What Was the Last Game Released on PS3?
The final game released for the PlayStation 3 (PS3) was Shakedown: Hawaii, which launched on August 20, 2020. This retro-inspired open-world action game, developed by Vblank Entertainment, marked the end of an era for the beloved console. It’s a fittingly quirky and nostalgic send-off, showcasing the enduring appeal of the PS3 long after the arrival of its successor, the PS4.
The Legacy of the PlayStation 3
The PS3, released in 2006, enjoyed a long and successful run. Even in 2023, the console and its vast library of games are still actively enjoyed by a passionate community of gamers. Shakedown: Hawaii arriving so late into the PS3’s life cycle is a testament to both the console’s enduring appeal and the creative freedom of independent game developers. The game’s release, despite being years after the PS4’s launch, shows that there was still a market for games on the PS3.
Shakedown: Hawaii – A Retro Farewell
Shakedown: Hawaii isn’t just any game; it’s a love letter to classic top-down action games like the original Grand Theft Auto. It combines open-world exploration, satirical humor, and a wide range of missions, making it an engaging and fun experience. Its release on PS3 felt like a final hurrah, reminding players of the diverse and inventive games that have graced the console over the years.
Why is the PS3 Still Relevant?
Even though the PS3 is an older console, it still holds relevance for several reasons. Many of its exclusive titles aren’t available on newer consoles, making it a desirable system for gamers. Also, its affordability makes it an accessible choice for those who might not want to invest in a more expensive system like the PS5.
FAQ: Diving Deeper into the PS3 World
Q1: What are some of the rarest and most expensive PS3 games?
Some of the rarest and most expensive PS3 games include Armored Core For Answer, Dead Nation, and BlazBlue: Central Fiction. These games are sought after by collectors and their value has remained high over the years.
Q2: Is the PlayStation 3 digital store still available?
Yes, the PlayStation 3 digital store is still available as of 2023. Sony had initially planned to shut it down, but reversed their decision following backlash from fans. However, there are limitations now on how digital games can be purchased, introduced in October 2021.
Q3: Is it worth buying a PS3 in 2023?
Absolutely! The PS3 has a fantastic library of games, many of which aren’t available on PS4 or PS5. Some notable PS3 exclusives include Metal Gear Solid 4 (MGS4), Infamous, Resistance, God of War Remastered, Puppeteer, Killzone, and Twisted Metal. It’s an affordable way to experience these classics.
Q4: What was the last game released on the PlayStation 2?
The last game released on the PlayStation 2 (PS2) was Pro Evolution Soccer 2014, which was released in the United Kingdom on November 8, 2013.
Q5: What was the last game released for the original PlayStation (PS1)?
In North America, the final licensed PS1 game was FIFA Football 2005 released on October 12, 2004. In Europe, it was either Schnappi das kleine Krokodil – 3 Fun-Games (March 1, 2005) or Moorhuhn X (July 20, 2005), the actual last European release is unknown.
Q6: Why was the PS3 considered less powerful than the Xbox 360 initially?
Many cross-platform games on the PS3 were often considered to look duller and sluggish compared to their Xbox 360 counterparts due to architectural differences and developers being more accustomed to the 360 architecture early on. Also, the PS3 launched at a higher price, with versions costing $499 and $599 USD, depending on hard drive size.
Q7: Why are used PS3 consoles and games still relatively expensive?
Some components used in the PS3 have become difficult to source, resulting in custom orders, driving up the costs. This, coupled with demand from collectors and enthusiasts, contributes to the higher prices.
Q8: Can the PS5 play PS3 games?
While the PS5 has some backwards compatibility, it does not have native support for PS3 discs. You cannot play PS3 physical games directly on a PS5. There are however, streaming options through PlayStation Plus Premium for certain PS3 titles.
Q9: Are the PS3 online servers still active?
Yes, PS3 servers are still up and running as of 2023. Sony reversed their decision to shut down the store and servers following fan backlash. So online play and digital store access is still available.
Q10: Why did Sony initially plan to close the PS3 store?
Sony initially announced the closure of the PlayStation Store for the PS3 and Vita in March of 2021, but ultimately reversed their decision following significant outcry from fans and the community. They acknowledged it was “the wrong decision.”
Q11: Can you still play online multiplayer games on the PS3?
Yes, you can still play online multiplayer games on the PS3. However, most games have more active player communities on PS4. It’s a viable option if you’re looking to enjoy online gaming on an older console.
Q12: What is the longest game available on the PS3?
Some of the longest JRPGs on the PS3 are Disgaea 3: Absence Of Justice (around 200 hours to beat) and White Knight Chronicles 2 (around 150 hours to beat), which are some of the longest games on the console, in terms of time to complete.
Q13: What is the rarest video game of all time?
The rarest video game of all time is ‘Gamma Attack’ for the Atari 2600. There is only ONE copy of this game in existence, currently owned by a collector named Anthony DeNardo.
Q14: How much is a used PS3 worth in 2023?
A used PS3 is typically worth around $50 on its own. A bundle with several popular games and two controllers may be worth about $100 or more.
Q15: What game pushed the PS3 to its absolute graphical limits?
The Last of Us is widely considered the game that pushed the PS3 to its graphical limits. Released just five months before the PS4, its impressive visuals were a testament to what the seven-year-old hardware was capable of.