Mark Cerny Unveils ‘Codename Amethyst’ ML Collaboration with AMD for PS5 Pro

In a recent presentation, gaming enthusiasts were treated to an exclusive question-and-answer session with Mark Cerny, the lead architect behind the PlayStation 5 Pro. This opportunity allowed fans to delve deeper into the innovations and updates surrounding the console. The comprehensive discussion emphasized the significance of the graphical processing unit (GPU) in enhancing gaming experiences.

The Importance of GPU Advancements

Beginning with a focus on technical specifications, Cerny highlighted the GPU improvements that come with the PlayStation 5 Pro. After nearly seven years into the PlayStation 5’s lifecycle, technological advancements necessitate a more powerful system to fully leverage the capabilities of this console generation. While the existing model has been successful for over four years, Cerny acknowledged that game developers have taken time to fully acclimate to its architecture—except for top-tier studios like Naughty Dog and Sony Santa Monica that had early access and experience.

Introducing the Big Three Enhancements

Central to the PS5 Pro presentation were what Cerny referred to as the Big Three enhancements: a larger GPU, sophisticated ray tracing features, and improved game upscaling through artificial intelligence, notably using PlayStation Super Spectral Resolution (PSSR).

1. Enhanced GPU Architecture

The PlayStation 5 Pro boasts a larger GPU, integrating a unique AMD architecture branded as RDNA2.X. This hybrid model incorporates elements from both RDNA 2 and anticipated RDNA 3 architecture. Compared to the original PlayStation 5, this new GPU includes 66% more Work Group Processors (WGPs), significantly boosting its processing capabilities.

2. Refuting Misleading Performance Metrics

Cerny also addressed earlier claims about the PlayStation 5 Pro’s performance, particularly the 335 Teraflops figure that garnered much attention prior to the launch. He explained that while having twice the ‘flops’ would be appealing, it wouldn’t necessarily translate to doubling real-world performance. Instead, it could lead to what he coined “Flopflation.”He reiterated the shift from 18 to 30 WGPs, resulting in a substantial 67% surge in processing power and an estimated overall performance increase of about 45%.

3. Revolutionary Ray Tracing Capabilities

For example, rendering time for a frame that takes 16 milliseconds on the PS5 could reduce to just 11 milliseconds on the new upscaled version. This efficiency opens up opportunities to enhance ray tracing, one of the most demanding graphical techniques currently in use. The additional WGPs specifically focus on optimizing ray calculations, which Cerny hopes will encourage broader adoption among developers.

PS5 Pro's Big Three — PS5 Pro’s Big Three

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Graphics Enhancement

Another pivotal aspect of the PlayStation 5 Pro’s capabilities is its use of machine learning (ML) to enhance graphics. By intelligently reducing the number of pixels during rendering, the PSSR neural network can effectively fill in the visual gaps. Importantly, this process does not always require a lower initial resolution, allowing for frame generation that minimizes choppiness typically seen in games with lower frame rates.

The Future of PlayStation with AMD Collaboration

Mark Cerny concluded the presentation by discussing the ambitious future of the PlayStation brand and a noteworthy partnership with AMD, known as Codename Amethyst. While the current architecture of the PS5 Pro pushes the limits of machine learning, there still exists a bottleneck around system memory access, presenting an opportunity for refinement and advancement. This collaboration aims to create an accessible library for machine learning applications across various platforms, not limited to Sony-exclusive technologies.

Cerny described this effort as akin to developing a neural network dedicated to improving graphics for gaming. By fostering an integrated environment where machine learning and AI are seamlessly merged, developers will have the latitude to explore innovative uses of these technologies. Although the specifics of this initiative are still under wraps, it signifies an exciting chapter in the evolution of graphics capabilities in gaming.

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