Star Citizen’s 3.23 Wave 1 PTU build introduces the highly anticipated Vulkan renderer as a new option under Graphics settings, showing promising initial results with improved frame rates in areas like Area 18. While still in an alpha state and awaiting CPU multi-threading implementation for further performance enhancements, the Vulkan renderer presents a positive step towards improving graphics and gameplay in Star Citizen.
In a recent update, Star Citizen released the 3.23 Wave 1 PTU build featuring the highly anticipated new Vulkan renderer. This renderer is a different engine from the previously used DirectX 11 3D, with both engines sharing the Gen 12 renderer in the background. Players can now find the Vulkan 3D option under Graphics settings, which promises new possibilities for the game. Despite being labeled as beta, the Vulkan renderer is still in an alpha state, highlighting the ongoing development of the feature. Players need to restart the game after selecting the Vulkan option to see the changes take effect.
Initial testing of the Vulkan renderer shows promising results, with improved frame rates observed in areas like Area 18 compared to the previous DirectX 11 3D renderer. While the current improvements are notable, the full potential of Vulkan is yet to be realized as multi-threading for the CPU has not been implemented. Once CPU multi-threading is added, it is expected to further enhance performance, especially on multi-core CPUs commonly used by players. The early feedback suggests that the starting results of the Vulkan renderer are excellent, setting a positive tone for future enhancements.
It is important to note that any glitches or jerking observed in the game should not be attributed to the Vulkan renderer specifically, as the 3.23 build has been experiencing such issues in various areas, including the Subways. These existing problems are unrelated to the introduction of the new renderer. Players are advised to focus on assessing the performance changes related to Vulkan separately from the general glitches present in the current build. The comparison between the two renderers may reveal subtle visual differences, but the primary focus should be on the improved frame rates and potential for future optimizations.
The video presentation by Daniel Raymond, the voice behind Ray’s guide, showcases a side-by-side comparison of gameplay footage before and after switching to the Vulkan renderer. The demonstration highlights the better frame rates achieved in Area 18 under Vulkan, indicating a positive initial experience with the new rendering technology. As more players explore and share their findings with the Vulkan renderer, a clearer picture of its impact on performance and visual quality in Star Citizen will emerge. Overall, the introduction of Vulkan in the 3.23 Wave 1 PTU build marks a significant step forward in enhancing the game’s graphics and performance, with further improvements expected as development progresses.