Tag: Digital Foundry

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Display Quality Issues: Worse Than Expected

    Nintendo Switch 2 Display Quality Issues: Worse Than Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 has received criticism for its screen quality, with issues like slower pixel response times causing blurring and trailing in games.
    2. The display’s HDR performance is lacking, with brightness limitations affecting the contrast ratio and making HDR differences hard to notice.
    3. VRR and LFC features have shown performance issues, resulting in stuttering and frame drops in certain games despite initial positive impressions.
    4. There is potential for improvement in VRR implementation and motion blur reduction through future updates or features like ‘Overdrive.’
    5. In some aspects, the Switch 2’s display is reportedly worse than that of the original Switch and the Switch OLED.

    Even though the Nintendo Switch 2 is flying off the shelves, it has not escaped criticism and technical issues. Earlier observations pointed out that the screen didn’t live up to the hype and questioned why Nintendo opted for an LCD over an OLED display. Now, a comprehensive review of the handheld has uncovered further issues with the screen, making it seem inferior to the original Switch.

    Digital Foundry’s Detailed Insights

    On June 21, Digital Foundry released a thorough review of the Switch 2, revealing just how poor the display really is. The pixel response times are slower on the Switch 2, causing problems like blurring and trailing. This issue is especially noticeable in side-scrolling games that require quick movements from side to side. John Linneman from Digital Foundry remarked that the response times are actually worse than those of the original Switch, which is unexpected.

    Brightness and HDR Limitations

    Additionally, HDR performance was found to be underwhelming due to the screen’s brightness constraints. This was also noted in a prior display review, which mentioned how the backlight tends to wash out darker colors, negatively affecting the contrast ratio. The difference between HDR being turned on or off in games is hardly noticeable.

    The reviewers discovered that VRR and LFC (Low-framerate compensation) function, at least during the Welcome Tour. However, when testing Hitman World of Assassination, they observed stuttering and frame drops into the 30 to 35 FPS range, indicating that VRR isn’t operating effectively with LFC below 40 Hz, contrary to what the Welcome Tour suggests. Similar issues were seen in Cyberpunk 2077 and No Man’s Sky.

    Some Hope for Improvement

    On the brighter side, there is potential for enhancing the VRR implementation, which could provide a more stable experience in demanding games. Motion blur problems could also be addressed with features like ‘Overdrive.’ Nevertheless, as it stands, the display of the Switch 2 is, in some scenarios, worse than that of the original Switch and the Switch OLED.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Switch 2 Specs Enhance Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Performance

    Switch 2 Specs Enhance Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo assures improvements for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet with the Switch 2, addressing previous player doubts.
    2. Gameplay footage shows the game achieving 60 fps, enhancing performance and graphics in both docked and handheld modes.
    3. Handheld mode runs at about 648p with DRS, while docked mode can upscale visuals to 4K on compatible screens.
    4. The game features smoother animations but still has limitations, such as dull textures due to hardware constraints.
    5. The update is free, and players have responded positively to the performance boosts, with anticipation for Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

    Nintendo has guaranteed that Pokémon Scarlet and Violet would improve with the enhanced specs of the Switch 2. However, many gamers were doubtful until they could actually try the console and the upgrade patch. A lot of players who had stopped playing the 2022 game are now discovering it is much easier to enjoy. A new analysis from Digital Foundry explores how the Switch 2 has affected this creature-catching RPG.

    Initial Impressions of the Upgrade

    Prior to the launch of the Switch 2, Nintendo shared some gameplay footage of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet running on the new device. It looked like the game was hitting 60 fps, which tackled one of the main issues critics had with the original version. Digital Foundry verified that the game on Switch 2 achieves this frame rate, although there are still frame drops in certain open-world areas. Players can look forward to smoother graphics whether they are in docked or handheld mode.

    Resolution and Performance Differences

    When playing the Pokémon game in handheld mode, the increase in resolution doesn’t feel as striking. The handheld mode runs at about 648p, using DRS (Dynamic Resolution Scaling) to hit a 1080p resolution. In contrast, without DRS, the docked Switch 2 is capable of upscaling 1080p visuals to 4K on compatible screens. The tests also showed a basic level of DLSS upscaling being utilized during gameplay.

    Animation Improvements and Limitations

    Additionally, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet now has smoother animations, even when viewed from a distance. However, the specs of the Switch 2, featuring a custom Nvidia T239 processor and expanded memory, do have constraints. Some players have pointed out the dull textures, causing the Game Freak title to appear outdated upon its initial release. Simply having more power won’t necessarily create environments as realistic as those found in more advanced competitors.

    Nintendo’s update comes at no cost, and most players are pleased with the significant performance boosts. Still, on October 16th, Pokémon Legends: Z-A could provide the next-gen experience that fans have been wanting.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • PS5 Powers Every Frame of GTA 6 Trailer 2, Says Rockstar

    PS5 Powers Every Frame of GTA 6 Trailer 2, Says Rockstar

    Key Takeaways

    1. Trailer 2 for GTA VI received over 1 million likes within an hour and has now reached 5 million likes.
    2. The trailer showcases a mix of real-time gameplay and in-game cutscenes, highlighting the game’s visual achievements.
    3. Some minor aliasing issues were noted, which may not affect performance on the more powerful PS5 Pro.
    4. GTA VI is expected to launch at 30 FPS, with no 60 FPS option likely available at release.
    5. GTA VI may not be compatible with the rumored Nintendo Switch 2, and other handheld devices may struggle to run the game efficiently.

    Rockstar Games has recently unveiled Trailer 2 for GTA VI, which quickly gained traction, amassing over 1 million likes within just an hour of its upload. As of now, the total likes have soared to 5 million. This trailer isn’t only a successful reveal; it also provides a closer look at Grand Theft Auto 6. Rockstar confirmed that the entire footage was recorded on a PlayStation 5 and not the PS5 Pro.

    Gameplay and Cutscenes

    In a statement shared on X, Rockstar Games mentioned that Trailer 2 features a blend of real-time gameplay and in-game cutscenes. The seamless transition between these two elements is a significant accomplishment for the game. Returning to the point about the PS5 capturing the new trailer, many YouTubers have scrutinized the video, with most of them praising the game’s environment, special effects like explosions, and particularly the intricate details of the characters.

    Performance Insights

    However, as noted by Digital Foundry, some specifics and minor aliasing issues detract from the overall visual quality of the trailer. It’s suggested that these concerns may not be present on the PlayStation 5 Pro, which has superior hardware compared to the standard PS5.

    Digital Foundry also mentioned that GTA 6 is likely to be limited to 30 FPS at launch, even on the PS5 Pro. This assumption doesn’t stem solely from the impressive visuals of Grand Theft Auto VI, but rather from Rockstar’s pattern of releasing significant titles without a 60 FPS option at launch.

    Console Compatibility

    Regarding the rumored Nintendo Switch 2 version, Digital Foundry believes that GTA VI is “too big” for the system. Analysts speculate that devices like the Steam Deck or even the ROG Ally X and Legion Go (currently priced at $599.99 on Best Buy) might struggle to run Grand Theft Auto 6. Nevertheless, Rockstar Games has not disclosed any plans for supporting handheld gaming devices. It’s possible the developers are already taking steps to optimize the game for better performance on lower-spec systems.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Nintendo Switch 2 Specs Could Enable 120 FPS in Mario Kart World

    Nintendo Switch 2 Specs Could Enable 120 FPS in Mario Kart World

    Key Takeaways

    1. Concerns over high pricing for Mario Kart World may influence future game pricing models.
    2. The new Switch 2 could impress critics with enhanced performance, including a potential 120 fps mode.
    3. Mario Kart World may feature a resolution of 1440p and maintain consistent 60 fps gameplay, with options for higher frame rates.
    4. Despite some visual improvements, advanced lighting features like ray-tracing are unlikely, though shadows and water effects have improved.
    5. Mario Kart World’s fast-paced gameplay and open-world elements could justify its high price and boost sales on the Switch 2.

    The high price of Mario Kart World has raised concerns that upcoming games might adopt a similar pricing model. Nevertheless, the new Switch 2 title could change the minds of critics with its enhanced performance. Digital Foundry has performed an in-depth technical analysis of Mario Kart World using available footage. Although some improvements over the last installment are minor, a mention of a 120 fps mode has caught a lot of attention.

    Specs That Stand Out

    Given the buzz surrounding Mario Kart World, it’s no surprise that it highlights new features of the Switch 2. During the Nintendo Direct on April 2nd, players discovered that the new console would allow frame rates beyond 60 fps. This announcement confirmed earlier leaks about its surprisingly powerful screen. Digital Foundry suggests that Mario Kart World might be among the first games on the Switch 2 to offer a 120 fps option.

    Gameplay and Resolution

    Mario Kart 8 Deluxe operates at 1080p and 60 fps when docked. Digital Foundry believes that most of the gameplay footage of Mario Kart World displays 1440p, especially in docked mode. Similar to its predecessor, the new game might maintain a consistent 60 fps, but it could also feature a setting for higher frame rates. It’s uncertain what resolution players would have to settle for when playing at 120 fps. Additionally, Digital Foundry points out that photo mode is capped at 30 fps.

    The assessment of Switch 2’s performance is not as optimistic regarding lighting enhancements. Since the visual effects still appear to be pre-calculated, features like ray-tracing or screen-space reflections seem unlikely. However, shadows do look more realistic, and water effects have improved as well. The analysis also commended Mario Kart World for its intricate character models and fluid animations.

    Market Impact

    Prior to Nintendo’s formal announcement, some insiders were skeptical about whether Mario Kart World would be a major seller. However, it seems to leverage the improved specs of the Switch 2 effectively. With its fast-paced racing gameplay, the title is poised to highlight the console’s responsive display. The introduction of an open-world driving experience and a wealth of content may also persuade players to invest $80 or more.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Nintendo Delays Switch 2 Dev Kits to Prevent Leaks for Developers

    Nintendo Delays Switch 2 Dev Kits to Prevent Leaks for Developers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Timeline: Nintendo plans a three-phase launch for the Switch 2, starting with first-party titles, followed by third-party games from October to November.

    2. Development Kit Shortage: Many developers, especially smaller ones, are struggling to obtain development kits for the Switch 2, which are essential for game creation.

    3. Pressure on Developers: The delay in receiving development kits may impact developers aiming to release titles for the Switch 2 in 2025, as they have less time to prepare.

    4. Leaks and Speculations: Despite Nintendo’s efforts to keep details private, there have been numerous leaks about the Switch 2, including a private demonstration at GamesCom 2023.

    5. Upcoming Events: Nintendo is hosting Switch 2 Experience events in April, allowing attendees to try the console before its expected June launch.

    Gamers aren’t the only ones eager for more details on the Switch 2. While rumors have hinted at a possible June launch, many developers are still waiting on development kits. In a recent podcast by Digital Foundry, John Linneman shared his experiences with various studios at the Game Developers Conference. He confirmed that these dev kits are hard to come by, particularly for smaller and medium-sized developers.

    Launch Plans Revealed

    Tom Henderson from Insider Gaming recently disclosed that Nintendo has a three-phase plan for the Switch 2’s launch. The focus will be on first-party titles initially, and then from October to November, third-party studios will take the center stage. Henderson noted that these developers might not receive their dev kits until June, which matches Linneman’s observations. Major partners like EA and Bandai Namco are believed to be exceptions to this rule.

    Challenges for Developers

    Many gamers find it puzzling that studios are being denied vital tools until the console is officially launched. Development kits, which are quite different from the retail consoles, are crucial for coding and debugging. Nintendo’s strategy to prioritize first-party games does give publishers some extra time. However, the delay in providing these resources puts pressure on companies that aim to release Switch 2 titles in 2025.

    Leaks and Speculations

    Despite Nintendo trying hard to keep things under wraps, leaks about the Switch 2 have become quite common. Reports suggest that the company showcased the console during a private demonstration at GamesCom 2023. With multiple patent filings, many gamers were not shocked by Nintendo’s announcement video back in January. Some expected features include detachable magnetic Joy-Con controllers.

    If the Switch 2 indeed launches in June, it seems Nintendo has little faith in smaller developers to keep anything secret. It might also suggest that the upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2nd will not reveal all the specs of the Switch 2. Meanwhile, Nintendo is organizing a series of Switch 2 Experience events in April, where attendees will get a chance to try out the console firsthand. It won’t be long before analysts start to examine the system’s inner workings.

    Source:
    Link

    Nintendo Delays Switch 2 Dev Kits to Prevent Leaks for Developers
    Tags: , ,
  • Assassin’s Creed Shadows PS5 Pro Test: Boosted Lighting Quality

    Assassin’s Creed Shadows PS5 Pro Test: Boosted Lighting Quality

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced Lighting Effects: The PS5 Pro version of Assassin’s Creed Shadows features significant improvements in lighting, particularly with ray-traced global illumination (RTGI), creating realistic visuals in its Japanese settings.

    2. Performance Modes Offered: The game provides multiple modes – performance, quality, and balanced – with the PS5 Pro achieving a smooth 60fps in performance settings.

    3. Lack of PSSR Upscaling: Despite being optimized for the PS5 Pro, Assassin’s Creed Shadows does not include PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) upscaling, leading to potential image artifacts at higher resolutions.

    4. Minor Differences in Fluidity: While players can experience ray tracing effects on the PS5 Pro, the overall differences in gameplay fluidity and image clarity compared to the standard PS5 are minimal.

    5. Technical Stability: Despite Ubisoft’s previous challenges, Assassin’s Creed Shadows demonstrates a well-crafted open world with few technical issues on consoles, providing a solid gaming experience.

    Developers sometimes don’t clearly state the benefits a title will offer on the PS5 Pro. Luckily, Digital Foundry conducted a detailed examination prior to the release date of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. The most notable enhancements are in the lighting effects, which render the Japanese settings of the game hauntingly realistic.

    Modes and Performance

    Similar to many recent console titles, Assassin’s Creed Shadows provides performance, quality, and balanced modes. Digital Foundry discovered that Sony’s most powerful gaming console truly shines with 60fps performance settings. The version of Assassin’s Creed Shadows for PS5 Pro utilizes ray-traced global illumination (RTGI), a feature not available on the standard PS5. The footage illustrates how indirect light authentically reflects off plants, while the visuals on the PS5 appear lackluster.

    Patch Updates and Development

    Post-launch patches are common for many PS5 games to introduce features specific to the PS5 Pro. Nevertheless, since Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a current-gen title, it seems to have been designed with this console in mind. Digital Foundry suggests that Ubisoft’s game is one of the finest examples of the PS5 Pro’s capabilities to date. However, it’s surprising that Assassin’s Creed Shadows lacks PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) upscaling. As a result, images at higher resolutions can display more artifacts than one might expect.

    Experience on PS5 Pro

    Players of Assassin’s Creed Shadows on PS5 Pro can enjoy standard ray tracing effects in quality mode. Conversely, when compared to the PS5, the differences in fluidity and overall image clarity are minimal. For those solely focused on consistent frame rates, the Xbox or PS5 versions could be adequate. Frame rates generally achieved their goals in quality, performance, and balanced modes. Meanwhile, similar to Monster Hunter Wilds, the Xbox Series S demonstrates its limitations with occasional stuttering gameplay.

    Ubisoft has faced delays and controversies leading up to the release date of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Given these challenges, the publisher could not risk poor performance leading to further backlash. At least on consoles, the game showcases a beautifully crafted open world with few technical issues.

    Source:
    Link

    Assassin's Creed Shadows PS5 Pro Test: Boosted Lighting QualityAssassin's Creed Shadows PS5 Pro Test: Boosted Lighting Quality
    Tags: , ,
  • Sony PS5 Pro Unboxing and Teardown with 50+ Game Updates

    Sony PS5 Pro Unboxing and Teardown with 50+ Game Updates

    The Sony PlayStation 5 Pro is set to begin shipping on Thursday, November 7. For those eager to learn more ahead of the release, an unboxing video by Digital Foundry (embedded below) is now available. It looks like Sony is again opting for packaging that resembles the PlayStation 5 Slim. Inside the box, alongside the console, you’ll find a USB-C to USB-C cable, an HDMI 2.1 cable, and a DualSense controller. However, if you need a vertical stand, you’ll have to buy that separately.

    Size Comparisons and Specs

    In the video, which runs for just under ten minutes, viewers can see a size comparison between the new PS5 Pro, the PS5 Slim, and the standard PlayStation 5. This is followed by a comparison with the original PlayStation 2. The specifications of the PlayStation 5 Pro are also displayed, as outlined in the console’s user manual. It states that the PS5 Pro has a nominal GPU performance of 16.7 TFLOPs, 16 GB of GDDR5, and an extra 2 GB DDR5 RAM, along with support for Wi-Fi 7. The maximum power draw is 390 watts.

    Disassembly and Game Updates

    Meanwhile, the Portuguese YouTube channel TAG has already taken apart the PlayStation 5 Pro to examine its components. As expected, the design of the PS5 Pro is nearly identical to that of the PS5 Slim, with the exception of a slightly larger cooling system. Sony has also released a list of games on the PlayStation Blog that will be updated at launch to take advantage of the more powerful hardware, offering enhancements like higher frame rates, resolutions, and improved ray tracing.

    More games are anticipated to be optimized for the PS5 Pro in the future. Even titles that do not receive updates will still enjoy the benefits of the upgraded hardware, particularly in terms of more stable frame rates. In cases of dynamic resolution, players can expect a higher average pixel count, resulting in a more detailed gaming experience.

    Digital Foundry | PlayStation Blog

    Tags: , ,
  • PS5 vs PS5 Pro: Huge Improvements in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

    PS5 vs PS5 Pro: Huge Improvements in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

    Sony’s highly awaited PlayStation 5 Pro was released to a mixed response, with many gamers voicing their discontent over the console’s steep price of $699 and the unchanged Zen 2 CPU.

    Expert Opinions

    Despite the criticism, some experts have offered a more favorable perspective on the PS5 Pro. For example, Digital Foundry stated that building a comparable PC would likely cost "a fair bit more."

    Key Improvements

    Sony highlighted three major enhancements for the PS5 Pro: a GPU that is 45% faster, Deep Learning-based PSSR upscaling technology, and enhanced ray-tracing features. It remains uncertain whether these improvements will guarantee the PS5 Pro’s success in the market.

    Performance and Graphics

    During the official launch event led by Mark Cerny, Sony’s promotional material and demos fell short in showcasing the fidelity upgrades. However, additional gameplay footage shared with Digital Foundry has shown significant differences between the PS5 and the PS5 Pro.

    In ‘Performance’ mode, the PS5 Pro achieves a steady 60 fps with sharp visuals. In contrast, the standard PS5 experiences issues like blurry textures, ghosting, and unclear particle effects during action scenes. The PS5 Pro enhances detail clarity, showcasing fine textures like hair and foliage much better.

    In the ‘Graphics’ mode, the PS5 Pro offers a noticeably sharper image with improved frame stability. While some temporal instability and minor artifacts can be observed—common with machine learning-driven PSSR upscaling—the overall experience is significantly superior to that of the base PS5, which is currently available for $449 on Amazon. Even during intense scenes, the PS5 Pro consistently holds 60 fps, while the base model frequently experiences frame drops.

    PS5 vs PS5 Pro: Huge Improvements in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

    Tags: , ,