Venturing into the gaming PC ecosystem has been a journey filled with both exhilarating highs and challenging lows. Transitioning from the simplicity of console gaming, particularly on Sony’s PS5, to the intricate world of PC gaming was not without its frustrations. The ease of powering up a console and diving straight into gameplay was replaced by the need for file management and technical adjustments. However, as I adapted to these nuances, I discovered the myriad benefits of PC gaming, notably the absence of multiplayer subscription fees, which felt like a breath of fresh air.
In contrast, both Microsoft and Sony have established multiplayer subscription models through Xbox Game Pass and PS Plus, respectively. This means that console gamers often find themselves compelled to subscribe to these services to enjoy online play, with the exception of free-to-play titles like Fortnite. This discrepancy raises an intriguing question: why do consoles impose such barriers when PC gaming offers a more accessible alternative?
Gaming PC hardware is more expensive than console hardware, but the expense to play games is not
While it’s true that the initial investment in gaming PC hardware can be steep, the long-term costs associated with playing games tell a different story. On the PC platform, gamers can access a wealth of affordable titles, thanks to platforms like the Epic Games Store, which frequently offers free games, and online key marketplaces such as CD Keys, where new releases are often available at significantly reduced prices. Personally, I can’t recall the last time I paid full price for a game, largely due to Steam’s generous sales.
Although there are some console games available on key sites, the selection for Xbox is far superior compared to PlayStation. The latter often sees a scarcity of discounted titles, with many games retaining their original retail prices long after their release. A prime example is God of War Ragnarok, a 2022 title that still commands a price of .99. This situation forces gamers into a corner: either pay full price, which could soon escalate to , or wait for a rare discount in an industry increasingly moving away from physical copies. The days of varied pricing for physical games are dwindling, leaving gamers with fewer options.
Reflecting on my own experience, I held onto my RTX 3080 Ti for four years after purchasing it at £1,099 (approximately ,199) towards the end of its life cycle in 2021. Despite the occasional subpar PC ports, I could have easily continued using Nvidia’s RTX 3000 series GPU, especially now with the advancements in DLSS technology. This illustrates that while high-end hardware may be costly upfront, it can outlast multiple console generations without necessitating an upgrade, while the cost of games remains significantly lower on PC, particularly when compared to Sony’s offerings. Interestingly, console prices are creeping closer to those of PCs, with the PS5 Pro priced at 9.
PS Plus and Xbox Game Pass multiplayer access isn’t ‘fine’, it’s ridiculous
Then, there’s the elephant in the room: the subscription services of PS Plus and Xbox Game Pass. The basic PS Plus plan, known as ‘Essential’, costs .99 annually, nearly the same as the standard edition of a new Call of Duty game priced at .99. When you factor in the cost of the service along with the game, the total climbs to 9.98. The situation worsens with the ‘Premium’ plan, which mimics Xbox Game Pass but lacks access to day-one titles, costing 9.99. The disparity is glaring.
Having experienced Microsoft’s Game Pass service, I can attest to its value, offering a plethora of new games on their release day for both console and PC players—something that PS Plus fails to deliver. Moreover, the monthly offerings from PS Plus often leave much to be desired. While console players must pay for Game Pass Core to access online play, PC gamers enjoy a broader range of inexpensive alternatives, making it easier to justify purchases without the hesitation that often accompanies buying games for the PS5. This isn’t merely a matter of financial constraints; it’s about recognizing the value of what you’re purchasing.
If the thought of building a gaming PC has been daunting due to hardware costs, it’s essential to understand that while the initial investment may be significant, the subsequent savings on games and the elimination of subscription paywalls for online play make it a worthwhile endeavor.
