At a price of around PKR 170,000 in Pakistan with the manufacturer-boxed Sony PS5 Disk Edition many might ask: is it worth investing in this console right now (being that we know what the situation has been for last years up until recently) there are still great gaming experiences to be had otherwise through an existing Sony PS4? At such a high price, the PS5 offers a range of all-new features and levels of immersion that some gamers have not yet heard of. But the decision to buy is not an obvious one. At this point, it all depends on what you want to do with your PC in terms of gaming, while also taking budget into consideration.
Highlights for the Gamers
It’s absolutely a Pro-gaming console, and not just by name but the features. The near-instantaneous transitions between scenes and exponentially faster load time, thanks to the ultra-high-speed SSD. Do you want to power up those loading times and squeeze out some extra pixels from the graphical fidelity of a game as rich in story, like Bloodborne or Ghost of Tsushima? Now the graphics, the PS5 ray tracing offers far more realistic lighting, shadows and reflections to create an ambience that looks closer to real life than the others. In addition to this, since the TCL 55R617 supports 4K resolution and HDR technology everything looks sharp even on the big screens, with almost real-life colour.
The DualSense controller on the PS5 is one of its most impressive features. The haptic feedback along with the adaptive triggers deliver an adjustable tactile sensation that coordinates perfectly well with gameplay mechanics providing a more immersive experience. With the additional support of Sony’s Tempest 3D AudioTech sound engine, sounds move seamlessly in a three-dimensional space enabling players to pinpoint enemy locations through audio alone. These features make it clear Sony is worried about providing a richer, more immersive gaming experience that cannot be delivered on the PS4 even by Pro Board measures.
The Backward Compatibility
The PS5 will also be backward-compatible with most PlayStation 4 games, so you can keep playing your favourite games from the previous era. Functionally, a number of the PS4 games running on the PS5 are also using enhanced performance/GPU features to effectively provide a boost for something like God of War or Horizon Zero Dawn. New console, new platform exclusives and with GTA 6 due for release on the PS5 it is futureproofing your gameplay to ensure you get the most out of big titles as they launch.
Is it really worth it?
As the exchange rates fluctuate, and the availability of gaming consoles is uncertain, there seems to be no fixed price for a PlayStation 5. The PS5 Disk Editions, usually cost between PKR 150k to 180K which is a hefty sum when you consider that you can get your hands on hopefully well-performing PS4 for quite less. Buying the PS5 from abroad may also seem like a compelling idea to a gamer in Pakistan. For instance, in the Middle-East the console could be found for approximately 126K with delivery charges. While the savings are excellent, you should also be aware that any imported electronics may be subjected to customs duties in Pakistan which would eventually add up to the same.
Should You Wait or Buy Now?
Holding out until the launch of GTA 6 sounds appealing, provided that the price can be reduced somewhat. On the flip side, when all of these new games drop, it could raise the demand, which could keep the prices high, or drive them up due to supply chains. Besides, if you value graphics and next-gen experiences the PS5 offers, for peace of mind, upgrading sooner rather than later is a better idea.
Many gamers on forums like Reddit discuss similar dilemmas, weighing whether the improved experience of the PS5 is worth the premium cost over a cheaper PS4. Some argue that if you’re a casual gamer or mainly interested in single-player exclusives, the PS4 can still be fulfilling, especially with the availability of titles like The Last of Us Part II and Ghost of Tsushima on the platform. Others point out that if you have a 4K HDR display and appreciate high-quality graphics, the leap to PS5 is well worth it.
To upgrade or to not upgrade?
Another factor to consider for PKR 170,000 is that gamers might also look into building a custom gaming PC. While a PC may lack some of the exclusive PS5 titles, it offers flexibility with upgrades and access to a broader range of games. Additionally, gaming PCs can be used for purposes beyond gaming, making them a more versatile investment. However, the PS5 offers a streamlined, no-fuss gaming experience that many find appealing.
Is the PS5 Worth It in Pakistan?
The decision to buy a PS5 at current prices depends on several factors, such as your budget, gaming needs, and access to a 4K HDR screen. If you’re a gamer who values the immersive experiences that come with the PS5’s next-gen features—such as the ultra-fast SSD, 3D audio, and haptic feedback—it’s likely a worthwhile investment. On the other hand, if you’re more of a casual player and already own a PS4, waiting for price drops or major game releases could be a smart move.
The PS5’s price tag in Pakistan remains high due to import costs and limited availability, but for dedicated gamers, its features and exclusive titles offer an experience that may justify the expense. As one Reddit user wisely noted, “If you have the money, it’s worth it; but if you’re stretching your budget, the PS4 is still a fantastic console with plenty to offer.” Ultimately, the PS5 is a powerhouse that brings a refined, immersive experience, setting a new standard in console gaming—but only you can decide if the upgrade is worth the cost.
