Sony has officially revealed the highly anticipated PlayStation 5 Pro, putting an end to one of the worst-kept secrets in gaming. Set to launch on November 7, 2024, this mid-generation console refresh comes with a hefty price tag of $699.99, and notably, it doesn’t include a disc drive. With massive GPU improvements, advanced ray tracing, and cutting-edge AI-driven upscaling, the PS5 Pro promises to take gaming to the next level for those ready to upgrade.
What’s New with the PS5 Pro?
During a recent PS5 Technical Presentation, Mark Cerny, PS5’s lead architect, provided a deep dive into the Pro’s hardware. He emphasized that this refresh was designed to meet gamers’ demands for higher frame rates and better graphical fidelity.
Let’s break down the key features:
- Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units and 28% faster memory than the standard PS5, resulting in 45% faster rendering for smoother gameplay.
- Improved Ray Tracing: With ray tracing that operates at up to three times the speed of the original PS5, expect more immersive lighting and reflection effects.
- AI-Driven Upscaling (PSSR): Thanks to PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, AI-based upscaling enhances resolution clarity by adding detail, delivering a sharp and realistic visual experience.
Design and Release Details
The PS5 Pro’s design is exactly as expected from the leaked images—essentially a sleeker version of the PS5 Slim with stylish stripes along its sides. While the console itself is disc-less, Sony confirmed that buyers can purchase the PS5’s existing disc drive separately.
In terms of storage, the PS5 Pro comes equipped with a 2TB SSD, and, just like the standard PS5, it includes a DualSense wireless controller and Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. However, if you’re looking to stand your console vertically, you’ll need to purchase the stand separately.
Game Compatibility and PS5 Pro Enhanced Titles
The PS5 Pro isn’t just a performance upgrade—it’s a new chapter in console gaming. Games optimized for this new hardware will feature a “PS5 Pro Enhanced” label, signifying improved graphics, faster load times, and smoother frame rates.
Here are some of the major titles that will launch with PS5 Pro Enhanced versions:
- Alan Wake 2
- Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
- Demon’s Souls
- Dragon’s Dogma 2
- Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
- Gran Turismo 7
- Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
- The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered
The great news? Every PS5 game remains compatible with the PS5 Pro, so there’s no need to worry about re-buying your favorite titles or missing out on any features.
Is It Worth the Upgrade?
With a price of $700, the PlayStation 5 Pro is a serious investment. The upgraded performance, AI-driven upscaling, and ray tracing enhancements make it an appealing choice for hardcore gamers looking to push the limits of their gaming experience. For those who already own a PS5, the decision may hinge on whether these new features justify the cost, but for new buyers or anyone looking to future-proof their setup, the PS5 Pro is a solid contender.
We’ll dive deeper into the PS5 Pro’s impact on the gaming landscape and whether it’s a must-have upgrade in our next Geek Freaks podcast. Don’t miss it! Tune in here.
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