Much has been mentioned about sequel after sequel with PlayStation 5. You could say, Nintendo is very well known for that as well. It’s been very prevalent mostly because of how successful the initial IP was. Another thing that it comes down to is that it’s less risky when you release a bonafide hit.
If we were to talk about recently, we all know the Xbox line-up and we know that they have really catered to focusing on new experiences within their own generational timeline. I think when you bring Game Pass into the fold of discussion here. You find that actually, as we discussed many moons ago, that’s the perfect platform to get people to play your games. Of course, there is a cost to that now, but ultimately, it really depends on what kind of gamer you are and sometimes the juice is worth the squeeze.
We’ve already seen that Microsoft has an intention to smash the next generation in its own right. In fact, a lot is riding on it. They still have a lot of fans, and with cloud gaming and everything being an Xbox these days. They’re pulling in the numbers despite Sony’s assertiveness in the console market. They’re just doing it in a very different way to what would be the old way of doing things.
But yes, in recent memory and mostly this generation. Xbox has had its sequels but they’re also taking a lot of risks. Sony this generation has done something that most players haven’t been fond of. They’ve chased live service and that looks set to continue, but just in a different way. When Sony greenlights Destiny 3. You know, they’re going to keep making those experiences right into the next generation. With Microsoft, they haven’t needed to do that because they’re a trillion dollar company that is supporting creators in the many ways they want to cater to the said audience.
That’s a difference maker right there. I think with the PlayStation 6. We’re going to see primetime Sony with what they’re most renowned for. But also, we’re going to see them do it in a way that brings in the revenue just as they’ve done this generation.
The interesting thing will be if they match Xbox with taking away the paywall to multiplayer. I cannot see how they can possibly match that or why they would want to when Nintendo is getting away with it. Sony will likely be quite happy singing to its own tune.
To get back on point though, I believe that Sony would have heard the feedback and we will see some change in what they do in the next generation. However, the way they develop their games and the cost of them and development time really makes it difficult. The way Microsoft are pumping out experiences is admirable, but at the same time they’re going to need to focus on new experiences and try to make Game Pass Ultimate that more of a premium service. Just as they’ve recognised it as.
It’s going to be interesting how they do that and next generation without the paywall to multiplayer as well, it might just make things all the more interesting and a lost less comfortable for the competition.
Written by Craig Clark
From gaming industry headlines to all things Manchester United and entertainment, Craig covers the stories everyone's talking about — alongside his own published works.