Sony's PlayStation 5 (PS5) has recently received a software update, and some players are reporting improved graphics on the PSVR2 headset. There are claims that the latest update has effectively fixed the blurriness issue that has been a common complaint among PSVR2 users. In this article, we will dissect these claims by putting this update to the ultimate test in Gran Turismo 7, a popular game known for its demanding graphics.

Understanding Reprojection

The test scenario involves racing at Monza in the 60s Honda F1 car and following a ghost car. The reason this is such a difficult test lies in Gran Turismo 7's use of 'reprojection'. Reprojection is a technique that generates every other frame in your headset based on where it predicts your head will move next. This is particularly complex when the ghost car - a translucent object - moves in front of you, providing a substantial test for the system's reproduction capabilities. Additionally, given Monza's speed, distinguishing numbered boards is crucial, making it an even more challenging test.

Testing the PS5 Update

While it's common knowledge that some aspects of Gran Turismo 7, such as the rearview mirror, cannot be fixed due to the game running at low fidelity, the main question is whether the update has made the game any less blurry.

One noticeable improvement is the enhanced clarity of the mini-map. Previously, it was quite a struggle to decipher details on this mini-map. However, post-update, the map appears considerably more distinct. This could be attributed to various factors, such as the time of day in the game, the high contrast behind the map, or the player's growing acclimatization to the game.

In terms of overall visual quality, the textures on the racetrack still seem to be of low quality compared to Gran Turismo 7 in 2D modes. However, the game hasn't suffered any visual decrease post-update. Whether there has been an improvement in visual quality is challenging to ascertain without side-by-side comparisons.

The Verdict

Upon a closer examination, the graphics do seem crisper than they were at the launch of Gran Turismo 7 on PSVR2. The perceived decrease in blurriness could be due to several factors, such as wearing glasses under the headset, or simply becoming more used to the game over time.

The verdict is not entirely clear cut. While there seems to be a noticeable improvement in certain areas like the mini-map, it's hard to definitively say whether the update has indeed improved overall clarity.

The experiences of individual users may vary widely, making it difficult to draw a firm conclusion. Therefore, we'd love to hear from you. If you're a PSVR2 user who has played Gran Turismo 7, do you think the latest update has made any noticeable difference in terms of graphics clarity?

As we continue to explore the capabilities of the PS5 and PSVR2, we're eagerly awaiting further updates and improvements that Sony might roll out. The journey of enhancing virtual reality is an ongoing process, and we can't wait to see what the future holds. Stay tuned for our next update.