After weeks of intense testing and countless hours lost (or found, depending on your perspective) in the vibrant worlds of the PlayStation 5, I’m ready to share my comprehensive review of the new slim model (CFI-2000 A01/CFI-2018 A01) bundled with the standard edition of EA SPORTS FC 24. This isn’t just another console; it’s a statement. A testament to Sony’s commitment to refining and improving their already impressive technology. This review delves deep into the hardware and software, providing a balanced perspective on its strengths and weaknesses.

The most immediately noticeable difference is the size. Sony has managed to shrink the PS5 considerably, making it significantly more manageable and aesthetically pleasing. The inclusion of an extra black controller is a welcome bonus, perfect for multiplayer sessions or simply having a spare on hand. The improved internal cooling is palpable; the console runs remarkably quietly even during extended gaming sessions. The haptic feedback and adaptive triggers continue to be game-changers, adding layers of immersion not found in previous generation consoles. The inclusion of FC 24 is a great way to showcase the console’s power and capabilities, bringing the thrills of professional football to life.

The improved SSD speeds are evident from the moment you boot up the console. Load times are dramatically reduced, making for a much more seamless gaming experience. Playing demanding titles like Horizon Forbidden West and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart on the slim PS5 felt as smooth as ever. The graphics remain stunning, and the overall performance is exceptional. The included FC 24 ran flawlessly, demonstrating the console’s ability to handle complex, high-resolution games with ease. The fast loading times mean less downtime and more time on the pitch.

I ran multiple benchmarks testing both the loading speeds and graphical performance across a range of games and applications. The results consistently showcased a significant improvement in loading speeds compared to the original PS5 model, often exceeding expectations. The GPU performed flawlessly, offering beautiful graphics that were consistently smooth across the tested titles. Overall, there was a noticeable and appreciated increase in overall system performance.

Pros:

• Smaller and lighter design
• Improved cooling and quieter operation
• Blazing-fast SSD load times
• Stunning graphics and smooth performance
• Inclusion of extra controller and FC 24 is a great bonus
• Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers remain impressive

Cons:

• Price point remains relatively high
• Some might find the glossy top panel prone to fingerprints
• Limited backwards compatibility with PS4 games (Though this is consistent across all PS5 models)

The PlayStation 5 Disc Slim Console (CFI-2000 A01/CFI-2018 A01) with FC 24 is a significant upgrade, not just in size, but also in performance. While the price might be a barrier for some, the improvements in speed, cooling, and quiet operation are hard to ignore. The inclusion of the extra controller and FC 24 sweetens the deal considerably. If you’re looking for a top-tier gaming experience and are in the market for a PS5, I would wholeheartedly recommend this slimmed down version. It’s a noticeable refinement of an already great console.