Possible PS4 specs force out preowned games

There are varying opinions on the need for a new console cycle.

Yesterday possible specifications for the PS4, codenamed ‘Orbis,’ were released. The reporting of such specifications could have something to do with Sony‘s attempt to ‘jump the gun’ on Microsoft‘s plan for the Xbox 720. Plans for such would prevent their console from having a year lag, like the current generation consoles.

Sources told Kotaku that the PS4 is penciled in for a Fall 2013 release, which, if true, suggests a possible announcement at E3 this year.

The current specs are still fluid and might change before launch, but these are what developers are told to develop for:

• AMD x64 CPU
• AMD Sothern Island’s GPU (AMD 7xxx series)
• resolution up to 4096 x 2160
• 3D games in 1080p
• No PS3 compatibility
• Each game locked to one account to prevent piracy
• Games forced into trial mode if preowned
• Games only unlocked after a fee

Those last points have caused the internet to be up in arms. There are talks of Microsoft’s new console using a similar system, though retailers are heavily downplaying such a concept.

It is unclear whether reports of this ‘anti-piracy’ measure are completely accurate. More worrying is the prospect of the need to activate new games, or have a constant internet connection, neither of which have been denied by Sony. This could prevent gaming anywhere without a stable internet connection, possibly shunning a sizeable percentage of Sony’s user base.

There are still reports that Sony will not announce a new console this year — such prospects would leave Sony “very distracted,” said Sony Computer Entertainment America chief Jack Tretton.

I guess the only way to find out for sure is to wait for an official announcement, possibly at E3 later this year.

Sources: Kotaku, Eurogamer