The announcement of the PS5 Pro sparked a strong negative reaction, largely due to its steep price of $700/£700. Even though the system architect, Mark Cerny, presented the console well, the high cost led to widespread backlash. This was reflected in a Push Square poll, where only 9.7% of participants indicated they would pre-order the console, a low figure for a website frequented by gaming enthusiasts.
Over time, opinions on the PS5 Pro have shifted. While a vocal group still questions the need for the upgraded console, the number of people committing to pre-ordering the device has risen dramatically to 39%. This marks a significant change in sentiment from the overwhelmingly negative initial reaction.
Despite this shift, a large portion of the audience remains unconvinced. In the latest poll, 44.4% of respondents said they still don’t plan to buy the PS5 Pro. However, more people are now considering purchasing it later, with the percentage of those holding out for a future purchase rising from 6.6% to 15.7%.
One reason for the shift in opinion could be the emerging real-world analysis of the console. Experts, such as those from Digital Foundry, have described the PS5 Pro as a “good investment,” and impressive improvements in games like *Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth* have showcased the console’s capabilities. Additionally, more games are being confirmed to support the PS5 Pro, adding to its appeal.
While the PS5 Pro’s price is still seen as prohibitively high, leading many to feel it doesn’t justify the cost, the initial wave of negativity has diminished. Though it’s unlikely to achieve mass popularity at its current price point, the growing interest and softened backlash suggest that the console is gradually gaining acceptance.
