Both manufacturers have very different plans, each one with its clear set of pros and cons. We’ll touch on what separates the PS5 and the Xbox Series X, as well as the direction in which Sony and Microsoft appear to want to take their consoles in the next generation.
Sony: PS5
Ultimately, it appears that Sony is the last bastion of the “classic” console as we know it. With Microsoft moving away from this model, as we’ll see later, and instead focusing on its Xbox ecosystem, and Nintendo relying on its hybrid console, Sony is the last manufacturer to offer up a traditional setup, a console with several proven features. We’re talking about its 3D sound software, and Dualsense, with its haptic feedback and its adaptive triggers, which may provide an immense sense of immersion if implemented effectively. To the surprise of no one, Sony will continue to offer huge, iconic IPs on its new machine, all while boasting a good number of timed exclusives, as we’ve already seen with Final Fantasy XVI, which promises to bode well for the future of the console.
Microsoft: Xbox
As mentioned just above, for Microsoft, right now it’s all about the experience created by its numerous high-quality services: Xbox Game Pass is already a formidable addition that may even be improved by the arrival of previous Bethesda titles and future exclusives. While the next Xbox lacks a signature game to boast of at launch, it’s clear that Microsoft is playing the long game and will continue to bring more games studios into the fold. For Microsoft, the Series X & S are merely means of exploring the Xbox universe, regardless of how luxurious they may be.