Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA) appears to be a blockbuster release in the coming days. And if you read my earlier guide, you know that PS5 would be the first platform to receive such a game. But as per the hint, it seems that millions of PlayStation fans might be left out in the cold. I mean, around 50% of PlayStation users could be unable to play on the official launch day.
It happened because of a significant leap in hardware power between the current PS4 and the next-generation PS5. Some reasons could potentially restrict numerous PlayStation players from playing GTA 6. I tried to figure out some more reasons for this. Subsequently, I got some more potent reasons that significantly see such a statement. So, let’s discuss those reasons.
Why Half of PlayStation Gamers Might Miss Out on GTA 6?
I have said numerous things about such statements. But among the several aspects, it appears that there is a power gap between PS4 and PS5. Besides that, there are a few more things that later stop players. That ultimately influences adverse effects. So, to reach out to all these things, let’s have a look below.
Power gap between PS5 and PS4
The excitement for GTA 6 is undeniable, but of course, the reality of playing it is also different. Because the user base is different there are also technology hurdles between PS4 and PS5. GTA 6 has seen a massive uplift in terms of processing power, graphics capabilities, and storage solutions. For this, the PS5 undoubtedly boasts a faster CPU and GPT compared to the PS4.
Such things translate into smoother gameplay on the PS5 as compared to the PS4. GTA 6 is rumoured to feature a sprawling open environment, which means it requires potential mechanics. Such fulfilment cannot be done on PS4’s hardware. Additionally, SSD storage is one more major reason for the power gap between both PlayStations. Meanwhile, PS5 is potent for running GTA 6, but since half of the players are on PS4, it would be hard for them to play GTA 6.
Installation base dilemma
I already said that half of the PlayStation players are on PS4. And of course, hardware is not the only challenge; in fact, the significant challenge is that a good part of the PlayStation user base still has not upgraded. Statistics say that over 118 million players and roughly 50% of the active users are still using PS4. It means it would be difficult for such players to follow PS5 requirements.
I tried to figure out why they are still using PS4 and got that stock shortage, the price of PS5, and the economic climate are a few things behind it. After all, upgrading to a new console could be a significant investment, and many players prioritise other expenses. All this creates frustrating confusion for PS4 users. But don’t worry, below I will answer that thing and resolve the dilemma that currently all PS4 players are facing.
Whether to upgrade to PS5 or not?
For such a query, many of the PS4 players answer that upgrading to PS5 is true. This gives them access to the mighty GTA 6. Second, the cost of upgrading can’t be ignored. After all, the PS5 price tag might be a barrier for some gamers. It might be hope, but Rockstar Games has not officially confirmed or denied a PS4 version of GTA 6. It means that if a PS4 version does exist, it is likely to come with some compromises that will downgrade the gameplay experience.
I mean to say that developers scale down the visuals or other certain things, which means sacrificing some of the graphical outlays that you will find in the PS5 version. Another thing to consider is cloud gaming services. So that players can stream games directly to their devices, just bypassing hardware requirements. So, if GTA 6 becomes available via the cloud, then for sure, PS4 users could potentially experience the game without any upgrade. But of course, availability and performance will both be affected.
What is the impact on the PlayStation community?
Such hardware hurdles, of course, create a significant division within the PlayStation community. You can imagine some players feel glorious for GTA 6 who have PS5. On the other hand, PS4 players experience a compromised version that leads to frustration and exclusion among PS4 users. Furthermore, the online multiplayer that is a core of GTA could also affect the community.
It will limit the number of players available for online activities, especially by restricting their social interactions. Following this disappointment, PS4 users might express their frustration online, which leads to negative sentiments for developers. Meanwhile, the impact would be adverse if the given scenario were correct shortly. It would be interesting to see what Rockstar Games has planned for PS4 users.
Conclusion
Sum up the discussion, such a significant gap between PS4 and PS5 leads to a major restriction for many PlayStation gamers who crave to experience GTA 6. With a substantial portion of the user base still on PS4 and limited upgrade options due to availability and cost, this is a potential exclusion. Will Rockstar bridge the gap with a PS4 version? Only time will tell how this situation unfolds, but one thing is certain: the launch of GTA 6 will be a defining moment for the entire PlayStation community.
