It runs on PlayStation’s most powerful engine, but according to its technical director, the leap from PS4 to PS5 “isn’t all that impressive.” With Death Stranding 2: On the Beach just weeks from release, Akio Sakamoto emphasizes that improvements are mostly in workflow efficiency, not in visual impact.

As the launch of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach approaches on PS5, one of Kojima Productions’ leading developers has made some surprisingly candid comments. While Hideo Kojima readies the marketing machine and fans drool over the polished Decima Engine, another key figure from the studio has taken a much more grounded view of the next-gen hardware. According to the game’s technical director, the leap between PS4 and PS5 “isn’t that big of a deal.”

In an interview with Edge Magazine, Akio Sakamoto pointed out that although nearly six years separate the two titles, and despite PS5 being vastly superior to the aging 2013 PS4, the technical advancements are still relatively modest. His remarks are particularly striking given that the sequel will launch exclusively on PS5 this June 26.

Boost in Workflow, Not in Visuals

To be fair, Sakamoto isn’t downplaying the PS5 entirely. He praised improvements like faster load times and enhanced creative freedom for developers. He explained that artists can now build without relying on outdated tricks, though this new freedom comes with its own complications. “It’s created an environment where the artists have gone totally wild,” he quipped.

His perspective aligns with a growing sentiment in the industry: next-gen hardware is less about stunning graphical upgrades and more about streamlining production. Today’s technical advances prioritize efficiency and flexibility rather than jaw-dropping visuals.

Despite his measured comments, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is shaping up to be a massive release. Much like its predecessor, a PC port is practically a given, and Kojima’s new venture looks set to soar—regardless of how impressive the hardware underneath may or may not be.

Source: 3djuegos