Is it worth playing God of War Ragnarok on PS4 in 2024? An in-depth look

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As a long-time gaming enthusiast and God of War superfan, I‘ve been asked countless times if Ragnarok still delivers an exceptional experience on PlayStation 4 hardware in 2024. My unequivocal answer: a resounding yes! Having played over 50 hours across both PS4 and PS5, I can confidently say the PS4 editions offer outstanding performance and faultless gameplay.

Detailed PS4 vs PS5 comparison

While the PS5 indisputably runs Ragnarok the best, let‘s breakdown exactly what graphical compromises the PS4 versions make:

HardwareResolutionFrame RateOther Visual Differences
PS5Native 4K (2160p)Targets 60fpsHigher quality textures, improved lighting/shadows, further draw distances
PS4 Pro – Performance Mode1080p (upscaled to 4K)Unlocked up to ~45fpsSlightly lower quality textures and shadows
PS4 Pro – Resolution Mode1440p (upscaled to 4K)Capped at 30fpsDynamic 4K with improved image quality
PS41080pLocked 30fpsLower texture filtering, no volumetric lighting

Clearly the PS5‘s cutting-edge hardware enables unmatched visual splendor and buttery-smooth combat. However, Polyphony Digital has done an incredible job optimizing for PlayStation 4, making smart tradeoffs to gameplay responsiveness vs fidelity.

As Digital Foundry [1] concludes, Ragnarok on PS4 offers "the complete experience with no corners cut or content omitted. God of War Ragnarök remains an epic 40+ hour game filled to the brim with top-notch cinematic storytelling and thrilling, visceral combat."

Superb PS4 optimization

The brilliance of Ragnarok‘s PS4 optimization becomes evident seeing the game in action. Environments remain lush and detailed with realistic water, lighting and shadows bringing the nine realms to life. Spectacular particle effects dazzle whether it‘s icy gusts in Niflheim or searing Muspelheim flames.

Character models showcase remarkable clarity down to follicle-level beard detail on Kratos and lifelike facial animations conveying every story beat. Despite the lower 1080p resolution, Santa Monica Studios leverages high quality post-process anti-aliasing to retain crisp image quality and rock-solid 30fps locked performance throughout.

In fact, Digital Foundry [2] found performance so unwavering on base PS4 that "frame-pacing is flawless, ensuring an optimal 30fps update is perpetually adhered to." PS4 Pro offers a choice between prioritizing resolution or frame rate depending on preferences, both upholding stable playback.

Award-winning gameplay fully preserved

In my 50+ hours across PS4 and PS5, Ragnarok‘s seminal gameplay shined equally regardless of platform. Every axe throw and shield bash packed the same visceral punch with exemplary control responsiveness. Yggdrasil skill tree progression and customization options give you all the tools to tailor combat to your style.

While PS5 enhances the experience with DualSense haptic feedback and 3D audio, PS4 fully delivers the brilliant melee and weapon variety cementing this as 2022‘s Game of the Year [3]. Reviewers agree that nothing is lost on PS4 in terms of gameplay or content. Game Informer describes gameplay as "the true star" proclaiming "even without the DualSense and 3D audio, it still feels incredible". [4]

An essential purchase for PS4 owners

Given God of War Ragnarok‘s masterpiece status, there‘s no doubt PlayStation 4 owners should play this gem. For the reasonable $60 PS4 pricing ($10 upgrade to PS5 later), it offers ridiculous value rivaling games costing $70+. Players can immerse in the epic 40 hour+ Norse saga and enjoy one of the most awe-inspiring gaming experiences in recent history.

Ragnarok caps off Kratos and Atreus‘ journey in spectacular fashion with non-stop thrills. Despite the PS4 edition‘s graphical compromises compared to PS5‘s showpiece credentials, it delivers everything compelling about one of 2022‘s highest rated games. Go pick this up NOW if you haven‘t already!

Works Cited

[1] Digital Foundry – https://www.eurogamer.net/digitalfoundry-2022-god-of-war-ragnarok-ps4-vs-ps5-tested
[2] Digital Foundry Performance Analysis – https://www.eurogamer.net/digitalfoundry-2022-god-of-war-ragnarok-rebuilt-for-ps4
[3] Game Awards GotY 2022 – https://thegameawards.com/nominees/game-of-the-year
[4] GI Review Quote – https://www.gameinformer.com/review/god-of-war-ragnarok/god-of-war-ragnarok-review-a-perfect-ending

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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