Resident Evil Village RT, FPS Boost & Industry Legal Drama

Resident Evil Village Analysis

Capcom’s Resident Evil Village has seen a largely successful rollout. The game features an unlocked frame rate, though performance varies significantly based on settings and target console.

Ray Tracing and Performance

• Ray Tracing (RT) provides a more subtle lighting upgrade compared to titles like Metro Exodus Remastered. Key benefits include improved Global Illumination and correct shadowing for foliage.
• Without RT, the title delivers a near-flawless, locked 60 FPS experience.
• The PC version presents concerns, specifically regarding RT scaling, pixelated reflection structures, and questionable implementations of FidelityFX features.

"I just really dislike that you can see the pixel pattern in the reflection... a mode designed for console or TV play."

Microsoft's FPS Boost Expansion

Microsoft has significantly expanded its FPS Boost initiative, adding dozens of titles.
• Shadow of the Tomb Raider stands out as an excellent implementation, retaining high-resolution assets while doubling the frame rate.
• Other titles, like Far Cry 5, drop to lower resolution code paths, resulting in a mixed experience.
• The panel highlights the value of 120Hz support for platformers like Hollow Knight.

Epic v. Apple Legal Disclosures

Recent legal proceedings have exposed high-level industry strategies and internal business negotiations.
• Revelations regarding Sony's cross-play fees and Epic Games Store exclusivity deals (such as the massive funding for Borderlands 3) have sparked widespread industry debate regarding market gatekeeping and indie developer treatment.

Returnal Launch & Housemarque

While Returnal is critically acclaimed, its launch was hampered by stability issues, technical bugs with rest mode, and the lack of a proper save and quit function.
• The hosts praise Housemarque for their ambition and express relief that the studio is finally garnering the mainstream attention their high-quality titles deserve.