The highly anticipated Alan Wake 2 is just around the corner, and with the release comes the inevitable question: how will it perform on the latest hardware? Remedy Entertainment has provided insight into the game’s performance on the new PlayStation 5 Pro, offering a glimpse into the visual and performance trade-offs players will face.
On the PS5 Pro, Alan Wake 2 offers two distinct graphical modes: Performance and Quality. In Performance Mode, the game renders at a lower internal resolution of 864p, which is then upscaled to 4K. This approach prioritizes a smooth 60FPS experience but comes at the cost of some visual fidelity. While 864p might seem low for a 4K display, Remedy assures that the game will still deliver a visually pleasing experience, particularly with the enhanced image stability, fog, volumetric lighting, and shadow accuracy.
However, the Quality Mode on the PS5 Pro takes a different route, focusing on visual fidelity. With an internal resolution of 2176 x 1224, upscaled to 4K, the game boasts impressive ray tracing and ray-traced reflections for a more realistic and immersive experience. The trade-off? A reduced frame rate of 30FPS.
While a 30FPS experience might not be ideal for some players in 2025, especially on a flagship console like the PS5 Pro, it’s important to remember that Alan Wake 2 is a visually demanding game. The compromises made in Performance Mode are likely necessary to maintain a consistent 60FPS, especially considering the game’s impressive graphics. Ultimately, the choice between Performance and Quality boils down to personal preference. Do you prioritize a smooth and fluid gameplay experience or stunning visuals?
The choice is yours, but it’s clear that both options offer distinct advantages and disadvantages. It will be interesting to see how players react to the performance trade-offs and whether Remedy will consider making adjustments based on community feedback.