118 Million Units and Innovations That Redefined Entertainment

The PlayStation 4, launched in November 2013, ceased production in 2024, leaving behind a legacy that transformed the gaming industry. With over 118 million units sold, Sony’s console became the company’s second-best-selling home console, surpassed only by the iconic PlayStation 2. Over its 11-year run, the PS4 amassed a library of approximately 4,500 games, introduced groundbreaking features like PlayStation VR, and fostered a global community of millions of players. Its impact transcends sales figures, with fans worldwide sharing personal stories and celebrating technological advancements that defined a generation. As Sony shifts focus to the PlayStation 5 and future projects, gamers honor a console that became synonymous with interactive entertainment.

Sony’s vision for the PS4 was clear from the start: a console built for gamers. Launched with accessible hardware and a streamlined architecture, it addressed the complexities of its predecessor, the PlayStation 3. This design enabled developers, from major studios to indie teams, to create visually stunning games and compelling narratives. Titles like God of War and The Last of Us Part II set new benchmarks for quality, while services like PlayStation Plus, offering free monthly games and cloud storage, deepened player engagement. This strategy secured the PS4’s dominance in a competitive market, outpacing rivals like the Xbox One and remaining relevant even after the Nintendo Switch’s debut.

Tributes to the console flood social media, with hashtags like #PS4Memories and #ThankYouPS4 trending globally. Players share memories of late-night sessions with friends on games like FIFA and Call of Duty, while others recount the thrill of exploring open worlds in Horizon Zero Dawn. Exhibitions in cities like New York and Tokyo showcase limited-edition consoles, such as the 2018 PS4 Pro 500 Million Limited Edition, now coveted by collectors. For many, the PS4 was more than a gaming device—it was a gateway to connection, creativity, and unforgettable experiences.

• Global sales: 118 million units by 2024.
• Game library: Approximately 4,500 titles, including 500 exclusives.
• Innovations: PlayStation VR and cross-platform play support.
• Community: Millions of players across over 100 countries.

A console that reshaped the industry

The PlayStation 4’s success extended beyond sales. Its developer-friendly architecture empowered studios to deliver innovative experiences. Blockbusters like Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End showcased cutting-edge visuals, while indie gems like Hollow Knight and Celeste found a home on the PlayStation Store. This diversity made the PS4 a platform for all types of players, from casual gamers to fans of intricate narratives. Partnerships with studios like Naughty Dog and Guerrilla Games cemented Sony’s reputation as a leader in quality and innovation.

The rise of digital gaming was a defining milestone. By 2023, over 50% of PS4 game sales came from digital downloads on the PlayStation Store, reflecting evolving consumer habits. Integration with streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube allowed players to broadcast gameplay in real-time, fostering communities of content creators. This connectivity turned the PS4 into a social hub, where players not only gamed but also interacted and built global audiences.

The console’s longevity owed much to its updated models. The PS4 Slim, released in 2016, offered a compact design and improved energy efficiency, while the PS4 Pro, also launched in 2016, introduced 4K resolution support and enhanced performance. These iterations kept the PS4 competitive, even after the PlayStation 5’s 2020 debut. Sony supported the PS4 with cross-generation games like Spider-Man: Miles Morales, ensuring millions of players remained engaged.

Exclusives that defined a generation

The heart of the PlayStation 4 lay in its exclusive games. Titles like The Last of Us Part II, God of War (2018), and Spider-Man earned critical acclaim and set new standards for interactive storytelling. Crafted by top-tier studios, these games blended emotional narratives with innovative mechanics, captivating millions. God of War redefined its franchise with stunning visuals and gameplay, while The Last of Us Part II, despite sparking debate, won multiple Game of the Year awards in 2020.

Collaborations with external studios enriched the PS4’s library. Bloodborne, developed by FromSoftware, became a cult classic in action RPGs, while Ghost of Tsushima captivated players with its feudal Japan setting. These titles sold millions and inspired vibrant fan communities, producing content like videos, fan art, and in-depth analyses. The strength of its exclusives solidified the PS4 as the go-to console for premium single-player experiences.

• The Last of Us Part II: Emotional narrative and 2020 award winner.
• God of War: Reinvented the franchise with breathtaking visuals.
• Spider-Man: One of the most acclaimed superhero games ever.
• Horizon Zero Dawn: Pioneered an innovative open world and iconic protagonist.

Innovations that paved new paths

Sony embraced emerging technologies to distinguish the PS4. The PlayStation VR, launched in 2016, brought virtual reality to the console, with games like Astro Bot Rescue Mission and Resident Evil 4 VR delivering immersive experiences. Though not a mainstream hit, the device sold over 5 million units by 2023, laying the groundwork for the PlayStation VR2 on the PS5. This bold move underscored Sony’s commitment to pushing entertainment boundaries.

Connectivity was another strength. The PS4 pioneered native streaming support, enabling players to share gameplay directly on platforms like Twitch. The PlayStation Network (PSN) evolved to support over 110 million monthly active users by 2024, providing a robust infrastructure for multiplayer gaming. Titles like Fortnite and Call of Duty: Warzone became global phenomena, connecting players in real-time and transforming the PS4 into a social platform.

The rise of games-as-a-service found a perfect home on the PS4. Games like Destiny 2 and Apex Legends thrived thanks to regular software updates and PlayStation Plus perks, such as exclusive skins and content. These advancements positioned the PS4 as a forward-thinking console, aligned with trends that now dominate the gaming industry.

Key milestones of the PlayStation 4

The PS4’s journey is marked by events that shaped the gaming landscape. Below is a timeline of its major moments:

• November 15, 2013: North American launch, with 1 million units sold in 24 hours.
• 2014: Destiny popularizes the games-as-a-service model.
• 2016: PS4 Pro and PlayStation VR expand the console’s capabilities.
• 2018: God of War and Spider-Man cement PS4’s single-player dominance.
• 2020: The Last of Us Part II wins Game of the Year amid controversy.
• 2024: Sony halts PS4 production, closing a historic chapter.

Challenges that tested Sony

The PlayStation 4 faced hurdles during its run. Early on, the lack of backward compatibility with PS3 games disappointed fans, a feature only introduced with the PS5. The PlayStation Network struggled with instability during high-demand game launches, such as FIFA and Call of Duty, frustrating players. Sony invested in infrastructure improvements, but early issues left a mark on some users’ perceptions.

Sony’s initial resistance to cross-platform play sparked criticism. While Microsoft embraced interoperability, Sony hesitated, drawing backlash from the gaming community. In 2018, the company relented, enabling cross-play for games like Fortnite, a pivotal shift in strategy. Despite these challenges, the PS4 retained a loyal fanbase, driven by its stellar games and trusted brand.

Pricing policies also stirred debate. As the PS5 era began, game prices rose to $70 or more, and PlayStation Plus saw subscription hikes. Some players questioned the service’s value, but Sony countered with perks like discounts and access to classic titles, maintaining player loyalty. These efforts mitigated the impact of pricing concerns.

Inclusion and diversity in the PS4 era

The PlayStation 4 played a significant role in advancing diversity in gaming. Games like The Last of Us Part II, featuring Ellie, a queer protagonist, broke barriers in mainstream storytelling. Titles like Dreams empowered players to create their own games, democratizing development. The PlayStation Store spotlighted indie studios from regions like Latin America and Asia, amplifying underrepresented voices.

Accessibility was a priority. Software updates added customizable button mapping and support for adaptive controllers, benefiting players with disabilities. Initiatives like the PlayStation Emerging Filmmakers Program encouraged marginalized communities to develop games, while minority streamers used the PS4 to reach global audiences. These efforts underscored Sony’s commitment to inclusivity.

• Diverse protagonists: Ellie in The Last of Us Part II and Aloy in Horizon Zero Dawn.
• Accessibility: Adaptive controllers and customizable options.
• Global visibility: Indie studios highlighted on the PlayStation Store.

Transition to the PlayStation 5

The PlayStation 5’s 2020 launch marked a new chapter, but the PS4 remained relevant. Cross-generation games like Horizon Forbidden West and Gran Turismo 7 ensured PS4 owners had access to fresh content. Global semiconductor shortages slowed PS5 production, making the PS4 a viable option for millions. This approach facilitated a smooth transition, keeping the PlayStation ecosystem robust.

Sony faced criticism during this period. PS5 price hikes in markets like Europe and Japan sparked discontent, and PlayStation Plus subscription increases prompted some cancellations. Sony responded with benefits like free games and discounts, alongside re-releases of classics like Ratchet & Clank to appeal to nostalgic fans. Rumors of a PlayStation 6, slated for 2028, signal Sony’s forward-looking vision.

A heartfelt farewell from fans

The PS4’s production end triggered a wave of nostalgia. On platforms like X, players share screenshots and stories, reminiscing about moments in games like The Witcher 3 and Rocket League. During the pandemic, the PS4 was a lifeline, connecting friends through multiplayer sessions. Retailers report surging demand for used PS4s, especially limited editions, now prized as collectibles.

Sony pledged to keep PSN servers active for the PS4 for several more years, ensuring access to online games and digital services. This commitment reflects the company’s respect for its community, which continues to celebrate the console as a cultural milestone. For many, the PS4 was their first gaming console, introducing them to fantastical worlds and lasting friendships.

• Early successes: Uncharted and The Last of Us shaped the PS4’s identity.
• Digital dominance: Over 50% of 2023 sales were digital.
• Global engagement: 110 million monthly active users in 2024.
• Virtual reality: PlayStation VR sold 5 million units.

The future without the PS4

With the PS4 retired, Sony faces a fiercely competitive market. Microsoft expands its Xbox Game Pass, while Nintendo prepares a Switch successor. The rise of mobile and cloud gaming, driven by companies like Google, challenges Sony to innovate. Projects like a new handheld console and PC ports of titles like Horizon Zero Dawn show Sony’s readiness to adapt.

The PS4’s legacy, however, will endure. It popularized games-as-a-service, integrated streaming, and cinematic storytelling, influencing the entire industry. By 2024, the console generated over $50 billion in revenue, funding innovations like the PlayStation VR2 and the PS5’s DualSense controller. For players, the PS4 was a symbol of passion and connection, leaving memories that will last for generations.