Sony confirms it will add key Xbox Series X visual functionality to the PS5

Sony has confirmed that it will add Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) – a key visual feature of the Xbox Series X / S – to the PlayStation 5.

This feature, designed to reduce or eliminate tearing and stuttering in high frame rate games, will be added to the PlayStation 5 via a future firmware update, Sony said in an updated system FAQ.

“After a future system software update, PS5 owners will be able to use the VRR function of compatible TVs when playing games that support VRR,” he says. A modern TV with HDMI 2.1 is required to use VRR.

Although VRR is supported by the latest generation consoles from Microsoft, the functionality has become even more important for next generation games that support frame rates of 60 fps and above.

As Digital Foundry’s Alex Battagloa explains, the feature is a notable omission on PlayStation 5 at launch as some games, such as Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, suffer from visible tears on the platform.

“As more and more games target 60 fps in the cross-gen period and don’t quite maintain the goal, we are therefore seeing a resurgence of games with screen tearing – something that was almost gone on. the latest generation systems, ”he wrote.

“It’s not a welcome development to be honest, and that’s why VRR – variable refresh rate – is such a godsend. In terms of experience on a standard 60Hz display, the X series is clearly underperforming in terms of performance.

“However, we tested Valhalla with VRR enabled on an LG CX display and the tears are gone, and the presentation remains smooth – the console is in full control of when the display offers a new frame and that is a game-changer, especially for that. Title.

“The omission of VRR on PlayStation 5 is a real disappointment, not only here in Valhalla, but also in other games like Dirt 5.”