After Sony’s failed venture with Nintendo (see SNES) in the early ’90s, PlayStation creator Ken Kutaragi envisioned a console that would be able to deliver 3D computer graphics rivaling workstations costing thousands of dollars. The resulting PlayStation introduced the world to console gaming and dominated its first generation in record time.
The PlayStation 2 built upon its polygonal groundwork and pushed gaming to new heights of visual fidelity. Its library of games leaned heavily on established, fan-favourite franchises like Uncharted, God of War and Metal Gear Solid as well as many new offerings that proved to be juggernauts in their own right. The PS2 also had a DVD player, which made it a compelling purchase for families who needed a home entertainment system but didn’t want to buy a separate standalone unit.
The PlayStation 3 improved on its predecessors by introducing a Blu-ray drive, making it an attractive purchase for consumers who wanted a multimedia machine as well as a game console. Its library of games continued to emphasize the existing juggernauts and a healthy mix of new ideas, while establishing a more diverse indie lineup as well. Its slick, angular design was more easily accepted by gamers than the PlayStation 2’s boxy silhouette and its decision to forgo DRM restrictions on preowned games was a boon to its sales. Its graphical capabilities also made the PS3 an excellent buy for those who were interested in exploring new technologies such as hardware-accelerated ray tracing, a feature that 2021’s Spider-Man and 2022’s Ratchet and Clank make use of.