Sony’s PlayStation 5 Pro is making waves in the gaming industry with its newly introduced PSSR AI upscaling technology, which aims to provide a performance boost that could rival Nvidia’s DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling). While AMD’s FSR 3.1 (FidelityFX Super Resolution) struggles to catch up, the PS5 Pro’s PSSR could become a game-changer for the console’s graphics and performance capabilities.
The PSSR (PlayStation Super Resolution) technology was revealed during a presentation by PlayStation’s Lead Designer Mark Cerny, and it has since sparked discussions among gamers and tech enthusiasts alike. Although the initial reception to the PS5 Pro was mixed—mainly due to its pricing, which starts at $699.99 (around £699 / AU$1,199.95)—the upscaling potential of PSSR has positioned it as a key selling point for the console.
Source: Sony
Why PSSR Matters
PSSR is designed to significantly enhance image quality, particularly in performance mode, where it is reported to deliver much sharper and more detailed visuals compared to AMD’s FSR 3.1. Digital Foundry’s analysis of Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart using PSSR at ‘Performance Mode’ found a noticeable improvement over FSR 3.1, which could give PlayStation an edge in providing a superior gaming experience on the PS5 Pro.
While the PS5 Pro’s hardware upgrades, such as 28% faster RAM and 67% more compute units for enhanced ray-tracing, are notable, it’s the PSSR technology that may help PlayStation compete more effectively with Nvidia’s DLSS. Despite these advancements, however, the console still uses the same internal CPU as the base PS5, which has left some critics questioning whether the improvements justify the steep price tag.
The Competition with Nvidia and AMD
For Nvidia, the introduction of PlayStation’s PSSR creates more competition in the gaming industry’s race for superior upscaling technology. Nvidia’s DLSS has long been regarded as the gold standard for AI-based upscaling, but with the PS5 Pro’s PSSR showing promise, gamers may find it a worthy alternative—especially if it delivers 60 frames per second on demanding games.
AMD, on the other hand, continues to face challenges. While AMD’s FSR 3.1 has made some strides, it lags behind both Nvidia’s DLSS and PlayStation’s PSSR. AMD is shifting focus toward improving AI features for FSR 4, with hopes of enhancing battery life and performance in gaming handhelds, particularly with the Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU expected in 2025. However, the current gap between AMD and its competitors is widening, with AMD struggling to keep pace in high-end gaming graphics.
Source: Sony
The Road Ahead
While PlayStation’s PSSR gives Sony a competitive advantage, questions remain about whether the PS5 Pro’s higher price tag will appeal to gamers. With several PlayStation exclusives like Ghost of Yotei, Wolverine, and Marathon making their way to both PS5 and PC, many gamers may lean toward pre-built gaming PCs, which often offer greater flexibility and similar performance.
Meanwhile, the upcoming releases of major titles like GTA 6 and other highly anticipated games could sway opinions further. The real test for the PS5 Pro will be whether it can deliver smooth, high-performance gaming at 60 FPS or higher—something gamers have come to expect, especially from next-gen consoles.
With the ongoing developments in AI-driven upscaling and the continued push for better performance, the competition between PlayStation, Nvidia, and AMD is far from over. Gamers and industry watchers alike will be keen to see how AMD responds with FSR 4 and what the future holds for console and PC gaming technology.
