Digital Foundry: FSR 3 on Console, Hellblade 2, and IGN News
The Week in Tech and Gaming
This week, the team dives into the latest developments in gaming hardware and software, covering the first console implementation of FSR 3 Frame Generation, the reception of the highly cinematic Hellblade 2, and the implications of the recent acquisition of Gamer Network by IGN.
FSR 3 on Immortals of Aveum
• AMD's FSR 3 Frame Generation has launched on consoles, specifically for Immortals of Aveum on Xbox Series X.
• The technology provides a significant frame rate boost, pushing 40-60FPS gameplay into smoother high-refresh-rate territory (effectively appearing as 120FPS).
• Key observations:
- Effectively works well with VRR enabled.
- HUD elements and specific UI boxes do not receive the frame interpolation, resulting in a "choppy" look for 2D elements.
- Minor artifacts are present during fast motion, but the overall experience is considered a positive "game-changer" for console performance.
Hellblade 2: Visual Showcase vs. Gameplay
"It is effectively a story-driven game. And by that, I mean, it's more focused on telling a story than it is core gameplay."
• The consensus is that Hellblade 2 is a technical masterpiece, arguably representing the best use of Unreal Engine 5 on consoles to date, featuring Virtual Shadow Maps, Lumen, and Nanite.
• The controversy regarding its short duration (approx. 7 hours) and limited gameplay complexity is viewed as a misunderstanding of Ninja Theory's goal: a cinematic, focused, and art-driven experience rather than a traditional AAA title.
Industry Updates: The Gamer Network Acquisition
• IGN’s acquisition of Gamer Network marks a major shift in the industry.
• While the news was accompanied by unfortunate layoffs, the team views it as a positive move for Digital Foundry because they will have a partner with a deeper interest and commitment to the gaming market compared to their previous owners.
• It is highlighted that this is a joint venture, and the team emphasizes that their internal structure and independence remain unchanged.