Category: Gaming

  • Evolve 2 Abandoned Concept Art Revealed by Turtle Rock Artist

    Evolve 2 Abandoned Concept Art Revealed by Turtle Rock Artist

    Key Takeaways

    1. Turtle Rock Studios canceled the development of Evolve 2 during the concept art stage after several months of pre-production.
    2. Evolve initially gained significant hype and sold approximately 2.5 million copies in its first month but struggled to maintain player engagement due to repetitive gameplay and reliance on DLC.
    3. The game transitioned to a free-to-play model as Evolve Stage 2 in July 2016, which briefly helped recover its player base but ultimately led to server shutdown in September 2018.
    4. Players who purchased Evolve before it became free-to-play could still access co-op modes, but full support was discontinued by July 6, 2023.
    5. Turtle Rock Studios, now owned by Tencent, is working on a sequel to Back 4 Blood, while 2K Games retains the rights to the Evolve franchise, making a revival unlikely.

    For those who can recall Evolve, Turtle Rock Studios was in the midst of making a sequel to the asymmetrical 4v1 cooperative shooter, where four hunters battled against a monster controlled by a player. Sadly, the development of Evolve 2 was canceled during the concept art stage.

    Concept Art Shared

    Turtle Rock artist TJ Frame posted 16 pieces of concept art for Evolve 2 on his website, indicating that this was during the early stages of the game’s pre-production. He also mentioned that work on Evolve 2 started not long after the original game’s release in February 2015. Frame stated, “After Evolve released, the studio began work on a sequel,” but the project was abandoned after “several months of pre-production.”

    Initial Hype and Sales

    The concept of a 4v1 player-versus-player game featuring hunters and aliens on the planet Shear created substantial excitement when Evolve was first announced in January 2014, followed by a release date reveal on October 21 of the same year.

    Evolve sold approximately 2.5 million copies in its first month, as reported by 2K Games. It became the top-selling retail game in the UK and the second-best-selling title in the U.S. during its launch period. However, post-launch, the game had difficulties keeping players engaged. Many criticized its repetitive gameplay and heavy dependence on downloadable content (DLC). As a result, the game’s player base declined.

    Transition to Free-to-Play

    Due to these issues, Evolve transitioned to a free-to-play model as Evolve Stage 2 in July 2016. This shift helped recover some of its lost players and kept it in the top 100 games on Steam. However, over two years, it gradually lost its audience again, leading to 2K Games announcing the server shutdown in September 2018.

    Players who had bought Evolve before it became free-to-play could still access co-op via peer-to-peer multiplayer on both PC and console. By July 6, 2023, support for Evolve was completely discontinued when 2K Games announced the server sunset, rendering the game unplayable.

    Future of Turtle Rock

    Turtle Rock Studios was taken over by Tencent in 2021 and is now working on a sequel to Back 4 Blood, but this information should be taken cautiously. 2K Games still retains the rights to the Evolve intellectual property, and it appears improbable that the publisher will revive the franchise. All that remains of Evolve 2 is the concept art, serving as a reminder of what might have been.

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  • Indiana Jones Success Doesn’t Equal Big Profits, Reports 6% Margin

    Indiana Jones Success Doesn’t Equal Big Profits, Reports 6% Margin

    Key Takeaways

    1. Machine Games reported a net margin of 6% for 2024, with net sales of $44.325 million and a net profit of $2.679 million.
    2. The financial report does not specify the success or failure of individual games, including Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, due to its launch on Xbox Game Pass.
    3. Operating expenses for Machine Games reached $41.53 million, highlighting the challenges in profitability amid high development costs.
    4. The studio’s net sales decreased from a peak of $49.1 million in 2021, indicating a decline despite a major game release.
    5. Future job cuts and increased pressure for profitability are anticipated within Microsoft’s Xbox division, affecting the direction of projects and studios.

    Machine Games, the Swedish team known for the Wolfenstein series and the well-received Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, has reported a modest 6% net margin for the year 2024.

    Financial Findings

    The financial details were uncovered by Timur222 and shared by Derek Strickland from TweakTown on X on July 20. For 2024, Machine Games noted net sales of $44.325 million and a net profit of $2.679 million.

    Challenges Ahead

    This year has been tough for Xbox’s first-party studio, which received praise for its stunning Ray-Tracing and visual fidelity, especially in the introductory sequence of Raiders of the Lost Ark.

    However, the financial report doesn’t clearly indicate any triumph or failure of specific games or projects from Machine Games. This ambiguity arises because Machine Games is a subsidiary of ZeniMax Media, which encompasses all entities under Bethesda, including Arkane, BGS, id Software, and ZeniMax Online.

    Revenue Uncertainties

    The revenue from Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is somewhat unclear in the 2024 financial overview, as the game launched on Xbox Game Pass from day one, which often leads to decreased direct sales. The report also stated that operating expenses reached $41.53 million, leaving minimal room for profit in an industry where development budgets can quickly exceed $100 million.

    In contrast, Machine Games hit a peak net sales figure of $49.1 million in 2021, highlighting that 2024 represented a decline even with a significant AAA launch. The studio’s 6% revenue margin is quite low compared to other big players like Nintendo, which announced a 30% profit on $11.6 billion in revenue for the 2024 fiscal year.

    Future Prospects

    With over 9,100 layoffs at Microsoft in recent times, further job cuts seem likely. Margins are becoming increasingly important, and pressure is mounting on various developers under Microsoft’s Xbox division, even as reports suggest that comparisons are being made to Microsoft’s more profitable Azure business segment.

    While ZeniMax Media generally enjoys some freedom from Microsoft’s oversight regarding financial matters and staffing, the fate of project cancellations and studio closures ultimately lies with Xbox and Microsoft. This has put them in a position to focus on maximizing profits since the beginning of 2025.

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  • No Rest for the Wicked: Xbox Series X Strategy Unclear

    No Rest for the Wicked: Xbox Series X Strategy Unclear

    Key Takeaways

    1. Concerns Over Xbox Series X Sales: Decreasing sales of the Xbox Series X may lead some studios to reconsider multi-platform releases.

    2. Moon Studios’ Uncertainty: CEO Thomas Mahler indicated the Xbox Series X|S version of “No Rest for the Wicked” is now questionable due to market conditions, but the game is still likely to release on all platforms.

    3. Prioritization of PS5: Moon Studios is giving priority to the PS5 for the release of “No Rest for the Wicked.”

    4. Future Xbox Console Rumors: A new Xbox console is rumored for 2027, raising questions about the relevance of current Xbox hardware for developers.

    5. Expanding Game Accessibility: Microsoft is working on making Xbox titles available on various devices, but not all games will run on new handhelds without cloud streaming.

    It has become common for many third-party games to launch on both PlayStation and Xbox systems. However, with the decreasing sales of the Xbox Series X, a few studios might think twice about their plans for releasing on multiple platforms. In an unexpected post on Discord, Thomas Mahler, the CEO of Moon Studios, which is behind the action RPG No Rest for the Wicked, indicated that due to “market conditions,” the Xbox Series X|S version was now questionable.

    Discussion with Microsoft

    Mahler stated that the studio wanted to explore its options with Microsoft. Initially, some gamers thought his announcement meant the game was getting canceled. Thankfully for Xbox enthusiasts, he later made it clear that No Rest for the Wicked will probably be available “on all platforms.” Still, the studio is giving priority to the PS5. Mahler also suggested that the game might launch on the unreleased Switch 2.

    Early Access and Release Date Uncertainty

    The Moon Studios title has been in early access on PCs since April 2024. Players were anticipating an announcement regarding the release date for No Rest for the Wicked on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. However, those plans now appear to be less certain, especially for Xbox consoles.

    Microsoft has been shifting its focus away from its current consoles. As a result, developers may not see the benefit in creating games for these systems anymore. Looking forward, a new Xbox console is rumored to be on the horizon in 2027. Even if this new console is Windows-based, there might not be a clear difference between the PC games and the Xbox titles it supports.

    Expanding Accessibility for Games

    The tech giant is also working to make previously exclusive Xbox titles available on various devices. The upcoming Asus ROG Xbox Ally handheld gaming PC shows this strategy in action. However, it won’t be able to run all Series X and S games without relying on cloud streaming.

    Even past Xbox leaders like Mike Ybarra and Laura Fryer find the Xbox Gaming roadmap puzzling. It’s not surprising that developers such as Moon Studios share similar concerns about the current and future gaming hardware landscape.

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  • MSI Claw A8: AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme Handheld Launches in Europe

    MSI Claw A8: AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme Handheld Launches in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI launched its first gaming handheld, the Claw A8 BZ2EM, powered by AMD Ryzen, at Computex 2025, with a global release still pending.
    2. The Claw A8 is gradually expanding its availability, recently launching in Cambodia, Taiwan, and now Europe (Austria, Germany, Slovakia).
    3. The pricing for the Claw A8 is set at €975 and €978.90, making it cheaper than the Claw 8 AI+, which is priced at $999.
    4. The Claw A8 features an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset with eight Zen 5 CPU cores and a Radeon 890M iGPU, competing with the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V in performance.
    5. The Claw A8 includes an M.2 2280 SSD slot, which is not available in the 8-inch version, and comes with 24 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage.

    MSI has officially introduced its first gaming handheld powered by AMD Ryzen back in May at Computex 2025, prior to Asus showcasing its upcoming ROG Ally gadgets. Nevertheless, the firm has yet to announce when the Claw A8 BZ2EM or Claw 8 Ryzen Edition will be available globally. Instead, the company has been gradually expanding the device’s availability to new markets after its initial launch in China at the beginning of July.

    Recent Market Expansions

    To give some background, the Claw A8 made its debut in Cambodia and Taiwan just over a week ago. Now, it has arrived in Europe, starting with Austria, Germany, and Slovakia. Currently, neither Alza nor Smarty.sk have shared any information on when the Claw A8 will start shipping. However, customers can pre-order the new gaming handheld from both retailers, available in Neon Green and Polar Tempest color choices.

    Pricing Details

    In the meantime, the retailers have noted that the Claw A8 is priced a bit lower than the Claw 8 AI+ (currently $999 on Amazon), even though they share similar specifications. Specifically, Alza and Smarty.sk have set the price for MSI’s latest gaming device at €975 and €978.90, respectively, both including 24 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage.

    Key Features

    The primary difference between the Claw A8 and Claw 8 AI+ lies in its AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset, which integrates eight Zen 5 CPU cores along with a Radeon 890M iGPU. Early tests suggest that the Ryzen Z2 Extreme performs comparably to the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V found in the Claw 8 AI+, though it underperforms at lower wattages. Additionally, the new MSI Claw offers an M.2 2280 SSD slot, which is absent in its 8-inch version. Here are the complete specifications for the Claw A8:

    In the meantime, the retailers have noted that the Claw A8 is priced a bit lower than the Claw 8 AI+ (currently $999 on Amazon), even though they share similar specifications. Specifically, Alza and Smarty.sk have set the price for MSI’s latest gaming device at €975 and €978.90, respectively, both including 24 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage.

    Distinctive Features

    The primary difference between the Claw A8 and Claw 8 AI+ lies in its AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset, which integrates eight Zen 5 CPU cores along with a Radeon 890M iGPU. Early tests suggest that the Ryzen Z2 Extreme performs comparably to the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V found in the Claw 8 AI+, though it underperforms at lower wattages. Additionally, the new MSI Claw offers an M.2 2280 SSD slot, which is absent in its 8-inch version. Here are the complete specifications for the Claw A8:

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  • Monster Hunter-Inspired LEGO Set: A Dreamy Build for Fans

    Monster Hunter-Inspired LEGO Set: A Dreamy Build for Fans

    Key Takeaways

    1. MitchBuilds created a LEGO set inspired by the Monster Hunter franchise, showcasing the blend of creativity between the two worlds.
    2. His video demonstrates the construction of two recognizable creatures, the Palicot and the Seikret, using existing LEGO sets to add intricate details.
    3. The creations evoke a strong resemblance to official LEGO products, making them appealing to both LEGO and Monster Hunter fans.
    4. Fans are excited about the project and actively engaging in discussions following the release of a significant update for Monster Hunter Wilds.
    5. While there’s no official collaboration between Capcom and LEGO yet, the popularity of MitchBuilds’ work may open doors for future partnerships.

    Everyone is aware that with LEGO, the only boundaries are set by your creativity. One enthusiast has truly grasped this, crafting a fresh set inspired by the Monster Hunter franchise. The outcome is so striking that you might find yourself wanting to purchase it.

    Merging Two Worlds

    It’s essential to realize that we are discussing two realms that can seamlessly blend. LEGO boasts an extensive array of pieces from numerous sets, while Monster Hunter is celebrated for the variety of creatures featured in its games. When these two aspects are combined with MitchBuilds, a passionate fan of this universe, the result is nothing short of fantastic.

    Video Showcase

    In a half-hour video, he demonstrates how he created two beloved companions: the Palicot and the Seikret. For this project, he utilized several sets he already possessed, allowing him to incorporate a multitude of intricate details.

    It’s worth mentioning that these two creatures are easily recognizable, yet everything is crafted in the style of LEGO. The saddlebags, weapons, accessories, and legs all evoke memories of the previous works from the Danish company. At first glance, it’s simple to think that this is an official partnership.

    Fan Reactions

    Additionally, fans are thrilled with the final product and are eager to share their thoughts in the comments section of the video. Furthermore, the timing of the video’s release couldn’t have been better, as Monster Hunter Wilds recently received a significant update known as Title Update 2. This update introduced two new monsters, Lagiacrus and Seregios, much to fans’ excitement. Another update is on the horizon for September, which will feature a new monster and a new difficulty level.

    As for a possible collaboration between Capcom and LEGO, there has been no official word yet. However, it’s clear that the popularity of MitchBuilds’ creation, alongside the success of the franchise, may spark some discussions that could lead to future developments.

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  • Top Selling Castle-Building RTS Remake Now with Launch Discount

    Top Selling Castle-Building RTS Remake Now with Launch Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition launched on Steam on July 15, 2025, quickly becoming a top seller and trending game.
    2. The game offers a rich experience, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers, and is currently available for about $18 due to a 10% discount.
    3. It retains the original gameplay elements, allowing players to build strongholds and lead armies while also adding new content and enhancements.
    4. New features include eight new units, four additional AI lords, two campaigns, larger maps, and a cooperative mode.
    5. The Definitive Edition includes high-resolution graphics, a re-recorded soundtrack, support for Steam Workshop, and is verified for Steam Deck compatibility.

    Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition officially came out on Steam on July 15, and it had a fantastic start. It quickly climbed to the top of SteamDB’s “Popular Releases” and “Trending Games,” and by July 21, 2025, it was also leading the Steam top sellers list.

    A Rich Experience for All

    FireFly Studios didn’t just make a basic remaster; instead, they’ve crafted a robust strategy game for both long-time fans and newcomers. This upgraded version of the classic castle-building RTS from 2002 usually retails for around $20, but right now, you can snag it for about $18 due to a 10% discount that’s active until July 29. The game has already received over 2,500 reviews on Steam, with a very positive rating of 90%.

    Gameplay That Honors the Original

    In terms of gameplay, Crusader remains faithful to its origins. Players will guide their armies through hot deserts, besiege enemy fortresses, and construct their own strongholds—complete with granaries, catapults, and towering stone defenses. However, this edition brings much more than just a nostalgic experience.

    FireFly has loaded the Definitive Edition with fresh content and enhancements. You’ll discover eight new units, four additional AI lords, two new campaigns, and various skirmish challenges. On the technical front, the game now boasts high-resolution graphics, a re-recorded soundtrack, and the return of the original voice actors. Furthermore, it features larger maps, a cooperative mode, new multiplayer scenarios, and complete support for Steam Workshop. The Definitive Edition of Stronghold Crusader is also verified for Steam Deck, which you can find on Amazon for about $460, making it perfect for gaming on the move.

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  • GTA 6 to Run at 60 FPS on PS5 Pro with Sony’s Help

    GTA 6 to Run at 60 FPS on PS5 Pro with Sony’s Help

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony plans a software update in May 2026 to coincide with the launch of GTA 6.
    2. The game is expected to run at 60 FPS on the PS5 Pro, due to collaboration between Rockstar and PlayStation engineers.
    3. The 60 FPS capability will be exclusive to the PS5 Pro, not available on the standard PS5.
    4. The partnership may allow future Rockstar games to also run at 60 FPS, though specifics are unclear.
    5. Current Rockstar games on PS5 are typically limited to 30 FPS, including GTA V and the second trailer for GTA 6.

    It was recently mentioned that Sony is gearing up for a software update set for May 2026, aligning with the launch of GTA 6. Adding to this news is the latest info from a leaker, who asserts that the game will achieve 60 FPS on the PS5 Pro, thanks to a partnership between Rockstar and Sony’s engineers.

    Details on the Collaboration

    The leaker, known as Detective Seeds, referred to a PlayStation engineer, revealing that both PlayStation engineers and Rockstar are joining forces under a marketing agreement. This collaboration aims to ensure that GTA 6 operates at 60 FPS on the PS5 Pro. Allegedly, the game will feature various graphical settings, all supporting the 60 FPS performance. However, it appears this capability will be exclusive to the PS5 Pro and won’t be available on the standard PS5.

    Future Implications for Rockstar Games

    Moreover, this partnership might also make it possible for other upcoming Rockstar games to run at 60 FPS. Specific details about these games remain unknown. Besides improvements in frame rates, the marketing agreement is rumored to introduce various bundles featuring GTA 6 and PS5 offerings.

    As noted previously, the same leaker had indicated a significant update for the PS5 Pro was in the works, targeting a May 2026 release. Fans began to speculate that this could potentially be a 60 FPS update specifically for GTA 6. The game is set to launch on May 26, 2026, suggesting it could either be a day-one update or part of a standard firmware update prior to the game’s release.

    Current Status of Rockstar Games on PS5

    Importantly, Sony has yet to provide any details about an upcoming update. It’s also crucial to point out that most Rockstar games released on PS5 or PS5 Pro have been limited to 30 FPS (for instance, GTA V runs at 1440p/60 FPS on the PS5 Pro). Additionally, the second trailer for GTA 6, which was recorded on a standard PS5, was also restricted to 30 FPS.

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  • Ubisoft Confirms New Ghost Recon Game is in Development

    Ubisoft Confirms New Ghost Recon Game is in Development

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new Ghost Recon game is confirmed to be in development, with a targeted launch in 2026.
    2. Ubisoft’s CEO and CFO discussed the game during a shareholder meeting, highlighting its importance among upcoming first-person shooter projects.
    3. The game’s codename is Ovr, and it is expected to be a tactical shooter similar to Ready or Not or the Modern Warfare series.
    4. The new Ghost Recon game will focus on a fictional conflict called the ‘Naiman war’ and is classified as a first-person military simulation (mil-sim).
    5. The game is anticipated to take about 12 months from the internal alpha stage to its final launch, suggesting a Fall 2026 release.

    Late last month, on June 30, reports surfaced indicating that a new Ghost Recon game is in the works, with a targeted launch set for 2026. Recently, Ubisoft seems to have confirmed this during a meeting with shareholders. While no official details of the new Ghost Recon game have been shared, the leak from June sheds some light on what might be on the horizon.

    Shareholder Meeting Insights

    The shareholder meeting, which took place on July 10, saw this confirmation fly somewhat under the radar for a few weeks. During the meeting, Ubisoft’s leadership responded to shareholders’ inquiries regarding both current and future projects. CEO Yves Guillemot discussed forthcoming launches and mentioned the Ghost Recon game, with CFO Frederick Duguet noting that Ghost Recon is just one example of the first-person shooter games that Ubisoft is working on.

    Development Confirmation

    Although an official announcement for the new Ghost Recon game hasn’t been made yet, the leadership has referenced the project, effectively verifying that it is indeed in development. This ties back to the leak from late June, which stated that the game would be entering alpha development this year. Reports suggested that the project is codenamed Ovr and is set to be a tactical shooter akin to games like Ready or Not or similar to the Modern Warfare series.

    Game Details and Speculations

    The game is expected to be a first-person military simulation (mil-sim) centered around a fictional conflict known as the ‘Naiman war.’ In terms of release timing, it is believed that it could take around 12 months from the internal alpha stage to the final launch, meaning we might see the game come out in Fall 2026.

    Other than the game’s name, no further details were disclosed during the shareholder meeting, which also touched upon the ongoing controversy surrounding Assassin’s Creed Shadows and the Stop Killing Games petition.

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  • Donkey Kong Bananza: Switch 2 Game Settings to Reduce Motion Sickness

    Donkey Kong Bananza: Switch 2 Game Settings to Reduce Motion Sickness

    Key Takeaways

    1. Some players are experiencing camera-related issues in Donkey Kong Bananza, which can obscure vision and cause discomfort.
    2. Motion sickness can occur when players perceive movement on screen while remaining still, leading to dizziness and nausea.
    3. The camera’s auto-adjusting feature and sudden drops in framerate contribute to feelings of disorientation for some players.
    4. Tips to reduce motion sickness include adjusting sensitivity settings, disabling motion controls, and turning off camera shake.
    5. Retailers may be more understanding with returns or refunds due to health-related concerns, even though Nintendo typically does not offer refunds.

    Some gamers are having a tough time with the camera system in Donkey Kong Bananza, as it can obscure what they’re trying to see. Others have reported feeling motion sickness, which makes it hard for them to enjoy the Switch 2 game for long periods. This isn’t a problem for everyone, but a few Reddit threads have highlighted the struggles of a small group of players. Luckily, there are some settings in the game and tips that might help ease this discomfort.

    Understanding Motion Sickness

    Motion sickness happens when players stay still, but their eyes sense movement, like when characters move on screen. This confusion can lead to feelings of dizziness and, in severe cases, even throwing up. Some players of Donkey Kong Bananza mention that they don’t usually face this problem with other titles.

    The Camera’s Role

    The camera tracking in Nintendo’s new 3D platformer is clearly a major factor here. As it follows Donkey Kong’s movements, it quickly shifts focus to match the ape’s actions. Sudden drops in framerate during certain animations can worsen the issue. Without an option to turn off this auto-adjusting feature, players might feel disoriented or lightheaded.

    Tips for Players

    Even though the camera options are limited, there are methods players can use to lessen their unease. Game8 has gathered advice from fellow gamers who also deal with motion sickness. It’s recommended to set both the horizontal and vertical sliders to a normal position but to lower sensitivity levels. Disabling motion controls can also help reduce confusion. Lastly, turning off camera shake is another frequently suggested tip.

    Despite trying these strategies, some players of Donkey Kong Bananza still experience nausea when engaging with the Switch 2 game. There’s a chance that Nintendo may issue a patch to help stabilize the camera movements. Until that happens, many physical stores are not likely to accept returns on opened games. Additionally, it’s uncommon for Nintendo to provide refunds for digital purchases on the eShop. However, given that these issues relate to health, retailers might show a little more understanding to customers.

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    Donkey Kong Bananza: Switch 2 Game Settings to Reduce Motion SicknessDonkey Kong Bananza: Switch 2 Game Settings to Reduce Motion Sickness
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  • Cyberpunk 2077 Update 2.3: FPS Boost for PS5 Pro with VRR Support

    Cyberpunk 2077 Update 2.3: FPS Boost for PS5 Pro with VRR Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cyberpunk 2077 has significantly improved since its troubled launch in December 2020, with ongoing updates from CD Projekt RED.
    2. The new 2.3 update adds support for advanced graphic technologies, including VRR, enhancing performance on the PS5 Pro.
    3. Digital Foundry’s tests show that the PS5 Pro can unlock frame rates beyond the previous limits, achieving up to 120 FPS in performance mode.
    4. The PS5 averaged 62.84 FPS, while the PS5 Pro achieved 81.03 FPS, indicating a smoother gaming experience with VRR.
    5. The Xbox Series X did not benefit from VRR, maintaining a 30 FPS limit in RT mode and 60 FPS in performance mode, highlighting issues with its VRR implementation.

    Cyberpunk 2077 has completely changed since its rough start in December 2020. Developer CD Projekt RED is focused on fixing and enhancing the game, working hard over the last four years. With the new 2.3 update, the team has made more improvements, adding support for the latest graphic technologies, including VRR for consoles. This appears to have led to a significant boost in performance for the PS5 Pro.

    Insights from Digital Foundry

    The latest episode of DF Direct Weekly, produced by the tech experts at Digital Foundry, discusses VRR on the PS5 (buy on Amazon), PS5 Pro (buy on Amazon), and Xbox Series X (buy on Amazon). While the basic PS5 saw some gains in FPS, it was really the PS5 Pro that experienced a true performance unlock by lifting the 60 FPS limit.

    Testing Methodology

    For their tests, the team transferred the PC benchmark sequence from Cyberpunk 2077 to both the PS5 and PS5 Pro. This allowed for a direct comparison between the two consoles based on identical sequences. Activating VRR unlocked the frame rate in the 30 FPS RT mode, enabling it to run at 40 FPS. In performance mode, lifting the 60 FPS limit potentially allowed for up to 120 FPS. The base PS5 averaged about 62.84 FPS, while the PS5 Pro achieved 81.03 FPS.

    Performance Comparisons

    The performance results varied across different testing situations within Night City, but in general, the VRR experience on the PS5 Pro was much smoother and steadier compared to the base PS5. Digital Foundry suggests that this VRR implementation is the closest thing to a true PS5 Pro enhanced version of Cyberpunk 2077.

    On the flip side, the Xbox Series X did not show any benefits from VRR. The RT mode remained at 30 FPS, and the performance mode was still limited to 60 FPS. There seems to be an issue with the VRR implementation on Xbox consoles; however, considering that VRR support does not significantly aid the base PS5, the same might apply to the Xbox Series X.

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