Sony’s SSD Compression Tech: What Does It Mean for the Future of PS5 Gaming?
The PS5 has been available for public consumption since late 2020, with Sony’s latest next-generation console appearing to meet gamer’s high expectations. One feature we’re learning about more and more is the hardware’s solid-state drive because it takes some understanding.
Even on the surface, the SSD isn’t a run-of-the-mill piece of software that you’d find on any old console. The compression tech is helping the PS5’s storage capabilities go further, and the recent case studies suggest the technology could impact the future of the industry for PS5 owners and gamers in general.
Enhanced Re-Releases
Remakes of former favorites are common. Many of the titles that hit the shelves are based on critically acclaimed releases that were commercial hits. They are loved by users as they offer a sentimental experience while bringing new properties to the table. Final Fantasy 7 and Resident Evil 3 prove this beyond doubt.
Well, SSD tech is set to take remakes to the next level because reboots, and general releases, will be able to include as much detail as the developers want – since a solid-state drive with compression software cuts the size of games in half. The best case study is Subnautica as it took up 14GB of space on the PS4. PS5 owners will notice that the figure is down to 3.5GB on their devices, which is a reduction of over 10GB.
Rumors of games 200GB in size are already making waves because players know the quality of the graphics, and storylines will be beyond anything they’ve ever experienced. After all, PS5 SSD compression technology doesn’t sacrifice the visual or gameplay elements, either.
Opening of the Floodgates
Gamers can’t turn their noses up at the number of titles available on any modern platform, as the digital aspect of the video game industry means that regular releases hit libraries instantly and are ready to play on the same day. Still, it’s fair to say that certain genres aren’t as accessible for console lovers, and the size of the file is a major sticking point. The biggest instance of this currently is mobile games as only Microsoft has attempted to include them within the brand’s library via the xCloud. As a result, the likes of League of Legends and Clash of Clans have long been unavailable to play on PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo.
The same applies to online wagering games that have boomed in popularity since the internet became more powerful and less glitchy. That appears set to change due to the introduction of SSD compression software that will ensure releases are smaller and take up less room on hard drives, which is partly the reason LoL will hit console libraries this year. Online casino offerings will follow suit because the genre is too large for studios to shun. Thankfully, the components that make them loved by users, such as the HD graphics and multi-varied gaming software, will remain to ensure that experiences continue to be authentic regardless of the platform.
Live dealer streams, for example, won’t reduce in quality, meaning that everything from table games to bingo will be similar to land-based environments. This feature is why the likes of Mega Fire Blaze Roulette and Macau Lobby are desired by platforms. Slot machines will benefit, too, as the digital versions can continue to incorporate reels and pay lines to make the gameplay bold and welcoming for everyone. For gamers, this should mean a more eclectic mix of libraries on consoles that boosts the level of choice and enhances the overall gaming experience.
Copycats
The gaming industry is notorious for mimicking the lucrative elements that make brands well-liked. Competitors don’t want to lose a foothold to their rivals, which is why they rip off the technology without a second thought.
Gaming subscriptions symbolize this better than any other modern video gaming element. At the time of writing, developers from Sony, Microsoft, and Apple to EA, Twitch, and Google all offer the service to their customers. Therefore, if SSD compression software turns out to be revolutionary, it’s only a matter of time before Nintendo and Xbox et al release their own versions.
That would make it available across the board and would also mean that every gaming enthusiast would benefit from the technology, not only PlayStation owners.
There are lots of ifs and buts, yet, one thing is for certain, Sony’s peers will be watching intently and hoping that the software isn’t as transformative as the data suggest.
