Categories: Technology

Sony Unleashes 4K Cloud Gaming Beta for PS5 Enthusiasts

  • Sony launches public beta test for PS5 cloud gaming with 4K resolution streaming.
  • Participants report multiple resolution options and seamless cloud saves, improving gameplay experience.
  • Impressive game lineup, including God of War: Ragnarok and Horizon Forbidden West, highlights Sony's commitment to expanding cloud gaming offerings.
Published by
Lethabo Ntsoane

In a long-awaited move, Sony has officially kicked off the public beta test for its highly anticipated PS5 cloud gaming service. This announcement comes on the heels of earlier teasers from the tech giant, leaving eager gamers buzzing with excitement. Participants lucky enough to receive invitations are now getting a taste of the future of gaming – streaming games to a PS5 console at up to 4K resolution.

While Sony’s spokesperson, Mary Taing, remains tight-lipped about additional details, the gaming community is abuzz with first impressions shared by testers on ResetEra, a popular gaming forum. A user by the name of ArashiGames has been particularly vocal, providing a firsthand account of the beta test experience. According to their post, the cloud gaming service offers users a range of resolution options, from the familiar 720p and 1080p to the impressive 1440p and even 2160p (4K) resolutions. What’s more, ArashiGames highlights that cloud saves are automatically loaded, ensuring a seamless transition between gaming sessions.

This feature, while seemingly standard today, represents a significant leap forward since the early days of cloud gaming. Sony’s previous cloud gaming service, PlayStation Now, faced criticism for its inability to import save games from older console generations. With this advancement, players can pick up where they left off, regardless of whether they’re gaming on a PS5 console or utilizing the cloud.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this beta test is the tantalizing promise of 4K cloud gaming. However, questions remain regarding the nature of the “4K max resolution.” Does it refer to the rendering resolution of the gaming graphics, or is it indicative of the streaming resolution – the size of images transmitted to the TV? Either way, the prospect of 4K streaming offers hope for alleviating compression artifacts that can occasionally mar the visual quality of cloud gaming. This potential improvement mirrors similar strategies employed by competitors like Nvidia’s GeForce Now and Google Stadia, both of which required an additional fee for 4K streaming.

The list of available games for the beta test is equally impressive, featuring a diverse lineup that includes highly anticipated titles such as God of War: Ragnarok, Horizon Forbidden West, and the ever-popular Fortnite. Also on the roster are Destiny 2, Returnal, Demon’s Souls, Death Stranding, Sackboy A Big Adventure, Destruction All Stars, and Fall Guys. As if this weren’t enough, gamers can also trial Resident Evil Village and Demon Slayer.

Sony’s ambition in the cloud gaming realm was first hinted at in June when the company announced its plans to test PS5 game streaming. The initial announcement included a promise to feature “PS5 titles from the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog and Game Trials, as well as supported digital PS5 titles that players own.” The company also hinted at ongoing expansion, ensuring that gamers will see a growing library of titles over time.

As speculation continues about Sony’s upcoming Q handheld and its potential for streaming these games, one thing is clear: the company is making substantial strides in the cloud gaming arena. This public beta test marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of gaming, showcasing Sony’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology to create unforgettable gaming experiences.

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Lethabo Ntsoane

Lethabo Ntsoane holds a Bachelors Degree in Accounting from the University of South Africa. He is a Financial Product commentator at Rateweb. He is an expect financial product analyst with years of experience in reviewing products and offering commentary. Lethabo majors in financial news, reviews and financial tips. He can be contacted: Email: lethabo@rateweb.co.za Twitter: @NtsoaneLethabo