PlayStation 4 Launch Problems: Why Did Buyers Receive Defective Consoles?

Sony's new PlayStation 4 is off to a bumpy start. The powerful new gaming console and entertainment centre was launched on 15 November in the US, and early buyers are already reporting hardware and software issues. Disappointed buyers have taken to the internet to express their annoyance.

As per a report in Co-Optimus, numerous users are reporting dead systems out of the box or after the 1.50 update; which is mandatory to access many of the console's features. Anyone who tried to play a game online during launch night also knows there were quite a few issues with PSN and for a period of time, users couldn't even sign in.

According to Hypable, Sony attempted to tackle launch issues by allowing the important day one update for the PlayStation 4, which contained many key software features, to be pre-downloaded from its website – to be transferred to the console via USB stick. That way, the strain on Sony's servers would be reduced.

There have been reports of numerous problems with already shipped units and, in addition, a number of users reported broken HDMI cables, error messages upon attempting to download games, problems with ejecting discs and the ominously named Red Line of Death.

One Amazon reviewer posted a report that echoes the experiences of several other users, reports Mashable:

"I also got a defective console right out of the box. I just get the blue flashing/pulsing light on the PS4 and never turns white; no display or sound. Very disappointing in this whole mess. I don't think I've ever had a piece of electronics fail right out of the box. I tried the different methods that I found online to get it to work, but they didn't do anything. I can't even get it to boot into the safe mode. Getting my refund and going to try to get one at a local store, if any are in stock."

In a statement obtained by IGN, Sony commented on the issue:

"A handful of people have reported issues with their PlayStation 4 systems. This is within our expectations for a new product introduction, and the vast majority of PS4 feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. We are closely monitoring for additional reports, but we think these are isolated incidents and are on track for a great launch.

"There have been several problems reported, which leads us to believe there isn't a singular problem that could impact a broader percentage of systems. The number of affected systems represents less than 0.4% of shipped units to date, which is within our expectations for a new product introduction."

READ MORE: All you need to know about the new PS4