The PlayStation 4 launched in November 2013

The PlayStation 4 came out on November 15, 2013 in North America. Sony released it in Europe and other regions shortly after, on November 29, 2013. That makes the PS4 over a decade old as of 2024, though it remains actively supported with new games and online services.

The console was the successor to the PlayStation 3 and competed directly with the Xbox One, which launched around the same time. At launch, the PS4 cost $399 for the standard model. The hardware was built around an AMD processor and graphics chip designed specifically for gaming, which was a shift from the more complex architecture of the PS3.

Key Takeaways

  • The PlayStation 4 released on November 15, 2013 in North America and November 29, 2013 in Europe and other regions.
  • The PS4 is now over 10 years old, but Sony continues to release new games and maintain online services for the console.
  • The original launch price was $399, though the console has been available at various price points throughout its lifespan.
  • A slimmer PS4 model released in 2016, and a more powerful PS4 Pro version launched in 2016 as well.

PS4 Slim and PS4 Pro came later in the console's life

In September 2016, Sony released a redesigned PS4 Slim model. This version was physically smaller and lighter than the original, used less power, and ran quieter. The PS4 Slim cost $299 at launch, making it a more affordable entry point than the original model at that time.

That same year, Sony also released the PS4 Pro in November 2016. The Pro model had a faster processor and graphics chip, allowing games to run at higher resolutions and frame rates. The PS4 Pro launched at $399, positioning it as a premium option for players with 4K televisions or those wanting better performance.

The PS4 generation lasted until the PS5 arrived

The PlayStation 5 released on November 12, 2020 in some regions and November 19, 2020 in others. However, the PS4 did not stop being supported when the PS5 launched. Sony continued releasing new games for PS4 and kept the online service running, a pattern that continues today.

Many games released in the first few years after the PS5 launch were available on both consoles. This meant PS4 owners could still purchase and play new titles without upgrading. The overlap between console generations is normal in the gaming industry and gives players time to transition at their own pace.

How many games were released for PS4

The PlayStation 4 library includes thousands of games across all genres. Major franchises like God of War, The Last of Us, Uncharted, and Spider-Man all had PS4 entries. Third-party publishers released hundreds of titles as well, from indie games to large-budget releases.

Because the PS4 was on the market for seven years before the PS5 arrived, and continues to receive new releases, the total number of available games is substantial. The exact count varies depending on whether you count digital-only releases, regional exclusives, and different versions of the same game.

PS4 online services and what still works

PlayStation Network, Sony's online service, remains active for PS4. Players can still read games, play multiplayer titles, and access features like messaging and party chat. However, the PS4 store no longer accepts new purchases as of March 2024, though you can still read games you previously bought.

If you own a PS4 and want to play online multiplayer, you need a PlayStation Plus subscription. The service tiers have changed over time, but the basic requirement for online play remains the same. Games you already own can still be played offline on the console.

Should you buy a PS4 in 2024

A used PS4 is significantly cheaper than a PS5, which can make it appealing if you want to play PS4 games without spending as much. You can find used consoles at secondhand retailers, online marketplaces, and sometimes directly from other players. Prices vary widely depending on condition and which model you buy.

The main limitation is that new games are increasingly being released for PS5 only. If you want to play the newest releases, a PS4 will not run them. However, if you are interested in the large existing library of PS4 games, a used console can be a budget-friendly way to access them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still play PS4 games online in 2024?

Yes, as long as you have a PlayStation Plus subscription. PlayStation Network remains active for PS4, and multiplayer games work the same way they did when the console was new. You cannot buy new games from the PS4 store anymore, but you can read games you previously purchased.

Will new games still come out for PS4?

New releases for PS4 have slowed significantly since the PS5 launched. Most major publishers now focus on PS5, but some games still release on both consoles. The number of new PS4 titles will continue to decline as the console ages, but the existing library remains playable.

What is the difference between PS4, PS4 Slim, and PS4 Pro?

The PS4 Slim is smaller and quieter but has the same processing power as the original. The PS4 Pro is more powerful and can display games at higher resolutions, but costs more. All three models play the same games, though the Pro version may show better graphics on compatible titles.

Is a PS4 worth buying used right now?

A used PS4 is worth buying if you want to play the large library of PS4 games at a low price. If you want to play the newest games, a PS5 is necessary. Check the console's condition and ask the seller about the warranty or return policy before purchasing.

When did the PS4 stop being manufactured?

Sony officially discontinued PS4 production in 2017 for the original model, though the Slim and Pro versions continued production longer. The exact end date for all models has not been publicly confirmed, but new PS4 consoles have not been widely available for several years.