PS4 Pro release date hype is happening now, and we want to make sure the Sony faithful get the best high-spec PlayStation experience from day one. If you’re investing in the industry’s most powerful console, here’s what we recommend you have when PS4 Pro releases on Nov. 10.
1) A 4K TV With HDR : The PS4 Pro was r eleased with 4K gaming and HDR in mind, so it makes sense that the best launch experience comes with a compatible display. Right now a solid 4K set with the desired features costs about $1,000 but prices are expected to come down during Black Friday and the holiday season.
The PlayStation 4 Pro isn’t totally useless at 1080p, but its benefits in that area are somewhat limited. Some supported games offer a high-performance mode that improves framerates in full HD, while other titles downsample from the 4K source for noticeably better visuals. Regardless, if you want the absolute best, 4K is still where it’s at.
2) A Sturdy Internet Connection : If you’re buying a PS4 Pro you probably have decent internet to begin with, but it’s especially important for this particular system. As it stands right now, Pro support is mostly being added via downloadable patches that can get pretty large. As such, a high-speed connection will make the post-launch wait less frustrating. Get an ethernet cable or move close to your router to start playing as quickly as possible.
3) A Showcase Game : About 40 games will be optimized for PS4 Pro at launch, but how the specs and console are leveraged varies by developer.
Looking at early reviews, Rise Of The Tomb Raider, InFAMOUS: Second Son and Middle-earth: Shadow Of Mordor are three of the best examples of what the PS4 Pro can offer all gamers. They have a variety of 4K and 1080p settings options, their image quality looks great and the gameplay experience is pretty awesome too. Two of those titles are a little old, but, if you haven’t played, at least they’re a cheap purchase.
4) A Spare HDMI Cable : It’s not immediately obvious, but the HDMI cable that comes with the PlayStation 4 Pro release sku is totally different from the one that’s packaged with a standard PS4 or Xbox One. It supports high-speed bandwidths and the latest HDMI 2.0 standard.
That being said, it may not hurt to have another 4K-ready cable on hand in case the existing one fails. Luckily, retailers like Amazon have suitable replacements for as low as $9. Don’t be fooled by high-price cables. Just make sure the one you buy is ready for Ultra HD.
5) PlayStation VR : Aside from 4K gaming, an obvious use for those extra specs is enhanced VR performance. In that case, getting the most out of your $399 console might also require an additional $399 for Sony’s virtual reality headset.
While expensive, PSVR was likely one of the main reasons Sony decided to create the Pro in the first place. Its high-end chips are extremely conducive to stable VR, and that means less motion sickness and discomfort when trying out this new way to play. You obviously don’t have to invest in both products immediately, but they definitely compliment each other well.
The PlayStation 4 Pro releases on Nov. 10 for $399. If you’re still unsure about it, read our lists of reasons why you should and shouldn’t buy one.
Are you getting a PS4 Pro on its release date? Do you have everything on this checklist? Tell us in the comments section!
