Recent industry insights suggest that numerous live service game developers might terminate support for the PlayStation 4 by 2026. While this transition aligns with the PlayStation 5's five-year market presence, it could significantly impact the substantial PS4 player base.

Launched in 2013, the PlayStation 4 achieved remarkable success with over 117 million units sold by 2022, securing its position as Sony's second-best-selling console after the PS2. However, the PS5 has rapidly gained traction since its release, surpassing 80.2 million sales and recently overtaking its predecessor in active player counts.

A recent GamesIndustry.biz report indicates that operators of prominent online and live service games are considering timelines to discontinue PS4 support. This development follows HoyoVerse's decision to end Genshin Impact support on PS4, citing technical limitations like the console's slower hard drive as content expands.

While specific companies haven't been named, current popular live service games like Fortnite and Call of Duty remain available on PS4. The industry shift becomes more apparent with major upcoming releases skipping the platform entirely.

Notable examples include Grand Theft Auto 6, exclusively launching on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, potentially leaving PS4 players unable to access its anticipated online mode. Similarly, Battlefield 6, positioned as 2025's premier shooter, will bypass last-gen consoles entirely.