastically, Sony won't do it again. If Sony does nothing, they risk consoles falling far behind other technology.

So this doom and gloom is merely that.... The market will work itself out.

[TomRL]

What logical sense would it make to completely ignore a platform with identical architecture and 40 million users

[IamTylerDurden1]

Do you read all the literature? No exclusives, only a resolution/fps increase, no different than playing a pc game on normal or Ultra.

[Deadpooled]

Seems like the Last Guardian missed another console cycle ;)

[donthate]

lol.... :P

[shabz666]

Loool

[DragonKnight]

Sony wouldn't allow that? They'll have no say in the matter. Also, Sony has said NOTHING on this matter, what makes you think you know what they will and won't allow when all of this is still currently hypothetical?

[kraenk12]

Did you even read anything of what was published?!

[joeorc]

@kraenk1212h ago
[Did you even read anything of what was published?]

What published Documents? All we have heard is such and such person has leaked Documents.

What's funny is it could very well be just a prototype.. Not even a retail release.

These documents that they claim to have means someone broke NDA if they in fact have them..if So Sony could in effect change their mind .seeing how there is more anger than happyness about this .

1) if these documents were real leaks Sony would not be very happy about this you can bank on that.
2) I doubt they are going to be very happy with GiantBomb over this so doing something like that burns bridge's.

[ninsigma]

Of course they'll have a say in the matter. It's their system so they decide what gets put on. They already have review processes that happens before they say a game is OK to release. This is all hypothetical talk based on rumors so we may as well discuss what the rumors have to say as apposed making stuff up and wildly speculating.

[Pogmathoin]

Nice blog... Gets those children in one spot......

[DragonKnight]

Are you going to provide me a link to an official Sony source or are you taking Giantbomb at their word?

[kraenk12]

There are several sources who have all confirmed the same thing. Sony isnt stupid. They won't fragment their user base.

[DonkeyDoner]

"Sony seems committed to keeping the NEO and the original PS4 player bases connected. As such, there will be no NEO-only games, and Sony will not let developers separate NEO users from original PS4 players while playing on PSN"

http://www.giantbomb.com/ar...

seriously read carefully
and sony not forcing you buying this

*edit :sony not dumb as MS

[joeorc]

Exactly @DragonKnight
There is no official source..all there is a [claim they have a leaked documentation]

If those Documents exist , I'm prerty sure people would just love to see them..So if they have been leaked to be real.. What if Sony does not go ahead with such a PS4.5 would those so call documents get posted than?

Its all on the sites saying its real to prove their claim , not on Sony..Sony does not have to follow through..and it would serve these sites right if Sony does not..then the gamers journo site loose its credibility. Not Sony.

[yomfweeee]

It's been confirmed by many sites.

If you're going to assume Giantbomb is correct about the Neo (which you are), you can't then pick and choose what parts they are right about.

And yes Sony can say no exclusives and control it. You can't put a game on their system without their approval.

[donthate]

You mean the same word you are assuming about PS4K/NEO existing and therefore writing this opinion piece?

[DragonKnight]

Several sources confirmed that the PS4 would have similar DRM to the Xbox One before it launched. Sources are not Sony. The existence of a PS4K doesn't lend credence to the idea that Sony are not stupid. Sony lets a lot of stupid things happen as it is.

Edit: Giantbomb is not Sony and that won't change no matter how often you quote them.

Edit 2: The "you're not forced to buy it" argument is not an argument. That's basically laying down and accepting it.

[DonkeyDoner]

oh you're trying to bring old shit without real source,ok let me tell you what MS did back in 360 days remember early models 360 suffers from RROD about 54% of xbox 360 total owner,they gave us a return policy,BULLSHIT,after that guess what??they release a new model console and says "hey guys this one actually works!!"

[FanMan]

"Sources are not Sony". Exactly, yet here you are using other sources to further your argument but when other people bring up the same source it's suddenly not aloud? Even though it's looking pretty likely, we don't really know if this is actually happening.

Also, how about you make your point without calling people blind fanboys. I assure you that there are people out there that genuinely don't see anything wrong with this. Just because they disagree with you doesn't make them a blind fanboy just like your stance doesn't make you a Sony hater.

[IamTylerDurden1]

You are so blindly fanboy on this. It's just like pc, not a big deal.

[Yetter]

Yes as simple as File>SaveAs>60fps right??

[corroios]

Dude comeback from the clouds and wait for the official confirmation. So much hate. I know that the dude that wrote this «news» must be one of those that all this generation is waiting for something and waiting and waiting and waiting...

[DragonKnight]

When you can make a coherent comment, I'll be here to reply.

[FarEastOrient]

@DragonKnighht You've been going at Sony for years now, why not wait for information before inventing more information and counting them as facts.

[Nicaragua]

Your making out that there is a huge effort and expense for developers to support two consoles when that would not be the case. It will likely be the same game with different graphics options - just like the PC, or even like TLOU remastered and Infamous SS which both had variable graphics options.

The 32X comparison doesn't stack up as it required completely different media and development techniques.

[DragonKnight]

Dude, devs have already said exactly what I've said about Neo on twitter. They're already counting costs for multiple versions, time, planning, etc.. And they aren't happy about it. You're also ignoring the fact that the base PS4 won't have these "graphics settings" so it'll necessitate 2 versions because what reason would Neo users have to mot use optimal settings while base users can't make use of it?

The 32X did not require completely different media. You docked it to the console and it essentially had the same function as RAM. This meant either developing 32X specific games, or not. Devs opted out in favour of PS1 and N64 but if you think there won't be a segmented userbase with the Neo, then you've forgotten that history is doomed to repeat itself, especially when people or companies refuse to learn their lessons.

[LetoAtreides82]

A game that works on the 32x can't work on the Genesis, and Genesis games don't benefit at all from the 32x being attached. If Neo's backward compatibility is true then PS4 games will work on the Neo and every game playable for the Neo can be played on the PS4. Your comparison would therefore be a very weak one.

[IamTylerDurden1]

R u joking? Costs? PC games do it. It'll be way cheaper than developing for PS3/PS4. PS3 development will cease and PS4/Neo will take over, it'll be much easier.

[TwoForce]

Seriously ?

[DragonKnight]

Yep.

[TwoForce]

Rant is ok, but gone way too much is not.

[kraenk12]

Yeah..ensuring the PS4 us future proof is a bad move....keep hating, I'll keep defending.

[DragonKnight]

How exactly are the 40+ million PS4s currently out being future proofed?

[kraenk12]

It's easy..Sony is still gonna support it with the same games. A lot of people are gonna sell theirs to people who don't need 4K and the extra power -> expanding the user base immensely. A lot of people still are gaming at 720p, they don't even need a PS4K soon. The normal PS4 is still gonna be sold for 250-300 $ which will as well expand the user base with amazing games like Uncharted 4 running perfectly fine. Choice is everything.

[DragonKnight]

A) You can keep saying "Sony is" all you want but Sony haven't said anything.

B) With or without Neo games would still come to the PS4, there are 40+ million PS4s out and Sony wants money. Money is what future proofs consoles, not a .5

C) You just proved a segmented userbase.

D) You're making justifications. "People still game at 720p" is not an argument in favour of Neo. It's an argument in favour of poor standards at worst, poverty or lack of time at best.

Finally, the fact that you keep insisting these are all Sony's words proves that even when Sony said nothing at all, you'll blindly accept even rumoured moves by them no matter what they are.

[kraenk12]

To C)

It would only be segmented if there were PS4K only games.

[Goldby]

@Kraenk12

Problem with people is when you give them too many options.

We have the PS4, Xbox1, WiiU and PC

if people dont like sony, they can go with another one and vice versa.
/If people like sony, they choose the PS4
but what if someone likes sony but can't afford to upgrade from the PS4 to the PS4.5, why would they save up their money for the PS4.5 when soon enough the PS4.5.1 comes out, followed by the PS4.5.2. what is stopping that gamer from never buying a console again because all the games work on that console. with every upgraded consoles the Devs will eventually build a game specific for that. Unless they are owned by Sony, and even then. i could see ND in an argument with head hanchos about how they new ideas can only be done with the upgraded hardware. after all if that wasn't the case, my old college laptop could run QB right now if it had Win 10....

There are people who just bought a ps4, or even worse the uncharted ps4 only top find out oh that game can be played better on this version of the console. their mindsets may be something like this "i guess we should have told you that before you spent 500 dollars on the console and game. oh well." and to those gamers, that is a slap in the face.

There will be the people who upgrade with every iteration, but those wont overcome those who choose now to never update their console because "every game will be backwards and forwards compatible." guess what, sony just lost out on $400 every few years from alot of people. lets say one 10Million of the 40 miliion decide to never upgrade again, thats 4,000,000,000 they are losing out on every few years. and unless they have some magical leprochaun that can grant them money and wishes, it would be very difficult to give reason for a company losing that much just on sales, not including constantly having to use new and more expensive parts.

[SKullDugger]

The answer is they are not.

[IamTylerDurden1]

DKnight is such a biased person. They are the same games, development costs will be less than they are now with PS3 support. Everyone gets the same content, it just run more optimally on Neo.

It will raise gaming standards across the board, help pc games.

It will lower PS4 prices significantly and ensure the format is supported, considering both Neo and PS4 use the same games.

It will widen the user base thus providing more money for game development.

It will provide another option for those with 4K TVs and expendable income.

There will be a trade in program.

It will not affect the quality of regular PS4 games.

It opens the door to upgradable hardware on console, which is a must atm. 8 yr cycles are dead, tech is moving too fast, this is the future. PS5 will have an upgradable gpu. It's not a bad thing to have options.

[maniacmayhem]

You are exactly what DragonKnight is referring to in his blog.

How is Sony making PS4 future proof? By releasing ANOTHER PS4 with higher specs?

So many on this site celebrated their PS4 for being the "superior" console and touting how buff their console was compared to the competition. Now all of sudden most of these same people are claiming to be okay with having a weaker console if the Neo is true.

The hypocrisy is mind boggling. I love how you also state that a lot of people are still gaming at 720p and that 30fps is okay. I guess the X1 isn't so bad now when it comes to resolution and performance.

[GMR_PR]

"So many on this site celebrated their PS4 for being the "superior" console and touting how buff their console was compared to the competition. Now all of sudden most of these same people are claiming to be okay with having a weaker console if the Neo is true. "

This.

[SKullDugger]

Lol! well said dude..

[kraenk12]

Your logic is flawed. Due to the fact that games will always be released for both consoles that move actually enhances PS4s lifespan. It's a great option to just have the additional possibility to upgrade some day and not lose one game, no, even be able to play the enhanced versions right away! That's what makes PC gaming so great and has now reached consoles with their uniform x86 technology.

[freshslicepizza]

we all know consoles are slowly becoming a lot like the pc model and from my years of pc gaming i am completely fine with it. what pc gaming does is it allows the user to decide through investment how they want their games to scale with performance.

so tell me what is worse, having a generation that is on hold because as technology advances the consoles can't keep up so they either hinder technology all together (pc games getting dumbed down) or the consoles get inferior games like we have already been seeing that can't even do 1080p?

we all know it's the developers decision whether to make games like driveclub at 30 frames per second or scale resolutions back in uncharted so they can keep the effects up. so what is the problem with allowing playstayion fans to either upgrade so they can play at what their bloody high def tv is made for and the fluidity of controlling the game or to keep supporting the old ps4 as well?

personally i think this bold new move if it's true is because sony wants to use the playstation brand once again to push a new medium, ultra bluray.

what may end up happening if this takes off and will upset a lot of people is a model much like the cellphones. people don't need to upgrade each year but eventually you will be forced to. not to the latest model but move up. for example you get new hardware every 3 years but you don't have to make a jump until 6 years. which coincidentally is the averege life of a console.

time and again console gamers are either afraid of change or make a big hoopla and song and dance of the worse case scenarion and it ends up being not as bifg of a deal.

[IamTylerDurden1]

K12 is right, both Neo and PS4 use the same games and thus you can be sure that as long as Neo is supported PS4 will likely be supported as well. It actually will extend the lifespan of your PS4. It's simply a positive.

[chrish1990]

Even though I'm quite a happy PS4 owner and run a PlayStation-centric site, even I think that the gushing over Sony is getting to a ridiculous point. Sony's gained a lot of goodwill by doing the right things with the PS4 - fair enough, credit where it's due - but it's not always great. It's a little disheartening as a gamer to see players and even so-called "neutral, unbiased" websites clearly favour with whatever Sony's doing. Sony is a company, not your friend, and the chiefs at the top will do everything they can to part you with your money. This halfway step console is a prime example of that, and unless it's done with the utmost care and respect for the existing fanbase, the poop will hit the fan at full-speed.

[DragonKnight]

You can see who are the true fans and who are just blind fanboys. Fans call out the B.S. in the interest of a better experience, fanboys just open their wallets.

[DreadGara]

I don't care wither Sony is going for this upgrade or not. I think whoever is getting mad from this have a wallet problem plus the need of everything out there.
I look at it as a company strategic plan if it occurs to be true, if it's pushing sales without any harm to thier end users ofcourse. They aren't that stupid to pull something against their fans in the end.
Let's just wait and see what will happen if this rumor turned to be correct first instead of wasting time replying to every open opinion.

[Bladesfist]

Well I'm just glad you've finally seen there is a problem. It's the first step.

The next step is realizing there is nothing you can do about it.

[joeorc]

Completely agree..this if even true "PS4.5" hardware upgrade only 2.4 years in. Just is not very developer friendly ..and the fact its GPU upgrade in this supposedly PS4.5 has a CU of 4.19 Tflops ..that's a significant increase over the current model.. And gamer's are thinking Sony is going to enforcement of Parity on their systems?

How did that COD work out for the PSVita..Sony is the one that needs 3rd party developers not the other way around.

If Developers would want to make a Exclusive but Sony states no for the Neo..what if Microsoft's Xbox one .5 has no such limitation.. Sony has been very friendly toward what Developers has wanted this generation..

Hell they worked with developers and in building the PS4.

Do you really think Sony would be able to really enforce this if a 3rd party publisher could go elsewhere with no such limitation?

[Voletic]

Because comparing a failed console add on from 1994 is relevant in today's PC, iPhone every year world.

[Goldby]

Iphones have plans set up with providers that eat up to 80% of the cost of the phone, and instead add that remaining cost to the plan to use the phone. anyone who buys a pbrand new iphone every year outright is wasting their money. (imo)

unless internet providers started offering internet deals that include these consoles, there is no way people, expeically families can justify a half new console every few years for 500$ each time.

[Voletic]

They don't need everyone too, premium options aren't necessarily mass market. We're entering the PC age of consoles.

[Christopher]

The whole concept is a waste of time and money, IMHO. Put that money towards the PS5 or some new games. Not towards a slight upgrade to play the same games. And Sony says they will focus on performance, but I know how publishers think and they will focus more on how good the game looks before they think of 60fps being the norm.

As far as exclusives, they said the wouldn't do it, but I bet if it sells as well as the PS4 in the first year, we'll start seeing new games just for it soon thereafter. Stances will change based on how people respond to it.

I'm sticking with my PS4, I don't need that much better graphics. If I did, I'd be playing on my PC as it is.

[donthate]

To be fair, after 3-years, the processing power only doubled. After six years, we will get 4x and after 9 years, we will get 8x which is inline with what we got with the XB1/PS4 over XB360/PS3.

Point being, major hardware upgrades are a thing of the past, and it is projected to slow down. So to keep the brand and platform relevant, they are going with a more continuous upgrade cycle instead.

[mamotte]

I waited a bit on the PS3 generation for I was sure a slim version was coming. I waited a bit on this gen for I was sure a slim version was coming... but this is a bit too much, even for me. I'm more than happy though, since I'll buy more than a slim version, but Sony is just giving me more and more reasons to not buy their consoles at launch.

[joeorc]

Sony has not said anything and all this PS4.5 Talk is all based on a Rumor..and fully agree with your take on this..doing this is sure fire way to piss off the existing PS4 install base. If people thought the Xbox one reveal was anger..this would top that..

Do not worry , if Sony does this I can tell you the backlash will not go unnoticed..which it seems more news media and more gamers of a certain group want to see it happen just for the melt downs..but just as Microsoft was all is forgiven. After all the 180's. so will Sony.
I guess it will be Sony's turn to have its 180.

[Whirlwind_Fanfare_08]

And this is a really stupid article.

[remixx116]

Sooooo, how do you feel about xbox 1.5 since your spewing all this flame....

[Software_Lover]

Xbox 1.5 gained no traction after the first day.

Dragon supports Sony (they are his preferred brand) so he doesn't have much to say about Microsoft and their Xbox. I applaud him for that. Why talk about something you have no interest in (for the most part)?

[donthate]

I'm actually surprised, because DragonKnight is a known Sony lover on this site. I applaud him for waking up from the Sony cool aid. Xbox or PS, they all have flaws and benefits. Recognize them, don't be blind and drink their cool aid.

[sangoku_d]

Sony is king #dealwithit

[Captain_TomAN94]

LMAO. It's because we actually like it.

All this shows me is an Anti-Sony Crony.

[The 10th Rider]

I don't really have a problem with a PS4k as long as all the games are still playable on PS4. If consoles released every three years, games could either be cross gen with the previous gen, or remastered a year or two later with DLC for the next gen (or make every console backwards compatible with at least the last.) You could still get buy buying a console only every 6 years, but the option to upgrade sooner, or for devs to make use of the extra power, would already be there. It seems like the natural evolution of the game industry considering the remasters and cross-gen games galore that we've seen this gen.

[LordCancer]

DragonKnight you are just plain wrong. playstation vr aside because i absolutely abhor this stupid technology, why defend a business model that sees gaming companies like square enix shift there focus to mobile gaming? i do not understand what you expect because it seem like you want consoles to die off while pc, mobile, hell you can imagine tv's being more powerful than consoles if the model doesn't change. stagnate hardware for 7-10 years is not sustainable business model when mobile companies are demanding games be release same day and date with console versions and upgrading processors every single year.

i think consoles should be 3-5 year life cycle with 5 being the absolute max. phones should never be more powerful than our gaming console and people are willing to buy new $600 phones every year.

lets also not pretend this is a sony only thing because the rumors are coming from the xbox side too and considering the same company, AMD, makes both processors it is very likely a refresh is coming from both camps.

I also think this is a huge benefit for consumers because we are getting upgraded cpu/gpu and memory bandwidth which will improve the games we are playing. it also helps AMD generate revenue so we don't suffer the over priced purchase of an intel or custom chip like playstation 3 console that was twice the cost of ps4 and took years to break even and partially caused one of the worst console generations to drag on far too long.

considering the so called refresh is the same exact architecture as the current hardware it makes sense that developers can easily make one game with two profiles which should still be much easier than supporting all the various pc configurations and wont split the market because sony requires support for both and no neo only titles.

seeing games run faster is something i am willing to pay for. last of us is a perfect example of a game that benefits from 60 frames per second and if that is all neo is used for to upgrade framerates i think it is worthwhile.

the idea that we spend another three years listening to whiny gamers complain about 900p resolution and sub 30 frames per second digital foundry comparison videos is second only to one more master race comment about console peasants or perhaps in a year or so seeing our consoles games run better on phones.

the console model needs to evolve to keep pace with other platforms that evolve on a yearly basis and sony is following up the most balanced console design ever with a brilliant refresh that maintains support for both consoles. if you think increasing the clock rates of the cpu/gpu and memory while doubling the gpu cores is a bad idea for playstation, sony has your back because you can play still play the same games on your playstaion 4 at least presumably for another three years just like you want. the rest of us can leave you behind and i think most people will.

[UltraNova]

I'm baffled as to why would Sony want to go through with this (ps4k) same way I'm baffled as to how a bitter anti-Sony-fan rant got approved.

N4G...

[baodeus]

Well Sony demand that all developers to make all PSVR games at 60F fps at a minimum. The developers look at current PS4 spec and give Sony the finger, hence PS4 neo is born (if true that is). Sony really want to push forward into the VR generation, so sacrifice has to be made.

Even ND (consider to be god and tech wizard among developer) cant even make UC4 to ran at 60 fps running on just one screen, no less two of them at 60 fps, what chance do other developers have of out doing ND?

PSVR is like the WiiU vs Oculus/Vive (xbox one/ps4/PC). Not going to get 3rd party support for more demanding VR game. I thought u guys are pretty sure that software cannot make up for limited hardware, well here it is. Are u guys going to go against your own words?

[toyzombie]

Cell phones, Tables, etc are updated every year... but gaming consoles are done every what... 7 years or so? The worst thing that could happen is Sony splitting the market into 2 between the current PS4 and the new PS4 users. If Sony releases the Neo PS4 with a retail price of $349.99 and the current PS4 dropped to $299.99 i think its win. I believe graphics are going to be the exact same on both consoles but the updated PS4 is going to run all games at 60fps.

[garrettbobbyferguson]

The norm is five years. Last generation was a fluke, the one off. Bad economy combined with companies with huge egos. Part of the reason why Wii did so well, cheap.

[Gwiz]

In Xbox One's case it was also retail as a whole that made it clear they didn't want to be selling a system that effectively destroys their used games sections.Knowing Gamestop and other game stores being one of the biggest stores that sell consoles as well you'd see it wasn't just the backlash from gamers,remember the PSPGO?.

Most mainstream people do not even demand things from these companies so if you think you have actually something to say about the direction of a company you better snap out of that dream.

[Xb1ps4]

What if devs. Don't have to do anything extra for the ps4 new console... What if the console does all the work?

You know.... It's only the console market that has this " i don't want to be left behind attitude" I can't afford a Ferrari that doesn't stop them from making it, I can't afford a million dollar house but they are still built and sold...

I don't think this is going to happen anyway I'm sure Sony is just letting this rumor breath, after ms shot down the idea the rumor shifted over to Sony..

[gamertk421]

If this was about MS, most on here would be agreeing with the article. Blinders...

[UnwanteDreamz]

All this based on rumors you yourself dismiss when it suits your arguement. Your reaction to the possibility of a new console when there is no concrete proof one exists is extreme and immature. Lets assume a new console is being developed, you have absolutely no idea what it entails or how it might fit into the ecosystem. The fact that you are willing to chide and insult people over their opinions on a hypothetical product shows a level of extremism that I think hurts gaming and the industry more than a failed console.

The backlash Microsoft received came after they informed the public of their intentions.Your comparison is flawed for obvious reasons.

As usual you come off as a bully who is unable and unwilling to see any position other than your own. No discussion can be had with you without condescension and hypocrisy.

[Godmars290]

The 32x was a disaster because for one thing it was a modular component which only played specific games. The same applied to the CD add on for the Genesis while the Saturn, Sega's next console, was also put out at nearly the same time if not the exact same time - honestly, having been around at the time I can't recall. Just know that while all that was going on rumor of the Dreamcast started, with some in Sega openly dismissing the just released Saturn all but daring 3rd party give it no support. By contrast the Neo is a complete if upgraded console. To make it anything resembling the 32x Sony would have to roll out the PS5 right next to it.

Though to be fair, the PSVR does run a close second to a 32x example. Is an add on with its own games, yet at the same is suppose compliment if not outright enhance existing PS4 titles. Opens options for watching movies TV and special events so it does far more than the 32x ever promised.

A better comparison would probably be the series of software updates the 360 got which made game installs standard to the Xbox. MS also not so quietly gave their 7th gen console several hardware upgrades like internal memory to its cheapest model in order to compensate for staying with DVDs rather than utilize - wait - for higher density formats like Bluray. Like Sega with the 32x or the Genesis's CD drive however, they did offer an add on which only played HD-DVD movies in attempt to compete with the similar in-built feature for the PS3. All of these things were staunchly defended and excused by the Xbox fan camp and pretty much when they got out of hand.

Not counting the whole defending XBL Gold thing as they now chide Sony fanboys for having to pay online for multiplayer on the PS4 while also utterly failing to realize why they now only pay for online multiplayer on the XB1.

Getting back on topic; I am in no way trying to defend Sony or the PS4 Neo. Still would say its a necessary upgrade as the market - yet again - chases after the next big thing which is 4k in a mostly blind and certainly premature rush. That it is the PS4 4.5 because it has to be in order to keep up with other tech. That of course providing games for it are going to increase production costs because that's what happened with the PS3, Xbox 360 and HD gaming in general. And all fan camps, PC especially, defend that dragon as they chase after it.

Weather or not Sony is or has screwed up with what will likely be the PS4 Slim like Sega did with the 32x is something we just have to wait and see. Many are talking about how they already have as the very rumor of Neo threatens PS3 sales, but until there are actual decreased sale numbers to show, that's just another rumor. And until Sony sees decreases like MS saw with the DRM/resale rumors for the XB1, they aren't going to do anything. And by then it will be too late.

Like with the Xbox defense force - after it was shattered and recovered - no amount of defensive internet comments will save Sony from a potential 32x-scaled mistake.

[donthate]

"Getting back on topic; I am in no way trying to defend Sony or the PS4 Neo."

But you are defending Sony at every turn including PS4K/Neo, and chastising anything Xbox.

[andrewsquall]

Wow, how does crap like this go on N4G now? Is this part of the 2.0 thing?
For a start, nobody is defending that PS4 PS2 game mess but why do the likes of you not count PS Now as anything?

You should get on to Phil Spencer mate, he announced in early March 2016 that Xbone is doing this exact thing too.

[cyclindk]

Not entirely accurate due to the particulars of all those old attempts at ".5" update consoles.

#1) the age of the Smart Phone has proven it is more than possible to sell people an upgraded product line on a regular basis with few, if any issues with backwards compatibility (if it is thought out well enough), and at least for a few iterations [I think it is safe to say there won't be more than ONE updated PS4 ".5"]

#2) when examining closely those antiquated attempts of hardware upgrades to what had been INTENDED as a static piece of hardware, they failed because they brought too little and it was clearly an afterthought, last ditch effort in most cases.

#3) the PS4 "Vanilla"/"Clas sic" is already a run-away success, Sony isn't trying to play catch-up and if their track record so far is anything to go by, they wouldn't be stupid enough to alienate their current consumer base by releasing something that won't work together.

[Ravenor]

I think I'd prefer to wait and get verified information at E3. But to be fair DK, Austin Walker is a legit dude and I know he would not post that article if he didn't feel very strongly about the documents he got.

You're a smart dude capable of good arguments DK, don't lower yourself to just insulting people for being interested in changes to the classic (failing) console market.

PS Young kids don't give a shit about PS4's or XB1's or PC's. Things had to be shaken up or the market is doomed, plain and simple console games are for "old people".

[2pacalypsenow]

PS4k is not a real thing why are people acting like Sony is doing this?

[Ravenor]

It's happening, you can bookmark this.

[kevnb]

The ps4k isn't really all that bad a thing imo, removing bc last gen when custom firmware allows you to play all those ps2 games on even slim ps3s was kind of annoying though.

[NightmareCV]

Right now all we have to go off us is the leaked documents. Until Sony comes out and says what the deal is, that's all we have to go off of. Based on that fact, nothing you speculate can be the case. According to the documents there will be no exclusive games and there has frame rate parity between the platforms. As far as developing a neo version of games, this isn't an impossible prospect. Going back to Bioshock 2 on the 360 and PS3, developers have experimented with allowing console players to adjust graphical settings in their games for less visual fidelity but a higher frame rate. Even more recent examples are Final Fantasy XIV and The Division. Plus, PC games have been developed to accommodate various machines for...ever. There is absolutely no reason to believe that there would be any massive costs to developing for neo when most of the games are already coming to PC already, not to mention the fact that the PS4 runs on the same X86 platform.

This isn't even a matter of defense, it will ultimately come down to whether or not you want to have better visuals or a cheaper console. The only people who will be hurt by this are those who take it personal, who feel like Sony as a business is betraying them. We have to remember, they are a business and just like any business they need to maximize their profits.

Frankly I think the neo is a great idea. Both the PS4 and Xbox One were underpowered at their respective launches. With the advancements being made in visuals and the strength of engines like Unreal 4 and Frostbite, it is only a matter of time before Sony and Microsoft both have to spend millions of dollars developing another new console that would likely cost more than either console does now. That being said, this is clearly just to delay the inevitable. We will be seeing new console sooner rather than later. The days of 10 life cycles are over. Technology moves far too fast and there is no more movie magic in these black boxes to squeeze out like there was in the PS3 and 360.

The simple answer is if you don't like it, don't buy it. Of course, it is more complicated than that. Really it is an issue of what is more important to you as a player. If its visuals, then buying a console is the wrong choice in the first place as they'll never be the most powerful. If it is being able to "plug and play", a term I use lightly nowadays, then that is where a console shines. In that case, the neo is a bit of a black sheep trying to give the best of both worlds, something it will ultimately fail to do. Honestly, I don't entirely disagree that is is a bad idea because it is potentially setting a dangerous precedence, but at the same time, it is nice to finally have the option to want to play more games on my PS4 because they might just be closer to my PC.

[JackStraw]

N4G users are so damn retarded. Lol. Who even approves this stupid shit?

[windblowsagain]

It's only being made to produce games @ or close to 4k. They will still be the same game. Just higher rez and maybe AA.

[cyber_daemonx]

All this concern over PS4.5 yet it looks like MS are gonna do the same with xbone and nada. Its not even officially confirmed yet why not wait and see? Anyhow it was MS who first suggested this particular strategy, I blame them personally .

[NotanotherReboot]

Agreed. The Sony defense force gets out of hand at time. If you really wanted a company to succeed, you would call them out on their BS and stupid decisions. The worst kind of fanboy are those that defend and damage control every decision, often forcing themselves to agree with something or just plain pretending.

[TwoForce]

Oh really ? I agree that i don't like the idea of upgrade console. But one reason is that, there will Upgrade Xbox One version.

[D-riders]

not sure why everyone thinks an better system is a bad idea. all the old games still are playable and it doesnt split the markets with games. imo

[Bass_fisherman]

If this is indeed the only thing that will change is the resolution. Games that run at 4k on the newer ps4's sounds like a smart move. I dont see how that will affect the experience for anyone that already has a ps4 the games will play exacly the same and look the same but resolution will be the only diference.

[notachance]

wow I stumbled upon your post by chance, I usually only skimmed n4g...

people are this serious about imaginary war huh? So much so that you make the effort to write a long-ass essay based fully on unconfirmed rumour...

I mean, come on man, if you meet a hardcore PS Fanboys in the street in real life chances are you gonna discuss games excitedly instead of... dude, come on, I'm laughing because of this virtual intensity of what you guys are doing hahahaha

Well anyway, don't you guys even realize how absurd '4K' console gaming sounds like? Use your head: a PC has to be monstrous to handle 4K gaming, we're looking at $2000++ PC here, let's say a console only need half of that cost to get the same amount of power, that means if there really is a PS4K it would cost around $1000.. it simply doesn't have a mass appeal with that cost.

Even the new GPUs of Pascal and Polaris generations would be hard pressed to game on 4K with moderate budget rig.. 4K gaming is by any means not suited for mass appeal in our current era.. wait for a few couple years and then you can talk about it, or in other words: if there really exist a PS4K it's either a prototype of PS5 or something that target a niche enthusiasts with that cost.

WAIT DON'T TELL ME THESE PEOPLE THINK WITH OUR CURRENT TECHNOLOGY A 4K CONSOLE GAMING CAN EXIST BY ONLY ADDING COUPLE HUNDRED DOLLARS TO CURRENT GEN CONSOLE?
HAHAHAHAHA

[TFJWM]

"not a whole new console barely into the PS4's 2nd year."

PS4 is well into its 3RD year not 2nd...

[Scatpants]

Development hell? It would be as simple as changing the framerate / resolution / lighting. Also I like the fact that they are releasing a better version. I'll get one if I feel it's worth it. I'm assuming most games will be very similar to how they are on normal PS4 only it will run better with more effects like hair simulation and lighting. I seriously don't understand why you would get all butthurt about it. Apple and every other cell phone company does this every year.

[Gazondaily]

Whilst I laugh at the face of the hypocrisy, and damm its real, I can't say I'm surprised. Didn't expect any different from the contingent :P

[yomfweeee]

Maybe start your own site so you can get paid for this clickbait. Name calling in your title.

The funny thing is you write your little blog with the assumption that the rumors are true... but you're attacking everyone left and right when they assume things are true as well. Pretty stupid.

[kaizokuspy]

Even if neo is released and has a few exclusive games, why would I care? Please tell me, why should I be upset? It's just another console that's more powerful than the rest of the consoles, will support all ps4 games in the library, plus if it so happens, a few exclusives. Xbox one gamers are the majority of the ones writing these articles and it's just sad. It's an option. No one has to upgrade. Just like how I waited 2 years and stuck with my 360 before buying a ps4. It doesn't affect me in the slightest, because I don't have a "I need everything" mentality. At this point it's still speculation. If they announce it, either way, it's still something to look forward to owning one day versus their competitors who will be underpowered in comparison. Just for the graphics smobs. Which is completely okay, as their is a market for it. So why should I be upset?

[Yourmommasaid]

Speak with your wallet!

[BillytheBarbarian]

I'm guessing it's going to be more like ps4k will support the higher resolution if the software is made to do so. Not like the 32x where you had to buy the 32x version of for example Mortal Kombat 2. It will be the same disc just with more options if you have the new hardware. Like having a DVD with both the bluray version and DVD version on the disc. You would just play the version your hardware can play.

[Krakin1]

DragonKnight's stupidity has gotten out of hand

[garrettbobbyferguson]

Don't forget with the New Nintendo 3DS. Take Hyrule Warriors for example. No one understands why that game was released on the 3DS in the first place. It runs terribly and has half the content on screen, so your gameplay is literally affected (you cannot beat time attack challenges easily, for example).

Already a terrible decision by Nintendo, multiple times. The DSi is another example. Very few games took advantage of that hardware increase. Releasing it was pointless.

[ninjazfistz]

I agree with everything you said except games will come out exclusive to NEO. They will come out for ps4 too but they will barely run. PS4 was the worst console purchase in my life if this NEO rumor/leak/whatever is true.

[Dirkster_Dude]

If NEO happens Sony will have segmented there user base and will be competing against themselves. Kind of the same reason Microsoft wants Windows 10 to be the last version. Think about it - the only real operating system competition they have is themselves and now Sony is doing this on purpose. Morons.

[IamTylerDurden1]

The idiocy surrounding this topic is astounding. PS4 is to pc on normal as Neo is to pc on ultra.

[IamTylerDurden1]

Nice picture, a pony with Sony on the ass. Not too biased huh? Mature.

[IamTylerDurden1]

It's exciting, or should we have fixed 8 yr cycles in 2016? Should we just allow consoles to be retarded by ppl's refusal to accept change? This is a godsend for xbone bc xbone desperately needs an upgrade. Xbox fans should rejoice.

[XeyedGamer]

F%#k off xbot.

[Jag-T1000]

How dare you say negative things about Sony!
Even though you are correct, but how dare you!