Tag: IO Interactive

  • Hitman Trilogy Remaster Announced, Skipping Switch

    Hitman Trilogy Remaster Announced, Skipping Switch

    Key Takeaway

    – The original *Hitman* trilogy is getting a remaster titled *Hitman Classic Trilogy Remastered*, set for release in 2027.
    – The remaster is handled by Saber Interactive in collaboration with original developer IO Interactive.
    – It will feature enhanced visuals, a toggle for classic graphics, and a photo mode.
    – Launch platforms are PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam, with no announced Switch or mobile versions.


    You think you know the classics, until they get a shiny new coat of digital paint.

    Just as new games are getting made, old ones are getting remastered or remade, and the latest franchise to get the remaster treatment is the original Hitman trilogy. Scheduled for release in 2027, the remaster will launch on major platforms, save for one.

    The Hitman trilogy has been remade by some very talented people

    The Hitman trilogy which includes Hitman: Codename 47, Hitman 2: Silent Assassin, and Hitman: Contracts is being remade by Saber Interactive in collaboration with IO Interactive, the original developers of the three games. Saber Interactive (via Aspyr Media, Inc) has been behind some recent remasters of classic games such as Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered, and Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1& 2 Remastered.

    What exactly will be upgraded, according to the official press release

    According to an official press release, the remaster will feature enhanced visuals with upgraded character models, enhanced environments, and high-resolution textures; the ability to switch between the modern graphics and the original; and a photo mode, among others.

    Where you can play it when it launches, and where you cannot

    The game will officially launch as Hitman Classic Trilogy Remastered, and will be released for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S|X, and PC via Steam. There’s no mention of the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, which is surprising since their hardware should be capable of running the remaster.

    • Enhanced visuals with upgraded character models
    • Enhanced environments and high-resolution textures
    • Ability to switch between modern and original graphics
    • Photo mode included

    Dont count out the switch or your phone just yet, there is alot of precedent

    However, considering the other remasters by Saber Interactive are available for the Switch and Switch 2, there’s a chance the Hitman remaster will eventually get released for Nintendo’s consoles. There’s also a chance that we might eventually get a mobile release since Tomb Raider I-III Remastered got a mobile release, albeit two years after it launched on other platforms.

    Sources
  • Amazon’s 007 First Light Sequel Raises James Bond Game Doubts

    Amazon’s 007 First Light Sequel Raises James Bond Game Doubts

    Key Takeaway

    – 007 First Light was a critical and sales success, but its sequel is now in doubt.
    – Amazon MGM became co-owner of the Bond IP in 2025, gaining creative control over future games.
    – IO Interactive’s role in future Bond titles is unclear after the rights change.
    – Amazon may develop future Bond games internally, raising concerns given its history of failed projects.
    – Unlike the films, there is no guaranteed continuity for the game franchise under Amazon’s control.


    007 First Light’s Release and Initial Success

    The 007 First Light release date saw positive reviews and benchmarks, along with strong sales. Many fans assumed that IO Interactive would build on that success with sequels. However, a Polygon interview with Amazon Game Studios GM Jeffrey Gattis has cast doubt on those plans.

    Ownership Shifts at Amazon MGM

    IO Interactive developed and published the recent spy thriller. Still, in 2025, Amazon MGM became a co-owner of the Bond IP and gained creative control over any games and movies. As Gattis explains, that wasn’t the case when the 007 First Light project began.

    The GM told Polygon that it “didn’t have the full rights to this First Light James Bond game.” Yet, with the change of ownership, future titles would be “done by MGM and, theoretically, by Amazon Game Studios.”

    Uncertain Future for IO Interactive

    It’s unclear what part, if any, the Copenhagen-based IO Interactive would play going forward. Amazon could assume a publishing role, while tasking the studio with creating 007 First Light sequels. On the other hand, the company may opt to abandon the franchise rather than take on a lesser role.

    Fan Concerns Over Amazon’s Track Record

    Other fans fear a scenario where Amazon Game Studios develops upcoming titles internally. Critics point to a string of failures involving controlled studios. One of the most obvious examples is a pair of Lord of the Rings MMOs, both of which were canceled. Other disappointments include the free-to-play shooter Crucible and the 4×4 brawler Breakaway.

    As a publisher, Jeff Bezos’ company has fared better with releases like Lost Ark. It could also find its partnership with Crystal Dynamics to produce Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis and other Lara Croft adventures lucrative.

    Continuity vs. Creative Overhaul

    Even though James Bond movies regularly changed lead actors and directors, returning producers provided continuity. Despite the performance of the first entry, that may not be the case with any 007 First Light sequel.

     

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  • 007 First Light: Why Stealth Fails in James Bond Game

    Key Takeaway

    – Stealth is an option, not a requirement; combat is rarely punished
    – Players often abandon stealth because melee and shootouts are more fun
    – Failed stealth attempts usually don’t ruin the mission
    – Inability to hide bodies suggests stealth isn’t the real goal
    – Hitman comparisons highlight that 007 First Light is more forgiving than pure stealth games


    How James Bond’s Stealth Often Fails in 007 First Light

    As the term “secret agent” implies, James Bond is supposed to work in the shadows. He often chooses to slip past foes instead of leaving a trail of bodies. Players can take that approach in the new Bond game 007 First Light also. In practice, however, stealth rarely seems to maintain for long. As Reddit user u/TitleSuccessful7393 reports, he really does attemt to proceed as quietly and inconspicuously as possible. But in 90% of cases, a room ends up looking “like this” after he exits – with a screenshot showing Bond in front of a glass door and, behind it, a room full of downed enemies. Many players admit that their own missions tend to play out in much the same way.

    Why Players Prefer Fists and Firearms

    The Reddit discussion reveals several reasons why players often prefer to fix problems with fists or firearms. The main one is simple: melee combat and shootouts are fun – and the game apparently allows players to punch or shoot their way through most situations without much punishment. One player writes, for example, that after a failed stealth attempt, he simply beat up every enemy in the area without feeling penalized for it. Apart from special challenges such as “Pacifist” or “Ghost,” the game does not seem to strongly reward stealth. Also, the gameplay loop encourages aggresive tactics over careful planning.

    Comparisons to Hitman and Bond Factor

    Comparisons with the Hitman series, also developed by IO Interactive, come up frequently. Unlike the studio’s assassin simulation, 007 First Light apparently does not turn a failed stealth attempt into a major problem. Once discovered, players can usually still complete the mission successfully. For many, that is exactly the Bond factor: James Bond may begin by sneaking elegantly through enemy territory, but sooner or later he often has to escape using his fists, gadgets or firepower. This difference makes the game feel less punishing and more action orientated.

    No Body Hiding and Stealth as an Option

    The fact that players cannot hide bodies is even seen by some as a sign that full stealth was never the real goal. In short, 007 First Light is not a classic stealth shooter. Apart from a few story passages, stealth is more of an option than a requirement – and most players seem perfectly fine with that so far. The game focuses on flexibility rather than forced quietness, which suits many fans expectations of a Bond adventure.


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  • 007 First Light PS5 Performance Review: Poor Image Quality vs PS5 Pro

    007 First Light PS5 Performance Review: Poor Image Quality vs PS5 Pro

    Key Takeaway

    – PS5 Pro delivers sharper visuals and steadier 60 fps thanks to its upscaling (PSSR) compared to the base PS5.
    – Base PS5 struggles with image quality and softer visuals, despite 60 fps mode being available.
    – RTGI-based lighting adds realism, but artifacts and pixelation can appear, especially in performance mode and foliage.


    Intro

    At a 2025 Sony State of Play, viewers first saw footage of IO Interactive’s new James Bond game. Aided by a 2-month release date delay, frame rates are no longer an issue. Even so, a 007 First Light PS5 performance analysis highlights the base console’s lackluster image quality. On the other hand, the PS5 Pro again shows the advantage of its upgraded PSSR.

    Performance Analysis

    Digital Foundry’s review compared performance on both PlayStation consoles. In either case, the spy thriller boasts a more modern look than the developer’s Hitman 3. A software-based form of ray-traced global illumination (RTGI) delivers convincing lighting effects. Yet, players may notice artifacts popping up more frequently than anticipated.

    Graphics Modes

    Gamers who prioritize smooth graphics can opt for a 60 fps performance mode that mostly meets that target. Meanwhile, the quality mode aims to render improved visuals at 30 fps. RTGI lighting is available in either preset, which minimizes the advantage of the lower frame rate option.

    Resolution and Artifacts

    Unfortunately, the limitations of FSR 3.1.5 become apparent, particularly in performance mode. Digital Foundry believes the game renders at a 720p internal resolution. Even after upscaling, 007 First Light PS5 players could find the overall image softer than expected. Downgraded shadows somewhat spoil the presentation, while foliage appears pixelated.

    PS5 Pro Advantage

    The flickering that’s apparent during fast camera pans diminishes somewhat in the quality preset. The resolution sees a bump up to 1152p, but the gains in visual fidelity are modest. Frame rates are as advertised, only occasionally dipping below 30 fps.

    Upscaler Impact

    Since Sony introduced its updated PSSR, the performance gap between its consoles has grown. That’s also the case with the IO Interactive title. The 007 First Light review demonstrates how the PS5 Pro’s upscaler generates sharper graphics. With an internal resolution of around 1000p, frame rates again hold steady at 60 fps.

    Overall Impressions

    007 First Light PS5 buyers may be let down by its mediocre image clarity. Regardless, Digital Foundry hails it as the best James Bond game since GoldenEye. Other reviews also celebrate gameplay and cinematics that’s faithful to the movies.

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  • 007 First Light Won’t Preload on Steam or Xbox

    007 First Light Won’t Preload on Steam or Xbox

    Key Takeaway

    – Pre-loading is not available on Steam or Xbox Series X/S for 007 First Light; only PlayStation 5 supports pre-loading.
    – Early access (Deluxe Edition) begins 24 hours before release, but download can’t start until official launch on Steam/Xbox, potentially wasting early access time.
    – The exact reason for the lack of pre-loading on Steam/Xbox hasn’t been disclosed by IO Interactive.


    Pre-loading allows players to download a game before its official release time so they can jump in immediately once it unlocks. It is especially useful for large modern games, as they can take several hours to download, depending on internet speeds. Unfortunately, if you were planning to pre-load 007 First Light on PC or Xbox, there’s some disappointing news.

    Launch Details and Early Access

    The game is scheduled to launch on May 27, while players who purchased the Deluxe Edition upgrade will get access 24 hours earlier through early access. However, IO Interactive has now confirmed that pre-loading will not be available on Steam or Xbox Series X/S.

    Platform-Specific Pre-Load

    According to the game’s community manager on Reddit, the earliest point players on Steam and Xbox will be able to download the game is at the official release time itself. In other words, PC and Xbox users will need to wait until launch before they can even begin downloading the files. PlayStation 5 will be the only platform getting pre-load support, as it is mandatory on Sony’s platform.

    At the moment, IO Interactive has not shared an exact reason behind why pre-loading is unavailable on Steam and Xbox for 007 First Light. This is particularly frustrating for players who purchased the Deluxe Edition specifically for early access. Since they only get 24 hours of early playtime before the standard release, some of that limited access window could now end up being spent simply downloading the game instead of actually playing it.

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  • 007 First Light Iceland Mission Leaks on YouTube Before Launch

    007 First Light Iceland Mission Leaks on YouTube Before Launch

    Key Takeaway

    – A pre-release Iceland mission of 007: First Light was leaked via a PS5 copy, corroborating earlier reports about playable content before mandatory downloads.
    – Early impressions praised atmosphere, environmental storytelling, and writing, with some commenters comparing it to Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes.
    – The leak highlights ongoing piracy concerns around pre-launch access, despite tightened review code distribution and DRM efforts, with potential takedown actions likely.


    Overview

    Update: The video has now been taken down by the uploader after a copyright strike from IO Interactive. The original article continues as below:

    Leak details and source

    Three days ahead of its May 27 release date, 007 First Light’s opening Iceland mission has been recorded and uploaded to YouTube by a user who obtained a physical PS5 copy early. The video (see below) is titled “007 First Light Part 1” and was uploaded by channel Gamingkurosh. It is a small account with around 510 subscribers, and was flagged on r/GamingLeaksAndRumours within the hour and has since attracted a fair amount of attention.

    Verification and implications

    The leak directly corroborates our past coverage. A previous leak of the PS5 disc had already revealed that only the first mission is playable without any mandatory downloads, and the uploader confirmed this via the game’s main menu screen. That effectively made the Iceland opening mission the most leakable part of the entire game, with or without a day-one patch installed.

    Community reactions

    User feedback on the Reddit thread has been largely positive toward the game itself. Top-voted comments compare the game to Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes for its moody atmosphere, and multiple users add that the environmental storytelling and writing quality seems very polished. One commenter said they were “sold” after being lukewarm on the trailers.

    Commentary on the video

    YouTube comments on the video pretty much reflect the same sentiment. One user pointed out that Bond does not have his gunbarrel sequence yet. His reasoning was that he has not yet “earned the number,” which is a neat detail from the origin story. Comments calling for Part 2 are already appearing.

    Industry context

    To be fair, this leak is coming through at a particularly sensitive moment for IO Interactive. As we reported earlier, review codes were only distributed to press on May 22nd — the same concern around piracy that previously motivated publishers like those behind Forza Horizon 6 and Subnautica 2 to restrict early access, only for Steam builds to surface anyway. Denuvo DRM was added to the PC version less than a week before launch, partly in response to these exact scenarios. The console version was always the more vulnerable vector, and that has now proven accurate.

    Status and expectations

    IO Interactive has not issued a takedown of the video at time of writing, though given the standard industry response to pre-launch footage, that is likely a matter of time.

     

    Sources
  • 007 First Light reviews raise concerns; codes sent days before release

    007 First Light reviews raise concerns; codes sent days before release

    Key Takeaway

    – Review embargo and late-code releases create pressure for journalists to finish and publish ahead of the May 26 early access, reducing time for thorough write-ups.
    – The holiday weekend and possible final-build debugging contribute to a rushed review cycle and potential hardware- or performance-related concerns.
    – Denuvo DRM on PC and last-minute polishing (graphics optimizations, stability) may impact performance and complicate early impressions.
    – Mixed early previews despite generally positive hands-on impressions suggest potential variances in frame rates and performance across platforms (60 fps target on consoles; possible PC trade-offs).
    – Piracy-related leak risks persist, with Steam/Valve activity potentially enabling pre-release access and complicating embargo enforcement.


    Indecisive buyers may need to wait longer than expected for 007 First Light reviews.

    Indecisive buyers may need to wait longer than expected for 007 First Light reviews. Word has spread that IO Interactive didn’t begin sending codes to journalists until May 22nd. These writers will have to scramble to complete the roughly 20-hour-long James Bond adventure before its May 26th early access release date.

    Timeline and Crunch

    Wccftech editor KaiPow leaked the rushed timeline on the ResetEra forums. To make matters worse, it’s a holiday weekend in the U.K., U.S., and several other countries. A Monday bank holiday and Memorial Day only add to the crunch. For Steam, Xbox, and PS5 gamers who haven’t pre-ordered, the launch is set for March 27th.

    Why the Publisher Hesitated

    Fans are debating why the publisher hesitated to provide websites with copies of the spy-adventure. The most pessimistic followers worry that there are technical issues in the final build. Originally slated for March, IO Interactive postponed the 007 First Light release date. The polishing process likely included optimizing graphics.

    Hands-on Previews

    What’s puzzling is that hands-on previews for the title have been largely positive. Players noted that, despite inconsistent frame rates in initial footage, the smooth visuals alleviated those concerns. With performance mode on the Xbox Series X and PS5, developers are targeting 60 fps.

    PC Performance and DRM

    For PC users, the controversial late addition of Denuvo DRM may slightly compromise performance. It’s also possible that there were other bugs not addressed until recently, or that won’t be eliminated until after May 26th.

    Potential Motivations

    Piracy could also be a motivating factor for the publisher. Recently, playable Steam builds of Forza Horizon 6 and Subnautica 2 appeared several days before their official debuts. SteamDB, which keeps tabs on Valve’s marketplace, believes that reviewers were the culprits. That said, there is still a window of opportunity to leak First Light, and Denuvo is now less of an obstacle for hackers.

    embargo and Deadlines

    Regardless of the reason, the last-minute 007 First Light review embargo puts websites in a difficult position. Even if journalists sacrifice their holiday plans and finish the campaign, it leaves little time for the often tedious writing process. James Bond fans may gain more insight from Steam impressions on its release date.

     


    Sources

  • 007 First Light PS5 Leak: Only 1st Mission on Disc Before Release date

    007 First Light PS5 Leak: Only 1st Mission on Disc Before Release date

    Key Takeaway

    – The disc-only portion is limited (only the first mission is fully playable offline; others require patches/online components).
    – A mandatory day-one patch is expected to unlock or enable broader progression beyond the initial mission.
    – The game features offline-capable modes (main campaign and a Tactical Sims mode), but online connectivity affects leaderboards and certain content.
    – Storage requirements vary by platform: ~80 GB on Steam, ~45 GB on PS5 (not accounting for patches/content).


    Ahead of the 007 First Light PS5 release date on May 27th, physical copies are already circulating. PlayStation console owners now have a better idea of how accessible the title is offline. While an internet connection isn’t needed to start spying, reportedly, only the first mission is on the disc.

    Leaked images and patches

    Leaked images for IO Interactive’s James Bond game have been shared on Reddit. The publisher previously explained that players should expect a mandatory day-one patch. They could then progress through the main campaign without staying online. It appears that’s not entirely accurate, at least with the opening mission.

    Preservation and media format

    For preservation advocates, the situation is a mixed bag. The introduction is playable without downloading a massive update on the 007 First Light release date. On the other hand, servers host the bulk of the PS5 game’s files. As digital gaming takes over, discs are becoming more like access keys than self-contained physical media.

    Installation size differences

    On Steam, the spy thriller will demand at least 80 GB of free space on increasingly expensive SSDs. Surprisingly, the console shows a lighter 45 GB installation for the 007 First Light PS5 version. Still, that total may not include the additional content and patches.

    Main menu and modes

    The second image provides a glimpse of the main menu for the IO Interactive title. Besides the main campaign, gamers can choose the Hitman-inspired Tactical Sims mode to replay missions with new objectives. Comparing performances on online leaderboards depends on an internet connection.

    That leak also confirms the presence of an in-game shop. Some players now anticipate paid cosmetics, but it’s unclear what type of items will be available for purchase.

    Spoilers and release timing

    Even if new videos emerge, James Bond fans shouldn’t fear many spoilers before the release date. Developers showcased early-game footage in a 2025 PlayStation State of Play. 007 First Light review embargo timing is uncertain amid rumors that the publisher has been stingy with codes.

    Sources
  • Denuvo Added to 007 First Light 6 Days Before Launch Date

    Denuvo Added to 007 First Light 6 Days Before Launch Date

    Key Takeaway

    – Publishers are increasingly adding Denuvo DRM closer to game launches, provoking backlash from players and concerns about accessibility and performance.
    – Player responses are mixed to negative, with pre-orders at risk of cancellation, and warnings about intrusive authentication and potential impact on frame rates.
    – Public demand includes clearer DRM disclosures and more transparency from publishers/Valve, amid worries about long-term accessibility and the effectiveness of anti-piracy measures.


    Overview

    In a growing trend, publishers continue to add Denuvo DRM to Steam games closer to launch. IO Interactive’s upcoming James Bond thriller is the latest example. Just 6 days before the 007 First Light release date, the disclaimer is now visible on Valve’s marketplace. Prices and specifications are retained from the original text for accuracy.

    DRM and Industry Reaction

    Irdeto’s DRM remains a popular way to curb piracy, even though the hypervisor bypass overcomes the protection. Other recent Denuvo games include Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight. Its fans learned of its existence about 2 weeks ahead of its debut. Crimson Desert players had less warning in March, prompting outrage. Critics and gamers alike express mixed feelings about the approach, with some citing potential long-term accessibility issues and intrusive server checks on PCs.

    Public Sentiment

    Not surprisingly, gamers are not welcoming the news on Reddit and Steam forums. Buyers have threatened to cancel 007 First Light pre-orders, which began in September 2025. Critics have concerns about the game’s long-term accessibility and intrusive server authentication on PCs. Some posts reflect frustration with the timing and perceived transparency, while others emphasize ongoing skepticism about DRM effectiveness.

    Performance and Requirements

    Another worry is that Denuvo will impact performance. Its effects vary, but marginal differences were detected in Resident Evil Requiem. IO Interactive’s project already drew skepticism when it listed its memory-hungry system requirements. However, after a two-month release date delay, previews highlight optimized visuals. The balance between protection and playability remains a central topic of discussion among players and reviewers alike.

    Community Responses

    Even if frame rates are stable, some James Bond fans are allocating their money elsewhere. Posts in the Steam game’s forum condemn the late confirmation of the anti-piracy tactic. Redditors are also upset, with etakarine canceling a 007 First Light pre-order, calling the move “scummy behavior.” These reactions showcase a broader debate about DRM ethics and consumer choice, with many urging clearer communication from publishers.

    Calls for Transparency

    One request is for Valve to require publishers to include Denuvo disclaimers before accepting orders. There have been similar complaints about generative AI-related notifications. In several instances, the presence of machine-generated assets wasn’t known until after launches. The call for upfront notices aligns with a wider demand for honesty in how games are marketed and protected on launch day.

    Outlook

    Some observers question why companies are still embracing the DRM. By the 007 First Light release date, it’s possible pirates will crack the title. The hypervisor bypass requires disabling certain Windows security settings, limiting its appeal. On the other hand, recent arrivals like Pragmata have seen the protection cracked without needing the workaround. The ongoing tension between anti-piracy measures and user experience remains unresolved as the release nears.

     


  • 007 First Light: Sony PSSR Implemented in One Day, Claims Developer

    007 First Light: Sony PSSR Implemented in One Day, Claims Developer

    Key Takeaway

    – PSSR 2 in 007 First Light is reportedly easy to implement, with no per-scene tuning needed and immediate, consistent results across the game.
    – The upgrade significantly improves image quality by resolving more details and reducing noise, per Digital Foundry.
    – PSSR 2 shares similarities with FSR 4, and AMD confirms FSR 4 will reach older RDNA 3 GPUs, suggesting comparable image gains on those cards.


    IO Interactive’s 007 First Light is a AAA James Bond spy action-adventure that many have been waiting for

    the game is scheduled to release on May 27 for the Xbox Series X | S, the Sony PlayStation 5 consoles, and Steam. 007 First Light will also be available on the PS5 Pro, where the game will utilize Sony’s upgraded PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR).

    Image quality boosts and quick implementation

    while 007 First Light using the upgraded PSSR is a big deal for image quality, more on that later, it is the manner of the implementation that has piqued our interest. IO Interactive reports on the PlayStation Blog that implementing PSSR 2 in 007 First Light was a breeze.

    Developer notes on the ease of PSSR 2

    Jon Rocatis, Principal Render Engineer at IO Interactive, claims that it only took the developers about a day to implement the new PSSR, and developers “were essentially happy with what we saw straight away. No per-scene tuning, no special-case work — it just held up across the whole game”. Jon’s statement was backed by another IO Interactive developer on X who also claimed that PSSR 2 was super easy to implement and the results looked good right out of the box.

    Expectation of widespread adoption

    so, it seems like it doesn’t need a lot of work to get the upgraded PSSR working in a game. we can expect a lot of games to have the technology baked in, which will be very good news, as Digital Foundry has confirmed that PSSR 2 is a huge upgrade over the original.

    Digital Foundry and comparisons

    Digital Foundry’s analysis of the new PSSR (linked below) essentially backs what IO Interactive exclaims in their write-up on the PlayStation Blog. the upgraded PSSR resolves more details, improves noise, and outputs a much better image than the original.

    Relation to FSR 4 and hardware considerations

    interestingly, it looks like the upgraded PSSR shares a lot in common with FSR 4. some even consider it just an INT8 version of FSR 4. AMD has now confirmed that FSR 4 is coming to older RDNA 3 GPUs, which don’t have access to RDNA 4’s FP8 acceleration. so, when FSR 4 comes to RDNA 3 cards like the RX 7800 XT, we can expect image quality similar to that of the upgraded PSSR.

    Sources