PhysX IQ/Gameplay

On the last page we saw the various performance changes which occur when using Nvidia PhysX, however on the surface at least the GRAW2 level 1 result could be a little disappointing due to it falling when PhysX was enabled. As mentioned earlier PhysX considerably enhances the game world detail so direct comparisons should really not be made.

Shown below is a small selection of these changes to illustrate how the visual experience is impacted by the installation of Nvidia PhysX.

Compare the [DriverHeaven] High Definition Ghost Recon Videos below

In these first two videos there is one obvious change and one less noticeable difference. The more obvious aspect is that the flag not only blows in the wind with PhysX enabled but it is also interactive and changes as it is shot by the weapon.

In addition to this the trees in the background have PhysX effects enabled and act in a more animated (and lifelike) way.

Compare the [DriverHeaven] High Definition Ghost Recon Videos below

The next set of videos show the additional flexibility given to the environment. In this comparison the wood fence shatters to a couple of pieces with PhysX OFF whereas with the technology enabled each plank is independently interactive. Not only does it look impressive but the same ideas are used throughout the level and work to an extent where our gameplay style had to change.

For example the metal fences which were previously much more protective are far more destructible which benefits the player and the enemy. Also it is possible to shoot down individual planks in a fence and shoot through the gap whilst receiving some protection from the rest of the fence!

Compare the [DriverHeaven] High Definition Unreal Tournament 3 Videos below

The final video features Unreal Tournament 3 and focuses on explosion effects. In this video we are demonstrating the performance difference between PhysX on and off.

The result looks the same however in the second video it should be reasonably clear that the framerate being lower causes larger stutters and slower rendering of the moving blocks as explosions take place.