The Evolution Of PlayStation
9. A New Era Of Games
The PlayStation came at a pivotal point in gaming history. Games were now embracing 3D graphics, which would revolutionise how they could be played. Moreover, CD-ROMs were far cheaper to manufacture than cartridges, which meant that developers could now afford to take more risks than before.
The result was the perfect storm for developers to experiment more, creating game mechanics and overall experiences none of us knew were possible.
Within the first few years of the PlayStation’s existence, players in the ‘90s were treated to the likes of Crash Bandicoot, Tomb Raider, Metal Gear Solid, Resident Evil, and so much more. Each of these games weren’t just massive successes, but they’d also go on to establish renowned franchises and even whole genres.
As fantastic as these initial hits were, developers were still trying to figure out how 3D games could even work. With analogue sticks not becoming standard until three years after the console launched, fixed camera angles, tank controls, and fiddling with the bumper buttons to change perspective were how many players first experienced 3D gaming.
Despite having some rough edges, PlayStation had hit the ground running, ushering in a whole new era of gaming.