The PC version of 007 First Light delivers smooth performance on high-end systems but suffers from broken DLSS upscaling, lack of dynamic resolution scaling, and outdated FSR implementation on mid-range hardware, leading to inconsistent frame rates and visual issues. In contrast, the console versions, especially on PS5 and PS5 Pro, offer a more polished and stable experience with effective dynamic resolution and upscaling technologies, highlighting the PC port’s relative lack of optimization.
The discussion begins with an overview of the PC version of 007 First Light, highlighting a mixed experience. While the high-end PC setup delivers smooth gameplay at 5120x2160 with DLAA anti-aliasing and no major issues, problems become apparent on mid-range hardware. The game supports ultra-wide resolutions well during gameplay, but cutscenes display in a narrow 16:9 box with large black bars, which detracts from the cinematic experience. On lower-end systems like the Steam Deck, capping the frame rate at 30 FPS and using a mix of low and medium settings with FSR upscaling yields an acceptable and visually convincing experience.
The core problem surfaces with mid-range GPUs such as the RTX 4060, which is roughly equivalent in power to current-generation consoles. Testing revealed that DLSS upscaling, a key technology for boosting performance, is malfunctioning. Instead of providing the expected performance boost, DLSS offers minimal or inconsistent gains, sometimes performing worse than native resolution. In contrast, AMD’s FSR upscaling delivers significantly better frame rates, but the PC version is limited to an older static implementation (FSR 3.1.5) without the latest improvements like FSR4 or XESS frame generation, due to development time constraints. This has led to criticism that the PC version was deprioritized compared to consoles.
Another notable issue is the absence of dynamic resolution scaling on PC. Volumetric effects and other demanding graphical features cause noticeable frame rate drops, which consoles mitigate by adjusting resolution dynamically to maintain performance. The lack of this feature on PC means that players often experience dips below the target 60 FPS during graphically intense scenes. Even upgrading to a more powerful GPU like the RTX 4060 Ti improves performance but does not fully resolve the issue, as demanding effects still cause frame rate instability.
Despite these shortcomings, the console versions, especially on PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro, are praised for their stable and smooth performance. The PS5 Pro benefits from a well-implemented dynamic resolution system and PSSR upscaling, delivering a high-quality image that holds up well even on 4K displays. The developers made deliberate graphical compromises, such as removing a heavy planar reflection to maintain performance, demonstrating a focused effort to optimize consoles. This contrast highlights the PC version’s relative lack of polish and optimization, especially regarding upscaling technologies and performance consistency.
In conclusion, the PC version of 007 First Light shows promise on high-end hardware but struggles significantly on mid-range systems due to broken DLSS upscaling and lack of dynamic resolution scaling. The older FSR implementation partially compensates but is not ideal. The console versions offer a more polished and consistent experience, with better dynamic resolution handling and upscaling. The developers acknowledge these issues and are investigating improvements, but the current state leaves many PC players, particularly those with popular GPUs like the RTX 4060, disappointed by the performance and visual quality compared to consoles.