H1Z1 is a free-to-play battle royale game available on PlayStation 4, developed and published by Daybreak Games. The game is specifically built for the PlayStation 4 platform, offering a pure, fast-paced shooter experience without building or crafting mechanics. It was officially launched on the PlayStation 4 on 22 May 2018. The game is designed to provide a straightforward battle royale action, focusing on dropping into a massive map to find weapons, ammunition, vehicles, and airdrops, with the objective of being the last player or team standing.
The game is optimised for the PlayStation 4, featuring natural console controls and a 60 frames-per-second performance on the PlayStation 4 Pro. It supports online multiplayer with up to 99 players. While the game is playable on PlayStation 5, some features available on the PlayStation 4 may be absent, and the system may require an update to the latest software. The game requires an online connection to play.
Gameplay and Core Mechanics
H1Z1 on PlayStation 4 is presented as a reimagined and console-specific version of the battle royale genre. It distinguishes itself by removing building and crafting elements, which are common in other titles, to focus entirely on combat and survival. The core loop involves players parachuting into a large map, scavenging for loot, engaging in combat, and navigating the shrinking playable area, known as the gas circle.
The game emphasises speed and action. Matches are designed to be faster than traditional battle royale games, with a higher density of loot, vehicles, and airdrops to encourage constant engagement. The looting system is streamlined with a hot-swap feature and radial menus tailored for the PlayStation 4 controller, aiming for a natural and quick feel. The game runs at 60 FPS on the PlayStation 4 Pro, enhancing the fluidity of movement and combat.
The primary mode is a standard battle royale where players or teams fight to be the sole survivors. The game features a variety of weapons, from pistols to sniper rifles, and vehicles such as cars and helicopters to traverse the map quickly. Airdrops are a key strategic element, providing high-tier loot that can turn the tide of a match.
Season 4 Update and Content
A significant update for H1Z1 on PlayStation 4 is the introduction of Season 4. This update brings a substantial content drop, including six new Arcade Modes. These modes offer varied gameplay experiences beyond the standard battle royale and are scheduled to rotate throughout the week, providing fresh content for players to engage with regularly.
A major gameplay change in Season 4 is the addition of the Third Person ADS (Aim Down Sights) mechanic to all game modes. Previously, this feature was only available in a limited-time Arcade Mode. The update includes community-requested improvements, such as new sensitivity sliders and adjustments to recoil bloom to ensure consistent behaviour between First Person and Third Person ADS across all weapons. This mechanic allows players to aim more precisely while maintaining a third-person perspective.
Season 4 also introduces a new Season Rewards system, replacing the previous Battle Pass and Login Rewards. This system contains 100 tiers, which can be either Free or Premium. Players can progress through these tiers by playing matches, unlocking rewards at a rate that is half the price of a traditional crate for a new item. A new Master Crate and new Marketplace special offers are also part of the Season 4 update.
The update includes the release of the Vixen Set Crate, which offers full outfits in place of individual items. This introduces a new way to acquire cosmetic items. Furthermore, Locked Crates are now earned periodically by playing matches, which can be opened for a chance at new items. Stamp Missions have been removed from the game, and Daily Challenges have been refocused to align with the new Arcade Mode rotation.
Technical Specifications and Platform Details
H1Z1 for PlayStation 4 is available as a free download from the PlayStation Store. The game file size and specific download requirements are not detailed in the provided sources, but as a free-to-play title, there is no upfront cost. The game requires an online PlayStation Network subscription to access multiplayer features, which is standard for online games on the console.
The game is classified under the Action and Shooter genres. It is rated for online multiplayer with up to 99 players. The PlayStation 4 version supports the DUALSHOCK 4 controller's vibration feature, adding a tactile element to gameplay. The publisher, Daybreak Games, holds the registered trademarks for H1Z1 and its logos, confirming the official nature of the game and its associated content.
Availability and Access
As a free-to-play game, H1Z1 is accessible without any purchase. Players can download the game directly from the PlayStation Store. The game is built specifically for the PlayStation 4, ensuring compatibility and optimised performance for the console. There is no mention of any regional restrictions for the PlayStation 4 version in the provided sources, but availability on the PlayStation Store may vary by region. For UK consumers, the game should be available on the local PlayStation Store.
The game does not require a purchase to play, and all core gameplay is accessible for free. The Season 4 update, including the new Arcade Modes, Third Person ADS, and the Season Rewards system, is part of the free game update. Cosmetic items, such as those from the Vixen Set Crate or the Master Crate, may be acquired through gameplay (e.g., Locked Crates) or via the Marketplace, which may involve optional purchases. However, the core battle royale experience remains free.
Conclusion
H1Z1 on PlayStation 4 offers a free-to-play, fast-paced battle royale experience tailored for console players. The game is distinguished by its focus on pure combat without building mechanics, optimised controls for the PlayStation controller, and 60 FPS performance on the PlayStation 4 Pro. The Season 4 update significantly expands the game's content with six rotating Arcade Modes, the introduction of Third Person ADS to all game modes, and a new Season Rewards system with free and premium tiers. Players can earn Locked Crates and cosmetic items by participating in matches. The game is available for free download on the PlayStation Store, requiring only an online connection and a PlayStation Network subscription for multiplayer access.