Behind the PlayStation® 5 design

[_J.G.M_]

“Play Has No Limits” – that was the theme the Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) team worked under to create the PlayStation® 5 (PS5).

Here, we delve deep into its design development.

A 5D universe

The team sought to achieve so much more than a good product design; the aim was to create a whole new concept of a five-dimensional universe to inspire gamers around the world, enhance their sense of immersion, and elevate the PlayStation® brand.

The idea of ‘five dimensions’ came from the model itself - this being the fifth generation of the console – and the team set out to define the PS5 universe, whilst leaving room for expansion.

They envisioned the PS5 as a portal, acting as a bridge between the gaming world and the real world, connecting across space and time to transport the user to the world inside the game.

To connect the two worlds, the team laid out the PS5 system UI, console, package, and other elements on a single concept sheet that visualised how each element was positioned and the role it played. All departments could then develop their areas to embody the overall concept of this 5D universe.

The PS5 is a portal to a 5D world

The PS5 design narrative describes:

“A powerful body of energy that possesses the limitless potential of five dimensions descends to earth from a universe in another dimension, and begins to morph into a concrete shape to interact with humans.”

The console, controllers, and peripherals are all born in the same universe, moulded into shapes that are suited for human interaction.

• The console

This is the core component that must convey the concept; hence it was built first.

The black central component represents a body of energy formed by densely packed, state-of-the-art technology. It is covered in panels to enable communication with humans, these panels symbolising layers of the players’ emotions and energy.

Black and white body colours were chosen with a hint of blue - the PlayStation® brand colour – and iconic PlayStation® symbols subtly line the insides of the panels. From the minute the user opens the box, they are pulled into the PS5 world, ready for adventure.

Uninterrupted immersion is paramount, and a lot of effort was put into maximising the console’s performance. For instance, a large cooling fan optimises airflow with minimal noise, and the power lights were placed inside the console, so they reflect off the panels and do not shine into players’ eyes. Not only does this meticulous attention to detail minimise distractions, but it also appears as if the energy inside the console is emitting light!

• The controller

The controller is the key that opens the door to the 5D world.

New features such as haptic feedback and a built-in microphone are now included, but the designers used their ingenuity to ensure the controller didn’t become too large. In fact, the PS5 controller retains the same operability as any of its predecessors whilst achieving an even better grip.

△〇×□ symbols line the surface where the user holds. The arrangement, density, size, and height of these symbols were adjusted through numerous prototypes to achieve the perfect design that provides both a pleasant feel and secure grip.

From an aesthetic view, the △〇×□ symbols were made colourless, action buttons transparent, and the PS button is now black to blend in.

Overall, the controller design feels natural and comfortable.

• PULSE 3D Wireless Headset

Again, minimal mechanical components have been used. This simple, white headset cuddles the user’s head, all focus on delivering the incredible 3D Audio experience.

• The system UI

The UX/UI development team worked to improve the existing UI that users are familiar with to achieve an even deeper level of immersion.

Now, parallel worlds can exist simultaneously, with the new Control Centre displayed over the gameplay screen when the PS button is pressed. This means players can quickly access other system functions, check the status of their friends, get strategic hints, and more, yet remain in the game.

Even the initial setup screen alludes to the concept of a portal – particles of light glimmer before an animation starts, raising the user’s anticipation for the adventure that’s about to begin.

A universe, constantly evolving

Day after day, members of the UI design team, plus global UX teams in research, writing, and production, are working to develop the PS5 and make gameplay even more enjoyable.

System updates are delivered via the Internet.

But one thing hasn’t changed…

The team specifically chose not to renew the logo, prioritising PlayStation® fans and players around the world, respecting the brand legacy.

It is like the PS4 logo - a decision made since the two consoles will exist side-by-side in the market, and to visually express backward compatibility, as PS4 games can be played on the PS5 too.

This article was adapted from a piece on Sony.net. The full article can be read here: https://www.sony.com/en/SonyInfo/design/stories/PS5/