Even with the arrival of its successor, the PlayStation 4 remains a titan in the gaming world. Since its launch in 2013, the PS4 has sold over 117 million units, cementing its place as one of the best-selling consoles of all time. It defined a generation of gaming with a library of iconic exclusive titles, user-friendly features, and robust hardware that still delivers incredible experiences today.
Whether you’re a new owner who just picked one up, a long-time user looking for new tricks, or someone considering diving into its massive game library, the PS4 continues to offer immense value. This guide will cover everything you need to know about the PlayStation 4, from its hardware variations and must-play games to essential tips that will enhance your gaming sessions.
We will explore the technical specifications that made it a powerhouse, compare it to its contemporaries, and provide a roadmap to navigating its legendary catalog of games. By the end, you’ll have a complete understanding of why the PS4 is still a relevant and beloved console for millions of players around the globe.
Understanding the PS4 Family: Hardware and Specifications
Over its lifespan, the PS4 was released in three distinct models. While they all play the same games, they have key differences in design and performance.
PlayStation 4 (The “Fat” Original)
The original 2013 model is the largest of the three. It features a distinctive two-toned, slanted design with a glossy finish on one half of its top panel. It introduced the core architecture that would define the generation.
- CPU: 8-core AMD Jaguar
- GPU: AMD Radeon-based graphics (1.84 TFLOPS)
- RAM: 8GB GDDR5
- Storage: 500GB hard drive (user-replaceable)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi (2.4GHz), Ethernet, Bluetooth 2.1, 2x USB 3.0 ports
- Output: HDMI, Optical Audio
While it’s a capable machine, the original model is known for running louder and hotter than its successors. It also lacks support for 5GHz Wi-Fi, which can be a drawback for online gaming.
PlayStation 4 Slim
Released in 2016, the PS4 Slim became the new standard model. As its name suggests, it is significantly smaller, lighter, and more power-efficient than the original.
- Key Improvements:
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- Smaller Chassis: About 40% smaller than the original model.
- Energy Efficient: Consumes less power, runs quieter, and generates less heat.
- Updated Connectivity: Added support for 5GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0.
- Design Changes: The physical power and eject buttons are more tactile, and the light bar was removed in favor of a small indicator on the power button. It also dropped the optical audio port.
Internally, the Slim has the same processing power as the original PS4. It offers a more refined and reliable experience, making it an excellent choice for 1080p gaming.
PlayStation 4 Pro
Also launched in 2016, the PS4 Pro was Sony’s answer to the rise of 4K televisions. It is a mid-generation hardware refresh designed to offer enhanced performance for both new and existing games.
- Key Improvements:
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- Boosted GPU: A significantly more powerful GPU (4.2 TFLOPS) allows for higher resolutions and more stable frame rates.
- 4K Gaming: The Pro can output games at native or checkerboard 4K resolution.
- Enhanced Visuals: Many games feature a “Pro-enhanced” mode, offering better graphics, higher frame rates, or improved visual effects even on a 1080p TV.
- Boost Mode: This system-level feature provides a performance uplift for older PS4 games that were never officially patched for the Pro.
- Additional USB Port: It includes a third USB port on the rear of the console.
The PS4 Pro is the most powerful version of the console. For players with a 4K HDR TV, it offers the definitive PS4 experience, delivering sharper images and smoother gameplay.
The Crown Jewels: Must-Play PS4 Games
The PS4’s legacy is defined by its extraordinary library of games, particularly its critically acclaimed first-party exclusives. Here are some of the titles that every PS4 owner should experience.
The Last of Us Part II
A masterpiece of storytelling and game design, this sequel from Naughty Dog is a brutal and emotionally resonant journey. It pushes the PS4 hardware to its absolute limits, with breathtaking visuals, incredibly detailed environments, and fluid, intense combat. It’s a challenging and mature game that has set a new standard for narrative in the medium.
God of War (2018)
This reinvention of the classic series takes Kratos from Greek mythology to the world of Norse gods. It features a deeply personal story centered on Kratos and his son, Atreus. The combat is visceral and satisfying, and the entire game is presented in a single, unbroken camera shot—a stunning technical achievement.
Bloodborne
From the creators of Dark Souls, Bloodborne is a gothic horror action RPG set in the decrepit city of Yharnam. It’s known for its challenging difficulty, aggressive combat system, and intricate world design filled with secrets. It remains a PS4 exclusive and is a rite of passage for fans of the genre.
Marvel’s Spider-Man
Insomniac Games delivered the ultimate Spider-Man fantasy. Web-slinging through a beautifully rendered Manhattan is pure joy, and the combat is a perfect blend of acrobatic grace and powerful gadgets. With a heartfelt story and a massive open world to explore, it’s a must-play for any comic book fan.
Horizon Zero Dawn
Set in a lush, post-apocalyptic world overrun by robotic creatures, Horizon Zero Dawn is a stunning open-world adventure. Players take on the role of Aloy, a skilled hunter, as she uncovers the mysteries of her past and the fall of the old world. The game combines a unique premise with satisfying combat against giant mechanical beasts.
Ghost of Tsushima
As one of the final major exclusives for the console, Ghost of Tsushima is a beautiful swan song for the PS4. Players step into the role of a samurai fighting back against the Mongol invasion of Japan. The game is famous for its breathtaking art direction, slick katana combat, and the “Kurosawa Mode” that lets you play in black and white like a classic samurai film.
Essential Tips and Tricks for Every PS4 Owner
Getting the most out of your PS4 involves more than just playing games. Here are some tips to enhance your user experience.
Upgrade Your Storage
The default 500GB or 1TB hard drive can fill up quickly with modern game sizes. You have two options for expansion:
- Internal Hard Drive Replacement: The PS4 was designed to make this easy. You can replace the internal hard drive with any standard 2.5-inch laptop-style drive, including a much faster Solid State Drive (SSD) to drastically reduce loading times.
- External Hard Drive: This is the simplest method. Just plug a USB 3.0 external hard drive into your PS4. The console will format it for use, and you can install and play games directly from it.
The DualShock 4 controller’s “Share” button is a powerful tool. A quick press brings up the sharing menu, a long press takes a screenshot, and a double press starts or stops video recording. You can customize these settings by going to Settings > Sharing and Broadcasts > SHARE Button Control Type.
Use Rest Mode Effectively
Instead of turning your PS4 off completely, use Rest Mode. This low-power state allows the console to download game updates, charge your controllers, and suspend your game so you can jump right back in where you left off. You can manage what the console does in Rest Mode under Settings > Power Save Settings.
Organize Your Home Screen with Folders
Is your home screen a cluttered mess of game icons? You can organize them into folders. Highlight a game, press the “Options” button on your controller, and select “Add to Folder.” You can create folders for different genres, your backlog, or anything else you choose.
Play Your PS4 Games Remotely
With the PS Remote Play app (available for PC, Mac, and mobile devices), you can stream games from your PS4 to another screen over your home network. This is perfect if the main TV is occupied. For the best experience, connect your PS4 to your router with an Ethernet cable.
PS4 vs. The Competition
The PS4 was part of the eighth generation of consoles, competing primarily with the Xbox One and the Nintendo Switch.
- PS4 vs. Xbox One: Throughout the generation, the PS4 consistently outsold the Xbox One. This was largely attributed to a lower launch price, more powerful base hardware, and a stronger lineup of exclusive games. While the Xbox One X was more powerful than the PS4 Pro, Sony’s lead in first-party content was a decisive advantage.
- PS4 vs. Nintendo Switch: The Switch launched later and carved out its own unique niche as a hybrid home/portable console. It doesn’t compete with the PS4 on raw power, but its innovative design and beloved exclusives like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild made it a massive success. Many gamers own a PS4 for high-fidelity home gaming and a Switch for on-the-go play.
The Enduring Legacy of the PlayStation 4
The PlayStation 4 is more than just a piece of hardware; it’s a cultural touchstone that delivered some of the most memorable gaming experiences of the 21st century. It championed single-player, narrative-driven games at a time when many publishers were focused on live services. Its simple, intuitive interface and gamer-centric features made it accessible to millions.
Even in the shadow of the PlayStation 5, the PS4 remains a fantastic value. Its immense library is now more affordable than ever, and many of its best games have been enhanced for the PS4 Pro. For anyone looking to experience a golden era of gaming without breaking the bank, the PlayStation 4 is an unbeatable choice. It’s a testament to great design, a legendary game library, and a generation of players it brought together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the PS4 still worth buying?
Absolutely. The PS4 has a massive and affordable library of incredible games. If you are not concerned with having the latest 4K/60fps performance and want to experience one of the best game catalogs in history, the PS4 (especially the Pro model) offers outstanding value.
2. Can the PS4 play PS5 games?
No, the PS4 cannot play PS5 games. However, the PS5 is backward compatible and can play almost the entire library of PS4 games, often with performance improvements.
3. Which PS4 model is the best?
The PS4 Pro is the best model, offering 4K output and enhanced performance for many games. If you have a 4K TV, the Pro is the clear choice. If you only have a 1080p TV and want a reliable, quiet console, the PS4 Slim is an excellent option.
4. Can the PS4 play 4K Blu-ray movies?
No. While the PS4 Pro can stream 4K video and play games in 4K, its Blu-ray drive does not support 4K UHD Blu-ray discs. It can only play standard Blu-rays and DVDs.
5. How can I make my PS4 run faster?
The best way to improve your PS4’s speed is by replacing its internal hard drive with an SSD, which will dramatically reduce game loading times. Regularly cleaning the console’s vents and rebuilding its database (via Safe Mode) can also help maintain performance.
