Game Enhancements for PS5 Pro
Alan Wake 2 has quickly become a standout title in terms of graphics on both PC and consoles.
However, fans were initially let down when the PS5 Pro patch failed to significantly boost the game’s visual quality and performance over the standard PS5 version.
Thankfully, Remedy Entertainment has responded to these concerns by releasing an update that offers a highly anticipated PSSR toggle and a range of other improvements.
In the recent DF Direct show, we dove into the details of this new patch.
It not only allows players to toggle the problematic PSSR upscaling but also features a balanced graphics mode targeted at users with 120Hz displays.
This mode aims for a frame rate of 40fps on the PS5 Pro and combines the enhanced settings—like ray tracing—from the quality mode with a lower resolution typical of the performance mode.
Although the update also promises to reduce visual noise across all modes, our early assessments indicate that it hasn’t completely met expectations.
That said, our testing shows that the new modes do improve the overall visual experience for PS5 Pro players, even if some areas still require fine-tuning.
Performance Improvements
Insights from our analyst, Oliver, have highlighted that the hoped-for enhancements to performance mode may not have fully materialized.
Comparing the original and updated versions reveals minimal changes in details such as foliage, shadow clarity, and draw distances.
Overall, the image quality remains consistent, suggesting that any adjustments may either be subtle or related to different elements altogether.
Nonetheless, players will notice a marked improvement in performance—frame rates have increased by about 10% during the game’s more intensive moments, inching closer to a smoother 60fps.
The patch also brings several notable enhancements.
For instance, players will encounter fewer noise issues in reflections, thanks to a revised denoising algorithm.
However, this update might result in certain surfaces showing reduced clarity in reflections, a change from what was seen in earlier versions.
Gameplay Modes Overview
A key feature of this patch is undoubtedly the PSSR toggle.
Previously, the PSSR upscaling performed well in fast-moving scenes but often produced artifacts and lacked clarity in still images.
Now, gamers can opt for FSR2 upscaling instead.
Generally, FSR provides superior image quality for still frames, while PSSR can offer a slight edge during motion.
One of the standout advancements is the introduction of the new 40fps balanced mode.
This option capitalizes on the PS5 Pro’s ray tracing capabilities found in quality mode without sacrificing frame rate stability, achieving a reliable 40fps in our testing.
Overall, this latest patch positions Alan Wake 2 in a great place on the PS5 Pro, presenting players with three solid gameplay modes.
If you’re uncertain where to begin, the performance mode is a strong starting point.
For those prioritizing image clarity, the quality mode comes highly recommended.
On the other hand, if you want to enjoy hardware ray tracing without significant compromises, the balanced mode will serve you well.
Source: Eurogamer