With the publication of Assassin's Creed Shadows For PS5 and Xbox Series X, one might have expected the current console generation to finally unleash its full potential. Instead, there are increasing signs that even this hardware era is already reaching its limits. While Ubisoft is proud of the technical implementation - especially the physics-based trees - some developments raise the question: Is the power of the PS5 and Xbox Series X still enough for modern gaming demands?
The illusion of limitless performance
"When you start with a new generation, you always feel somehow free", explains Pierre Fortin, Brand and Pipeline Technology Director at Ubisoft. A statement that shows that even developers initially believe in unlimited possibilities - until reality catches up with them. Because despite new technology Assassin's Creed Shadows with the same challenges as its predecessors: a huge game world, complex AI systems, dynamic weather and now also the realistic movement of trees.
The latest part of the Assassin's Creedseries uses a physics-based animation method for trees that simulates the wind. Sounds impressive, but it also shows what developers have to focus on these days: optimized performance instead of pure graphic splendor. Because even with SSDs and more powerful hardware, data has to be cleverly compressed to ensure a playable frame rate.
4K, ray tracing and 60 FPS are a challenge
Games are getting bigger, more detailed and more dynamic. But savings have to be made somewhere - be it in terms of resolution, frame rate or the game world's visibility. Assassin's Creed Shadows relies on dynamic seasons, realistic water animations and physical interactions - but all this comes at a price. Even though Ubisoft assures us that the performance remains stable, other titles show that many developers are already reaching the limits of the hardware.
It's clear: the PS5 and Xbox Series X are powerful, but not future-proof. Despite promised innovations such as ray tracing and 4K with 60 FPS, compromises have to be made time and again. If already Assassin's Creed Shadows forces developers to use "clever optimization techniques" to manage storage space and performance, the question arises: How long can this generation keep up? The PS5 Pro will certainly provide a remedy, but only for a certain amount of time.
The next console generation is coming sooner than expected
Because if you look at how much games are already pushing the limits of the hardware, the PS6 might be needed sooner than planned. The PS4 has lasted almost ten years, but the PS5 doesn't seem to be repeating this cycle. If such technical hurdles already exist today, it won't be long before gamers are craving true next-gen power. Or you simply can't expect much more.
In the end, the realization remains: Yes, Assassin's Creed Shadows looks impressive. Yes, Ubisoft has shown technical mastery. But the limits of the current hardware are noticeable - and the era of PS5 and Xbox Series X could end sooner than many think. After all, on the PS5 Pro another graphics upgrade planned, which is expected to be achieved with PSSR.
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