Is the PS5 Still Worth It in 2024? My Honest Take
The PS5 . It’s been out for a while now, hasn’t it? Remember the absolute chaos of trying to get one at launch? The website crashes, the reseller markups… good times (not really). But here’s the thing: now that the dust has settled, is Sony’s flagship console still worth the hype – and more importantly, your hard-earned money? As someone who’s spent countless hours gaming on it, let me give you my straightforward, no-nonsense assessment.
The Games | Still the King of Consoles?

Let’s be honest, a console is only as good as its games. And this is where the PS5 shines. Sure, the Xbox has Game Pass (which is undeniably awesome), but Sony’s exclusives? They’re in a different league. We’re talking about titles like Spider-Man 2, God of War Ragnarök , and Horizon Forbidden West – games that truly push the boundaries of what’s possible on a console. And that’s not even mentioning the remakes and remasters like The Last of Us Part I, which, whatever your thoughts on the necessity of the remake, is undeniable gorgeous. Plus, you have the whole PlayStation Plus ecosystem which now includes game streaming .
But – and this is a big but – quantity doesn’t always equal quality. While those AAA behemoths are incredible, there have been some droughts, haven’t there? Moments where I’ve stared at my game library thinking, “Okay, what now?” I initially thought this was a problem exclusive to me, but then I realized that a common issue for most gamers is finding something that keeps them hooked for long periods. The issue isn’t the lack of games. The issue is the lack of consistent must-play games.
The Tech | Beyond the Hype – Ray Tracing and Load Times
Remember all the buzz about the super-fast SSD and ray tracing ? It wasn’t just marketing fluff. The difference in load times between the PS4 and the PS5 is genuinely mind-blowing. Going back to the older console now feels like stepping back into the dial-up era. And ray tracing? When implemented well, it adds a whole new level of visual fidelity to games. Reflections look more realistic, lighting is more dynamic – it just makes everything prettier.
However, and this is key, not every game utilizes these features to their full potential. Some games barely take advantage of the SSD, and others have ray tracing implementations that are barely noticeable. The power is there, but it’s up to the developers to actually use it. We also need to talk about the DualSense controller. Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers? Absolutely game-changing… when they’re used well. There are some games where the controller is practically silent.
The Price | Is It Worth the Investment?
Let’s be blunt: the PS5 price isn’t cheap. Especially if you’re looking at the disc version. But consider this: you’re not just buying a console; you’re buying into an ecosystem. You’re buying access to those exclusive games, the enhanced features, and the overall PlayStation experience. If you are still on the fence, you should look at various PS5 bundles .
What fascinates me is how the perception of value has changed. In the past, consoles were straightforward purchases. Now, with subscriptions like PlayStation Plus, the ongoing cost needs to be factored in. It’s a bit like buying a printer – the printer itself is relatively cheap, but the ink cartridges? They’ll get you in the long run. A common mistake I see people make is to forget to take into account the cost of subscriptions when making their purchase decision.
The Competition | PS5 vs. Xbox Series X – Which Reigns Supreme?
The console wars rage on! (And let’s be honest, it’s mostly just internet banter.) But there are genuine differences between the PS5 and the Xbox Series X. The Xbox has Game Pass, which is an incredible value proposition. The PS5 has its exclusives and the DualSense controller. It really comes down to personal preference. What kind of games do you like to play? What features are most important to you?
But, here’s the thing, as per the latest circular on the official Sony website, the competition can be great for gamers because it pushes both companies to innovate and offer better value. Each console has its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Final Verdict | Should You Buy a PS5?
Here’s the deal. The PS5 is still a fantastic console. The games are incredible, the tech is impressive, and the overall experience is top-notch. Yes, it’s expensive, and yes, there are occasional game droughts. But if you’re a gamer looking for the best possible console experience, the PS5 is still a worthwhile investment. Plus, with rumors swirling about a potential PS5 Pro , now might be a good time to grab a standard PS5 at a slightly lower price. I’m not saying wait, but maybe do your research .
Think of it this way: buying a console is like choosing a restaurant. Some people prefer the reliability of a chain, while others crave the unique experience of a local spot. The PS5 is that local spot – it might have its quirks, but the food (or, in this case, the games) is absolutely worth it.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the PS5 backward compatible?
Yes, the PS5 is backward compatible with most PS4 games.
What if I can’t find a PS5 in stock?
Keep checking major retailers online. Stock levels fluctuate, but they’re generally better now than they were at launch.
Can I upgrade the PS5’s storage?
Yes, you can expand the internal storage with a compatible NVMe SSD. Just be sure to check Sony’s specifications.
What about the PlayStation VR2? Is it worth it?
If you’re into VR, absolutely. The PS VR2 offers a significant upgrade over the original, with improved visuals and tracking.
What if my PS5 controller is not charging?
Try using a different USB cable and power source. If the problem persists, contact Sony support.