Phasmophobia, the popular co-op horror game by Kinetic Games, has finally made its way to the PlayStation 5 early access, bringing with it a host of improvements and features that enhance the ghost-hunting experience. The PS5 version introduces several quality-of-life improvements that make the game more accessible and enjoyable. The user interface has been streamlined for console play, making navigating menus and managing equipment easier. Additionally, the game benefits from faster load times, thanks to the PS5’s SSD, which means less waiting and more ghost hunting.
Phasmophobia is set to release on the PlayStation 5 on October 29, 2024 as an Early Access title. This release will also include support for PlayStation VR2, enhancing the immersive ghost-hunting experience just in time for Halloween.
The game has been in Early Access on PC since September 18, 2020. During this period, it has received numerous updates and improvements based on community feedback, helping to shape it into the highly engaging and terrifying game it is today.
Haptics with Tactics
One of the standout features of Phasmophobia on PS5 is the integration of DualSense haptics. The controller’s advanced haptic feedback adds a new layer of immersion, allowing players to feel the tension and fear as they explore haunted locations. From the subtle vibrations when using the EMF reader to the intense feedback during ghost encounters, the DualSense controller enhances the overall experience.
Phasmophobia on PS5 also takes full advantage of the console’s 3D audio capabilities. The use of 3D audio creates a more immersive and terrifying atmosphere, as players can hear the faint whispers and eerie sounds coming from specific directions. This feature is particularly effective in a horror game, where sound plays a crucial role in building suspense and fear.
A Long Road Ahead
The PS5 port of Phasmophobia has brought the chilling ghost-hunting experience to console players, but it hasn’t been without its issues. One of the main complaints has been the sensitivity of the controller sticks. Initially, the sticks were overly sensitive, making precise movements difficult and often leading to frustration during gameplay. I had to manually tweak the sensitivity settings to find a comfortable balance. Fortunately, a recent update has addressed this issue, improving the overall control experience significantly. However, there is still room for further refinement to ensure smoother and more intuitive controls.
Another area that has seen some criticism is the game’s visual performance, particularly with aliasing and lighting issues when using the PS5’s auto HDR mode. There are noticeable jagged edges and inconsistent lighting, which can detract from the immersive atmosphere that Phasmophobia aims to create. These visual hiccups can be particularly jarring in a game where the environment plays a crucial role in building tension and fear. While the recent updates have made strides in improving these aspects, there is still work to be done to fully optimize the game’s visuals on the PS5.
The last nitpick that I have is the game’s UI. It just feels underwhelming and not so user-friendly. It sure has gotten better compared to its early-access days on Steam, but it still needs more tweaks for a better non-VR experience.
Despite these issues, the developers have shown a commitment to improving the game based on player feedback. The ongoing updates and patches are a positive sign that Kinetic Games is dedicated to enhancing the Phasmophobia experience on PS5.
A Spooky Adventure
The PS5 version supports cross-play with other platforms, allowing players to team up with friends regardless of their gaming system. This ensures a larger player base and more opportunities for cooperative gameplay. Matchmaking times are generally quick, thanks to the active player community and cross-play support. Players can easily find games and join others in their ghost-hunting adventures. The 4-player co-op experience remains one of the game’s strongest aspects. Working together to gather evidence and identify ghosts is both thrilling and challenging, and the PS5’s performance ensures smooth gameplay even during intense moments.
While Phasmophobia shines in multiplayer, its single-player and training modes could use some improvements. The single-player mode can feel less engaging without the dynamic interactions of a team, and the training mode, while helpful, could benefit from more comprehensive tutorials and scenarios to better prepare players for real missions. To enjoy Phasmophobia’s multiplayer mode on PS5, players will need a PlayStation Plus subscription. This is a standard requirement for most online multiplayer games on the platform, but it’s worth noting for those who are new to PlayStation’s online services.
INITIAL IMPRESSION
Overall, Phasmophobia on PS5 offers a highly immersive and improved ghost-hunting experience, thanks to quality-of-life enhancements, PSVR 2 Mode, DualSense haptics, and 3D audio. The cross-play feature and quick matchmaking times make it easy to jump into games with friends, while the 4-player co-op mode remains a highlight. However, there is room for improvement in the single-player and training modes. Phasmophobia on PS5 is a must-play for horror fans looking for a thrilling and immersive experience.