Like two grizzled gunslingers in a Mexican standoff, Microsoft and Sony have been eyeing each other up for the lion’s share of the next console generation in recent weeks. And now, with E3 just around the corner, Sony’s CEO has undercut Microsoft’s entertainment-centric philosophy with the Xbox One by stating that the PlayStation 4 will be fundamentally a games machine. Speaking at the D11 (All Thing’s Digital) Conference yesterday, here’s what the company’s boss had to say about all things next-gen.
“The most important thing we need to do is agree and understand that the PS4 is a great video game console that appeals to video gamers,” he said. “If we miss that part, I don’t think we get the initial establishment of the console. That formula has worked for us with all our consoles, including the PS3.”
In 2006, Sony mishandled the launch of the PS3 with an astronomical price point and an element of bravado off the back of the PS2’s success. Following this, the Japanese tech giant managed to recoup some of the ground lost to Microsoft with a slew of exclusive games and an altered marketing strategy. But in the wake of the Xbox One reveal, it’s become clearer and clearer that both of these companies are now diverging in terms of their respective ideology. In saying that, the all-in-one entertainment beacon that Microsoft revealed is something Harai can identify with, and it’s an area that Sony are poised to touch on with the PS4 at E3.
“Providing other non-game content is an area we will reveal and talk about in the coming months, but it’s first and foremost a video game console.”
No matter which side you favour, the buzz surrounding the next generation of consoles is starting to reach a fever pitch. And while Microsoft have duly witnessed a backlash for failing to give specific answers to issues regarding DRM and online connectivity, Sony will still have their own questions to answer at the electronic trade show in LA. With only ten days to go, which company has your vote in the build up to PlayStation 4 and Xbox One? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.