High on Life 2 Sparks Unreal Engine 5 Image Quality Debate
The recent review by Digital Foundry highlights the ongoing debate around Unreal Engine 5’s image quality as it relates to the game *High on Life 2.* Released with the ambition of providing a visual feast while targeting 60 frames per second, the game has sparked considerable conversation regarding the limitations of the graphics engine used.
Graphics and Performance Summary
*High on Life 2* only offers a single graphics mode, aiming for 60 fps while utilizing Unreal Engine 5’s core features including:
- Nanite micro-geometry
- Lumen global illumination
- Virtual shadow maps
However, both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X fall short of maintaining this frame rate consistently. The PS5 operates around 720p resolution, while the Xbox Series X averages approximately 792p.
Console Performance Comparison
The performance on various platforms shows notable differences:
| Platform | Resolution | FPS Target | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PlayStation 5 | ~720p | 60 fps | Stutters in demanding areas |
| Xbox Series X | ~792p | 60 fps | Similar issues to PS5 |
| PlayStation 5 Pro | Similar to PS5 | 60 fps | Marginally smoother performance |
| Xbox Series S | Lower than others | 60 fps | Lacks features like Lumen GI |
The PS5 Pro performs slightly better but fails to offer a significant upgrade over the standard consoles.
Visual Quality Considerations
The game’s reliance on Lumen technology produces some mixed results in visual fidelity. While many environments exhibit clean, reflective surfaces, the reflections often lack detail, leading to a somewhat subpar experience compared to other titles like *Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart.* The game’s extensive use of screen-space shadows also introduces noticeable artifacts.
The Impact of Unreal Engine 5 Limitations
Critics have pointed out that while the aim was to deliver a rich gaming experience, the inherent limitations of Unreal Engine 5’s current state restrict its ability to effectively balance image quality and performance. A desire for higher resolutions and frame rates has left many players dissatisfied.
PC Performance Insights
Those playing *High on Life 2* on PC can achieve significantly better performance, particularly with high-end systems. Ideal setups, such as a Core i9 13900K combined with an RTX 5090, can run the game at ultrawide 5K, showcasing the potential of the title when optimal hardware is utilized.
However, lower-end configurations struggle drastically. For instance, a Ryzen 5 3600 paired with an RTX 4060 experiences significant stutter and frame rate drops, indicating that this game demands robust hardware.
Future Considerations
The discussion surrounding *High on Life 2* emphasizes the need for more refined iterations of Unreal Engine 5 to better meet the expectations of gamers regarding both image quality and performance. As greater advancements are made, players will likely expect titles to leverage this powerful engine effectively.
