Cyberpunk 2077 gets a free PS5 Pro upgrade today that brings PSSR and better ray tracing options

Cyberpunk 2077 has received a free PS5 Pro update, surprising players after CD Projekt Red stated in late 2024 that the studio had no plans to optimize the game for Sony’s enhanced console hardware.

The update, released today, focuses on leveraging the PS5 Pro’s additional processing power to deliver improved visual fidelity. The key improvements include PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR)—Sony’s proprietary upscaling technology comparable to NVIDIA’s DLSS—which increases the game’s output resolution for sharper visuals. The patch also introduces enhanced ray tracing options, allowing players to enjoy more advanced lighting and reflection effects.

PSSR works by rendering at a lower resolution and intelligently upscaling the image while maintaining visual quality, a technique that enables better performance while preserving detail. This addition represents a significant technical achievement for Cyberpunk 2077, a game known for its demanding performance requirements.

The reversal of CD Projekt Red’s earlier stance on PS5 Pro optimization suggests the team found value in utilizing the console’s unique capabilities. Since its infamous launch in 2020, the studio has invested considerable effort in improving the game through numerous patches and updates, rehabilitation efforts that have substantially improved player perception.

This free upgrade demonstrates CD Projekt Red’s continued commitment to supporting Cyberpunk 2077 on PlayStation platforms, even years after release. The update allows PS5 Pro owners to experience the game at the console’s full technical potential, with PSSR ensuring the enhanced resolution doesn’t compromise performance.

Sources