PS5 Pro: Tech Deep Dive with Cerny and Fitzgerald

PS5 Pro: A Tech Deep Dive with Cerny and Fitzgerald

The PlayStation 5 Pro boasts machine learning upscaling, enhanced ray tracing, and increased graphical power. Digital Foundry’s Oliver Mackenzie interviewed lead system architect Mark Cerny and Insomniac Games’ Mike Fitzgerald about its development.

Key Discussion Points:

The 30-minute interview covered PSSR upscaling challenges and opportunities, hardware design choices, and developer approaches to the new console’s capabilities. It also touched upon Sony’s future direction, hinting at PlayStation 6 possibilities.

PSSR (PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution):

Cerny and Fitzgerald discussed the varied approaches developers took with PSSR. Some focused on multiple modes, while others used PSSR to create a single, enhanced experience. The upscaling factors also varied widely, with some games scaling from 864p to 4K, while others used 1440p or 1584p. Sony supports a 2.5:1 to 1:1 range but acknowledges this may change.

Future of PS5 Pro and Beyond:

Cerny highlighted ongoing development of ML-based libraries for game graphics, including frame generation, frame extrapolation, and ray tracing. The interview also discussed the Project Amethyst initiative with AMD, focusing on developing more optimal architectures for machine learning.

The PS5 Pro’s CPU remained largely unchanged, focusing resources on GPU enhancements. Cerny emphasized the importance of generational leaps alongside mid-generation refreshes, allowing for diverse game experiences across generations.