Let this be a warning to Sony Playstation fans that are still on the fence of converting to the next generation of hardware and abandoning the PlayStation 3 altogether.
The recently announced price increase that will be affecting all Sony PlayStation 4 consoles – a $50 hike from $399.99 to $449.99 – is only the tip of the proverbial iceberg that hit the Canadian gaming community over the weekend.
From a statement issued by Sony, this increase was a necessary evil to “to respond to changes in the market environment.”
In addition to a more expensive console, customers with interest in the new hardware will now be expected to dish out additional funds for both the DualShock 4 controller as well as the PlayStation Camera – both now $64.99.
As far as anticipated exclusives are concerned, both Infamous: Second Son and MLB 14 will retail for $69.99.
Regardless of personal preference, this does not bode well especially for those on the fence of taking the leap of faith into next-gen territory.
Writing as a gaming enthusiast who has expressed faith in the Sony brand over a number of years, I have decided to reconsider my purchase until further exclusives become readily available.
Thus far, the only two titles that I have expressed interest in are Infamous: Second Sun, which would retail for $69.99.
As well as Killzone: Shadowfall, which still holds at $59.99 as a “new” purchase.
For the sake of argument, let’s add the adjusted retail price of a PlayStation 4 console – now $449.99 – and a year’s subscription on a PlayStation Plus membership for $49.99 and one would be looking at a MINIMUM starting point of $711.85.
This end sum is the total once HST, both exclusives, and zero backwards compatibility to physical PS3 games have been taking into consideration.
I felt this sting before, and it was back in 2007.
This was a time where I fell into the PlayStation 3 void simply for the sake of being able to play both Uncharted and that Ratchet & Clank title, Tools of Destruction.
Both of these experiences provided hours of entertainment but it wasn’t until later in 2008 that I felt the urge to crack my wallet open again for another addition to the library – Valkyria Chronicles.
The fast-forward to now and the PS3 brand is my go-to console for gaming sessions in front of the television.
While there may very well be those in the 18-35 year-old demographic that can easily cover the $700+ expense, there are many of us who would be better off thinking conservatively with their funds for entertainment. Patience ultimately persevered for the PS3’s success and I remain confident that the same will follow suite for its successor.
Until that day comes, my advice is wait it out.
