Recent data suggests Sony’s latest State of Play presentation resonated strongly with its core audience. According to a Push Square survey, 82 percent of over 3,100 respondents rated the show as at least “good.” Notably, 36 percent gave it an “excellent” rating, with an additional 32 percent marking it as “very good.” This level of positive reception is particularly significant given past presentations that often generated more muted responses.
The positive reaction appears to stem from Sony’s focus on single-player experiences for over an hour, catering directly to the preferences of its dedicated fanbase. Online multiplayer received minimal attention, with the exception of Marathon, and service games were only briefly mentioned. Instead, the presentation highlighted established franchises and new content aimed at traditional PlayStation players. This strategic approach reflects a broader trend in gaming, where dedicated single-player experiences continue to hold significant appeal.
State of Play Leverages Strong Franchises
The presentation centered on well-known properties, with the God of War Trilogy Remake drawing considerable attention. God of War: Sons of Sparta was as well released immediately following the presentation. The lineup was rounded out by Kena: Scars of Kosmora, which visually and thematically builds upon the strengths of the original game.
The showcased footage appeared polished, though the ultimate depth of gameplay and genuine innovation remains to be seen. Remakes, in particular, will be judged on whether they incorporate modern conveniences, balanced gameplay, and updated technology. The success of these titles will depend on how well they meet contemporary standards.
Record Viewership, But a Notable Omission
The State of Play also achieved record viewership numbers, becoming the most-watched presentation in the series’ history. On YouTube, it surpassed three million views within hours, exceeding the previous record set in June 2025 with the reveal of Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls. This surge in viewership underscores the continued interest in PlayStation’s upcoming titles and the effectiveness of the State of Play format.
Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, one area received no attention: hardware. There were no announcements regarding new peripherals, PS5 updates, or advancements in technology or infrastructure. This omission is notable given the ongoing discussions within the community surrounding potential PS5 Pro models, speakers, and monitors. The lack of hardware news represents a potential gap in communication with dedicated PlayStation enthusiasts.
Key Takeaway: As a games-focused showcase, this State of Play was a clear success. The question remains whether this approach is sustainable in the long term, or if audiences will expect a more comprehensive vision from Sony that extends beyond software.
