Has the current generation of gaming consoles, the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, left us feeling underwhelmed? This question resonates deeply with many gamers today, especially with both Microsoft and Sony hinting at their next-gen systems already. Looking at my PS5 and Series X, I find myself reflecting on whether these purchases truly met my expectations.
The Xbox Series X presents itself as a formidable console. However, with Microsoft launching its games on PC and embracing a “play anywhere” philosophy, the necessity of owning a physical Xbox diminishes. The idea of experiencing major titles on various devices, including other consoles, makes its exclusives feel less enticing.
On the other hand, the PS5 has had its share of standout exclusive games, particularly during its launch. Yet, compared to Nintendo’s robust and consistent release schedule, PlayStation’s first-party offerings appear sparse. While I acknowledge PlayStation’s dominance through iconic franchises, it’s frustrating to see limited new titles emerging from these established IPs.
Additionally, the challenges and controversies surrounding certain game developments, like Concord and PlayStation’s earlier push for live service games, have not helped the situation. Such issues contribute to an overall feeling of disappointment.
You might wonder if one system excels over the other. While it’s undeniable that there are positives this generation, when I weigh the pros and cons, the experience feels lackluster, ultimately not justifying the investment. For this reason, I passed on the PS5 Pro; there seemed to be no game titles to push the console’s performance to its limits.
Interestingly, this generation is redefining gaming through third-party titles. Companies like Capcom are producing fantastic games, and middle-tier studios are providing gems like the recently released Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Even indie developers are thriving, creating standout experiences that weren’t even available on the most popular consoles.
What are your thoughts? Have the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S fallen short this generation? I’m curious to hear your take—share your thoughts in the comments or participate in the poll below!