DF Direct Weekly #210: Next-Gen Sony Handheld , Cyberpunk DLSS on Switch 2, Docked VRR In Question
Apr 20, 2025
01:40:38
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Quick takeaways
The podcast discusses the intriguing rumors about a new PlayStation handheld designed to potentially run PS5 games with impressive specifications.
Attention is drawn to the Switch 2's anticipated features, particularly the concerning changes around docked VRR support and communication clarity.
Insights were shared from GDC presentations highlighting advancements in ray tracing and AI, enhancing visual quality in next-gen gaming.
Deep dives
Concerns Over Sponsored Content
The podcast addresses the challenges faced regarding sponsored content and ads, acknowledging that the team has not effectively managed these aspects in the past. There is recognition of the need for transparency when it comes to sponsored videos, and the team reflects on feedback received from their audience. A sincere apology is issued for any confusion caused by their recent attempts to incorporate ads, with a commitment to adhere to values that prioritize authenticity over revenue generation. They conclude that moving forward, they are unlikely to pursue similar sponsorship opportunities.
Rumors of a New PlayStation Handheld
There are rumors regarding a potential new handheld console from PlayStation, rumored to be developed on the same architecture as the upcoming PlayStation 6. Speculations suggest impressive technical features, such as a 3nm process technology and the ability to run PS5 games, albeit at lower resolutions and frame rates. The discussion raises the possibility of backward compatibility for PS4 games and questions the hardware specifications, including CPU configuration and RAM capacity. Overall, these leaks create intrigue about how a portable PlayStation might fit into the existing gaming ecosystem.
Switch 2 Features and Expectations
The latest developments on the Switch 2 reveal that anticipated features include impressive display capabilities such as HDR, VRR, and high frame rates. The podcast discusses how changes in the communication of these features indicate potential challenges, particularly concerning VRR support when docked. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for thorough understanding and clarity surrounding these specifications, especially as developers tailor their titles for the new hardware. Audience interest appears high, driven by curiosity about how the new system will perform compared to current generation consoles.
Insights from GDC Presentations
Key insights were shared about various GDC presentations, particularly those focused on advancements in ray tracing and AI integration in gaming technologies. Presentations highlighted NVIDIA's continuing work on enhancing graphics and lighting techniques, including the implementation of path tracing and RTXDI features. There is notable discussion on how these technical innovations can significantly improve the visual quality and realism of next-generation games, benefiting developers in their quest to push gaming graphics further. The ongoing trends suggest a growing emphasis on machine learning to enhance visual performance in future titles.
Analysis of Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2
The podcast delves into the recent updates regarding the performance of Cyberpunk 2077 on the anticipated Switch 2, specifically noting that it utilizes the DLSS technology. Observations about the quality of visuals indicate potential limitations, with discussions surrounding resolution scaling and overall game performance. The balance between achieving high graphical fidelity and maintaining a playable frame rate has emerged as a key concern for the developers. The team contemplates the implications of these technical specifications for the handheld's capabilities regarding complex, resource-heavy titles.
Evaluation of Indiana Jones's PS5 Pro Features
A discussion arises regarding the Indiana Jones game and whether the PS5 Pro upgrade is a meaningful enhancement given the lack of added ray tracing features. The consensus is that while the game performs well visually, the resources allocated to improving resolution might not provide significant gameplay benefits. Comparisons are made with other titles that have effectively utilized ray tracing and other improvements on next-gen consoles. The team recognizes the inherent compromise that comes with scaling features for such a demanding game across different hardware capabilities.
Join Rich, Oliver and Alex for discussion on the latest leaks surrounding the all-but-confirmed PlayStation handheld and the mystery of docked VRR support suddenly going missing from Switch 2 PR. There's exciting news from CD Projekt RED, confirming DLSS support for Cyberpunk 2077 on the new Nintendo hybrid, while Alex shares his thoughts on some of the GDC 2025 presentations that have started to emerge. Oh yes, and that ad/trailer video post explained - put simply, we tried something new and we got it very wrong.
0:00:00 Introduction
0:02:39 News 1: Next-gen portable PlayStation allegedly detailed
0:20:16 News 2: Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2 uses DLSS!
0:31:30 News 3: Switch 2 docked VRR support in question
0:39:18 News 4: Alex explains Nvidia’s GDC 2025 presentations
0:56:50 News 5: Star Wars Outlaws looks questionable on Switch 2
1:04:49 News 6: Mario Kart World Direct impressions!
1:11:11 Supporter Q1: What would a potential Switch Pro have looked like?
1:15:57 Supporter Q2: What is the Switch 2’s true GPU performance, absent “flopflation”?
1:23:23 Supporter Q3: Should Indiana Jones use more ray tracing features on PS5 Pro?
1:27:51 Supporter Q4: What could the NPU in the Z2 Extreme do for gaming?
1:31:54 Supporter Q5: Could the PlayStation Portal connect to the upcoming PlayStation handheld?
