Mark Cerny Discusses PS5 Pro, Flopflation, and AMD Collaboration

In a recent technical presentation, PlayStation architect Mark Cerny unveiled the PS5 Pro and its groundbreaking AI upscaling technology, PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR).

This new technology, developed in collaboration with AMD through a strategic partnership called Project Amethyst, aims to revolutionize game graphics across multiple platforms. This blog post delves into the key highlights of the presentation, the implications of the Sony-AMD partnership, and the future of game graphics technology.

The Unveiling of PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR)

Mark Cerny’s presentation introduced the PS5 Pro’s **PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR)**, a cutting-edge AI upscaling technology designed to enhance game graphics.

PSSR leverages machine learning to deliver superior visual fidelity. It makes games look more detailed and lifelike without compromising performance.

How PSSR Works

PSSR operates by utilizing lightweight Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) to upscale lower-resolution images in real-time.

This process involves modifying the shader core of the GPU to support 44 new machine learning instructions. It also enables the use of register RAM as traditional RAM and implements the necessary math for CNNs. This enhancement allows the PS5 Pro to deliver stunning visuals with minimal performance impact.

Project Amethyst: A Strategic Partnership with AMD

In addition to unveiling PSSR, Cerny announced Sony’s strategic partnership with AMD, dubbed **Project Amethyst**. This collaboration aims to advance game graphics through machine learning, benefiting not only PlayStation but also Xbox and PC platforms.

Goals of Project Amethyst

Project Amethyst focuses on two primary objectives:

• **Developing better hardware architectures for machine learning**: This involves creating technology that can be broadly used across PC, console, and cloud platforms.
• **Enhancing lightweight CNNs for game graphics**: These improvements will be integrated into technologies like PSSR and potentially future versions of AMD’s FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR).

This collaboration signifies a shift from proprietary technology to a more inclusive approach. It allows other platforms, including Xbox, to benefit from these advancements.

Technical Insights into the PS5 Pro

Cerny provided several technical details about the PS5 Pro, highlighting improvements and design choices aimed at enhancing gaming performance.

CPU and GPU Enhancements

The PS5 Pro features a Zen 2 CPU with a clock frequency of 3.85 GHz, a 10% increase from the base PS5. The GPU has been modified to support the new machine learning instructions required for PSSR. This enhances its capability without adding a dedicated tensor unit.

Ray Tracing and Frame Generation

While the PS5 Pro currently focuses on super resolution through PSSR, Cerny expressed interest in other machine learning applications. These include frame generation, frame extrapolation, and ray tracing denoising.

These technologies have the potential to further improve game graphics by making reflections, lighting, and overall visual effects more realistic and immersive.

The Future of Game Graphics

Potential Impact on the Gaming Industry

The collaboration between Sony and AMD through Project Amethyst is poised to set new standards in game graphics. By developing technologies that can be used across multiple platforms, this partnership ensures that the benefits of their research and development efforts are not limited to PlayStation alone.

Looking Ahead

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the integration of machine learning into hardware and software design will play a crucial role in shaping the future of game graphics.

The insights gained from the development of the PS5 Pro and PSSR will undoubtedly influence future console generations and gaming experiences.

Conclusion

Mark Cerny’s presentation on the PS5 Pro and the introduction of PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) mark significant milestones in the evolution of game graphics.

The strategic partnership with AMD through Project Amethyst further underscores the industry’s commitment to advancing technology through collaboration.

As machine learning continues to drive innovation, the future of game graphics looks brighter than ever.

For more detailed insights, you can read the full article on IGN.