How Uncharted 2 set the technical benchmark (extensive read)

[Squilliam]

slowmo said:

Squilliam said:

Its more an artistic benchmark, personally.

It's more than that fella, the jump from Uncharted 1 to 2 is immense.  Play through it a couple of times and you'll see what I mean.

I would bet the majority of the improvement is in using their assets better, not the ability to have more assets on screen due to engine technology.