2023 was a record-setting year for the PlayStation 5. As the flagship console marked the third anniversary of its initially tumultuous release, it finally regained its footing to become one of the fastest- and best-selling consoles of, not just its generation, but of all time.
Further buoyed by the release of PS5 Slim and Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 as well as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, which traditionally has sold best on PlayStation, the so-called “Blue Team” ended the year on a high note.
But, while many believe that Sony intends to keep the hype train going at full speed by dropping a bombshell of a reveal soon, credible sources suggest that fans shouldn’t expect for this to be about an upgraded console, especially at the Consumer Electronics Show.
Slated for January 10, Tom Henderson, expressed skepticism about Sony unveiling a new console a few days from now, roughly 9-10 months before its potential release. Henderson cited the console manufacturer’s likely desire to maximize regular PS5 sales before introducing a Pro model. He suggested that an announcement might come no more than 45 days before the Pro’s launch, leaning towards a late Q3 announcement.
CES, a major tech event, has in recent years seen a diminishing focus on gaming, particularly for console enthusiasts. An emphasis for PC gaming advancements still remains a key part of the show, but console-related announcements haven’t graced the stage as often as before. Sony, however, has used CES as a platform for PlayStation product reveals in the past, including the PlayStation VR2 and PlayStation Access Controller. This pattern may continue at CES 2024, but expectations for a PS5 Pro reveal should be tempered.
Insider reports and rumors about the PS5 Pro have been circulating, with some sources claiming that the console is in development, including Tom Henderson. The PS5 Pro is expected to be a mid-generation upgrade, offering enhanced performance similar to the transition from the PS4 to the PS4 Pro. However, official confirmation from Sony remains a ways away. Given Microsoft’s projection of a next-generation PlayStation or Xbox not arriving until 2028 – ironically, there are reports that the next Xbox could be revealed sooner than expected – a mid-generation refresh like the PS5 Pro seems logical.
Leaks and predictions about the PS5 Pro’s launch have varied, with some pointing towards a September 2024 release, while others, like Jeff Grubb and Tom Henderson, suggest November 2024. These predictions align with Sony’s pattern of introducing the PS4 Pro three years after the PS4’s debut. Price speculation remains uncertain, with the possibility of the PS5 Pro costing more than its predecessor due to Sony’s willingness to charge premium prices for new hardware, as seen with the PSVR 2.
The current PS5 generation is only just beginning to realize its full potential, with many major games still releasing on both PS5 and PS4. The release of a PS5 Pro in the near future could be perceived as premature. However, the potential for developers to harness more power and the appeal to gaming enthusiasts looking for the highest resolution and frame rates could make the PS5 Pro an attractive option.
In particular, releasing PS5 Pro in time for Grand Theft Auto 6’s launch in 2025 would be the perfect way to capitalize on the hype surrounding the upcoming game, which is already setting new records and winning awards.
Sony’s approach to enhancing game performance with the PS5 Pro involves developing a DLSS-alike solution system, potentially improving frame rates by up to 50%. This system would use machine learning to generate additional frames and increase smoothness. The necessity for Sony to develop its version of this technology arises from the PS5’s Linux-based OS, which contrasts with the Windows-based OS of the Xbox Series X. This difference impacts the way processing tasks are handled, prompting Sony to create a unique solution to avoid performance bottlenecks.
With various predictions and leaks suggesting a late 2024 release, gamers and industry watchers are advised to manage their expectations and stay tuned for official updates from Sony.
For now, fans can look forward to playing The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth on January 19 and February 29, respectively.
