It was over ten years ago when I purchased an Xbox, based solely on the availability of one game: World Series Baseball. I was amazed by the graphical fluidity, realistic ballparks, and features (like managing staff) that couldn’t be found elsewhere.

Last summer, I found myself in a similar position. Just as I had done in 2002, I made a console purchase based almost entirely on the availability of baseball games. I preordered a PS4.

Now, having spent a weekend with the new console, do I feel that this decision -- regardless of future baseball availability -- was a good one? Should you jump on board the next generation with Sony’s new console? Is the PS4 even a good console as a whole?

The answer, unfortunately, is a resounding “maybe.”

I say “maybe” because the launch line-up is pretty limited, despite a large percentage of sports games. “Maybe” because the console, while being primarily a gaming machine, feels a little barren and limited. And “maybe” because the PS4’s potential, at this point, far outweighs its current value.

PS4 Console

Upon receipt of the console, I was initially surprised by how small the packaging was. Once I had everything set up, I was pleased with how nice the machine looked. The PS4 is truly a sleek and futuristic looking box.

It was also a breeze to set-up. The Day 1 patch installed much more quickly than I predicted, and the initialization procedures were simple and direct. I had no issues getting the PS4 connected to my network.

The controller is the best part of the device. It feels weighty and comfortable, and the sticks and buttons are really responsive. I haven’t needed to use the touchpad yet, but the motion controls work and are well utilized in games like Battlefield.

The user interface is elegant, and feels like a natural evolution of the crossbar found on the PS3. I especially like the transition from game to home screen and the ability to suspend games. The standby mode is also a nice change from the cold startup and shutdown found on the PS3. All told, the PS4 does a great job of getting you up and gaming as quickly as possible.

But gaming is about all you will be doing with this machine. Initially, I didn’t think that would be an issue; I do like that the PS4 is primarily a gaming device, without the advertisements and options that litter the 360’s homescreen.

However, in a weekend, I’ve found enough missing or “not yet supported” features to make me miss my PS3. For instance, while it plays Blu-rays, it won’t play 3D Blu-rays. I don’t have a ton of 3D films, but those I have are, for the time being, worthless. Sony hasn’t confirmed the eventual inclusion of this tech, simply saying it’s not available at launch.

I also used my PS3 as a streaming device. The PS4 won’t stream anything, except using supported apps, like Netflix and Amazon Prime. Even importing mp3 and CDs is not possible. Hopefully, this is corrected in time to make custom stadium sounds for MLB The Show. USB memory sticks don’t do anything either.

Look, I realize that there are a number of devices that do what I am looking for, including the PS3. I just don’t like the feeling of taking a step back or needing to by a second device to replicate what the PS3 did.

Again, the potential is there. 3D games are supported (though not available), and with the ability for consoles to upgrade core software, I suppose any of these features can be added later.

Games

At this point, I have played NBA 2K14, Madden 25, FIFA 14, Battlefield 4, and LEGO Marvel Superheroes. NBA, FIFA, and Battlefield all look particularly good; even Marvel Superheroes has a nice shiny, plastic-y look that feels like a definite step up from past LEGO games. And for all of Madden’s faults, there are moments where the game truly looks like a next generation title.

However, none of these titles really grabbed me the way past launch titles did, from NFL 2K to Project Gotham Racing 3. Yes, they look good and contain new features, but none of these games do anything truly special that we haven’t seen before (besides, perhaps Battlefield's 32v32, but alas, I can’t stay logged on long enough to experience it).

That doesn’t mean these are bad games or that I won’t spend a lot more time with them. Again, they look and play spectacularly. It’s just, at this point, I don’t feel as if any of these games really sell the console or make it the “must-have” console of 2013’s holiday season. To be fair, I haven’t played any first-party games or those designed exclusively for the system (Killzone).

However, the potential is there for some truly great games that push the boundaries and ultimately usher us in to the next generation. All launches tend to be a little rough, and with enough time, the PS4 will most likely generate some great titles.

Final Thoughts

I don’t regret buying the PS4, especially as I had been waiting to play Madden, NBA, and Battlefield on a next-gen system. It does what it’s designed for (playing games) very well, allowing one to quickly get into a game using an intelligently designed UI. The controller is among the best ever made, and the console is a graphical powerhouse.

However, if you have these games on a current system, there may be no real need to rush out and buy this system right away. And, if you are on the fence regarding system choice, it may be wise to wait and see how the Xbox One performs.

For all of the “maybe”s and “if’s” surrounding the PS4 launch, one this is certain: come Spring, there will only be one console for baseball. For some, like me, that's the only question that truly needs an answer.