As you hover over the ‘Place Your Order’ button, ready to dive into the next generation of gaming with the PlayStation 5, the excitement is palpable. Images of sprawling virtual worlds and heart-pumping action sequences fill your mind. But then, a practical question dawns on you – how many controllers come with the PS5? After all, sharing the thrill of gaming with friends is half the fun.
Understanding your multiplayer setup is crucial, especially if regular gaming sessions with pals are on the horizon. Will the PS5’s box present you with enough hardware to jump right into a two-player game, or will it be a solo journey until you acquire more gear?
Budgeting for additional PS5 controllers is not a trivial matter. The PS5 controller, with its state-of-the-art features, doesn’t come cheap. It could stretch your wallet further, adding to the hefty splurge that is the PS5. It makes many people wonder if cheaper and compatible controllers form part of the PS5 gaming toolbox. Maybe you would want to use your old PS4 controllers as partners for the PS5?
Unlike in the past when home consoles like the first PlayStation and old Nintendo were packed with two controllers for a better multiplayer experience that goes straight to the heart of what console gaming is all about. Nevertheless, things have also changed in our modern days. According to this, so do the packages our gaming systems are packed.
Nowadays, it almost appears routine to include a single control in gaming systems. However, does the PS5 keep up with the trend? Therefore, let us explore every aspect of it and find out what Sony has got for you, the gamer.
How Many Controllers Come with a PS5?
When waiting for your PS5, all you are possibly imagining is epic gaming sessions together with your mates. But before you can embark on this multiplayer journey, you need to answer an essential question: we want to know how many controllers come with a PS5 console. So, without further ado, let’s figure it out.
A typical single DualSense controller is included in PS5.
Upon unboxing your standard PS5 package, you’ll find one Dual Sense controller waiting to be claimed by eager hands. This solitary controller, a marvel of Sony’s engineering, is your primary conduit to the immersive worlds of the PlayStation 5. It’s outfitted with innovative features such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, setting a new standard for what gamers can expect in terms of interaction and sensory experience.
Ways of Buying an Additional PS5 Controller
In case you have already made plans for a plus one or even more, then getting an additional controller is going to be necessary. Here’s how:
Purchasing Separately: Buying a second Dual Sense controller offers a fast way of adding another player instantly. The simplest choice, however, requires a further expenditure because a separate controller is usually priced around $70 – 80.
PS5 Bundle Packages: Often, Sony, together with retail traders, sells a PS5 package, which comes with an extra controller and even free games and other accessories. However, these bundles are highly attractive due to additional value and also that they cater to all your needs at a go.
Why Sony Include Only One Controller
The announcement by Sony that the PlayStation 5 will come only as a one-controller set resulted in mixed responses. Others were dissatisfied, remembering how consoles used to include at least two units included in their price tag. Therefore, as much as it looks arbitrary, Sony made a conscious choice. This move is driven by several strategic and market considerations.
Cost Considerations for Keeping PS5 Pricing Competitive
Firstly, the cost factor plays a significant role. To remain competitive in the market, especially against its rival Xbox, Sony aimed to price the PS5 below the $500 threshold. This pricing strategy was crucial to appeal to a broader consumer base. Including a second controller would have added considerably to the manufacturing costs, which in turn would have pushed the retail price of the console package higher.
With the retail price for a Dual Sense controller hovering at between $70 and $80, it is evidently no small factor in determining the price tag of the PS5.
Change gaming patterns to internet multiplayer.
According to Shang, another reason for such a policy is due to the change in gaming trends. Gradually, the gaming industry towards online multiplayer experience away from local couch co-op. Modern games are usually designed with multiplayer mode; hence, the need to own several controllers becomes redundant if playing on a standalone console. Many successful hits these days target the net-based multiplayer modes. Therefore, buying an extra pad for an additional family member is not always appropriate nowadays.
Sale of high-margin accessories.
Finally, Sony’s method also stems from a well-thought-out economic policy. Thus, by simply adding a single controller, Sony can expect to sell more of these products as high-profit margin items. The profits in accessories are high compared to that of the console thus, it is profitable for the company to sell them separately. Such increases in revenue enable Sony to supply various types of controllers and different editions for every taste.
The PS5 DualSense Controller Features
This shows that the DualSense controller used with the PlayStation 5 was indeed an advanced version compared with all other previous Sony and general industry controllers. Let us look into some of the advanced aspects that make it worthy of having a distinct placement in the PS5 portfolio.
Design Improvements Over Previous Models
The design of the DualSense controller is crafted with the preferences in mind that modern-day gamers appreciate about ergonomy and beauty. The controller is slightly bigger than the usual Dual Shook 4 and is designed to host the advanced technology fitted inside. Although the button layout is still standard, PlayStation veterans will enjoy it since it provides tactile feedback, which makes them feel nice.
Introduction of Adaptive Haptic Feedback
The adaptive haptic feedback is perhaps the most innovative attribute of the DualSense controller. However, this advanced technology allows for complex vibration patterns that mimic life-like touch sensations and improve the gaming experience. The haptic feedback ranges from the feeling of raindrops to tension while drawing a bowstring, thereby adding a fresh dimension to gaming. This realism is further enhanced by adaptive triggers, which vary their resistance depending on what kind of action users perform within the games, such as pushing the gas pedal on a car or drawing back a bowstring.
In-built microphone array for communication.
Sony has embedded a microphone array in the DualSense, eliminating the need for a headset for simple talk. It provides a convenient tool for quickly joining a voice chat without extra gear. The second one is the multi-mics design feature, which helps in noise cancellations and thus makes sure that voice communication becomes clearer even in a noisy environment.
Comparison with Xbox Controller Offerings
The DualSense has been designed with an ergonomic approach and the addition of innovative features that differentiate it from the Xbox controller. The DualSense makes a significant leap towards equalizing the gap that has favored the Xbox controllers over the years due to their ergonomic designs that have appealed to many players. The Dualsense’s comfort is just a matter of the past. Its features are way above normal, such as the haptic feedback and the adaptive triggers.
Standard PS5 Package Contents
When opening the box with a new PS5, gamers not only see next-generation gaming but also a selection of additional components that make the gameplay more convenient and effective. Hereunder, we discuss the typical items that are commonly included with the box alongside the console as well as the single DualSense controller itself.
Included Accessories with the PS5
DualSense Charging Station: However, it may be regarded as one of the best optional accessories, especially by many customers. The charger is simple, and you can charge two DualSense controllers at once so that one controller is always available for action.
PULSE 3D Wireless Headset: This headset is an engineering project of Sony that maximizes the use of PS5’s 3D audio. While it guarantees a good surround sound effect, it is not a standard option and comes as an independent purchase.
Media Remote: A Media remote is a small and simple-to-understand controller made for individuals who use their PS5 primarily for watching videos. This allows for quick browsing through multi-media content, though is also a separate purchase and should not be confused as an included item.
HD Camera: There is a camera for streamers and players who wish to use the PlayStation VR or simply want to air their gaming. A mobile micro projector is equipped with a tripod that doubles as a stand. It does not belong to the box’s accessories.
Camera Adaptor for PS VR Compatibility: Sony has enabled PlayStation VR users to connect their old VR headsets to new consoles by using a camera adaptor. However, this adaptor does not come with the standard packaging and is only obtainable through specific requests by PlayStation VR end-users.
Additional Content in Special PS5 Bundles
Sony occasionally releases special edition bundles that include some of the aforementioned accessories or even games. For example, a special bundle might include a game like “Spider-Man: Miles Morales” or a voucher for the PlayStation Store. During holiday seasons or special promotions, these bundles may vary in terms of additional content and offer a better value for those looking to get the most out of their PS5 experience from day one.
Compatibility of PS4 Controllers with PS5
Sony’s PlayStation 5 marks a significant leap forward in gaming technology. However, this progression raises questions regarding backward compatibility, particularly concerning the use of PS4 controllers—namely, the DualShock 4—with the new console. Here, we delve into the compatibility nuances and guide you through the process of connecting a PS4 controller to your PS5.
Use of PS4 Controller with PS5 games.
While the PS5 offers some backward compatibility features, there are notable limitations when it comes to using PS4 controllers with PS5 games:
PS5 Games: All the PS5 games are set up in such a way that they can exploit the features of the PS5, which include the haptic feedback and adaptive triggers of their newly created DualSense controller. Therefore, Sony has limited usage of PS4 controllers for playing the games of PS4 titles only on the PS5 platform. Therefore, you can not use a DS4 to play PS5 games.
PS4 Titles on PS5: Sony has assured gamers that they would be able to use their DualShock 4 with compatible PS4 titles in the PS5. This is reassuring for gamers who own a series of PS4 games and wish to use controllers they already possess.
How to link a PS4 controller to PS5 for PlayStation 4 games
Connecting a PS4 controller to your PS5 to play backward-compatible PS4 games is a straightforward process:
Update Firmware: Update your PS5 and DualShock 4 controllers’ latest firmware. This is normally possible as long as it is plugged into the internet.
Wired Connection: You can hook up the PS4 controller to the console via the most obvious method—using a USB wire. At this point, ensure the cable is connected to both the controller and one of the PS5 USB ports. It has to be made sure that the system detects the controller at once.
Wireless Connection:
- Go to settings when you are in the game’s main dashboard.
- Scroll down and select ‘Accessories.’
- Choose ‘Bluetooth Accessories.’
- Press and hold PS together with the Share button till you see the light bar flash.
- The DualShock 4 should be shown in the list of available Bluetooth devices on PS5. Select it to pair.
Conclusion
Overall, the PlayStation 5 has various types of controllers, but it comes with only one DualSense controller. Individuals who wish to take an additional step for extra controllers by which they can enjoy multiplayer games may choose either to buy additional DualSense controllers, buy bundle packages like PS5 and PS VR kit, which come with extra controllers, or buy cheaper third parties.
PS4 controllers may only be used for playing most of the new PS5 games. Therefore, gamers should make good plans in advance in choosing the right controllers according to their demands, likes, as well as money. The multiplayer in PS5 can be made as fun and inclusive as possible if one takes time and effort to consider every participant’s needs.
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