The video explores the implementation and performance of FSR 4, a machine learning-based super resolution technology, on Valve’s Steam Machine, focusing on its impact on 1440p gaming. Starting with Cyberpunk 2077, the presenter demonstrates how FSR 4 dynamically adjusts internal resolutions between 810p and 1620p to maintain a target frame rate of 60 FPS, which is then upscaled to 4K. While mostly successful in achieving smooth gameplay, some issues like flickering lighting effects and occasional frame drops occur, particularly in demanding areas or expansions. Variable refresh rate (VRR) helps mitigate some stuttering, making the experience generally positive and emphasizing the importance of hardware tuning for optimal results.
Moving on to Alan Wake 2, FSR 4 is tested using DLSS inputs via OptiScaler to deliver both 30 FPS quality and 60 FPS performance modes, mirroring console settings. The Steam Machine’s ability to lock frame rates precisely at 30 FPS is highlighted, with the 4K output from a 2x2 upscale providing a good balance of quality and performance. The presenter finds that lowering the output resolution slightly to 1800p allows for higher quality settings without frame drops, offering a smart approach to balancing visuals and performance. Despite the Steam Machine’s relatively weak GPU, the ML upscaling delivers a better experience than the PlayStation 5 in some scenarios, showcasing the potential of FSR 4.
For 60 FPS performance mode in Alan Wake 2, FSR 4 demands more GPU resources than FSR 2, resulting in less stable frame rates ranging between 50 to 60 FPS, especially in GPU-intensive areas like Cauldron Lake. However, the overall image quality gain is significant, making the trade-off worthwhile. The use of HDMI 2.1 VRR on Linux further smooths out frame rate dips, improving gameplay fluidity. Despite some challenges with frame pacing and stutter, the presenter prefers this experience over the PS5 version, noting that the unofficial FSR 4 implementation works well once set up properly.
Testing continues with Crimson Desert, where FSR 4 performance mode at 1440p provides mostly stable frame rates in the 50s, but dips into the 40s in more demanding areas like Bug Hill. The presenter experiments with frame generation to boost frame rates, but finds that it introduces worse frame pacing and input latency, making it an unsatisfactory solution. Instead, locking frame rates with Vsync provides better pacing, though frame drops still occur. Overall, FSR 4 offers a viable way to play demanding games on Steam Machine with improved visuals, but hardware limitations and occasional stuttering remain challenges.
Finally, the video compares FSR 4 performance across different titles, noting that while games like Metal Gear Solid Delta struggle with frame rates dropping into the low 40s, others like Stellar Blade maintain smoother 50 to 60 FPS gameplay at higher internal resolutions. The diversity in game performance highlights the need for stronger baseline hardware to fully leverage FSR 4’s capabilities. The presenter concludes that despite some flaws, FSR 4 on Steam Machine is a significant step forward for upscaling technology, improving image quality and performance in many cases, and encourages viewer support for continued content creation.
