In this commentary, St. Thomas University student Kurvin Silvio, right, reviews specs for the new Playstation 5 and XBox Series X. (Aaron Sousa/AQ)
Though 2020 is deplorable for everyone, a glimpse of hope shines for gamers. The release of the next generation of consoles is upon us, which usually happens every seven years.
Sony dropped the Playstation 5 on Nov. 12 while Microsoft released the XBox Series X two days later. But the question is, what console do you choose to play for the next several years?
Sony goes big
Let’s talk about the Playstation 5 first. Sony went big both literally and figuratively. The PS5 is larger than any other console released by Sony and comes with next-generation internals. The company boasts about one addition in particular: Ray tracing.
Ray tracing is a rendering technique that aims to provide more realism in games, like a more realistic shadow on game characters and clearer environments to play in. Sony said the PS5 will provide games with a 4K definition at a smooth frame rate of 120 frames per second.
Unlike Microsoft, Sony has updated its controller, scrapping the previously-named DualShock for the DualSense. The new controller includes more force in the trigger buttons, adding a more realistic feel. While playing Fortnite, players can expect different levels of resistance in the triggers when using different weapons.
The PS5 has SSD storage instead of HDD in the previous generation, including 16GB of GDDR6 for RAM. Translation? Faster loading times and better field of view in games. The console also features a custom eight-core AMD Zen 2 CPU clocked at 3.5GHz and a custom GPU based on AMD’s RDNA 2. All of that promises better images, sounds and loading times than the PS4.
There are two versions of the PS5. One has a blu-ray disk reader for the hardcore disk game collectors and one without for those who wish to save up in physical space. Both will have the same internals and the same power, contrary to Microsoft’s current generation consoles.
The PS5’s disk version costs $629 and the digital edition is $499, but both are only available for online orders in Canada.
Small in size, but not in power
On the other side of the ring, we have the Xbox Series X and the Xbox Series S. Right off the bat, the Xbox Series X is more powerful than the PS5. This console has an eight-core AMD Zen 2 CPU clocked at 3.6 GHz and an AMD’s RDNA 2 based GPU with an output power of 12.15 teraflops, two more than the PS5.
Teraflop is a unit of measure for the amount of processing and graphical power a video console has. So the Xbox Series X has two more Teraflops than the PS5 but the box itself is smaller.
Similar to the PS5, the Xbox Series X will output 4K definition at 120 frames per second and will include a Blu-ray disk reader. Microsoft has made minor tweaks to the controller and the Xbox Series X is smaller in size than the PS5.
For Microsoft, size does not matter but the Xbox Series S is a budget version of the Series X in terms of size, power and price.
The Series S is almost half the size of its big brother, only outputting 1440p at 120 frames per second with no disc-reader. While the Series X has a price tag of $599, the Series S is $379.
Same as Sony, Microsoft is selling the Xbox online due to the pandemic. A quick search on YouTube will show how people swarm stores during launch day.
The choice of a generation
The Xbox Series X has slightly more horsepower than the PS5 but both are similar in terms of everything else. The most logical decision is to go for the Xbox Series X for more power and price, but hold your horses.
Sony has the advantage of having better title exclusive games only found on their consoles. Both consoles will have backward compatibility, but the OG gamers could reminisce in replaying childhood favourites such as the Crash Bandicoot series, exclusive to PlayStation.
The Series S is at a disadvantage because of the unparalleled components of both PS5 versions. Hence, we are presented with two choices: the PS5 will let your reexplore your past exclusive games and experience the future of gaming, but the Xbox Series X will offer you that same future at a better graphic.
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
