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Why You Need a PS4 in 2026 | Austin Evans

LectureMaster

Or is it just one of Adam's balls in my throat?



AI summary:

The video discusses the relevance of the PS4 in 2026, arguing that it offers great value for its price (0:00). Despite the PS5 being 5 years old and newer consoles being expensive, a used PS4 can be found for $70-$100, significantly cheaper than a used PS5 (0:26).

Key points of the video include:

  • Current State of PS4 Support (1:27): While some games like Genshin Impact and PUBG are ending support, others like Fortnite and Call of Duty Black Ops 7 (released November 2025) are still fully supported and cross-gen compatible, allowing PS4 players to play with PS5 users (2:08).
  • Performance Comparison (PS4 vs. PS5)(3:01):
    • Load Times: The PS5, with its SSD, has significantly faster load times compared to the PS4's old hard drive (3:18).
    • Frame Rate and Resolution: The PS4 aims for 60 FPS but often fluctuates between 40-50 FPS in demanding games like Black Ops 7, while the PS5 maintains a stable 60 FPS or higher (3:44). Most PS4 games run at 1080p, with newer titles sometimes dropping to 900p or lower (6:45).
    • Visuals: PS4 versions have lower resolution textures, shorter draw distances, and simpler lighting, but generally offer the same game content and features as PS5 versions (7:20).
  • PS4 Pro and SSD Upgrade (8:02): The PS4 Pro offers better resolutions (1440p or 1800p) and improved performance over the base PS4 (8:26). Upgrading to an SSD significantly reduces load times and improves overall responsiveness for both the PS4 Pro and the base PS4 (8:34). However, a fully upgraded PS4 Pro can cost around $230, which is close to the price of a used PS5, making its value proposition less clear (9:38).
  • Verdict: Who is the PS4 for in 2026?(10:10):
    • Budget-conscious gamers or parents looking for a first console (10:27).
    • Current PS4 owners who can extend its life with an SSD (10:37).
    • The PS4 is not for those seeking a long-term gaming platform or who already own a PS5, as support is fading and new games are moving on (11:01). The video suggests saving for a PS5 for future support and exclusive titles (11:10).
  • Jailbreaking/Homebrew Scene (11:26): Mentioned as a legitimate option to expand the console's capabilities beyond PS4 games.
The video concludes that while the PS4's "final chapter" is approaching, it remains a functional and affordable gaming device in early 2026 for users with realistic expectations (12:00).
 
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