DF Direct 170: Is VRR a Crutch, Microsoft Auto SR, and Crazy Taxi
The Role of VRR in Modern Consoles
Recent high-profile releases like Dragon's Dogma 2 and Elden Ring have sparked debate regarding whether Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is becoming a necessary "crutch" for current-generation hardware performance.
• The consensus is that VRR is a net positive, providing a valuable tool to smooth out frame time inconsistencies without requiring developers to lock games to lower frame rate targets.
• While VRR isn't a silver bullet for poor optimization, it offers a refined experience on console that wasn't previously possible. Developers should still prioritize consistent frame times, as relying solely on VRR can lead to issues like OLED flicker.
Microsoft’s Auto SR Technology
Microsoft's Auto SR (Auto Super Resolution) for Windows on Arm laptops was analyzed as a post-process scaling solution.
• The technology impresses with its ability to resolve edges and anti-aliasing at higher resolutions without incurring significant performance costs, though it is not a direct substitute for temporal upscalers like DLSS.
• The current limitation is its forced resolution behavior and its reliance on hardware that is not inherently built for high-performance gaming.
Crazy Taxi and SEGA’s Future
New details on the upcoming Crazy Taxi game reveal a transition to a multiplayer, open-world format.
• The development team, featuring original contributors, aims to retain the series' distinct "blue sky" arcade vibe while adapting it for modern audiences.
• Concerns exist regarding the choice of Unreal Engine and the risk of "Forzafication," though the team’s commitment to personality and flow is a promising sign for fans of the classic arcade experience.
"I want to see the crazy taxification of Forza Horizon."
Mark Cerny Retrospective
The panel discussed recent insights from Mark Cerny, who expressed surprise at the rapid adoption of 60 FPS targets and early implementation of ray tracing in PS5 titles.
• The discussion highlighted how the PS5 architecture—specifically its storage integration—has enabled developers to push boundaries sooner than anticipated.
• The panel also weighed in on the sunsetting of Sony's optical disc business, clarifying that this primarily impacts recordable media (BDRs) rather than game distribution, despite broader concerns about physical media preservation.