ZeniMax Online Studios has announced new graphical enhancements for The Elder Scrolls Online that will improve the image quality, as well as performance, on PC and next-generation consoles. This news comes shortly after the game’s highly anticipated release on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, that was already a big upgrade over the previous generation version.
While The Elder Scrolls Online stumbled at launch, it has evolved into an extremely popular MMORPG, and the sheer amount of content on offer is hard to argue against. A new expansion releases every summer, and regular DLC content keeps the players engaged throughout the year. The latest expansion, Elder Scrolls Online: Blackwood, was well received, despite having a weak ending.
On a post on the official website of The Elder Scrolls Online, Lead Graphics Engineer, Alex Tardif mentions all of the graphical improvements that will be added in Update 31. With the aim of hitting a solid 60fps on next-generation consoles, the resolution was set to 1440p on PS5 and Xbox Series X, and 1080p on Xbox Series S. As these consoles are capable of running the game at higher resolutions, Dynamic Resolution Scaling will now be added. Xbox Series X and PS5 will scale between 1080p and 2160p, while Series S will scale between 1080p and 1440p. The post goes on to explain that this new range allows for more stable framerate in high-intensity activities such as large PVP battles.
There is also good news for those who have expressed frustrations with the current implementation of HDR in The Elder Scrolls Online. With the release of Update 31, a new hue-preserving HDR mode will be added to the game. Players that prefer the current use of HDR can toggle between the two modes. Finally, Update 31 will also be bringing render multithreading to PC as an opt-in beta setting. This feature should help in improving the frame rate for PCs with a relatively weaker CPU. Update 31 is currently scheduled to arrive on August 23 for PC/Stadia and August 31 for consoles.
The Elder Scrolls Online recently passed 18 million players, a massive achievement considering its initial reception. It continues to build upon its strength by adding new content at a steady pace. The use of DSR will result in a higher upper limit for the resolution, while also allowing for more stable frame rate during large battles. The new HDR mode and multithreaded rendering are also welcome additions.
It is fair to suggest that there might be more untapped power left in the new consoles, that can further allow ZeniMax Online Studios to propel the visuals to new heights. With Bethesda confirming that The Elder Scrolls 6 will launch after the release of Starfield, now is probably a great time for fans of the series to jump into ESO.
The Elder Scrolls Online is available now for PC, PS4, PS5, Stadia, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.
Source: Elder Scrolls Online