PlayStation fans face disappointment as classic themes leave PS5
Sony recently marked the 30th anniversary of the playstation with a range of nostalgic features for PS5 users. Fans of the original playstation were delighted to experience the classic PSOne start-up screen upon turning on their consoles. Additionally, Sony introduced a selection of retro-inspired home screen themes, allowing players to customise their PS5 with designs reminiscent of the playstation, PS2, PS3, and PS4 eras.
However, proving that all good things must come to an end, sony has now confirmed plans to remove these beloved console themes. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the company announced that the limited-time themes would be removed as of 31st January.
“Thank you for the fantastic response to the classic playstation, PS2, PS3, and PS4 limited-time console themes, which will be leaving tomorrow,” Sony stated. “Due to the positive response on these four themes, we’re doing some work behind the scenes to bring these special designs back in the months ahead.”
While this suggests that the themes may return at some point in the future, Sony clarified that there are currently no plans to introduce additional themes beyond these. “While there aren’t plans to create additional themes in the future, we’re excited to keep celebrating legacy PlayStation hardware with you all,” the company added in a follow-up post.
This marks the second piece of bad news for playstation fans this week. Sony has also revealed its intention to cease offering free PS4 games to PS Plus essential subscribers from january 2025. moving forward, the monthly game selection will focus almost exclusively on PS5 titles, although Sony has stated that occasional PS4 and cross-platform games will still be included.
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While this shift is unsurprising given the company’s focus on next-generation gaming, it will undoubtedly be disappointing for players who have yet to upgrade to a PS5. Fortunately, any PS4 games already redeemed through PS plus essential will remain in users’ libraries.
The announcement comes alongside a somewhat underwhelming selection of PS Plus games for February 2025, including payday 3 and high on Life, which have received mixed reviews from players.
Despite these setbacks, there is some brighter news on the horizon for PlayStation fans. In a surprising move, Microsoft has confirmed that forza horizon 5 will be making its way to PS5 later this year. Furthermore, the tech giant is set to hold a special halo infinite conference in the coming days, sparking speculation that the iconic Halo franchise could also be heading to PlayStation.
While Sony’s recent announcements may have left fans disappointed, the promise of future legacy PlayStation celebrations and unexpected cross-platform releases could help soften the blow.
