Video games have evolved dramatically over the years. Beyond stunning graphics and immersive gameplay, technological innovations have continuously worked to improve the gamer experience. One such innovation is the ability to suspend a session and pick up right where you left off—something that should make life easier for every gamer. Yet, according to a recent study by Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE), only 50% of PS5 users are taking full advantage of this feature, which is both surprising and insightful.
The Power of Standby Mode: A Game-Changer
As gaming technology has advanced, many players have clung to traditional habits—turning off their consoles at the end of a session. This action often leads to the frustrating loss of progress if the game doesn’t automatically save. However, innovations like the standby mode function offer a far more convenient option. This feature, which allows the game to be suspended and resumed without the usual loading screens or menus, makes it incredibly easy to jump back into the action.
Standby mode works by storing the current state of the game in the RAM of the console, enabling players to continue their session immediately. This is a huge benefit for gamers with limited free time or those juggling multiple games. Imagine you’re interrupted by a phone call or need to step away for a moment—this function lets you pause, and resume without losing any of your progress. Instant play is one of those features you didn’t know you needed until you try it. It eliminates the hassles of manual saving or the anxiety of losing unsaved progress.
Limited Adoption and Possible Reasons
Despite its convenience, only half of all PS5 users are using the standby mode, which raises some interesting questions. Why is this feature, which seems so obviously useful, not being adopted more widely? There are a few key factors that could explain this limited use.
Firstly, awareness may be a problem. Many gamers simply don’t explore all the technical features their consoles offer. Not everyone dives into the manual or spends time exploring the settings of their console or PC. As a result, the standby function might remain an unknown option for a significant number of players.
Secondly, there’s the perception that putting a console in standby mode uses more energy. While manufacturers have assured consumers that the power consumption is minimal, some users still worry about their electric bills or their ecological footprint. This concern, even if not entirely justified, can be enough to deter people from using the feature.
Finally, there’s the matter of habit. For many players, turning off the console after a session has been a longstanding practice. It feels more natural and even more responsible to shut down your system at the end of a gaming session. Some also worry that leaving the console in standby mode might result in technical malfunctions, even though this is largely unfounded with modern devices.
This resistance to adopting new practices, even when they offer clear benefits, speaks to the complexity of changing long-standing behaviors, even in an era dominated by technological advancements.
A Reminder: Even the Best Features Can Go Underused
The surprising result from Sony’s study shows just how difficult it can be to break old habits, even in a highly connected world where new technologies promise convenience and efficiency. While standby mode on the PS5 offers a smoother and more enjoyable experience for users, the low adoption rate is a reminder that new features, no matter how practical, often face hurdles of awareness, perception, and cultural habit.
As more players become aware of this feature and the energy consumption myths are dispelled, it’s likely that the adoption rate will increase. In the meantime, Sony and other game developers can continue to innovate, making gaming more seamless, enjoyable, and accessible. For those who have embraced standby mode, it’s a game-changer; for everyone else, it might just be time to give it a try.
