Was the PS3 Actually a Dud? Let’s Dust Off the Facts (and Maybe Your Old Console)
The PlayStation 3. The name brings back memories of sleek black consoles and Blu-ray movies. It promised a groundbreaking gaming experience. Yet, at launch, many labeled it a “flop.” Was the PS3 a mistake for Sony, or did it become a legend? Let’s find out.
From Zero to Hero: The PS3’s Rocky Start and Redemption
The PS3 stumbled at launch. It didn’t receive universal praise. The system faced a slow market reception, leading some to dismiss it. But underdogs can surprise. The PS3 proved it could recover and fight back.
Eventually, the PS3 thrived, selling 87.4 million units. It became the eighth best-selling console ever. Pretty good for a so-called “flop,” right? In an impressive twist, it even outsold the Xbox 360, showing a notable comeback.
Curtain Call: Saying Goodbye to the PS3
All good things end, even consoles. In 2012, Sony unveiled a slimmer PS3 model to replace the previous one. This was the last hardware version for the console. The PS3 was discontinued on October 31, 2016, ending its decade-long run according to CNET.
Even in retirement, the PS3 had surprises. The last game launched on the platform was
Is Your Old PS3 Still Worth the Dust Bunnies?
If you have a PS3 collecting dust, is it worthless? Not quite. A used PS3 is worth around $60 on average. It may not get you a yacht, but it holds value as a piece of history.
More importantly, is it still playable? Yes. It’s the only console playing PS3 games natively, so it remains valuable for retro gamers and collectors. There are great games still worth playing in 2024, whether you play remasters or your old console.
Curiously, many PS3 titles are rising in value. As they become rare items, nostalgia drives up prices in the collectors market. Those games in your closet might be worth more now!
The PS3’s Online Life: Surprisingly Alive and Kicking
How about the PS3’s online services? Surprisingly, the PlayStation Network on PS3 is still active. Users can still access the PlayStation Store. It’s like discovering a hidden door in a familiar house.
Though managing purchases feels outdated (credit cards are not used directly anymore), the fact that PSN is functioning reflects its lasting impact. Like an old car that keeps running unexpectedly.
Under the Hood: PS3 Tech Specs and Rivalries
Now, let’s discuss specs. The PS3 featured 256 MB of Rambus XDR DRAM and 256 MB of GDDR3 RAM for graphics. Those specs might seem small now, but at launch, they mattered. The GPU ran at 500 MHz, and system RAM was clocked at CPU speed. Early models used four 64MB chips; later models had two 128MB chips.
Regarding reliability, original “fat” models had a failure rate of about 5% to 20%. Ouch. However, Slim versions improved greatly with failure rates under 1%. In 2009, studies reported an average two-year failure rate at 10%, which was normal for electronics then. For perspective, the Xbox 360 had a much worse rate around 23.7%. That makes the PS3’s rate look better.
Graphically, the PS3 aimed high with “1080p” resolution claims. While not all games achieved this natively, many launched titles showcased high-quality visuals. Early HD movie demos were impressive for their time.
Playing the Classics: PS1 and PS2 Backwards Compatibility
One cool feature of the PS3 was its backwards compatibility. Good news for retro gamers: every PS3 can play PlayStation 1 games. Yes, Slim and Super Slim models included. This relies on software emulation, so all models let you access your PS1 library. Just know that region locking applies to PS1 discs.
The story is different for PS2 compatibility. Only original “fat” PS3 models (20GB, 60GB, and some early 80GB models with four USB ports) can play PS2 games with hardware support. These models contain actual PS2 components. Slim and Super Slim models do not support physical PS2 discs but allow some titles as “PS2 Classics” via digital download. Look for the four USB port models if seeking to play PS2 games.
What about playing PS3 games on the newer PS5? Unfortunately, it isn’t possible to play native discs on the PS5. However, subscribing to PlayStation Plus Premium allows streaming some PS3 titles from the cloud. It’s not the direct playback of discs but offers some access. The complex Cell Processor makes compatibility tricky.
Money Matters: Sony’s PS3 Gamble
A financial tidbit: Sony lost $3.31 billion pricing the PS3 below production costs. Yes, billions were lost. This strategy is called a “loss leader.” The plan was to regain losses through game sales and licensing fees. Each game sold generates licensing revenue for Sony. So selling more consoles at losses was a long-term play.
Still Getting Patches? PS3 Software Updates in 2024 (and Beyond!)
The PS3 surprisingly still receives updates into 2024 and beyond. On March 5, 2025, a new software update (version 4.92) was released. These updates focus on renewing Blu-ray encryption keys and enhancing system security and performance.
Think of these updates as maintenance for the Blu-ray player. They keep the system running smoothly.
These updates happen rarely, about once a year. They seem minor but are vital for Blu-ray playback and system stability. If you dust off your PS3, check for the latest update and install it.
Life After Death: The PS3 Community Today
Years after its end, the PS3 still thrives. Sony’s numbers are unclear, but millions still play PS3 online. Some say there are up to 2 million monthly users. That’s a huge community for a discontinued console.
The PS3, from a past generation, keeps a loyal online fan base. Many games still offer online multiplayer. Players feel nostalgia for their favorite titles. Unlike Xbox 360, Sony didn’t charge for multiplayer on PS3. This choice helped its staying power. The PS Store remains active, keeping the PS3 ecosystem alive.
Xbox 360 vs. PS3: A Tale of Two Consoles
Let’s discuss the Xbox 360. Was it more successful than the PS3? Many say yes. The Xbox 360 sold over 85 million units. It helped Microsoft cement its position in gaming and brought innovations like Xbox Live. It also launched a year earlier than the PS3 and often had lower prices.
The Xbox 360 gained early lead and momentum. The PS3 climbed slowly but steadily. It found its place in gaming history. Both consoles played major roles in the seventh generation. Fans adore both consoles today. The best-selling game consoles list shows PS2 is still king. Yet, the PS3 was a success too.
So, was the PS3 a flop? No, it wasn’t. It had a rocky start and high costs for Sony. The PS3 showed its worth in time. It offered great gaming moments, led with Blu-ray, and built a dedicated community that lives on. Dust off that PS3. Fun awaits.
