In recent years, the pursuit of photorealism in video games has led to stunning, nearly surreal results. It’s a key focus for developers and a big topic of interest among gamers. We’ll explore the drive towards photorealistic graphics in the gaming industry and its impact on play.
The debate over ultra-realistic graphics is a hot one. Let’s get started.
What is Photorealism?
If you aren’t a big gamer, or you’re new to gaming, then you’ve probably already been stunned seeing how some graphics look incredibly real. In fact, new gamers almost always suggest something right away – do games look too real to play?
It’s an odd thing to say given that the gaming industry is pursuing hyper-realistic game graphics. But the “too real” aspect is not something the gaming industry isn’t aware of.
Let’s start by defining what photorealism is.
Photorealism in the context of video games refers to the attempt to create images and animations that are visually realistic and true to life. This involves making game graphics that closely resemble real-world imagery that’s difficult to distinguish from the real world.
Photorealism uses high resolution textures that mimic real life surfaces and skin and cloths and nature.
Advanced lighting techniques implement sophisticated lighting models that simulate how light interacts with objects and environments.
Photorealism can also create authentic environments, such as weather or fire.
What does this all amount to?
It results in sick games, for lack of a better term. Two games that use photorealism at a high level are The Last of Us 2 and Red Dead Redemption 2.
See for yourself.
The Last of Us Part 2 is known for its exceptionally realistic character models and animations, as well as facial expressions, movements, and interactions of characters who all appear lifelike. But it isn’t only the characters, but also the small details littered about the hyper-realistic environments.
Red Dead Redemption 2 also exemplifies an expansive, open-world environment that meticulously replicates the American frontier. This game also features amazingly real weather systems and wildlife that changes across multiple landscapes.
Photorealism and Gaming Immersion
Photorealism’s wide-ranging, impactful effects on gaming immersion can’t be stated enough. High fidelity graphics can deeply influence a player’s engagement and immersion in a game. Photorealism elevates gaming experiences in a multitude of ways.
Photorealistic graphics can make a game world feel more authentic. Heightened realism helps players feel as if there truly a part of the gaming experience. In The Last of Us Part 2, potent photorealistic graphics help foster an emotional environment.
In games were realism is the key component of gameplay, such as Red Dead Redemption 2, photorealism enhances the believability of the game. For example, consider animal behavior in the wild.
Photorealistic graphics often come with an incredible level of detail in game environments. This can encourage players to explore and interact with their surroundings more thoroughly, discovering subtle details that developers have included, which adds to the richness of the gaming experience.
The Downsides
So all of that sounds great, right?
Well, it is, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a downside to photorealism in gaming.
For one, some people just don’t prefer it. It seems “too real.” People don’t always appreciate moving a character around that looks just like a human doing human things.
But another downside might be that the pursuit of these powerful graphics can sometimes come at the expense of storytelling. In other words, a game’s story may totally suck because the development budget and energy went mostly towards graphics.
Clearly, this isn’t true of Red Dead Redemption 2 and The Last of Us 2. But those are also big budget games that are now historically top selling.
Photorealism can significantly enhance the gaming experience by increasing immersion, emotional connection, and visual satisfaction. Balancing visual realism with other elements of game design is crucial to crafting well-rounded gaming experiences.