Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart PC graphics and performance
The PC version of Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart seems like a successful port so far, with positive reviews on Steam and a Steam Deck performance beta test also underway. That said, we’re still waiting for a comprehensive review of Insomniac Games’ latest action-adventure title, as there are some reports of crashes on the handheld device. The crashing issue needs to be resolved so players can enjoy the game to the fullest.
Overall, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart’s PC version is off to a solid start, as the game runs well even on older hardware. You can check out our Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart system requirements and performance guide ahead of the launch, as the game’s minimum and recommended specs are fairly demanding.
In our initial Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart review, I praised the game’s streamlined gameplay and engaging tutorial mission. However, I’m keeping the official verdict reserved for now as there could be performance issues or bugs later in the game. The Steam Deck crashing reports are particularly concerning, as the handheld device is the best way to play the game on PC.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart PC graphics and performance
In our initial review, I mentioned that Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart’s graphics quality on PC is somewhat inconsistent, and Digital Foundry has since provided a deeper look into the matter. The YouTube channel notes that the PC version runs smoother than the PS5 version, but there’s a discrepancy between the two when it comes to graphics quality.
Turning on Nvidia DLSS upscaling helps Rift Apart maintain a stable framerate, but the technology can impact the overall look of the game. Turning off DLSS upscaling can result in lower framerates, but the graphics will look “more like the PS5 version”. Insomniac’s upcoming title supports several upscaling technologies, including AMD FSR 2.1, Intel XeSS, and Insomniac’s own IGTI.
Previously, PC ports of PlayStation games have had mixed results. Some, like Shadow of the Tomb Raider, have been mostly smooth sailing, while others, like Days Gone, suffered from bugs and performance issues. The Steam Deck performance for Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is solid so far, with the handheld device receiving praise for its controls and performance.
That said, there have been reports of crashes on the Steam Deck as well, so Insomniac Games still has some work to do in this regard. Meanwhile, you can check out our Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart review for a more detailed analysis of the game.
In my initial review, I mentioned that the game’s range of achievable framerates may not satisfy frame rate enthusiasts. After spending more time with the game, I’d still say that Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart’s overall performance could be better, as the game struggles to reach the maximum refresh rate of a 144Hz monitor.
Featured image credit: Insomniac Games.
