PlayStation's 30th Anniversary Celebration Fuels Bloodborne Speculation and More!
The recent PlayStation 30th-anniversary trailer reignited fervent speculation surrounding a potential Bloodborne remaster or sequel. The inclusion of Bloodborne, accompanied by the caption "It's about persistence," in the celebratory video, sparked a wave of excitement among fans.
The trailer, set to a unique version of The Cranberries' "Dreams," featured iconic PlayStation titles like Ghost of Tsushima, God of War, and Helldivers 2. Each game boasted a thematic caption; however, Bloodborne's appearance and its accompanying phrase ignited intense online discussions, fueling rumors of a potential Bloodborne 2 or a 60fps remaster with enhanced visuals. This isn't the first time such rumors have surfaced; a previous post by PlayStation Italia on Instagram showcasing Bloodborne locations also generated significant fan buzz. However, the anniversary trailer's message could simply acknowledge Bloodborne's notorious difficulty, emphasizing the persistence required to conquer its challenges.
PS5 Update: Customizable UI and a Blast from the Past
Sony's 30th-anniversary celebrations extended to a PS5 update, offering a limited-time PS1 boot-up sequence and customizable themes inspired by past PlayStation consoles. This update allows users to personalize their home screen's appearance and sound effects, evoking the nostalgia of past PlayStation experiences. While many users expressed delight, particularly with the return of the PS4 UI, the temporary nature of the update has led to some disappointment and speculation about Sony potentially testing the waters for more extensive UI customization options in the future.
Sony's Handheld Ambitions
The speculation continues beyond the PS5 update. Digital Foundry recently confirmed Bloomberg's reports about Sony's development of a new handheld console designed for PS5 games. While still in early stages, this venture suggests Sony's intention to compete in the portable gaming market currently dominated by Nintendo Switch. This move, along with similar efforts from Microsoft, is considered a strategic response to the growing popularity of mobile gaming. However, the development of a truly competitive handheld device will require significant innovation to offer both affordability and superior graphics.
Meanwhile, Nintendo appears to be ahead in the handheld race, with President Shuntaro Furukawa hinting at a Nintendo Switch successor reveal within the current fiscal year.