What happens when a popular game like Genshin Impact decides to end support for a major console like the PlayStation 4? The gaming community is about to find out, as HoYoverse, the game’s developer, has announced that it will be shifting its focus to the PlayStation 5 version. But what does this mean for players, and how will it affect the game’s overall popularity?
Genshin Impact Ends PS4 Support
Genshin Impact, an open-world action role-playing game, has been a huge success since its release in 2020. However, with the rise of newer consoles, it’s not surprising that HoYoverse has decided to end support for the PS4. The process will occur in three phases, starting with the removal of the game from the PlayStation Store on September 10. In-game purchases will no longer be available on February 25, 2026, and official support for Genshin Impact on PS4 will end on August 4, 2026.
This decision may come as a shock to some players, but it’s a natural step in the evolution of the game. As technology advances, games need to adapt to take advantage of new features and capabilities. In this case, the PS5 offers more powerful hardware and improved graphics, making it an ideal platform for Genshin Impact.
The End of PS4 Support
So, what can players expect from the end of PS4 support? For starters, they won’t be able to purchase the game or any in-game items after the specified dates. Additionally, any issues or bugs that arise after official support ends may not be addressed. However, it’s worth noting that players who have already purchased the game will still be able to play it, even after support ends.
The removal of Genshin Impact from the PlayStation Store will also mark the end of an era for PS4 players. While it’s not uncommon for games to be delisted from stores, it’s still a significant change for fans of the game. On the other hand, the shift to PS5 will bring new features and improvements, making the game more enjoyable for players who upgrade to the newer console.
New System Requirements
In addition to ending PS4 support, HoYoverse is also raising the system requirements for PC and mobile devices. The new requirements will be implemented with the Song of the Welkin Moon version, likely version 6.0. Devices that fall below the minimum specs may still launch the game, but performance issues are expected. This change will ensure that the game runs smoothly and efficiently on newer hardware, providing a better experience for players.
The increased system requirements are a result of the game’s growing complexity and the need for more powerful hardware to support its features. As games become more sophisticated, they require more resources to run effectively. In this case, the new system requirements will help to ensure that Genshin Impact continues to deliver a high-quality gaming experience for players.
Impact on the Gaming Community
The end of PS4 support and the increased system requirements will likely have a significant impact on the gaming community. Fans of Genshin Impact may be disappointed by the loss of support for their console, but they can still play the game on other platforms. The shift to PS5 will also bring new players into the game, as those who have upgraded to the newer console will be able to experience the game’s improved features and graphics.
The broader implications for the gaming industry are also worth considering. As games become more complex and demanding, the need for more powerful hardware will continue to grow. This may lead to a shift towards more expensive, high-end consoles, which could potentially exclude some players from the gaming community. However, it’s also possible that the increased focus on newer consoles will drive innovation and improvement in the gaming industry as a whole.
What’s Next for Genshin Impact
So, what’s next for Genshin Impact? With the end of PS4 support and the increased system requirements, the game is poised for a new era of growth and development. As players upgrade to newer consoles and devices, they’ll be able to experience the game’s improved features and graphics. The shift to PS5 will also bring new opportunities for HoYoverse to expand the game’s story and gameplay, potentially attracting new players and keeping existing ones engaged.
While the end of PS4 support may be a disappointment for some, it’s a natural step in the evolution of Genshin Impact. As the game continues to grow and improve, it’s likely that we’ll see even more exciting developments in the future. For now, players can look forward to the new features and improvements that the Song of the Welkin Moon version will bring, and speculate about what’s next for this beloved game.