To PS4, or not to PS4 (for now)

Let me walk you through what goes through my mind at times like these:

“The year is 2014. I turn 40 this Sunday. That’s 4 decades. A PS4 is $400, and I’ve nearly built up to 4 (OK, 3) free games for it through my recent PlayStation Plus subscription.”

See where I’m going with this?

I used to be a “day one” — or at least a “month one or two” — system buyer. When I think back to when I was first able to start buying them on my own, I was always there early. I’m not feeling it this generation, though. I still have lots of unfinished business on last generation’s consoles, so I haven’t had that urge to step up to the new systems like I used to. I’m feeling a mild itch, however.

I did buy a Wii U back in October because I really enjoy mainline Nintendo titles. Super Mario 3D World, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD, and New Super Mario Bros. U are all fantastic games, and I can’t wait for Mario Kart 8 in a couple weeks. Despite its relatively weak catalog of games, I already have a small backlog developing for it, including The Wonderful 101, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, and Pikmin 3.

20150516_ps4Anyway, between the Xbox One and PlayStation 4, the PS4 is definitely the most compelling system to me since I do have those free PS+ games like Resogun and Mercenary Kings that I would love to try. I’m paying for the service, so I might as well get the most out of it. It’s been fantastic for the PS3 and Vita.

Knowing that an upgraded PS4 version of The Last of Us is around the corner is also very exciting, since it’s my current all-time favorite PS3 game. I don’t like that I’ll have to double-dip to play it, but Sony has assured fans that owners of the original game will get the PS4 game for a discount. I’m hoping for half, but my bet’s on $39.99.

Speaking of double-dipping, I’m a big fan of Crystal Dynamics’ 2013 version of Tomb Raider, so checking out the Definitive Edition could be interesting. PC gaming with decent hardware is usually my preference for multi-platform games, but since the only way to play the latest update is on the PS4 or XB1, I’m out of luck there.

I also want to see what Remote Play is like, since I’ve been rather disappointed with the wireless range of the Wii U Game Pad. It has made Off-TV play nearly impossible due to how our room is configured. That’s unfortunate, since I think EarthBound would be a perfect lay-on-the-couch gaming experience.

There is also the comfort in knowing that the PS4 will be home to so many great exclusives throughout its lifetime, as all Sony systems have been over the PlayStation’s 20-year lifespan. Can you believe it’s been that long? Neither can I.

So, will self-control ultimately come out on top? All I know is that my wife will have to make absolutely sure I don’t go wandering off to the electronics department of our local Fred Meyer this weekend.

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