PS5 Reportedly Features Controller Backward Compatibility
It's now 2020, the same year that the PlayStation 5 will be launching, and every week and month is likely to bring new information about Sony's next-gen console. For example, new information about the PS5 controller options have recently been shared. The previously unknown information isn't about the new PS5 DualShock 5 controller, though. It's about the PS5 potentially offering backward compatibility for the PS4's controller, the DualShock 4.
RespawnFirst reports that multiple sources have confirmed that the PS5 will be compatible with the DualShock 4 controller. That means that PS5 owners will be able to use either the new DualShock 5 or one of their PS4 controllers as they please. Allowing use of the PS4's DualShock 4 on the PS5 would also allow for much more affordable multiplayer options for the console. New console buyers could buy used DualShock 4s or use controllers from their collection rather than having to pay a big upfront cost.
While it isn't explicitly stated, the report heavily insinuates that this feature is for the final PS5 console and isn't just a developer feature available for the PS5's devkits. It had previously been confirmed that DualShock 4's worked with the PS5 devkits, though. A leaked photo of a PS5 devkit shows a DualShock 4 connected to the console via a USB cable. It's possible that this report is simply confirming DualShock 4 controllers working with devkits and that it remains unconfirmed whether they'll work on the PS5.
Sony allowing DualShock 4's to work on the PS5, whether the report is accurate or not, would be a pro-consumer decision. Given the increasingly competitive market between PlayStation and Xbox, implementing the feature just because fans want it would be understandable. Sony perhaps has other reasons, however. Perhaps the DualShock 5 isn't so big of a technological leap, so there's no need to require an upgrade. Perhaps Sony sees buying multiple controllers as inhibitive to multiplayer software purchases, so allowing DualShock 4s will result in more game purchases. Whatever its reason may be, there's likely a lot of strategic thinking involved.
Details about the PS5 controller have been leaked, so PlayStation fans can start thinking about whether they want to upgrade to DualShock 5s or keep their DualShock 4s. These details are entirely unofficial, but did come from an official Sony patent. The DualShock 5 patent shows the controller has new back paddle buttons, akin to the recently revealed DualShock 4 back button attachment. The new controller also has a larger touch screen, as well as improved haptic feedback.
Expect confirmation about Sony's plans for the PS5 and its DualShock 5 controller in the months to come.
Source: RespawnFirst
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