With details slipping out frequently on Microsoft’s Xbox 720 console, there has been a complete opposite of details for the elusive Sony PS4. We all know it is coming, but Sony and industry sources have remained tight-lipped on what kind of specifications and features we can expect to see when it releases. PS4 backwards compatibility however, may not be one of them.

We have heard minimal whispers on how Sony may be using AMD-based graphics for the system, compiled with exciting rumors suggesting that the next-generation PlayStation 4 will have specs such as a 4096Ã—2160 output resolution and game support for 1080p 3D across all titles.

While all of the next-generation features are still very much in the air at this point, consumers will be hoping that one PS4 feature that will be set in stone, is the basic ability to play back existing PS3 titles with universal backwards compatibility across all future PS4 SKUs.

There is the ancient debate on whether backwards compatibility is really needed for a new console, but you can’t argue that it is always a feature that should be there should a gamer decide to insert a classic title for a retro session. Sony had to endure a pretty fierce consumer backlash after it was revealed that only the 60GB fat PS3 models had support for PS2 playback – leaving all subsequent models without this support.

This week, we have heard some potentially worrying information from a UK games developer, who have gone on record to say that the chances of the Sony PS4 having backwards compatibility with PS3 titles is ‘very slim’. They have told PSU in an interview that having PS3 support in the Sony PS4 would be a ‘difficult thing to achieve’, but didn’t rule out the possibility of Sony solving the problem via alternative methods.

One of these methods could lie in the Gaikai streaming service, which most of you should know that Sony are now in ownership of after a recent acquisition. The PS4 may not be able to play PS3 discs straight out of the console, but Sony could find a way to make it possible to stream PS3 titles through the PlayStation Network – but even then consumers may not be completely satisfied if this becomes a reality.

Regardless of what augmented reality and other dazzling features that may arise with the PS4 – would you agree that PS3 backwards compatibility with existing game discs is essential? Do you think it is possible to convert every single PS3 game to a streaming format for PS4 playback – we can see Sony having major problems with this.

At the end of the day, it is going to be a dire situation for Sony if GTA V owners cannot play the game on the PS4. Sony are not stupid though and we’re sure they are currently working out how to make everyone happy. Let us know your thoughts on a potential PS4 dilemma with backwards compatibility.