PS5 Pro Gets a Visual Boost: What the Upgraded PSSR Means for Gamers
PlayStation 5 Pro owners are about to experience a significant visual upgrade. Sony is rolling out an updated version of its PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) technology in March, promising improved image quality and performance. This isn’t a completely new system, but a refinement of existing tech, co-developed with AMD and leveraging the foundations of their FidelityFX Super Resolution 4 (FSR 4) upscaling technology.
How Does PSSR Operate?
PSSR is an AI-powered upscaling technique. As explained by Mark Cerny, PlayStation’s lead system architect, it analyzes game images pixel by pixel to enhance visual fidelity while allowing games to run at a lower, less demanding resolution. The upgraded version represents a substantial overhaul of both the neural network and the overall algorithm.
Resident Evil Requiem: The First Showcase
Resident Evil Requiem is leading the charge, being one of the first games to implement the upgraded PSSR. Capcom’s Engine Development Support Section highlighted how the technology allows for greater detail, particularly in complex textures like hair and beard strands, enhancing immersion. The team focused on enhancing the presentation quality of the protagonist to deepen the player’s horror experience.
FSR 4 and Project Amethyst: A Collaborative Effort
The core of this upgrade stems from a multi-year partnership between Sony and AMD, known as Project Amethyst. This collaboration has resulted in an algorithm that mirrors AMD’s FSR 4, offering PC gamers similar benefits on the PS5 Pro. AMD provided Sony with quality-assurance practices and helped establish a dedicated QA team focused on upscaling performance, accelerating development.
What Does This Mean for PS5 Pro Owners?
The upgraded PSSR will be available to PS5 Pro users via a software update in March and can be toggled on or off in the console settings. The goal is to provide a noticeable improvement in image clarity without compromising performance. What we have is particularly relevant considering the PS5 Pro’s price point – currently $750.
Beyond the PS5 Pro: The Future of Upscaling
This isn’t just about the PS5 Pro. The lessons learned from Project Amethyst are being integrated into AMD’s next-generation RDNA 5/UDNA graphics architecture. Given that neither company placed restrictions on the shared research, third-party developers and hardware partners can also benefit from these advancements. This suggests a broader industry trend towards more sophisticated and efficient upscaling technologies.
FAQ
What is PSSR?
PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution is an AI-powered upscaling technology that enhances image quality on the PS5 Pro.
What is FSR 4?
FidelityFX Super Resolution 4 is an upscaling technology developed by AMD, and the upgraded PSSR is based on its algorithm.
Will this update affect performance?
The goal is to improve image quality without compromising performance. The technology is designed to run efficiently and can be toggled on or off.
Is this update free?
Yes, the PSSR upgrade will be distributed as a free system update to all PS5 Pro users.
Which games will support the upgraded PSSR?
Resident Evil Requiem is the first confirmed game, with more titles expected to add support soon.
Did you know? The collaborative effort between Sony and AMD through Project Amethyst has accelerated the development of upscaling technologies for both consoles and PCs.
Pro Tip: Experiment with the PSSR settings in your games to find the optimal balance between image quality and performance for your preferences.
Want to learn more about the latest gaming technology? Explore our other articles on console hardware and graphics advancements. Share your thoughts on the upgraded PSSR in the comments below!
