When it comes to choosing a new game, the frustration of waiting for a large file to download can be overwhelming. The file sizes of some games exceed 120GB, taking hours to download, which can disrupt online gaming due to bandwidth consumption and high pings. The main reason for these massive downloads is the inclusion of 4K textures, which can make up to 70 percent of the total file size.
Developers often bundle all the files together, assuming that players will upgrade to 4K hardware. However, not everyone can afford this upgrade or even sees the need for it. Many gamers, like myself, are content with the quality of games at 1080p resolution. Games like Ghost of Tsushima still look stunning at lower settings, proving that high resolution textures are not always necessary for an enjoyable gaming experience.
One of the main reasons for sticking with 1080p is the higher frame rates, which enhance gameplay smoothness. It seems unfair that players have to download large files that they may never use, taking up valuable SSD space. A possible solution could be to offer 4K texture packs as separate DLC purchases, similar to how Monster Hunter World on Steam provides a free high-resolution texture pack add-on.
While developers may have concerns about implementing separate DLC for high-resolution textures, it is not an impossible task. The discussion around this topic has sparked questions about the practicality and feasibility of such a system. By addressing these concerns and finding a solution to the issue of oversized game files, developers can enhance the gaming experience for all players, regardless of their hardware setup.
