The Sony PS2 emulation for PS4 is still at a very early stage, but it’s a huge opportunity for the firm to take benefit from the abnormally large catalogue of titles that released for the best-selling console ever.
The pricing system of the entire scheme has caused quite a stir amongst fans, especially the fact that PS2 games would have to be repurchased, even if you already owned a copy.
Despite the heavy negative criticism of this strategy from Sony, one person believes that it’s the right thing to do. Norwind Interactive’s Brandyn Engbrecht is currently working on a sandbox title for the PS4 called Astraea, and he believes that forcing players to pay to play PS2 games they already owned on the PS4 made sense.
Speaking to GamingBolt, the developer stated,
“I am thrilled that the PS4 will be able to emulate PS2 games! I believe that the more games on a platform, the better. I’m sure Sony had to pay it’s developers to make the emulation software work – so charging money only makes sense. I hope it’s a success!”
It would be extremely natural for many to make comparison to the Xbox One Backward Compatibility program that can run Xbox 360 titles – the Microsoft scheme allows gamers to play Xbox 360 titles they own (those that are supported) for free on their newer console.
However, an argument can be made that because the PS2 is a whopping two-generations behind the PS4 whereas Xbox 360 is one generation behind its successor, there is an added cost to bring older technology to Sony’s current flagship console.
What are your thoughts on the matter? Do you agree with Brandyn, or do you feel Sony is using the PS2’s immense collection of titles to its advantage? Share with us in the comments section below!
