So we’re now over 3 years into this console generation, with the PS5 and Xbox Series X being the two premium consoles on the market right now.
Whilst both are great machines, each console does have their own strengths and weaknesses. In this comparison review we’re going to compare the key aspects of both platforms, evaluate where they need to improve, and see which is the overall better buy in 2024.
Exclusive Games
So in terms of AAA exclusive first-party games you’d have to say that PlayStation has been the stronger so far, both in terms of game quality and the rate at which they’ve been released.
Since the PS5 launched we’ve already had Demon Souls, Spiderman, Ratchet and Clank, GT7, Horizon Forbidden West and God of War. If you enjoy story-driven single player games, then PlayStation have got you covered.
Whilst on Xbox things have been a little thin on the ground, at least in terms of AAA exclusives. Halo Infinite was a major release but received a mixed response from fans, however Forza Horizon 5 was a huge success and probably my favourite Xbox game. I also had a great time with Starfield and look forward to the expansion later this year.
However ultimately the fact is the Xbox platform does need more major exclusives, thankfully with all the studios Microsoft now own, this is an area that will improve with major titles like Indiana Jones, Fable and Ark dropping within the next year or so.
Game Pass vs PS Plus
When we compare subscription services it’s fair to say that Microsoft and Sony have adopted different strategies. It feels like Game Pass is absolutely central to Microsoft’s strategy as to how you access and play games on the Xbox platform.
As well as a large library of older games to play, you get all Xbox exclusive games on day of release at no extra cost. You also get some excellent third-party games on release day included too, I’ve really enjoyed titles like Dead Space and Sniper Elite, and the fact I didn’t have to pay any extra money to play them.
Now the Activision deal is complete we’ve recently seen Diablo hit Game Pass, and Call Of Duty will also join the service this year.
So whilst Xbox doesn’t have as many AAA exclusives as PlayStation, with a Game Pass subscription, it feels like you always have something to play and look forward to.
PS Plus on the other hand works differently, there are currently three subscription tiers to choose from, each offering monthly game additions and varying amounts of older game titles.
These tiers offer a pretty good deal, with the PS Plus Extra tier maybe being the best option for most people. However even if you opt for the most expensive premium tier, PlayStation exclusive games do not come to the service on day of release.
If you want to play the latest exclusives when they come out, then you’ll have to pay full price for them, so gaming is generally more expensive on the PlayStation platform. That being said I can understand why Sony takes this approach, their big single-player exclusives are key to their success, selling in huge numbers and generating big revenue.
Overall though, I definitely prefer the Game Pass model and the value for money it offers.
Controllers
When it comes to the supplied controllers it’s fair to say the DualSense on PS5 has the advantage, offering increased functionality with its adaptive triggers and haptic feedback.
This is particularly impressive on Sony first party games like Horizon and Astro’s Playroom, offering a more immersive gaming experience. However this increased functionality does affect battery life, which in my experience only lasts 5 or 6 hours before you need to recharge.
So if you get a PS5, you ideally need two controllers, so you always have one charged and ready to go.
While the Xbox controller doesn’t have the haptic feedback of the Dualsense, it’s still a great controller to use. The ergonomics are just about perfect and I do prefer the asymmetric layout of the analogue sticks.
Battery life is really solid with the Xbox controllers, although I do use a charging stand so I never have to physically swap out the batteries.
Which is Better in 2024?
So to conclude which of these consoles is the better buy in 2024? I think that really depends on your budget and the type of games you like to play.
If you enjoy narrative driven single player games then the PS5 is hard to beat, PlayStation have an unrivalled library of games of this type.
However whilst the Series X doesn’t have the same number of top exclusive titles, Game Pass helps bridge the gap by offering hundreds of older first and third party games, as well any new exclusives on day of release.
I love the fact that indie and third-party titles come to Game Pass, this has helped me discover and enjoy quality games that I likely wouldn’t of tried otherwise. The excellent value for money offered by Xbox and Game Pass will also be a key consideration for many gamers.
That being said those killer exclusives mean I’ll also be keeping my PS5 for the long haul. I’ve had some fantastic gaming sessions on PlayStation this generation, I love using the DualSense controller, which only adds to the premium gaming experience that the PS5 offers.
So choosing only one of these consoles would be near impossible for me, owning a PS5 and Xbox Series X really gives you the best of both worlds.
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