The PS5 Pro: A Soulless Money Grab or a Necessary Evil?
Eight years ago, I was blown away by the PS4 Pro’s graphical prowess. But today, as I sat in a room filled with screens at Sony’s US headquarters, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of déjà vu. The PS5 Pro is simply more of the same, with a hefty price tag to match.
Same Old, Same Old
Like the PS4 Pro before it, the PS5 Pro is all about graphical improvements. But, just like last time, you’ll have to shell out a premium for them. And, just like last time, games will need to be patched to take full advantage of those improvements. And, just like last time, those patches won’t be uniform across all titles.
But, I have to admit, the improvements are… impressive. If you’re sitting close enough to the TV, that is. From a distance, however, the differences are far less noticeable. It’s like Sony is trying to sell you a magic crystal that only works when you’re standing right in front of it.
But What About the Games?
The real question, of course, is how the PS5 Pro’s graphical upgrades will affect gameplay. And, to be honest, the answer is… mixed. Some games, like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, look utterly stunning. But others, like Demon’s Souls, seem to be relying more on fancy graphics than actual gameplay improvements.
And what about the developers? Won’t they just be milking the PS5 Pro’s graphical capabilities for every last drop of profit, rather than focusing on actually making better games? The answer, it seems, is… yes.
The Verdict
In the end, the PS5 Pro is a case of style over substance. It’s a console that’s all about looks, rather than actual gameplay innovation. And, at $700, it’s a price that’s hard to justify.
But, if you’re a hardcore PS5 fan who just wants to see the best graphical fidelity possible, then I suppose the PS5 Pro might be worth the investment. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you.
