Sony is currently sending system notifications to PS4 players recommending that they upgrade to PlayStation 5. In addition, some PSN services for newly released games will be shut down in 2026. Is the console being retired?
PlayStation or Xbox? Until 2013, this was the central question in the “Console Wars” between Sony and Microsoft. Then the Japanese company put an impressive end to the debate. While the US company focused on a multimedia console with the Xbox One, Sony remained true to itself with the PlayStation 4, putting the focus on gaming – and selling around twice as many units as its competitor.
Thirteen years later, there are further signs that the PS4’s time is slowly coming to an end. Back in October, Sony announced that it would be removing some PSN features for new releases—old games are not affected—on the last generation. Now, the company is addressing gamers directly. In a system notification, Sony recommends that PlayStation 4 owners upgrade to the PS5.
Fewer and fewer titles for PS4
“Now is the perfect time,” says a screenshot of the message circulating on social media. In it, the Japanese gaming giant refers to current and upcoming titles, such as 007 First Light and Nioh 3, which will be released exclusively for PlayStation 5.
PlayStation Is Sending From PlayStation Message To PlayStation 4 Users To Upgrade To PlayStation 5!PlayStation4 PS4 PlayStation5 PS5 pic.twitter.com/GsRb94IiAE
— @Zuby_Tech (@Zuby_Tech) January 27, 2026
The same applies to already released hits such as Arc Raiders and Ghost of Yotei, which are only playable on the PS5. With this move, Sony is emphatically underlining its intention to leave the PlayStation 4 behind, piece by piece. After all, Ghost of Yotei is one of its own in-house productions. However, the PS4 no longer seems to be able to meet its technical requirements. In the meantime, the games are no longer being optimized just for the PlayStation 5, but for its Pro version as well.
Upgrade inevitable?
Technical limitations, discontinued features, and missed new releases: the PlayStation 4’s retirement is fast approaching. In 2026, the leap to the current generation of consoles will be more necessary than ever – at least if gamers want to play the latest titles.
Sony has a little treat in store for those interested. PS4 owners can trade in their old console and receive up to $150 off the PlayStation 5.