PS4: 7 Simple Changes That Would Have Improved Its Launch

2. Backward Compatibility

This one seems like a pipe dream at this point, but we can still dream, can't we? Another popular feature that once made the PlayStation 2 stand out was its ability to run games of its predecessor. Due to its popularity, backward compatibility became a relevant feature to all console developers including Microsoft and Nintendo. Unfortunately, the feature has become a thing of the past to everyone except Nintendo and their Wii U console. This is because both Sony and Microsoft have abandon upgrading last generation processors for brand new processors in the form of AMD's Jaguar APUs (accelerated processing unit), removing any hope of backward compatibility with previous software. To make up for this loss, Sony is using Gaikai, a game streaming service to deliver PS3 games to the PS4 from cloud servers. While this sounds like a flexible alternative, it has an obvious flaw that reinforces the value of backward compatibility. Gaikai is strictly an online service that is completely dependent on a fast and reliable broadband connection. It doesn't take a genius to realize that the trade off isn't worth it if you have a subpar internet provider or none at all. While the PS4 doesn't include any cell processors like its predecessor the PS3, it could have included one as its main processor. If Sony insisted in using brand new processors, they could have still included a cell processor in the blueprint and while that would have brought the launch price up higher, it would have been worth it to all of those gamers who must keep or buy new PS3 consoles for their games. Still, this one is a pipe dream at best.