In 2018, Nvidia’s revolutionary real time ray tracing technology for gaming was announced, appropriately named NVidia RTX. There were divergent views from that time on.
It was thought to be a game changer by some players, while others considered it an exclusive feature. In 2024, ray tracing has become a sought after feature, and many games claim to have implemented it. But how effective are those games in using this technology?
Ray tracing creates a more realistic and immersive visual experience by simulating the natural behavior of light. It’s not just about aesthetics; it enhances how light interacts with environments, objects, and characters.
While not all games benefit equally from ray tracing, the potential for groundbreaking visuals is undeniable. Ray tracing, which is making games look photorealistic as graphics cards become more and more sophisticated, will push the limits of graphical accuracy.
In 2024, here are the top 10 games that show the power of ray tracing:
Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales (PS5, PS4):
This standalone expansion lets you step into the shoes of Miles Morales, the new Spider-Man. Swinging through a vibrant New York City with ray-traced lighting cranked up to the max is a breathtaking experience. Witness stunning reflections, realistic shadows, and an overall visual feast that elevates the entire gameplay experience.
Cyberpunk 2077 (PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5):
Despite its initial rocky launch, Cyberpunk 2077 remains a visual marvel, especially with ray tracing enabled. The neon-drenched cityscape of Night City comes alive with incredible lighting effects, realistic reflections, and immersive shadows. While it can be demanding on hardware, experiencing Cyberpunk 2077 with ray tracing is a must for gamers seeking a visually stunning adventure.
Metro Exodus: Enhanced Edition (PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5):
This enhanced edition of the critically acclaimed Metro Exodus takes full advantage of ray tracing. The claustrophobic environments and desolate landscapes are brought to life with stunning lighting effects. Ray-traced reflections in puddles and water surfaces add an extra layer of realism, making the post-apocalyptic world even more immersive.
Minecraft (PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, Mobile):
Minecraft, the beloved sandbox game, has received a ray tracing makeover. This transformation is nothing short of remarkable. The blocky world transforms into a visually stunning landscape with realistic lighting, dynamic shadows, and beautiful water reflections. Whether you’re a seasoned Minecrafter or a newcomer, experiencing the game with ray tracing is a whole new adventure.
Portal RTX (PC):
This fan-made remake of the classic puzzle game Portal takes ray tracing to a whole new level. The sterile test chambers are transformed into visually stunning environments with realistic reflections, soft shadows, and impressive lighting effects. Portal RTX is a testament to the power of ray tracing and a must-play for any Portal fan with a ray tracing-capable graphics card.
Watch Dogs: Legion (PC, PS4, Xbox One)
Legion boasts a unique “play-as-anyone” mechanic, letting you recruit any NPC into your DedSec resistance. While the open-world game play may not be for everyone, the visuals are undeniable. Ray tracing elevates the bustling streets of London, with realistic reflections in puddles, stunning neon signs at night, and meticulously rendered sunlight filtering through buildings.
Doom Eternal (PC, Xbox One, PS4)
The follow-up to the critically acclaimed Doom reboot takes everything to the next level, including the visuals. Doom Eternal is already a visually stunning game, but ray tracing adds an extra layer of polish. Realistic lighting effects enhance the gore and violence, while reflective surfaces showcase the intense battles in all their glory. It’s a perfect marriage of intense action and cutting-edge graphics.
Control (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Switch)
One of the early adopters of RTX technology, Control remains a prime example of how ray tracing can elevate a game’s atmosphere. The unsettling and surreal environments of the Oldest House benefit greatly from the realistic lighting and reflections. Ray tracing creates an unnerving sense of realism, immersing you deeper into the world’s mysteries.
Dead Space (2023 Remake): A Haunting Return to the USG Ishimura
The 2023 remake of the classic survival-horror title, Dead Space, silenced critics who questioned its necessity. This stunning remake boasts not only expanded levels and refined combat, but also a visual overhaul that elevates the experience to new heights.
Turning on ray tracing in Dead Space takes the claustrophobic and oppressive atmosphere of the USG Ishimura space station to a whole new level. Ray-traced lighting emphasizes the grimy details of the ship’s decaying corridors, making every flicker of a light or glint off a metal surface feel eerily real.
While some players might be too busy fending off necromorphs to fully appreciate the lighting effects, for those who can take a moment to breathe, the visuals create an unforgettable experience.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – A Timeless RPG Reborn
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, released in 2015, quickly became a phenomenon praised for its immersive world, captivating story, and rich RPG mechanics. In 2023, CD Projekt Red released a next-gen update for the game, adding ray tracing and other visual enhancements.
While the original version of The Witcher 3 still holds up graphically, the ray-traced update is a revelation. From the sun’s rays filtering through a dense forest canopy to the realistic reflections on a glistening lake, the lighting effects are breathtaking.
This visual upgrade breathes new life into the already stunning world of The Witcher 3, making it a must-play for both veterans and newcomers alike.
These are just a few examples of how ray tracing is transforming the gaming landscape. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more impressive visual experiences in the future. So, if you’re looking to experience the cutting edge of graphics, consider upgrading your graphics card and diving into the world of ray tracing. You won’t be disappointed.
Also Read: Apex Legends Season 21: Mastering the Interdimensional Madness with Alter
