As we stand on the eve of the launch of a brand new generation of consoles, we thought now would be a good time to look back through the history of gaming systems, to find out which ones have best stood the test of time.
Later this year we will welcome the arrivals of the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X, but before then, we must look back at some of their predecessors and some other classic gaming consoles.
Ranker and its readers have created a list of the best gaming consoles of all time, and today we’ll run through the top 25, starting with places 25 to 13.
25. Sega Saturn
The successor to the extremely successful Sega Genesis, the Saturn was first released in 1994 as an upgrade of the previous console. Unfortunately, the Saturn flopped and sold quite badly, hence why we don’t hear about it as much as its predecessor. However, it is clearly still loved by many.
24. Nintendo 3DS XL
Released in 2012, the Nintendo 3DS XL was launched as an upgrade on the base model 3DS, with 90% bigger screens and a slightly longer battery life, this console was a hit with Nintendo fans with a craving for bigger systems.
23. Atari 2600
Originally released in 1977, the Atari 2600 was Atari’s first leap into the home console market. This system went on to inspire a massive jump in video game development, and was home to some of the most famous and influential games of all time, including ‘Pac-Man’ and ‘Space Invaders’.
22. PlayStation 4 Pro
The PlayStation 4 Pro launched in late 2016 as an upgrade to the wildly successful PlayStation 4. With improved hardware over the base model, the Pro is capable of running games in 4K resolution and at 60fps, and remains the console of choice for many gamers today.
21. Xbox One
Currently the main rival to the PlayStation 4, the Xbox One was first released in 2013 as the beginning of a brand new generation of games. The best selling games on the system include fan favourites like ‘Grand Theft Auto V’, ‘Minecraft’ and more recent releases such as ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’.
20. PlayStation Portable (PSP)
The PSP was Sony’s first dive into the handheld console market with the PlayStation line of systems. Released in 2004, the PSP sold over 80 million units in its lifetime and ran games such as various entries to the ‘Grand Theft Auto’ franchise.
19. Nintendo 3DS
Released in 2011, the Nintendo 3DS was the successor to the incredibly successful Nintendo DS, this time offering a brand new 3D experience without the need for 3D glasses. Its best selling game was, no surprises here, ‘Mario Kart 7’.
18. Xbox
The original Xbox console was released by Microsoft in 2001 as their first instalment in what would become the endlessly successful Xbox family of consoles. One of the main draws to the console was its exclusive ‘Halo’ series, which continues to be a fan favourite to this day.
17. Sega Dreamcast
First released in 1998, the Sega Dreamcast was the successor to the Sega Saturn and the predecessor to the PlayStation 2. Despite a promising start, the Dreamcast failed to sell better than the Saturn, partially due to the hype surrounding the upcoming PlayStation 2. Its best selling games include the likes of ‘Sonic Adventure’ and ‘Shenmue’.
16. Nintendo Wii
It would be difficult for you to find a household nowadays that didn’t at one point own a Wii. Selling over 100 million units, the Wii is one of the most successful consoles of all time, boasting memorable games such as ‘Wii Sports’ and ‘Mario Kart Wii’.
15. Nintendo Game Boy Advance
Released in 2001, the Game Boy Advance was a highly successful handheld system which ran games such as ‘Super Mario’ and ‘Pokémon Ruby’ and ‘Sapphire’. Selling over 80 million units, the Game Boy Advance was incredible influential for future system development.
14. NintendoDS
First released in 2004, the DS was Nintendo’s first game system featuring two screens working in tandem, the bottom being a touchscreen. Selling over 154 million devices worldwide, the DS is the second best selling game system of all time, featuring iconic games such as ‘Super Mario Bros.’ and ‘Rayman DS’.
13. Sega Genesis / Mega Drive
The Sega Genesis is one of the most well-known game systems of all time. First released in 1988, the Genesis experienced considerable success in the US markets, boasting an impressive library of games, including ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’, which was its best selling entry.
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.
