Sony confirmed that several legacy features of the PlayStation 4 will be disabled from spring 2026. Essa measure mainly affects backend services used by developers and does not directly impact online multiplayer or PlayStation Network for existing games. The change represents the gradual beginning of the end of support for the console launched in 2013.
The PlayStation 4 has sold more than 117 million units worldwide as of the latest official records. Esse number positions the console as one of the most successful in the history of the Japanese company. The decision reflects the growing prioritization of Sony on the PlayStation 5, which has already accumulated sales of more than 84 million units.
The transition comes at a time when the PS5 surpasses the sales pace of the PS4 in its first equivalent years. Jogadores with the old console will still be able to access essential games and services for an indefinite period of time.
Features affected by the change
Sony identified six specific features that will no longer operate on PS4 from March 2026. Essas tools were mainly used in online development and integration processes.
Among the discontinued items are the Activity Feed Web and the Shared Media Web API. Outros services include Title Small Storage, Title User Storage, Users and Profiles and Word Filters.
Details of disabled features
Developers received official communication about the changes planned for the beginning of 2026. The measure applies especially to new titles submitted for certification on the console.
Deactivation occurs selectively and does not disrupt core features such as access to the existing digital store. Jogos already published maintain compatibility with current online services.
These changes signal a gradual reduction in investments in previous generation hardware. Sony focuses its efforts on the most recent platform launched in 2020.
PlayStation 4 sales history
The PlayStation 4 reached significant milestones throughout its commercial trajectory that began in November 2013. The console recorded more than 117 million units sold globally by 2022.
This volume places the PS4 as the second best-selling console in the history of Sony. Apenas the PlayStation 2 surpasses this mark with higher numbers.
Sales maintained a consistent pace even after the launch of the successor. Prolonged support from first-party studios directly contributed to commercial longevity.
Comparison with PS5 performance
The PlayStation 5 recorded sales of approximately 84.2 million units by November 2025. Total Esse demonstrates acceleration compared to the initial cycle of the PS4.
In the first five years, the PS5 presents numbers in line with or better than its predecessor in equivalent periods. Fatores how initial stock shortages influenced the pace in the early years.
Sony reports continued shipments of new units of the current console. Demand remains high in several international markets.
Exclusives that defined a generation
The catalog of exclusive games represented a decisive factor in the commercial success of the PlayStation 4. Títulos developed by internal studios at Sony attracted millions of consumers.
Among the main highlights are 2018’s God of War and Marvel’s Spider-Man. Esses games received high ratings from specialized critics and the public.
- The Last of Us Part II
- HorizonZero Dawn
- Ghost of Tsushima
- Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
- Bloodborne
These games remain accessible via backwards compatibility on PS5.
Other notable titles in the catalog
Bloodborne remains one of the most revered exclusives despite the absence of a remaster. The game developed by FromSoftware set standards for the soulslike genre.
Ghost of Tsushima received a standalone expansion and a PS5 version with technical improvements. The production of Sucker Punch stood out for its detailed historical setting.
Days Gone offered an open-world experience with a focus on post-apocalyptic survival. The Bend Studio title divided opinions but accumulated a loyal player base.
Technical legacy of the console
PlayStation 4 hardware introduced x86 architecture compatible with modern development. Essa choice facilitated portability of games across platforms.
The console supported advancements such as 4K resolution in later released Pro models. System Atualizações have added features like Remote Play and Share Play.
The preserved digital library allows access to thousands of classic titles. Muitos games have been patched for better performance on successor hardware.
Preserved functionalities
PlayStation Network remains operational for PS4 owners. Serviços as online multiplayer and downloading of purchased games remain active.
The digital store maintains an accessible catalog for purchasing compatible content. Atualizações security and operating system receive regular maintenance.
Players can transfer saves to the PS5 via the cloud or external storage. Backwards compatibility covers almost the entire library of the previous console.
Gradual transition to new platform
Sony takes a phased approach to reducing support for legacy hardware. Similar Medidas occurred in previous cycles with PS3 and PlayStation Vita.
The increased focus on PS5 includes exclusive new generation releases. Títulos like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 explore superior technical capabilities.
Independent developers still publish games for the PS4 in specific markets. The high installed base justifies limited support in emerging regions.
The PlayStation 4 consolidated a dominant position in the industry during its generation. The console delivered memorable experiences that influence current productions. The extensive library guarantees relevance even with announced changes. Jogadores maintain access to essential content while the transition proceeds in a controlled manner.
