Sony has introduced its latest gaming console, the PlayStation 5 Pro, an upgraded version of the PlayStation 5 that debuted in 2020. Sony describes the PS5 Pro as its most “advanced and innovative console hardware” to date.
This upgrade is specifically designed for players and game creators who have demanded better performance, particularly in delivering “higher fidelity graphics with smoother frame rates at 60FPS.”
The PS5 Pro includes several key performance enhancements, although Sony notes that these features will only be available on select games optimized for the PS5 Pro. These upgrades include:
- Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro features a GPU with 67% more Compute Units than the standard PS5 and 28% faster memory, enabling up to 45% faster rendering for smoother gameplay.
- Advanced Ray Tracing: Improved ray tracing capabilities allow for more dynamic reflections and refractions of light, casting rays at double or triple the speed of the current PS5.
- AI-Driven Upscaling: The introduction of PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-driven upscaling technology, uses machine learning to enhance image clarity by adding a significant amount of detail.
PlayStation lead architect Mark Cerny discussed the need to eliminate the performance-quality toggle on games, where players often choose performance mode for higher frame rates at the expense of image quality.
The PS5 Pro is designed to deliver both high frame rates and high image quality at 60FPS, providing a balanced experience without compromising either aspect.
Additional Enhancements
- PS5 Pro Game Boost: Enhances performance for over 8,500 backward-compatible PS4 games and improves resolution on select PS4 titles.
- Latest Wireless Technology: Supports Wi-Fi 7, VRR, and 8K gaming in regions where these standards are available.
- Design Consistency: Maintains the same height as the original PS5, with width matching the current model to support upgraded specifications. The console supports additional customization options, such as an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive and interchangeable covers.
- Accessory Compatibility: Fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including PlayStation VR2, PlayStation Portal, DualSense Edge, Access controller, Pulse Elite, and Pulse Explore. The user interface and network services will also remain consistent with the original PS5.
Sony has expressed gratitude for the support of game creators who have utilized the latest technology from the PS5 Pro. Several games will receive free software updates to leverage the PS5 Pro’s new features, identifiable by a “PS5 Pro Enhanced” label.
Upcoming Titles Optimized for PS5 Pro
Look forward to improvements in games like Alan Wake 2, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, Demon’s Souls, Dragon’s Dogma 2, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, Gran Turismo 7, Hogwarts Legacy, Horizon Forbidden West, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, The Crew Motorfest, The First Descendant, The Last of Us Part II Remastered, among others.
Pricing and Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation’s website, with pre-orders beginning on September 26, 2024.
- The console will be priced at USD 699.99 (EUR 799.99 / Rs. 58,775 approx.).
- Each purchase includes a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a pre-installed copy of Astro’s Playroom.
- A disc-less version is available, with the option to purchase a Disc Drive separately. The vertical stand is also sold separately.
Speaking on the launch, Hideaki Nishino, CEO of Platform Business Group at Sony Interactive Entertainment, said,
Our journey with the PS5 wouldn’t be possible without the millions of players who have supported us over the years and shared their passion for gaming. Whether players choose the PS5 or the PS5 Pro, our goal is to provide the very best gaming experience that suits their preferences.