Sony unveils ‘disc free’ PS5 console in online event

Jun 12, 2020 | Marketing through gaming

Sony unveils ‘disc free’ PS5 console in online event
Sony has given gaming fans the first glimpse of the PS5 console, which includes a disc free version for digital only downloads.

This is the PS5 event was originally scheduled for June 4, but was then delayed by Sony amid the COVID-19 outbreak.

In the pre-recorded event, the Japanese tech company revealed two versions of the console, a standard PS5 and the PS5 Digital Edition, which appears not to have a disc drive.

Sony also showed fans the PS5’s new haptic controller, HD camera, pulse 3D wireless headset, media remote and dual charging station.

The new console comes seven years after the launch of the PS4. Sony has officially confirmed that the PS5 will release globally “in time for Holiday 2020”, so likely some time between October and December 2020 – putting it in direct competition with the Xbox Series X, which is releasing in the same window.

More than two dozen new games were shown off at the event. Some of the PS5 games had already been announced, including Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Fortnite and Destiny 2.

Others include Spider-Man: Miles Morales and a new Ratchet & Clank title called Rift Apart, in which the duo travel through different dimensions.

The launch event also showed trailers for Gran Turismo 7, Oddworld Soulstorm, Hitman 3, Resident Evil Village, Horizon: Forbidden West, Sackboy: A Big Adventure and NBA 2K21.

Grand Theft Auto will also be coming to the PS5 with “enhanced and expanded” versions of Grand Theft Auto V and Grand Theft Auto Online launching in the second half of next year.

Jim Ryan, president and chief executive of Sony Interactive Entertainment, said: “With PlayStation 5, we are making a significant leap to deliver a truly new generation of transformative play experiences that will redefine expectations for what games can be.

“Worlds will be richer and more beautiful, they’ll captivate your senses in ways you didn’t think possible, and you’ll be able to experience them much more seamlessly, with lightning fast loading.

“Today’s showcase is just a glimpse of what’s to come in the next generation, and we want to thank our community for taking this journey to PS5’s launch with us.”

Sony says the PS5 will be released this winter but has not revealed any pricing details.

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