With the PlayStation 5 Pro's release just days away, Digital Foundry's John Linneman has expressed skepticism about the console's necessity. The team discussed the upcoming console on their DF Direct Weekly show, and Linneman questioned the value proposition of the PS5 Pro.
"With the PS5 Pro, there’s less of a need compared to the PS4 Pro or Xbox One X...It's nice to own. When you see it, you immediately think, 'Yes, that's cool, I'd like one.' But I'm not sure there's a real need. In some places, the PS5 Pro compensates for software shortcomings with hardware, which isn't great."
Linneman also commented on Microsoft's decision not to release a mid-generation refresh for the Xbox Series X:
"I don't think Microsoft regrets their choice [not to release a Pro model]...They don't need more powerful hardware, but something else. I think they will change direction and go for something completely different. It doesn't make sense for Microsoft to jump down this 'rabbit hole' after Sony."
In contrast, Alex Battaglia believes the PS5 Pro will serve as a valuable transition between the PlayStation 5 and the eventual PlayStation 6. He also expressed excitement for PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), a technology he believes could shape the future of Sony consoles.
The PlayStation 5 Pro launches on November 7th, priced at $700 in the US and €800 in Europe.