Sony have finally listened to countless fan requests, as the latest PlayStation 5 update brings back one of the 'most-requested features' as a permanent fixture, leaving many gamers in disbelief.
There are few things that the gaming world loves more than a bit of nostalgia, and between remakes, remasters, and references to the past, there's more than enough history to go around.
Despite the dramatic innovations in hardware that we've seen over the past few decades which allow upcoming titles like Grand Theft Auto 6 to achieve jaw-dropping graphics, that still won't achieve quite the same feeling that people got when booting up their favorite childhood console.
For many that was either the original PlayStation or PlayStation 2, and one of the most iconic features found within both is their startup screen and sounds.
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The booming synths of both opening screens instantly brings back memories of late nights and classic experiences, and many would love to recreate that feeling on their shiny new PlayStation 5, despite the near three decade difference.
Many got that same sensation though following PlayStation's recent 30th Anniversary celebration, as Sony decided to commemorate the milestone by implementing a classic theme styled in the way of the PS1 to the current console home page, and it was loved by many.
Sony meant for this to be just a temporary implementation exclusive to the anniversary period, which like the scarcity of special edition PS5 Pros left many feeling frustrated, but fans have now been left in disbelief following the latest update.
As shared by an observant gamer on Reddit, the latest PlayStation update has finally brought back the option to select a design inspired by every previous home console in Sony's lineup.
Anything from the original PlayStation to the most recent PS4 can be selected, so you can opt for whatever one gives you the strongest feeling of nostalgia if that's what you're after.
"They heard!!" Writes one comment in response to the news, with another adding that they are "waiting for the update myself, so hyped they brought it back."
While the initial fanfare is expected, there are some gamers that have been left with a feeling of disappointment after realizing that the update stops just short of what they actually wanted.
"Unless you can change the boot sound to PS1 or PS2, this is not the feature I have been waiting for," and in that lies the issue for many. It's great to have the visual identity for these classic consoles, but a large part of the appeal is rooted in the sounds instead.
"My disappointment is immeasurable and my day is ruined," writes another. "I didn't really care much for the visual aspect of the themes since they were all just functionless ghosts of what was, but the boot sounds were where the nostalgia hit was. Of course Sony almost did something cool. I don't even know why I let myself be surprised anymore."
Sony have implemented the PS1 startup sound before as a part of the 20th anniversary celebrations, making its omission this time around even more bizarre, but it's safe to say that while initially well received, this update has left a sour taste in the mouths of many.
