For a console released over a decade ago, the PlayStation 4 refuses to fade into the background. Even as the gaming world steps into 2026, the PS4 will still remain one of the most practical, flexible and value-packed gaming systems for gamers across Nigeria and Africa. Yes, the PS5 is faster, newer and powerful, but the PS4 still sits perfectly at the intersection of affordability, functionality, and entertainment freedom, and that combination is rare in today’s economy.
Let’s break down why the PS4 still has a solid place in your gaming setup in 2026.
Understanding the Title, It’s Not “Old,” It’s “Reliable”
A lot of people will see “PS4 in 2026” and think the console is outdated. But in reality, it has become the sweet spot for gamers who want strong performance without the heavy financial commitment of newer-gen consoles.
Across Nigeria and many African countries, where electricity costs, import tariffs, game pricing and internet challenges all affect gaming, the PS4 has quietly become the most balanced option for many households. It delivers great gameplay, strong entertainment features, flexible storage options and still supports a massive catalogue of games.
Pros of Owning a PS4 in 2026
Affordable & Accessible
The PS5 still costs a premium due to import costs and limited supply in many African markets. Meanwhile, PS4 Fat, Slim and Pro models are everywhere, cheaper, easier to service, and supported by local repair shops.
Huge Game Library
The PS4 has one of the biggest game libraries in history, and many of these titles still look and play amazingly well.
Backward Compatibility Advantage
Most PS4 games run on the PS5. So buying PS4 games isn’t a waste, it’s actually an investment you can carry into the next console.
Entertainment Machine Beyond Gaming
A PS4 is not just a gaming device, it’s a full multimedia hub. You can:
- Browse the internet
- Watch Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu
- Stream music on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube
- Use it as a mini smart-TV system
For many people, this makes the PS4 a “2-in-1 device” at home.
Sleek & Portable Design
The PS4 Slim is incredibly portable compared to the giant PS5. Even the PS4 Fat, with its triple-decker iconic look, still stands out as one of Sony’s most stylish consoles. For students, military personnel, and renters who move frequently, portability is a big win.
Cons of Owning a PS4 in 2026
Not as Fast as the PS5
SSD load times on the PS5 are massively faster.
No Ray Tracing or True 4K Gaming
The PS5’s graphic capabilities simply outclass the PS4.
Fewer Future Game Releases
Over the next few years, more developers will continue shifting to PS5-only titles.
Even with these downsides, the PS4 still holds its ground for most gamers.
PS4 vs PS5 — A Quick Spec Comparison
| Feature | PS4 | PS5 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | 500GB / 1TB HDD | 825GB SSD |
| Resolution | 1080p (Pro: 4K Upscaled) | True 4K |
| Load Times | Slower (HDD) | Ultra-fast (SSD) |
| Frame Rate | 30–60fps | Up to 120fps |
| Size | Compact (Slim) / Moderate (Fat) | Very large, heavy |
| Price (Nigeria est.) | ₦170,000–₦250,000 | ₦550,000–₦900,000 |
Looking at the numbers, yes, the PS5 wins on raw power, but the PS4 wins for value, convenience, and flexibility.
Games You Can Play on Both PS4 and PS5
These PS4 classics also run beautifully on PS5:
- God of War Ragnarok
- Ghost of Tsushima
- The Last of Us Part II
- GTA V — Expanded Edition
- Elden Ring
- FIFA 26
- Spider-Man & Spider-Man: Miles Morales
- Horizon Zero Dawn / Forbidden West
- UFC 4/5
- NBA 26
This means buying a PS4 today doesn’t lock you out of the PlayStation ecosystem.
The “Jailbreak Advantage”, (But Explained Safely & Legally)
Many Nigerians know how expensive PS4 discs and digital games can be, often costing more than the console itself. Some people turn to jailbreaking to install games more affordably.
While jailbreaking allows access to offline games without buying discs, it does come with risks like loss of online features and potential console issues. But it also explains why the PS4 is still extremely popular in Nigeria: it gives owners a flexible way to play, depending on their needs and budget.
(No instructions provided, Just context.)
This flexibility is something the PS5 does NOT allow.
How the PS4 Shines in Nigeria & Africa
- It works well even with unstable electricity.
- Local repair shops can fix PS4s easily and cheaply.
- Game sharing, swapping, and local downloading communities are massive.
- The console handles streaming well even on moderate internet.
- You don’t need a 4K TV to enjoy PS4 games.
The PS5, with its high power consumption and size, isn’t as practical for many households yet.
So, Should You Still Buy a PS4 in 2026?
Absolutely, if you want a console that balances affordability, entertainment value, and gaming performance.
The PS5 may be the future, but the PS4 is the console that still understands the realities of African gaming life. It’s stylish, functional, versatile, easy to maintain, and packed with thousands of unforgettable games.
Whether you’re gaming, streaming, listening to music, or simply enjoying the sleek design on your TV stand, the PS4 remains a smart investment in 2026.
What about you? Will you still use a PS4 in 2026?
What features are keeping you from switching to the PS5?
Tell us in the comments, we want to hear from you!