Embracing Console Gaming: A Shift in Focus for 2024
My Journey into PC Gaming
My venture into the realm of PC gaming began relatively recently. In 2016, I impulsively purchased a Steam Machine, which was Valve’s initial effort to merge the Steam platform with a console-like experience. This marked my first real exposure to the extensive Steam library and performance capabilities that surpassed those of my PS4. Captivated by this new world, I soon acquired a Dell computer and eventually built my own rig from scratch. I decided to sell my Xbox One along with most of my PS4 games, keeping only the console itself for the anticipated release of Final Fantasy VII Remake. The allure of superior performance and an expansive game selection on PC made it clear: why would I settle for anything less?
A New Perspective on Gaming Platforms
As we approach 2024, however, I’m contemplating a shift away from gaming primarily on Windows machines towards more diverse platforms like the PS5, Nintendo Switch, and dedicated devices such as the Steam Deck. This change isn’t driven by exclusive titles or even comfort—after all, I don’t have a couch; I use the same monitor for both my PS5 and PC—but rather inspired by an unexpected source: the Moog Grandmother synthesizer.
Rediscovering Musicality Beyond Screens
As someone deeply involved in music production, I’ve always appreciated computers and digital audio workstations (DAWs) for their limitless creative possibilities. Software like Reason or VCV Rack allows me access to countless virtual instruments that often rival their physical counterparts in sound quality. However, this convenience came at a cost—I found myself losing touch with what it meant to truly engage with an instrument. Instead of being immersed in music creation, I became more like a producer constantly distracted by online browsing.
!Photo: Claire Jackson / Kotaku
Since shifting back to using physical musical instruments instead of relying solely on computers, I’ve experienced a more intimate connection with music—one free from distractions. This revelation has prompted me to consider where else in life I can cultivate such focused experiences; naturally, gaming came to mind.
The Benefits of Console Gaming
Transitioning from PC gaming back to consoles may seem like merely swapping one screen for another; however, spending time with my PS5 has reminded me how beneficial it is to engage in gaming without distractions—similar to how I’d enjoyed it throughout most of my life—even if some games might perform better on PCs.
In today’s fast-paced gaming culture dominated by demands for “bigger,” “better,” and “faster” experiences—where framerates are expected at 120Hz or higher resolutions at least 1440p—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by marketing pressures urging us toward constant streaming or content creation while juggling multiple communication platforms like Discord during gameplay sessions.
While consoles have also been affected by these trends—the pressure is particularly intense within PC communities where gamers often feel inadequate if they can’t maintain stable framerates during graphically intensive titles—it’s refreshing not having those expectations looming over me when playing on dedicated hardware.
Owning a PS5 felt akin to needing transportation—a necessity (or so I’d convinced myself). After impulsively purchasing Alan Wake II on PlayStation following its completion on PC—and realizing how much easier it was without web browser distractions—I recognized that immersing myself fully within this environment designed specifically for gaming allowed me deeper engagement than ever before despite playing at just 30 frames per second.
!Photo: Claire Jackson / Kotaku
By switching from keyboard controls back over onto controllers again brings forth newfound focus while enjoying video games—a welcome change indeed!
Balancing Both Worlds
Does this mean I’m abandoning PC gaming altogether? Certainly not! As someone who doesn’t own an Xbox console yet still enjoys Microsoft’s offerings through Windows 11—and having developed an appreciation for emulation over recent years—I recognize there will always be value found within both realms moving forward into next year!
In conclusion come January 2024 onwards; I’ll prioritize PlayStation as my primary platform choice—not because I’m chasing after endless horsepower associated typically seen among “ultimate” setups but rather choosing intentionally separate machinery distinct from daily tasks requiring clinical attention elsewhere! Just as rediscovering joy through synthesizers led me back towards focused creativity again so too do hope recentering around dedicated hardware enhances overall enjoyment derived out each unique experience offered across various genres available today!