Readers Predict PS6 Could Cost £1,000
The Tuesday letters page of GameCentral features reader predictions and concerns about the next generation of consoles, particularly the rumoured £1,000 price tag for the PlayStation 6. One reader, Cranston, expressed alarm at the trajectory of console pricing, stating that spending over a grand on a machine that will likely offer little innovation is insane. He noted that Microsoft's Project Helix and Valve's Steam Machine have both been introduced with high price points, with no apparent effort to mitigate the financial burden on consumers. Cranston warned that companies are sleepwalking into a market where only the super rich can afford new consoles.
Sony Copying Xbox Strategy
Another reader, Tim, observed that Sony has a history of copying Xbox strategies, despite PlayStation's dominant market position. He pointed to the PlayStation VR2 as an expensive peripheral with limited support, mirroring the Xbox One's Kinect. He sarcastically predicted that when Sony says the PS6 will go beyond the living room, they likely mean a PS6-shaped fridge, following Xbox's Series X fridge promotion. Tim also highlighted Sony's move to bring first-party games to other platforms as a peculiar imitation.
GTA 6 Digital-Only Dampens Enthusiasm
Reader Magnumstache expressed disappointment that GTA 6 will not have a physical disc-based version, moving his purchase from day one to wait and see. He hopes Rockstar will follow Larian Studios' lead with a deluxe edition containing discs, like the Baldur's Gate 3 Deluxe Edition at around £90. He questioned why Rockstar would still pay for boxes and retailer cuts for a code-in-a-box, suggesting it's only a half saving. GameCentral noted that the primary concern might be preventing leaks before release.
Kirby Air Riders and eFootball Surprises
Reader Rob shared his positive experience with Kirby Air Riders after initial hesitation. He found that completing the tutorial and choosing the right craft made the game click, and he now can't stop playing. He also praised eFootball Kick-Off! on Switch for £15, calling it one of the best football games and a steal compared to FIFA.
GTA 6 Characters: Memorable or Neutral?
Michael Veal speculated on the memorability of GTA 6's leads, Lucia and Jason, expecting them to be morally neutral like previous protagonists, except for Trevor from GTA 5. He admitted he preferred not to play as Trevor due to his unsavoury habits. He hopes the new game will feature interesting non-player characters like the celebrity-obsessed elderly couple from GTA 5.
Digital-Only Refund Concerns
Mark Matthews highlighted the lack of a refund policy on PlayStation and Switch compared to Steam's two-hour window, which encourages him to buy more games on PC. He noted that a one-time goodwill refund is possible but risky.
Next-Gen Upgrade Justification
Reader Paul C. questioned the necessity of a £900-1,000 next-gen console for better lighting and shadows. He noted that 120fps is not a major step up from 60fps for most games, and requiring a new TV for 120Hz or 8K adds another grand. With five-year development cycles, he argued that consoles won't fulfil their potential until 2031/32, and the upgrade may not be needed.
Nintendo Raises Salaries Amid Industry Gloom
Reader sand03 praised Nintendo for raising base salaries by 10% and increasing head count by 300 employees over the past 12 months, contrasting with Western industry woes. GameCentral noted that the industry's problems are mostly restricted to Western companies, especially if PlayStation is counted as American.
Inbox Also-Rans
Benjy Dog expressed a desire for more content in the Star Fox remake, such as new levels, rather than just subtle changes. The letters page closed with a call for reader submissions and a reminder of the small print.
