Sony is indeed going to release a more powerful and upgraded version of the PlayStation 4, otherwise known as the PS 4.5. The console is expected to come out before the release of the Playstation Virtual Reality (PSVR) headset, which is hitting store shelves in October.
The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports that the tech giant is intending to sell a more powerful console before the PSVR hits store shelves. The idea behind this is because Sony would like its gamers to experience the features of the virtual reality device better.
PSVR will render games that are graphic-heavy, which the PS4 cannot fully handle with its current specifications. Its optical drive is also not capable of reading discs packed with the 4K specs, but the PS 4.5 will be able to maximize this since the upcoming console due to its 4K resolution support feature. Thus, gamers who already own the PS4 and who are also planning to buy the PSVR might need to get the PS 4.5 console to take advantage of the technology.
However, even as an upgraded version of the PlayStation 4 is launched, Sony will keep manufacturing the console with its existing features and developers are still going to produce games for the current console. In fact, Sony and developer Naughty Dog are set to release the much-awaited game, "Uncharted 4: A Thief's End," by May 10 and this is a PlayStation 4 exclusive.
Price points and release date for the PS 4.5 are still not known at this point, but the PS4 is currently selling at $349.99, while the PSVR will be sold at $399 when it's out in October, per Polygon. The new PS 4.5 might be announced during the E3 event that's taking place in June in Los Angeles, per Game Rant.
Sony has declined to comment on the reports about the PS 4.5 but analysts suggest through WSJ that the plan is not far-fetched. Sony is projected to lead virtual reality headset sales next to competitors like the Oculus Rift and the HTC Vive. However, the PSVR will not be a typical fast-selling item compared to other Sony products. In order to make this so, the company will definitely have to expand its options for gamers.
