As the launch of Sony's PlayStation 5 Pro approaches, anticipation is building among both developers and consumers. Recent developments have shed light on the console's potential and Sony's efforts to ensure fair distribution.
Developer Enthusiasm
Martin Griffiths, Engine Programmer for No Man's Sky at Hello Games, has expressed considerable excitement about the PS5 Pro. In a spontaneous tweet, Griffiths declared that the console absolutely rocks, drawing from his extensive experience working on PlayStation hardware since the original PS1. This endorsement from a veteran developer suggests that the PS5 Pro may offer significant improvements over its predecessor.
No Man's Sky is among the 56 titles confirmed to receive enhancements for the PS5 Pro. While specific details about these enhancements remain undisclosed, speculation suggests potential improvements could include 4K resolution at 120 frames per second or the addition of ray tracing effects.
Anti-Scalper Measures in Japan
In an effort to combat scalping, Sony has implemented unique preorder restrictions for the PS5 Pro 30th Anniversary Edition in Japan. Prospective buyers must meet two key criteria:
- Have a PlayStation Network account registered in Japan
- Have logged at least 30 hours of gameplay on PS4 or PS5 between February 2014 and September 19, 2024
This approach aims to prioritize genuine PlayStation fans and reduce the likelihood of resellers acquiring the limited-edition consoles. The strategy has been well-received by Japanese consumers, though many feel additional measures could further improve fairness.
Global Availability and Pricing
The standard PS5 Pro is set to launch on November 7, 2024, with a price tag of $699. The 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Bundle, priced at $999.99 / £959.99 / €1,099.99, will be available in extremely limited quantities – only 12,300 units worldwide. This special edition features a retro-inspired design that pays homage to the original PlayStation.
While Japan has implemented anti-scalping measures, the situation in other regions has been less controlled. Many fans expressed frustration as the limited edition console sold out rapidly, with some units appearing on eBay at significantly inflated prices shortly after.
As the PS5 Pro's release date draws near, gamers and industry observers alike will be watching closely to see how Sony's latest hardware performs in the market and whether it can live up to the high expectations set by early developer feedback.