In the gaming world, few brands command as much loyalty as Sony’s PlayStation. Despite Microsoft’s determined efforts with Xbox, PlayStation continues to dominate the console market. So, when Sony introduces a new version, the industry listens. The latest release, the PlayStation 5 Pro, launched last week to a mixed reception from the gaming community, largely due to its $700 price tag. Is the PS5 Pro worth the investment? Here’s a breakdown of what the PS5 Pro offers and whether it justifies an upgrade.

Key Upgrades: What’s New?

The PS5 Pro boasts three primary enhancements: a more powerful GPU, advanced ray-tracing capabilities, and Sony’s new AI-based upscaling technology called PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), comparable to Nvidia’s DLSS. Here’s what those upgrades translate to in real-world gameplay:

• Improved Graphics Performance: The GPU in the PS5 Pro is touted to deliver 45% more power, alongside 28% faster memory for quicker in-game rendering.
• Ray Tracing: Enhanced raytracing brings realistic lighting and reflections, making scenes feel more immersive.
• 2TB SSD: Double the storage compared to the standard PS5, allowing for a bigger game library without needing immediate external storage.

However, the PS5 Pro omits a few staples of previous generations—there’s no built-in disc drive, and the vertical stand is sold separately.

Design and Build: Familiar Yet Refined

The PS5 Pro maintains the iconic design of the original PS5 but incorporates subtle refinements. Black stripes give it a sleeker look, and the unit is slightly longer than the original PS5, offering improved cooling efficiency. While there’s no disc version, it supports USB slots for external storage and has a faster Wi-Fi 7 capability, ensuring smoother online gameplay and streaming.

Storage Capacity and Expandability

One of the strongest appeals of the PS5 Pro is its expanded 2TB storage. Gamers can install a larger array of games without worrying about space. Additionally, Sony includes an M.2 SSD slot, allowing users to add even more storage if needed, making it easy to use existing SSDs from the original PS5.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $700 (almost 1.3 million Naira) MSRP, the PlayStation 5 Pro offers no discernible value proposition-make no mistake, this is an expensive console. For hardcore gamers who crave top-tier performance, enhanced visuals, and smoother gameplay, the PS5 Pro offers barely enough improvements to justify the cost. On the other hand, gamers satisfied with the original PS5 may find no justification for the price, especially since many titles continue to run well on the base model.

Final Verdict: Upgrade or Stay Put?

If you’re an enthusiast looking for the latest and greatest, the PS5 Pro delivers advanced capabilities that could enhance your gaming experience. But for casual gamers, the original PS5 likely still offers excellent value and performance. Ultimately, the decision boils down to how much the added graphics and processing power matter to your gaming style.