This week’s PlayStation 5 firmware update was also accompanied by new system software for the DualSense controller itself, but what does it actually do? Well, after some fairly strenuous testing over the past 48 hours, we can conclude that it’s changed the way haptic feedback is utilised in backwards compatible PlayStation 4 games.
Obviously, the DualShock 4 controller didn’t have haptic feedback, and its rumble was designed around two motors in the handles of the pad. When playing PS4 games on the PS5, this was replicated by a soft buzzing in the DualSense controller. However, since the update, Sony has simulated the “feel” of the DualShock 4’s rumble through its new pad.
What does this mean, in real-terms? Well, based on our experience you get the “texture” of the DualShock 4’s rumble motors: it’s a more pronounced feedback that more accurately reflects the mechanics of the company’s last-gen peripheral. Honestly, it feels vastly superior – we noticed it immediately in Rocket League, but the change is evident in other games, too.
It’s important to note that PS4 software is not designed with the DualSense in mind, so we’re not referring to Astro’s Playroom-style haptic feedback here. Instead, the company is using the technology in its PS5 controller to more accurately simulate the “feeling” of playing with a DualShock 4, so it’s closer to what the developer originally intended.
We should reiterate that the rumble in PS4 games pales in comparison to what you find in native next-gen releases. Still, this is a meaningful improvement, because it retains the authenticity of the original releases through backwards compatibility. It’s yet another under-the-radar tweak in Sony’s new system software.
Comments 17
I thought it felt different when playing FFXII ZA yesterday. Definitely an improvement.
That's good, I really like the rumble in the DS4. It might not be as specific as the Switch HD rumble but it just works well for certain games, especially Crash Team Racing.
The Xbox One pads rumble is excellent in games like Forza that use the rumble triggers but it is so damn loud, same with the Switch HD Rumble.
I'm yet to try the DualSense but I eagerly await it! It's just good to know that the PS4 will have its generationally unique rumble preserved going into backwards compatibility
I'm not sure I noticed any difference while playing P5 Strikers but good on you guys for pin-pointing what the update changed.
I thought my pad was getting faulty yesterday when realised it had changed. Odd, it feels loud now, I’m not sure I’m a fan.
Good to hear. I will keep using my DualShock 4 controllers until Sony releases a PS5 back buttons attachment.
Any word on new controller colors yet?
@ralphdibny Switch Rumble HD is the benchmark. Astro's Playroom did a great job with the DualSense, although with so few native PS5 releases it's really gone ignored. I've had to turn off the vibrations on the dualsesne if I'm gonna play longer than an hour due to that grabby hands stiff feeling it gives you.
Ever since I updated the firmware on my controllers, the batteries in them drain within a couple hours, even when just sitting unused! So weird... I've had to play with my controller wired the entire time.
That's a nice update but I mostly use my Dualshock 4 controllers on my PS5 because of the back button attachments. I prefer to use the Dualsense though so hopefully Sony releases a back button attachment for it soon. But until then unless I'm playing PS5 games, my Dualshock 4 controllers will continue to be my go to.
I read some PS5 update articles and I don’t recall reading anything about this. In fact I was playing FF7 Remake on PS5 today and the DualSense rumbled during an explosion. It took me by surprise a bit... great update!
I must be the only one that shuts all the rumble stuff off....
I was playing a few games after the update and was shocked when I felt it did they put this in the patch notes because I don’t remember reading about it
@awakenist I use a usb hub next to my chair and plug mine in there making it wired might help you out
I don't want to moan but I wish it could be updated without me having to find the USB lead all the time and plugging in my 4 controller's each time there is a update. It's only because I'm LAZY tho
@Arugula After the first 5 or 6 triggers pulls in Borderlands 3 it was shut off to. Got annoying fast.
They spend so much money on research for haptic crap and then use 2 dollar thumbsticks.
Not firmware or rumble related but has anyone's sticks split? I've had mine since launch and the left stick's rubber split last week. Sony seems to think its just damage so not covered by the warranty, and amazon time has passed.
Needless to say my reply to that was not in agreement. I've replaced it myself but when replacing both, it caused drift on the right. So now have one old and one new stick.
@awakenist mine are doing the same.
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