Marvel's Spider-Man 2 PC Port Plagued by Performance Issues Due to DirectStorage Implementation
The recent PC release of Marvel's Spider-Man 2 has faced significant technical difficulties, with bugs and performance problems hindering its launch. Investigations have revealed that one contributing factor is the game's utilization of Microsoft's DirectStorage API.
DirectStorage has been implemented in Spider-Man 2 with GPU decompression enabled. This feature typically allows for optimized data transfer from an SSD to the graphics card's VRAM, reducing CPU overhead. However, as noted by tech channel Compusemble on X, GPU decompression appears to be detrimental to performance in Spider-Man 2.
According to Compusemble, Nixxes Software, the developer responsible for the PC port, has a proven track record of successful console-to-PC conversions. However, the decision to enable GPU decompression in Spider-Man 2 sets it apart from previous ports, with the exception of Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (only with high graphics settings).
Many games utilize compressed asset formats to reduce download size and SSD storage requirements. Traditionally, decompression is handled by the CPU. However, DirectStorage offers the option of GPU-based decompression via GDeflate.
While GPU decompression can improve performance under certain conditions, it can also hinder graphics processing if the GPU is already heavily utilized. This is why Nixxes avoided GPU decompression in Ghost of Tsushima. Compusemble expresses concern that Nixxes may have overlooked this issue in Spider-Man 2, particularly given the game's demanding open world and ray tracing capabilities.
Disabling GPU decompression could potentially resolve the performance problems, but it may introduce new issues on systems with weaker CPUs or in demanding game sections that rely heavily on CPU resources.
Furthermore, the issue raises questions about Nixxes Software's capacity to handle multiple porting projects simultaneously. The studio has completed seven ports in just over two years, including Spider-Man 2, which was released on PS5 in October 2023. This raises concerns that Nixxes may be spread too thin, compromising the quality of their work.
The hope is that the technical issues in Spider-Man 2 will be addressed in a future patch. However, Sony's push for early PC releases of its major titles may force Nixxes to reconsider its workload to ensure that future ports are executed with the highest level of quality.