There is no denying that we are headed into an even more digital dominated future, with digital sales taking over physical sales, 5G network soon to become the norm, virtual reality, game streaming services etc. How exactly do you think Playstation as a brand will evolve from the traditional console experience and how do you think they will capitalize on new technological opportunities?
Personally I think that Playstation will follow in Nintendo's footsteps and transition to a hybrid model. Let me explain. Traditional consoles priced at $399-499 will surely become a thing of the past within the next 8-10 years, with game streaming services reducing the price of entry with 96-98%, making it considerably more appealing for the average consumer. "Casual gamers" — like my 19 year old little brother — who only cares about the next FIFA and Grand Theft Auto, and who uses most of his money on social events with friends, doesn't care if games are being processed locally or in the cloud, as long as he gets to play, and it is working of course. What he does care about is saving money.
There is no denying that game streaming services will have an enormous impact on the video games industry, much like Netflix had on the movie industry and Spotify on the music industry.
The general consensus in 2019 — at least as I hear it — is that the technology and infrastructure isn't there yet, which might be right, but I do think that it is reasonable to expect that it will be greatly improved — if not perfected — during the next generation.
So how exactly do I see Playstation evolve after the Playstation 5? First and foremost Playstation 6 needs to offer something unique, something your average device (TV, mobile & tablet) cannot, both in terms of hardware and software.
Hardware:
I think that Playstation 6 will be a stationary/dock and portable wireless VR device, and I think it will come in two models — a "streaming only" model that will cater too the casual marked, and an expensive "pro" model that is aimed at the hardcore audience. It is worth noting that both of these devices will be digital only.
Software:
I can't imagine Playstation exclusive mega hitters such as The Last of Us, God of War and Marvel's Spider-Man launching for "free" on Playstation Now. There is simply to much money to be made from a traditional $60 release. The same goes for major third-party titles.
In the future you can probably get Playstation Now on every device, but in order to play the newest AAA games you will need to own a Playstation 6.
Timeline:
2020
- $499 — Playstation 5
2022
- $299 — Playstation VR 2 (wireless)
2024
- $499 — Playstation 5 Pro
2028
- $249 — Playstation 6 (streaming only)
- $499 — Playstation 6 Pro
Let me know what you think - where do you see Playstation in 10 years?
Last edited by LordLichtenstein - on 20 September 2019
