Spider-Man 2 PC Port Suffers from DirectStorage GPU Resource Drain
The recently released PC version of Marvel's Spider-Man 2 has faced performance issues stemming from an unexpected aspect of its conversion: the use of DirectStorage. This Microsoft API, intended to optimize SSD data transfers to the GPU's VRAM, is reportedly causing performance degradation in Spider-Man 2.
DirectStorage's Role and Implementation
DirectStorage reduces CPU overhead by multitasking file transfer and utilizing system memory efficiently. However, in Spider-Man 2, Nixxes Software, the porting studio, has enabled GPU decompression within DirectStorage. Unlike most other ported games, GPU decompression is not typically used in high-demand titles.
Consequences of GPU Decompression
CPU decompression is typically preferred because the GPU is already under significant load in Spider-Man 2, especially with ray tracing enabled. By transferring decompression to the GPU, Nixxes has inadvertently affected performance.
Potential Solutions and Concerns
Disabling GPU decompression may resolve the issue, but it could also introduce problems for PCs with weaker CPUs or in CPU-intensive game sections. Additionally, Nixxes' recent workload may have contributed to the subpar port quality.
Nixxes' Capacity and Future Projects
Nixxes' rapid succession of porting projects in recent years, including seven in just over two years, raises concerns about its capacity to handle demanding projects effectively. The proximity of Spider-Man 2's PC release to its PS5 launch suggests that Nixxes may have been multitasking on multiple ports simultaneously.
Conclusion
Sony's ambition to release major PlayStation titles on PC promptly necessitates a careful assessment of Nixxes' workload. The performance issues in Spider-Man 2 suggest that the studio may need to prioritize quality over quantity to ensure optimal PC ports.