I'm not expert for farts in a wind... but what's the big deal about Crysis comparison ?
It's "shallow shooter" very demanding, but almost two years old... so, by the time of SH5 playing (Summer 2010?) it should be easily handled by mid-range GPUs
If SH5 is to be played in 2011, 2012,..etc. why should we be scared of that graphic level?
(sea foam,transparency, reflection... instead of detailed bush)
Dowly, think twice what you ask for... you might actually get it... and bitterly regret in 12 months or so...
Don't ask twice Ubisoft for a cheap graphics.