It’s possible that Sony’s PlayStation 6 won’t be built entirely on the RDNA 5 architecture for its graphics processor. According to reputable insider KeplerL2 from the NeoGaf forum, the new console’s GPU will be a hybrid, combining RDNA 5 technologies with elements from previous generations. Sony has already used a similar approach with the PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro.

PlayStation 6 Architecture Features

KeplerL2 notes that PlayStation 6 will not include all the features of AMD’s RDNA 5, but will instead utilize only select capabilities from this architecture. While the exact reasons for this decision remain undisclosed, it’s likely that Sony aims to reduce production costs by blending modern and older technologies.

The PS6 is expected to feature a Zen 6 processor and 30 GB of RAM. Currently, such components are quite expensive, so Sony is forced to look for ways to optimize expenses. Using a hybrid graphics solution based on RDNA 5 and introducing new methods to reduce storage requirements could be among these cost-saving measures.

Continuity in Sony’s Strategy

KeplerL2 explains that Sony has already implemented a similar strategy with the PS5, where the graphics processor is primarily based on RDNA 1 architecture but supports ray tracing. The PS5 Pro uses RDNA 4 technologies to enhance ray tracing performance. Therefore, it’s not surprising that Sony would choose a similar path for the PS6.

Competition with the Next-Gen Xbox

Much attention is being paid to the expected price of the PlayStation 6 and how it will compare to the next-generation Xbox. Rumors suggest the new Xbox will essentially be a Windows-based PC and will be significantly more expensive than the Xbox Series X. Sony cannot afford to price the PS6 at the same level, as the balance between cost and capabilities is a key factor for market success. Microsoft may justify a higher price by positioning the new Xbox as a “PC,” but Sony doesn’t have that option.

Release Prospects and Market Situation

The Sony PlayStation 6 is expected to launch in 2028. The memory market is currently facing challenges, with rising prices for RAM, SSDs, and GPUs. Analysts do not foresee a quick improvement, but there is hope that by 2028, conditions will become more favorable. This would allow Sony to offer a significant upgrade over the PS5 without a substantial price increase. For now, we can only wait for further updates.