“Boost Mode” Allows PlayStation 4 Pro to Enhance Unpatched Games (VIDEO)
In preparation for their next PlayStation 4 update, Sony has announced a few features that aim to improve the overall user experience. One major addition to the PlayStation 4 Pro that was more-or-less glossed over was an option to improve game performance for games that were previously unpatched to do so. The new “Boost Mode” boasts the ability to play games at a higher frame rate, and faster load times. A statement released by a Sony representative reinforces these claims.
Boost Mode lets PS4 Pro run at a higher GPU and CPU clock speed for smoother gameplay on some PS4 games that were released before the launch of PS4 Pro (and has not been updated to support PS4 Pro). Games that have a variable frame rate may benefit from a higher frame rate, and load times may be shorter in some games too.
As first posted by NeoGAF, the presence of the new mode was discovered in a beta build of the upcoming 4.50 update. Located in the System submenu of the Settings section, the description for Boost Mode reads, “Experience improved gameplay, including higher frame rates, for some games that were released before the introduction of PS4 Pro (CUH-7000 series)”. It goes on to warn the user that if issues are experienced, the mode should be switched off.
A few videos have surfaced on YouTube showing off the touted improvements of Boost Mode. One video uploaded by user Noel Underson shows off an early section of the the game The Evil Within. An area normally plagued with slowdowns appears to be rocking a healthy frame rate. Due to the fussy and complicated nature of modern video games, results like these are likely to differ from game to game.
Boost Mode, even in its beginning stages, seems like an impressive and exciting idea for those underwhelmed with the current PS4 Pro’s performance, especially in comparison to the very capable Xbox One S. Though it may be partially available in the beta version, Sony has not officially included it in the unreleased 4.50 update as of yet, but are said to be considering it. We at DFTG will update when more information is available.
What do you think of Boost Mode? Can a performance increase sway those disappointed wit the PS4 Pro? Let us know what you think in the comments below and be sure to check out these other PlayStation news stories!
Eric Hall2712 Posts
Phone-browsing Wikipedia in one hand and clutching his trusty controller in the other, the legendary Eric Hall spreads his wealth of knowledge as a writer for Don't Feed the Gamers. Be sure to catch his biweekly "Throwback Thursday" segment for a nostalgic look at trivia from the past.
