In November 2020, within a few days of one another, Sony and Microsoft launched the PS5 and Xbox Series 10 respectively. The timing could not have made it clearer that the lines had been drawn for all-out war. Three years on, most keen gamers have chosen their allegiance, but what about those who are new to console gaming or ready to trade up an older console and thinking about switching allegiance?
The truth is that from a playing perspective, comparing the two consoles is a little like comparing the latest Toyota and Honda. They both do what they do well and there is really very little difference between them.
What it really comes down to is the games. Here, we will compare and contrast both their exclusive game libraries and their approach to specific game categories.
PlayStation leads the way with AAA
When it comes to AAA exclusive titles, the list for Xbox is short on quantity, although quality is certainly impressive. Arguably, the biggest draw is Halo Infinite, the sixth entry in a Halo series that began way back in 2001. For those who like a good dose of realism in their gaming, the classic Microsoft Flight Simulator has been around forever, and the latest update includes some jaw-dropping additions, including a tie in with the Top Gun: Maverick movie.
PS5, however, has some serious firepower in its catalogue of exclusive titles. Gran Turismo 7, for example, is without doubt the best racing game ever and continues the franchise’s proud legacy. Spiderman Remastered takes what was arguably the best PS4 game of them all and makes it even better. God of War Ragnarok has lived up to the significant hype and will take its place among the classics. These are just a few examples, and when it comes to big-hitting titles, the PS5 is hands-down winner.
Xbox Game Pass delivers superior bangs per buck
Both Sony and Microsoft have channeled plenty of investment into their Netflix-style cloud gaming subscription services. PlayStation plus has been around since 2010, but when Xbox Game Pass launched in 2017, it proved to be a tough competitor.
Game Pass subscribers have instant access to new releases the day they hit the shelves, something that Sony cannot match. That places Microsoft’s service at a significant advantage. Prices are approximately the same, although Sony offers a discount for annual or quarterly subscriptions. Sony also offers a marginally superior service when it comes to online multiplayer gaming and screen sharing.
Ultimately, however, the instant access to new releases is the biggest difference between the services and it gives Xbox the edge.
Casino gamers are still under served
iGaming is one of the fastest growing gaming niches, as more US states move develop their legal frameworks for online casino gaming. However, online platforms like www.gamblingsites.com/reviews/slots-lv/ remain the portal of choice for real money casino gaming in the US.
The idea of real money casino gaming has been mooted for both Xbox and PlayStation over the years, and there is no technological reason for them not to. However, the situation as it stands is that the closest option on either console is the Four Kings Casino & Slots. This social casino game provides the opportunity to test your skill, or try your luck, at all the casino classics and to see how your performances stack up against your friends. Just remember that you are only playing for bragging rights and in-game currency, so if you want to wager real money, you will need to visit an online platform like the one mentioned earlier from your phone or laptop.
Sony has the virtual edge
PS5 players who want to dip a toe into the world of VR gaming have access to an impressive list of titles, although it is worth noting that they use PS4 technology, so are also available to those still using old generation equipment. However, Microsoft can say little on the subject, having stated and restated that it has no plans at present to move into the VR gaming space or to develop its own VR headset.
Ultimately, if accessing as many games as you can is what matters to you, the PS5 is the obvious choice. However, if you are more interested in trying out indie games and playing new releases before anyone else, the Xbox is the better choice.
