New PS5 Pro Launches with High Price and Advanced Features
In a highly anticipated livestream presentation, Mark Cerny, the Lead Architect behind the PS5, showcased the new PlayStation 5 Pro. Set to release on November 7, 2024, the PS5 Pro will retail at £699.99 in the UK, marking it as Sony’s most expensive console to date. This new model aims to offer enhanced graphics and smoother gameplay, merging Fidelity and Performance modes into one seamless experience.
The journey continues with PlayStation 5 Pro.
⚬ Larger GPU ⚬ Advanced ray tracing ⚬ AI-Driven upscaling ⚬ PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution
Cerny highlighted that the PS5 Pro’s upgraded GPU features 67% more Compute Units and 28% faster memory compared to the current PS5. This enhancement is expected to deliver superior graphics and improved performance, particularly in demanding titles such as Horizon Forbidden West and Gran Turismo 7. The console also introduces Advanced Ray Tracing capabilities, promising up to three times the speed of the current model, and AI-driven upscaling through the new PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) technology.
Design and Additional Features
The PS5 Pro retains the general size of the original PS5 but is designed to be somewhat slimmer. Notably, it lacks a built-in disc drive, which means users will need to purchase the Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive separately for £99.99 if they wish to play physical games or Blu-rays. The console comes equipped with a 2TB SSD and supports the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard for faster downloads and better online performance.
Compatibility with existing PS5 accessories, such as the PlayStation VR2 and DualSense Edge controllers, ensures a smooth transition for current users. Additionally, the PS5 Pro will support VRR and 8K gaming, although it remains to be seen how many titles will fully utilise these features at launch.
Market Impact and Price Considerations
The steep price of £699.99 is expected to spark considerable discussion. Piers Harding-Rolls from Ampere Research remarked, “The price point of the PS5 Pro will inevitably cause a lot of commentary.” He speculates that Sony’s strategy may be aimed at encouraging existing users to upgrade their hardware and invest more in software.
The timing of the PS5 Pro’s release is notable, potentially positioning it as the ideal console for playing high-profile games such as Grand Theft Auto VI, which is expected to launch in 2025. This move suggests Sony is betting on the PS5 Pro’s advanced capabilities to attract gamers seeking the best possible experience for upcoming blockbuster titles.
Conclusion
The PlayStation 5 Pro represents a significant leap in console technology, offering impressive performance upgrades for those willing to invest. However, its high price and the absence of a standard disc drive may limit its appeal to a more niche audience of dedicated gamers. As the release date approaches, it will be interesting to see how the market responds and whether the PS5 Pro can justify its premium cost.
