Digital Foundry Advocates for Console Graphics Preset in PC Games
PC games are often known for superior graphics compared to consoles. However, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles still deliver visually impressive experiences. Digital Foundry tech experts have proposed a solution for PC game ports to bridge the settings gap and improve user experience.
The "Console Equivalent" Graphics Preset Idea
Digital Foundry suggests PC game developers include a specific graphics preset explicitly labeled as "Console Equivalent." This straightforward addition could clarify optimal settings for many PC players.
Avoiding the "Ultra" Settings Trap
Richard Lidbetter from Digital Foundry notes that many PC gamers automatically select "Ultra" settings. They might not realize that console-level graphics are often visually excellent and less demanding on hardware. "Ultra" settings are frequently designed for future hardware, pushing limits beyond current top-tier PCs. The term "Ultra" itself suggests settings for the absolute best, which is not representative of most players' systems.
Clarity and Convenience for PC Gamers
Alex Battaglia of Digital Foundry believes a "Console Equivalent" mode would be beneficial. It would inform players that a certain preset, perhaps "High" or a custom mix, matches the visual fidelity of PS5 or Xbox Series X. This would save players from extensive settings adjustments and alleviate concerns about missing out on graphical features that are often imperceptible in regular gameplay. Some players habitually choose "Ultra" based on past experiences where it was closer to console quality, but Battaglia argues this is no longer the standard.
Developer Hesitations and a Reasonable Path Forward
Oliver Mackenzie from Digital Foundry speculates developers might hesitate to label a preset as "Console Equivalent" if it corresponds to "Medium" or "Low" PC settings. This could negatively impact the perceived quality of console versions, despite their strong visual presentation. However, Digital Foundry generally supports the idea. Lidbetter points out modern consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series are essentially powerful AMD-based PCs. A dedicated preset reflecting their performance and visual focus is logical.
Practical Default and Addressing Port Quality
Digital Foundry proposes making the "Console Equivalent" preset the default setting. The "Ultra" setting could then be positioned as intended for next-generation hardware or extreme enthusiasts. While this preset suggestion won't solve issues with poorly optimized PC ports, it offers a valuable benchmark for PC gamers related to console performance. It can be a helpful step towards a better PC gaming experience.
