I agree with most of what you say here...they are on divergent paths. However the 'pro-consumer' bit I think is a matter of perspective, as a consumer I want options of physical and collectors editions and I want full ownership of my games, so Sony's strategy is exactly what I want and I find it pro-consumer.
While others may not value ownership but experiences more and be looking for the best deal they can find. Then they may gravitate towards xbox.
Options are pro-consumer in other-words...
This is a great counter-point to the statement that implies Microsoft’s approach is wholly pro-consumer and Sony’s isn’t.
I think also, as an asterisk onto this point, one should remember that the platforms aren’t coming to your house and forcing you to buy them. Sony has the confidence to say, “ we’re going to give you games like God of War, Ghost of Tsushima, Spider-Man, The Last of Us, Horizon, Days Gone, Uncharted” and we’re going to make deals to deliver 2nd part or 3rd party exclusives like Nioh, Bloodborne, Persona Until Dawn, The Order 1886, Concrete Genie, Final Fantasy 7, Death Stranding”..”we have quality games you can’t get anywhere else or can get here first and we believe they are worth your money upfront, not through a service/subscription. It equals
Out...to me it’s two different ways of achieving profit and results. I think Sony’s way of doing it puts the onus on the consumer and their choices; Microsoft’s gives them a buffet, but it doesn’t mean we’re being delivered the same high bar that Sony has.