Dragon's Dogma 2 unveils unfinished path-tracing feature via new mod

Modders have unlocked a hidden path-tracing feature in Dragon's Dogma 2, enhancing the game's lighting effects. A mod by EXXXcellent, confirmed by Digital Foundry, now allows players to use this feature at the cost of game performance. With an RTX 4090 card, frame rates dipped from 105 FPS without path-tracing to 93 FPS with it, and further to 42 FPS with increased sample per pixel, and down to 20 FPS with more light bounces. Currently, this may be best suited for taking high-quality screenshots rather than smooth gameplay. Further optimization could improve performance for average hardware in the future.

Path-tracing is a rendering algorithm that simulates the way light travels and interacts with surfaces, creating more realistic lighting and shadow effects in computer graphics. In videogames, it can significantly improve visual fidelity but often at the cost of performance, requiring powerful hardware to maintain smooth frame rates.

Background information on Dragon's Dogma:

Dragon's Dogma is an action RPG series developed and published by Capcom. The original game was released in 2012, with an enhanced version titled Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen coming out in 2013. Known for its vast open world, engaging combat, and the "pawn" system that allows players to recruit AI-controlled companions, the franchise has developed a strong cult following. Its sequel, Dragon’s Dogma 2, continues to build on this foundation with improved graphics, more expansive gameplay mechanics, and a deeper narrative that immerses players in its fantasy universe.