Queuing; the imposed restriction developed to consolidate pragmatic organisation and ease the congested provocations of its tumultuous participants with restrictive hindrances. With such superficial constraints such as flushed velvet tendons that restrict access into one stationary convolution, cautiously subjugated by individuals destitute of pleasantry, navigating the exterior perimeter with indiscriminate examination, with enigmatic retention and singularly motivated by authoritative attainment. With no immediate liberation from its confines other than an invasive and all too intimate angled posture that sees you withdraw in a weaving crab like motion, uttering apologetic affirmation for your retreat as you fastidiously attempt not to step on the toes of unsuspecting individuals, simply to relieve yourself of any provoking dispensations. Often though the debilitating cramps that can fluctuate consistency due to retrained, regulatory clemency are necessary exasperation’s if we want to procure desirable wares, with only illusory expectancy to galvanise our directives. Of course at this years annual Eurogamer Expo there would be no such procuring gratification to reward such patience, but rather the advantageous opportunity to finally interact with one of the most desirable, inanimate objects ever conceived; The PlayStation 4.

“Suddenly have an urge for some Swiss, triangular chocolate?”

Despite the limitations implemented in regards of availability and elongated association with the console due to popular demand, it never felt contrived or devalued. Other than increasing repository acceleration from anticipation there’s also a delirious sense of occasion prior to your initial entrance, and you begin in earnest to validate the protracted immobile stance you ratified for over an hour, that you seek immediate vindication…..and receive it. Your initial reaction is one of candid disbelief at how such impressive hardware can be derived and compressed into such an angular slender device? I had felt that Sony had been riding a fortuitous wave of acclamation more accredited to Microsoft’s woeful instigation of the Xbox One, compounded by further restrictive developments (subsequently altered), the extravagant evaluation of the Xbox and a notable latency in the way it consolidates customer discrepancies. Despite revised evaluations and referendums designed to reduce anxiety to visibly contemptible prerogatives, loyalty has been severely compromised. Conversely, Sony has remained stringently consistent with its appraisals, never deviating from their transparent disposition and reaping the benefits of both their success and the compatriots failings, but its clear from the offset that Sony has amassed a beautifully constructed machine, brimming with rich, versatile colours so vibrant I almost licked the television receiver, but its the control that really shines.

“Spaceships, Lasers and explosions. Count me in!”

Pictures would convince you that the controller is bulky, almost cumbersome device, but there’s an instant sensation of familiarity about it despite its obvious visual distinctions from its predecessor. There’s a course texture to its underside that emblazons it with a rugged sensitivity, accentuating the limp grip I initially held. It’s weighty too, with markedly vivid definitions, so any criticisms pertaining to the delicate construction of a PS frame can be dispelled, and shoulder buttons protruding delicately have a sensual, immediate influence as though any inherent reactions are entirely your fault. Though many of the games I tested neglected the distinctly apparent touch screen, I observed others utilising the sensitivity as being very immediate and non abrasive to the eyes as well as the touch. It really doesn’t take long to acquaint yourself with its subtle protrusions and cultivated surface that may not be the amenity of visual allurement, but certainly an innovative design. The PS4 controller is more assured, comfortable and refined, with alterations that are both subtle but intrinsic. The games sadly fail to reflect, and conversely negate the otherwise innovation of the console that powers them.

“No, I still have no idea what is going on.”

HoHoKum is beautifully constructed title, coursing with originality and abstract compositions, with monochromatic artistic environment that can be manipulated to instil colourful imagery. In essence though, it largely focuses on a pleasantly vivacious seminal fluid, wiggling through levels, thus altering the textured composition of its environment to a more colourfully pleasing setting. It’s certainly a relaxed game, with an eccentricity without comparison. In fact, referring to HoHoKum as “a bit it odd”, would be like suggesting that Hitler was “a bit naughty”. Knack features an ambiguous, diminutive creature, capable of harnessing its ambient surroundings such as intimate objects, minerals or the elements themselves, to increase body capacity and physiology for more beneficial assaults. Though it lacks the punctuating feel of a prospective, PlayStation idol, it’s immersive enough to warrant some measure of consideration particularly for the younger generations. I’m convinced however that Sony will continue to create Killzone games until one adheres to the fans “Halo” sensibilities, or until the proverbial deification sticks. Driveclub is a genuinely fun distraction, perfectly suited for the on-line community that will inevitably flourish, but isn’t the proficient nail in Microsoft’s coffin. Resogun is an endearing vivid, visually provocative concept and a frantic homage to classic arcade games such as Galaga, but again this isn’t the console defining title the PS4 needs. But despite the latent sparsity of corroborating titles at launch, with reticent, dramatised presentation that accentuated its contents, I’m still confident that the exemplary console games will come, and whether your swayed by Sony or optimistic that Microsoft will recover from their turbulent inception, 2014 is going to be an illuminating period for games consoles……as well as expensive!

 Have you played either console? And are you swayed by either just yet? Let me know your thoughts. Cheers.