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Optimize Assassin's Creed Shadows Graphics on PS5, PS5 Pro & Xbox

about 1 year agoUS
Optimize Assassin's Creed Shadows Graphics on PS5, PS5 Pro & XboxSource: techradar.com
Assassin's Creed Shadows presents a stunning open world featuring dynamic seasons, especially impressive on current-gen consoles. To get the best visual experience and performance on your PlayStation 5, PS5 Pro, or Xbox Series X|S, choosing the right graphics settings is key. This guide, compiled by Yanuki using the latest trends and data, breaks down the options.

Key Insights

Multiple Graphics Modes:: PS5, PS5 Pro, and Xbox Series X offer Fidelity (best visuals, 30fps), Performance (smoothest gameplay, 60fps), and Balanced (a mix, 40fps) modes.

Performance Recommended:: For action-stealth gameplay requiring quick reactions, Performance mode's 60fps is generally advised on PS5 and Series X.

Balanced Advantage:: If you have a 120Hz+ display (HDMI 2.1), Balanced mode offers a good compromise with 40fps and often better ray tracing features.

PS5 Pro Edge:: The PS5 Pro delivers the premium console experience with enhanced ray tracing options (like standard RT at 40fps in Balanced, or extended RT at 60fps in Performance) and improved visual fidelity features like strand-based hair.

RTGI is Key:: Ray-traced global illumination (RTGI) significantly boosts lighting realism, making the world feel more vibrant and lifelike – a major graphical step this generation.

PSSR Incoming:: PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), Sony's AI-powered upscaler for PS5 Pro, is set to be added via patch, promising image quality potentially superior to traditional TAA.

Xbox Series S:: Locked at 1620p (upscaled) and 30fps, with selective ray tracing.

Why this matters?: Balancing visual fidelity with fluid frame rates is crucial for enjoying both the beauty and gameplay of AC Shadows. Understanding features like RTGI and PSSR helps appreciate current-gen graphical advancements.

In-Depth Analysis

Console Settings Breakdown

Choosing between graphics modes in Assassin's Creed Shadows depends on your hardware and preferences:

PS5 & Xbox Series X:

Fidelity: Targets upscaled 2160p, selective ray tracing, 30fps. Best for visual purists prioritizing detail over smoothness.

Balanced: Targets upscaled 2160p, standard ray tracing, 40fps. Ideal for users with 120Hz+ displays seeking a blend of visuals and responsiveness.

Performance: Targets upscaled 2160p, standard ray tracing, 60fps. Recommended for the smoothest combat and stealth experience.

PS5 Pro: Offers enhanced capabilities:

Fidelity: Upscaled 2160p, *standard* ray tracing, 30fps.

Balanced: Upscaled 2160p, *standard* ray tracing, 40fps. Considered the sweet spot by many, offering good performance, standard RT, and extra visual features like improved hair physics.

Performance: Upscaled 2160p, *extended* ray tracing, 60fps. The choice for maximum frame rate while still benefiting from advanced ray tracing.

Xbox Series S: Provides a single mode: 1620p upscaled, 30fps, with selective ray tracing features.

The Impact of Ray-Traced Global Illumination (RTGI)

While ray-traced reflections were an early selling point for this console generation, Assassin's Creed Shadows highlights the profound impact of RTGI. This technique simulates how light realistically bounces and illuminates environments, accounting for light sources, obstructions, and weather. The difference between modes with and without RTGI (or with varying levels) is stark, lending the game world a much more vibrant, lifelike, and atmospheric quality. It's a feature that truly showcases a generational leap in visual fidelity.

Future Upgrade: PSSR on PS5 Pro

Initially, Ubisoft opted for TAA over Sony's PSSR upscaler on the PS5 Pro version of AC Shadows. However, following collaboration with Sony, PSSR has reportedly improved significantly, addressing issues with elements like moving foliage and water. It's now expected to deliver image quality superior to TAA and will be patched into the game. This update will also bring ray-traced reflections to the PS5 Pro's Balanced mode, further enhancing its appeal.

Additional Tweaks

For a cleaner image across all platforms, consider turning Motion Blur and Chromatic Aberration off in the settings. Additionally, take time to tune the HDR settings specific to your display, potentially lowering the Exposure slightly to manage intense lighting and bloom effects in some areas.

FAQs

What's the best graphics mode for PS5 / Xbox Series X?

Generally Performance mode for 60fps gameplay. If you have a 120Hz+ TV, Balanced mode offers a great mix of 40fps fluidity and better ray tracing.

How does the PS5 Pro improve Assassin's Creed Shadows?

It offers enhanced ray tracing capabilities across its modes (Standard or Extended), better visual details in Balanced mode, and will receive PSSR upscaling support via a future patch for potentially cleaner image quality.

What is RTGI and why is it important in this game?

Ray-Traced Global Illumination. It dramatically improves the realism and atmosphere of the game's lighting compared to older techniques, making the world feel more immersive.

Is PSSR available for PS5 Pro at launch?

No, Ubisoft and Sony are adding PSSR support in a future game patch after initial launch.

Key Takeaways

Prioritize Performance mode (60fps) for the smoothest gameplay, especially if you don't have a high-refresh-rate display.

Use Balanced mode (40fps) on PS5/Pro/Series X if your display supports 120Hz+ for a good mix of visuals and responsiveness.

The PS5 Pro offers the most visually impressive and flexible console experience, further enhanced by upcoming PSSR support.

Appreciate the impact of Ray-Traced Global Illumination (RTGI) – it's a key factor in the game's stunning visuals.

Turn off Motion Blur and Chromatic Aberration for potentially sharper visuals.

Discussion

Do you prioritize frame rate or visual fidelity in games like Assassin's Creed Shadows? Let us know your preferred settings!

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