Digital Foundry Direct: FPS Boost, Store Preservation & Industry Tech

News and Analysis

FPS Boost on Xbox Series X|S

• Microsoft has introduced a new wave of FPS Boost titles for the Xbox Series consoles, allowing backward-compatible games like Titanfall 2 and Mirror's Edge Catalyst to run at 120Hz.
• While the feature is a massive upgrade for those with compatible displays, performance varies between the Series X and Series S due to hardware limitations.

Sony's Store U-Turn

"Clearly companies do listen."

• Sony reversed its decision to close the digital storefronts for PlayStation 3 and PS Vita following public outcry.
• The team discusses the importance of digital preservation and the technical debt issues that make maintaining these vintage platforms challenging.

CMOS Battery Concerns & Hardware Legacy

• Concerns were raised regarding the CMOS battery in PlayStation consoles; when dead, the consoles may fail to boot digital games or discs if they cannot synchronize with online servers.
• The discussion emphasizes the need for offline failsafes to ensure long-term hardware preservation, highlighting that modern systems lack the "it just works" longevity of older consoles like the Wii.

Developer Technology & Optimization

DirectX and FidelityFX

• Microsoft's Agility SDK allows developers to ship the latest DirectX 12 Ultimate and Shader Model 6.6 features with game code, bypassing Windows OS update dependencies.
• AMD FidelityFX suite, including Contrast Adaptive Sharpening and upcoming machine learning features, is being increasingly integrated into Xbox and cross-platform titles, providing a robust, open-source set of tools for developers.

The Future of Image Reconstruction

• Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) currently leads the industry in image reconstruction, though the panel debates whether open-source alternatives or non-ML solutions will bridge the gap in the coming years.

Patreon Relaunch

• The team announced a major Patreon relaunch, introducing new tiers aimed at fostering a deeper connection with their community.
• Features include behind-the-scenes content, remastered archive material, and funding for previously commercially unviable tech-focused projects.