The PS5 and Xbox Series X have dominated the conversation online when it comes to video games in 2020. But I’m not pre-ordering either, nor am I even planning to buy them this holiday season.
We all have our reasons for saying “yas!” or “nah” when it comes to new console purchases, but I don’t think I’m much of an edge case here. I’m planning on waiting because it feels like I’m not being given a reason to buy yet.
To get this out of the way, I’m not looking down on anyone who is ready to pre-order the PS5 or Xbox Series X. Supply chains and scarcity are reason enough, and I’ll get to how there are some pretty important games on those platforms in a minute.
But for now, here are the three reasons why I’m skipping the PS5 and Xbox Series X for now, which go beyond the simple argument of “that’s a lot of money I could spend on a lot of other things.”
I still have plenty of PS4 games to play
Let’s start with the PS5, the console I was more likely to buy in the first place (I run a PS4 household, and I didn’t even buy my own Xbox One X). The PS5 feature I’m most excited about is its wild design. This thing looks like a Wi-Fi Router and a tower fan had a secret love child that grew up around EVE and WALL•E. As a piece of statement art, it’s as strong as it is divisive.
(Image credit: Sony)
But considering that’s the thing about the PS5 I’m most excited about, you might already know where I’m going next: the games. Or, rather, the lack thereof.
This is the list of the games that are expected to be coming to the PS5 at launch or by the end of 2020:
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla – Holiday 2020
Astro’s Playroom – PS5 Launch
Bugsnax – Holiday 2020
Chivalry 2 – 2020
Dirt 5 – 2020
Fortnite – PS5 Launch
Godfall – December 2020
Gods and Monsters – Holiday 2020
Jett: The Far Shore – Holiday 2020
Madden NFL 21 – 2020
NBA 2K21 – 2020
Observer: System Redux – Holiday 2020
Oddworld Soulstrom – 2020
Outriders – Holiday 2020
Planet Coaster: Console Edition – 2020
Quantum Error – 2020
Redo! Enhanced Edition – 2020
Spider-Man: Miles Morales – Holiday 2020
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 – 2020
Watch Dogs: Legion – Holiday 2020
Worms Rumble – 2020
WRC 9 – 2020
Of those, the two that have some of my interest are the horror-based first-person-shooter Quantum Error and Spider-Man: Miles Morales. The former feels like something I could “get to” somewhere down the road (I’m only about to start Horizon Zero Dawn), and while the trailer for the latter got me excited as heck… I know myself well enough to wait.
Why should I wait? Because I still haven’t beaten the original PS4 Spider-Man game. And I know I should, but earlier this year, Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Persona 5 Royal teamed up to each take over 100 hours of my play time. As much as I want to explore the virtual version of the NYC I can’t really explore during this pandemic, Spider-Man faded into the background.
(Image credit: Marvel)
Looking at that launch list, I can see games that I know some of my friends will rush to buy. Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla has a strong and dedicated fan base behind it. Dirt 5 is already impressing one of my colleagues. Heck, even the cute and peculiar Bugsnax is making fans out of some folks in the Discord I spend some time in.
But those three games aren’t for me. And even if they were, all three of them are also coming to PS4.
I’ve only recently begun Ghosts of Tsushima (which is rad), and since I got both Yakuza 0 and the Yakuza Remastered Collection for cheap on sales, I know I should give them the ol’ college try too. Sitting above those titles is Resident Evil 7, which tests my love of horror as I play it one small sliver at a time.
Oh, and knowing me, I’ll some day give another 100+ hours to the New Game Plus for Persona 5 Royal (yes, I’m trying to play Persona 4 Golden on Steam, but wow that game is buggy to the point of being unplayable, at least for me).
A new Xbox isn’t for me (even at $299)
Sure, the Xbox Series S is tempting at its $299 price, but even if I were to grab it, I feel like it would go unattended to, just like the Xbox Series X I lucked my way into last year.
Primarily, I use my Xbox Series X for the rare game that shows up on Game Pass that is intriguing enough for me to restart my subscription. Most recently, that was Tell Me Why, a point-and-click mystery game about two siblings uncovering the truth about their mom’s death. It’s an emotional and at times harrowing tale, and I’m glad I can play it.
(Image credit: Xbox)
But just as with the PS5, I don’t see the reason to invest in the new Xbox early. So far, it has one game that truly makes me excited: Tetris Effect: Connected. I love Tetris Effect, but I mostly love playing it with my buddies when they come over.
Tetris Effect: Connected adds online multiplayer, which is the fix that this modern age of quarantine requires. But as great as that is, that would require my friends who I play Tetris Effect with to own an Xbox or PC. Plus, as with many upcoming first- and third-party Xbox games, I’ll be able to play Connected on the Xbox One I already have.
My Nintendo Switch is right here
I’m one of those types who keeps finding new ways to make their Nintendo Switch the most important game console they own. Most importantly, Ring Fit Adventure practically changed my life this past summer, getting me to work out which helped my sleep and back pain issues. I play RFA for about a half an hour every single morning, and while it does feel like less of a game and more of a workout, it’s become an important part of my life to the point where I cannot stop.
The Switch also just got Spiritfarer, a really interesting and unique indie title (that’s also on Xbox Game Pass, which I wish I knew before I hit Buy). Spiritfarer is about death and the high seas, and it looks to be such a compelling title that I might get drawn into finishing it.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
The Switch keeps getting quality ports, too, which makes me know that I can keep feeding it small $20 to $40 purchases and stay entertained, rather than splurge upwards of $500 on the PS5 immediately.
And my love of all things Nintendo Switch, from Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Ape Out to Untitled Goose Game and Celeste, has shown me something about myself. Gameplay matters a lot more to me than load times or graphical fidelity.
Why I’m waiting on PS5 and Xbox Series X
Sure, come summer or winter 2021 I might have a change of heart about this incoming pair of next-gen consoles. Maybe someone will be allowed to have guests over and show me the error of my ways.
But when I have more games than I can play at the same time already (oh, I almost forgot, I’m enjoying Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2 no matter how bad I am at it), I just don’t see the big reason. Especially when the few next-gen games that are coming this year that pique my interest don’t do it enough to feel like they’re worth buying a whole console for.
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
