More individuals need to keep an open mind.

As I browse the web, I can’t help but notice reputable sites like IGN, Forbes, and Gamespot, I can’t help but notice “reputable” and other sites out there speak on how the PS4 has sold 5.4 million units, how the Xbox One can’t output 1080p and 60fps. While, I think its clear that I am more on the side of Microsoft; mainly because its an American product which I think most people [in my circle] forget, I am NOT oblivious to the amazing product that Sony has.

But, It amazes me how desperate people (blogs, websites, etc etc) are quick to point out sales numbers and other info on a console (XB1) that is only in 13 territories for now! 

Most people in this country are trained to go for the cheaper product anyway with fewer who actually do their own research and look at things objectively and not allow the media to indoctrinate them…

Now, I will touch on the fact that Sony chose to UNDERCUT MSFT at last years E3 conference but more importantly. Doesn’t anyone notice these things except for me?? Anyway, Sony has the more graphically powerful console *Again* due to Sony taking a GAMBLE in 2010 when they chose to go with GDDR5 which is what is giving the PS4 a slight edge in this generation. This specific ram type in 2010 was very expensive and limited, but Sony’s bet paid off. It’s worth noting that Microsoft could’ve gone with this RAM type as well, but they had other plans which I will touch base on shortly. So with that being said: WHY is Sony selling for less??

To answer that question, one must look at it from a company standpoint and NOT a “gamer” Sony knew that they could NOT compete with: Xbox Live (XBL), Kinect, the launch exclusives that Microsoft had and it’s attempt at using the XB1 as a HUB for all Microsoft devices and software as time goes on…

So, Sony the company made the decision at E3 to sell for less and take yet another gamble. To expatiate on what that gamble was, is to understand that Sony having the more expensive console to manufacture due to its use of: GDDR5 RAM and selling for $100 less, MUST sell as many units as they can to have any sort of profitability, even if its not much by our standards, it has to make sense for Sony.

Sony could’ve easily went with the $479.99 or $499.99 price point, which would net them more profit for each console sold, because the PS4 is definitely worth more than just $399.99. However, due to this price choice, Sony makes about $16-$19 estimated dollars for each console sold. Microsoft on the other-hand is making around $27-$30 for each XB1 sold which isn’t as profitable as say…Nintendo hardware, but Microsoft is doing better than Sony in that regard.

For Microsoft, this isn’t JUST about “games” its about bringing people into the Microsoft ecosystem or at least attempt to, similar to say…what Apple is doing. I feel like I’m the only one who gets it..The proof of this stratagem is the RAM choice…I keep reiterating that Microsoft could’ve went with the same RAM type as the PS4 back in 2010. But, because Microsoft is making essentially a “HUB” that integrates: Microsoft devices, software and media into one device ergo the name: Xbox “ONE” They required RAM that has lower latency so the decision to go with DDR3 ram was made. With me elaborating on these factors, Its like every website and Facebook thread is rife with people who just don’t see the WHOLE picture…They see what “IS” but not “How” or especially “WHY” things are the way they are which seems to permeate more facets of our society but that’s a conversation or status for another day…

In closing, everyone just seems to be stuck on the same things: 1) PS4 is out selling Xbox One *They better because they are already taking a significant loss on each PS4 sold so the more they sell the better* 2) PS4 can do 1080p and 60fps *PS4 is easier to develop for due to its straight forward design and developers need more time to figure out the XB1 architecture*…same discussions smh..Thank you to those who decided to read this very detailed look into some reasons as to “How” and “Why” things are the way they are in the early months of this console war…If I can even call it such. At the end of the day, just enjoy whatever you own.

Arthur is an accomplished veteran player in the Tekken tournament fighting game circuit and has been part of Empire Arcadia, recognized as the World’s Most Winning Team by the Guinness Book of World Records. You can follow him on Twitter at @Blood_Red_9680

[The views expressed in this article belong to the author and may not represent the views of Put That Back as a whole]

 

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