Several days ago, Sony surprisingly revealed the design and some key features of DualSense, which is the controller of its next-generation console, the PlayStation 5. Although the DualSense bears some resemblance to the current generation's DualShock 4, the new controller contains new features and an overall new design aesthetic. Of course, it has just been a few days since Sony revealed the DualSense controller, but the response is mixed. Many were happy with the new changes that bring the controller one level higher than the DualShock 4, but others were not so keen with its design, especially its two-tone color scheme.
Now, one of the biggest questions that many PlayStation fans are probably asking is how much the DualSense cost? But before tackling all the possible price points of the DualSense controller, it is first best to briefly go over all the confirmed changes the controller will have and just how much different it is than the current generation DualShock 4. Of course, more features and upgrades from its predecessor could mean a slightly more expensive controller. But are all these new technologies worth it? And will the DualSense controller elevate the gaming experience players on the PlayStation 5?
How DualSense is Different with DualShock 4
During the official reveal of the DualSense controller, Sony announced several new features that will be present in the PlayStation 5's controller. First is haptic feedback, which Sony has been throwing around ever since the announcement of the console itself. Unlike the DualShock 4, haptic feedback in DualSense is a feature that will introduce an enhanced vibration technology that Sony says will be vastly different from the current controller's standard rumble.
This new feature is set to elevate the gaming experience on the PlayStation 5 to a whole new level, giving players physical feedback that wasn't present in the current generation's controller. Additionally, haptic feedback on the PlayStation 5's DualSense controller is said to have a huge array of intensities, depending on what is happening on the TV screen. Sony also revealed that the feature would allow for various parts of the controller to vibrate independently, in hopes of providing a more immersive gameplay experience that players will not get from the DualShock 4.
Apart from haptic feedback, another new major feature that the DualSense controller will have is adaptive triggers. This new feature will allow the DualSense controller to communicate with PlayStation 5 games better, providing better resistance when pulling the triggers from either side of the controller. As an example, the R2 button on the DualSense controller would work as normal on most games, but if players are playing the title where they need to draw a bow, the controller will provide more resistance to the trigger, forcing players to exert more effort for a realistic experience. While this feature may seem minor, it is there to heighten the immersion of players and give game developers more tools to introduce something new to their respective games.
How Much Will the PlayStation 5's DualSense Controller Cost?
So the question is, will these new features affect the pricing of the DualSense controller? It's difficult to give a direct answer, especially since the price of the PlayStation 5 itself, which will also introduce many improvements over the PS4, is still unknown. However, many analysts predict that the PS5 will be slightly more expensive than the PS4, and it is likely that the DualSense controller will be following suit. With all these new innovations included, it is expected that the DualSense controller would range somewhere between $75 to $80, which is slightly more expensive than the DualShock 4.
Another possible pricing point for the DualSense controller is somewhere in the range of $60-$65, which is on par of the current retail price of the DualShock 4 controllers. Of course, there are many factors that may jack up the price of the DualSense, especially if Sony would offer it in different colors and designs similar to the DualShock 4. However, it is expected that $60 will be the minimum price of the controller, and anything beyond $80 is too much. It is also worth mentioning that console purchases will come with one, as is typically the case, but those looking to check out co-op next gen may want to factor in a second controller as well.
PlayStation 5 is set to launch Holiday of 2020.