During the Sony PS4 launch, Sony confirmed that the console will not offer backwards compatibility with existing PS3 games.
The next-generation PlayStation console, the Sony PS4, has launched at an official event in New York. However, the good news comes with a sour note – the PS4 will not be able to play PS3 titles using the discs you currently own.
There is a solution, however, and it’s called PlayStation Cloud. And no, you won’t need a PS3 to use it.
Sony PS4 Game Streaming
PlayStation Cloud will let gamers stream games from former PlayStation consoles, including the PS1, PS2 and PS3 to their shiny new Sony PS4 over their home broadband connection, using integrated Gaikai tech.
With Gaikai, the lion’s share of the game processing will take place server-side, rather than within the Sony PS4 console itself.
Gaikai CEO Dave Perry detailed the new game-streaming functionality during the PS4’s launch in New York. Gaikai is an expert in the game streaming field, and probably the best-know rival for OnLive, although each operates under a different business strategy.
Gaikai’s was geared towards publishers rather than gamers, and it’s a tactic that seems to have worked for the company. Sony purchased Gaikai back in mid-2012 for $380 million.
The Sony PS4’s game streaming moves beyond the console itself too. You’ll be able to stream games to a PS Vita handheld. If you own a Vita that’s been gathering dust, it may be soon time to brush it off.
Check our news feed for more PS4 launch information.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
