In the gaming world, a next-gen console launch is always a huge event. These seismic leaps forward in tech only happen every five, six, or even seven years. That’s how long it takes to make machines that deliver games we previously only dreamt about. So when Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X launched in 2020, we paid attention.
One year later, this young console generation has been an especially odd one so far, and not just because the launch coincided with a global pandemic that continues to delay game development and reduce supply for already popular products. Companies put more of an emphasis on expansive ecosystems rather than rigid hardware, so with generous cross-generation support you don’t even necessarily need these consoles to play the hottest releases, at least not yet. Still, countless gamers can’t resist the allure of playing the latest games on the most powerful (non-PC) platforms out there.
Check out the video above for the latest episode of the Pop-Off, where we look back on next-gen’s first year, from supply shortages and exclusive games to questionable design choices. Can PS5’s first-party blockbusters take down Xbox Game Pass? Where does the Nintendo Switch fit in? Plus, we preview 2022’s most promising games, from Elden Ring to God of War: Ragnarok to Starfield to Bayonetta 3. If you managed to score yourself one (or both) of the next-gen consoles, you’ll want to play the best games. Check out our lists for PlayStation 5 games and Xbox Series X/S games to pick up right now. And for more in-depth video game talk, visit PCMag’s Pop-Off YouTube Channel.
