At the time of writing, there has been no official confirmation regarding the PlayStation 5’s release date. However, when the development does become available for purchase at some point during the holiday season of 2020, those who opt for the Sony device will be spoiled for choice regarding the PS5’s exclusive content. As expectations continue to build around the development’s gaming library, it’s becoming increasingly apparent that both Sony and Microsoft are hoping that their respective exclusives help them to win the upcoming console war.
Over the years, the concept of exclusive content has negatively impacted the appeal of contemporary gaming among some players. However, despite this, as a marketing strategy, there is far more to console exclusives than merely providing gamers with a potentially more enticing selection of titles. So, let’s take a look at why PS5-specific releases will likely be at the heart of the device’s success over the coming years.
Is Exclusivity Really That Pivotal?
Much like they have done in the past, both the upcoming next-generation consoles will offer new versions of long-standing exclusives. While the Xbox Series X has the Forza and Halo franchises to call on, Sony will turn to the likes of Gran Turismo and Spiderman in their efforts to establish the PS5 as the superior device. Regarding performance, both consoles are considerably more powerful than their predecessors, so performance is unlikely to be a determining factor for many prospective buyers.
Interestingly, as per a report by TheGamer, which cites BestSEOCompanies’ study, PlayStation fans are the most loyal compared to those of different platforms. In many ways, however, while this is a testament to the brand’s success, it’s also somewhat indicative of the fact that many contemporary players pursue the console that best suits their desires. Moreover, there’s also a growing perception that console loyalty is becoming less instrumental because of the anti-consumer arguments surrounding exclusives.
In a report by GameCrate, it’s mentioned that the concept of exclusives is centered around reinforcing brand identity. Because of varied specifications across PCs, the PS5, and the Xbox Series X, Sony-specific developers will be able to design new releases around the potentials of the PlayStation 5. In turn, the idea is that this will create more immersive gaming experiences. Regarding what’s likely to be on offer, as well as the aforementioned franchises, there’s some speculation that Watch Dogs: Legions may be a PS5 exclusive. Although the series hasn’t thus far been available only on the PS4, the third installment may look to adopt a different approach.
Will It be Enough to Sustain Console-Gaming’s Dominance?
As well as having to compete with the Xbox Series X for console dominance, Sony many need the PS5’s exclusives to deliver to fend off competition from mobile platforms. According to Telemedia Online, the mobile gaming sector accounted for 60 percent of the global gaming industry’s total revenue in 2019, showcasing its importance to the market.
In an era where casual, smartphone titles have appealed to the masses, it’s hardly surprising that both Microsoft and Sony have continued their exclusive approach. Although console games are traditionally more detailed, the playability of mobile games, such as Candy Crush Saga, Flappy Birds, and Subway Surfers, has thrust mobile developments to the forefront. Moreover, with the optimization of console titles like Fortnite and Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds crossing over to the mobile market, it’s apparent that remote platforms are beginning to close the gap to traditional consoles.
The Potential to Make the Difference
Ultimately, although there’s a section of mobile gamers that may not have an interest in the PS5’s exclusives, the upcoming content could undoubtedly give Sony the edge over the Xbox Series X. With the brand’s pre-determined loyalty, combined with the potentials of the PlayStation 5, there’s little to suggest that identity reinforcement won’t decide the console war.
