Is the PS4 Still Good in 2025? A Resounding Yes for Budget-Focused Gamers

The short answer is yes, the PlayStation 4 is still a very capable and worthwhile gaming system in 2024, especially for budget-focused or casual gamers.

With over 117 million units sold, a massive game catalog, and continued support from Sony through 2023-2024, the PS4 remains a great entry point into gaming. While the PS5 is the new hotness, a used PS4 for $200-$250 with its huge library of cheap games offers tremendous value and access to some of the best gaming experiences ever created.

Let‘s take an in-depth look at the key factors that make the PS4 still good in 2024.

PS4 By the Numbers – Still Hugely Popular

The PS4 has absolutely dominated the gaming space since launching in November 2013, selling over 117.2 million units as of March 2022 according to Sony. This makes it the 4th highest selling home game console ever, behind only the PS2, Nintendo DS, and Game Boy.

For comparison, estimates put global PS5 sales at around 20 million so far. The PS4‘s massive 117+ million install base demonstrates its popularity persists well into the PS5 generation. Tens of millions still actively use their PS4.

Ongoing Support from Sony Through 2023-2024

Importantly, Sony has stated they will continue supporting the PS4 platform through at least 2023, and likely into 2024 and beyond.

Jim Ryan, CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, said in an interview: "We plan to support PS4 for the next three to four years with many new games coming."

This means major multiplatform games will continue releasing on PS4 for the foreseeable future. PS4 owners can expect new games through 2023 and beyond.

Huge & Diverse Game Library

The PlayStation 4 has amassed a vast game catalog of over 4,000 titles across every genre imaginable.

PS4 Game Library Highlights

• Over 1,400 PS4 exclusives
• 25+ million selling titles
• Major franchises like Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto, FIFA, Assassin‘s Creed
• Highly acclaimed exclusives like God of War, Spider-Man, The Last of Us, Uncharted 4
• Multiplayer focused games with thriving online communities
• Hundreds of discounted and budget-friendly indie games

Even years after new games stop releasing, there will be an incredibly deep and varied library to enjoy. New PS4 owners have a massive backlog of games to dive into and explore.

Used Games & Hardware Are Cheap

One of the PS4‘s biggest appeals in 2024 is its low cost when buying used.

• Used PS4 consoles now sell for only $180 – $250. Far cheaper than a new PS5.
• Used PS4 games are abundantly available for as little as $10 – $20. Great for building a cheap game library.
• A 1TB PS4 Pro costs around $280 used, supporting 4K/HDR gaming.

Between cheap used hardware and game prices, you can build a complete PS4 gaming setup on the cheap compared to other platforms.

Active Online Communities

Another factor making the PS4 still viable for multiplayer is that the online communities for most titles remain very active. Sony reported monthly active PS4 users were 102 million as of March 2022.

Popular franchises like Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto Online, Overwatch, Rocket League, Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Destiny 2 have millions of dedicated PS4 players. Even older multiplayer games see plenty of online action on PS4. You‘ll have no issues finding full match lobbies.

Backward Compatibility and Upgrade Options

For those who eventually decide to upgrade to the PS5, Sony has made the transition easy.

The overwhelming majority of PS4 games are backwards compatible on PS5. You can continue playing your PS4 games while migrating to the new system.

Many titles also offer free next-gen upgrades from PS4 to PS5 with enhancements like 4K resolution and faster load times. Your PS4 library and purchases carry forward.

Provides an Inexpensive Entry Point into Gaming

Not everyone can afford a $500 PS5. With gaming being more popular than ever, the PS4‘s low used pricing makes it the perfect entry point for casual or first-time gamers.

A used PS4, controller, and a couple used games can easily be had for under $300 total. This grants access to thousands of games for very cheap. Many amazing game experiences are available even without the power of next-gen systems.

Considering all of these factors together paints a clear picture – the PS4 remains a viable and worthwhile gaming platform in 2024 that delivers great value for budget-focused gamers.

For those convinced and ready to buy a used PS4 in 2024, here are some tips to get the best deal and maximize your enjoyment:

Shop Around for the Best Price

Used PS4 prices can vary greatly depending on condition, model (Slim vs. Pro), accessories, games included, etc. Shop around online and locally to find the best listings.

Places to Buy: GameStop, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay, pawn shops, local electronics shops.

Aim for $200 or less for a standard PS4 with a controller and cables. Expect to pay $250-300 for a PS4 Pro.

Assess Condition Carefully

While most PS4s will work fine, carefully inspect used systems for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Test buttons and analog sticks on the controller. Check for any signs of overheating. Opt for sellers that provide photos showing the unit working.

Ideally buy from reputable local shops that offer return policies. This gives peace of mind.

Look for Good Accessories/Games Bundles

Many used PS4 listings come bundled with extras like games, additional controllers, PlayStation Plus/PSN credit, charging docks, headsets, external storage. These sweeten the overall deal.

Even an extra used controller ($40 value) and a couple games ($30+ value) adds substantial savings. Take advantage of bundles.

Consider a PS4 Pro for 4K/HDR Gaming

While costlier at around $280 used, a PS4 Pro enables 4K and HDR gaming on supported titles. If you have a 4K TV, the visual upgrades are excellent and will make your games shine.

Well worth the extra cost if playing on a 4K display.

Expand Your Storage Capacity

A huge perk of buying used is you can immediately expand the storage. A 1TB external USB hard drive costs under $50, allowing you to download tons more games.

An external SSD boosts load times further. Take full advantage of the hardware!

You found a PS4 bundle that fits your budget. Let‘s make sure you maximize your enjoyment with these tips:

Build a Game Library on the Cheap

Take advantage of heavy discounts on used PS4 games to build an awesome game library without breaking the bank.

• Buy used discs from GameStop, local shops, eBay, Facebook Marketplace.
• Keep an eye out for flash sales on the PlayStation Store.
• Sony has PS4 game sales multiple times per year.
• Subscribe to PS Plus Premium for access to 400+ PS4/PS5 games.

With a bit of patience, you can amass a huge collection while only paying ~$15 per game.

Play Sony‘s Masterful Exclusives

The true system sellers for Playstation are the exclusives. Be sure to experience these masterpieces:

• God of War (2018)
• Marvel‘s Spider-Man
• The Last of Us Remastered
• Uncharted 4: A Thief‘s End
• Horizon Zero Dawn
• Bloodborne
• Ratchet & Clank
• Shadow of the Colossus
• The Last Guardian

PlayStation‘s cinematic storytelling and gameplay are simply unrivaled.

Enjoy PS4‘s Social Features

The PS4 has great built-in social capabilities through:

• Share Play – Let friends view/take control of your gameplay remotely
• Share Factory – Edit clips and make epic gameplay montages
• Spotify Integration – Stream music while gaming
• PlayStation Communities – Join interest groups, find people to play with

Take advantage of these unique social features you can‘t get elsewhere.

Maintain Your PS4 Properly

To maximize your PS4‘s lifespan:

• Use compressed air to regularly clean out dust
• Ensure proper ventilation without obstructions
• Replace the thermal paste every 2-3 years
• Upgrade to a 2TB internal drive for more storage capacity
• Use a UPS (battery backup) to protect against power fluctuations

With some basic maintenance, your PS4 will hopefully last 5+ years!

The PlayStation 4 absolutely still delivers amazing gaming experiences in 2024. For budget-focused gamers or someone looking to get started with Playstation gaming, the PS4 is a fantastic buy that will provide years of entertainment.