What's Happening?
Digital Foundry has released a detailed analysis of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, highlighting performance issues on the Xbox Series S. The game, which utilizes Unreal Engine 5, suffers from significant cutbacks on the Series S, including a resolution starting at 540p and frame rate drops below 30FPS. These issues result in a noticeably inferior experience compared to the Xbox Series X and PS5 versions. The Series X version offers a smoother 60FPS experience, although it requires VRR display technology for optimal performance. Despite these challenges, the game remains playable on the Series S, but Digital Foundry advises players to opt for other platforms if possible.
Why It's Important?
The performance issues on the Xbox Series S highlight the limitations of Microsoft's budget console when handling graphically demanding games. This could impact consumer perceptions and sales of the Series S, especially for players seeking high-quality gaming experiences. The analysis underscores the importance of optimization in game development, particularly for multi-platform releases. It also raises questions about the future viability of the Series S in the market, as developers continue to push the boundaries of gaming technology.
What's Next?
Players and developers may need to adjust expectations for future releases on the Xbox Series S, potentially influencing purchasing decisions and development strategies. Microsoft might face pressure to address these performance disparities, possibly through hardware updates or enhanced optimization support. As gaming technology advances, the industry will likely continue to evaluate the balance between affordability and performance in console offerings.
