Microsoft Project Scorpio Console Details Leak, 4K Still In Question
While TV makers and content producers are trying hard to push for more 4K content, one of the largest entertainment sector remains on the fence about it. While console makers like Sony and Microsoft proudly advertise support for 4K resolutions, they aren't making a forced effort to push game developers in that direction. It seems that Microsoft won't be changing its tune any time soon, even with the still to be formally named Project Scorpio console. Reading between the lines of leaked developer materials, the console could indeed support 4K but would still let game developers use the added power for other things instead.
There are still many missing bits about the Scorpio's hardware, particularly when it comes to its processors. While there has been talk that Microsoft will adopt AMD's shiny new Ryzen architecture, chances are it will still stick to the current, and more proven, Jaguar CPU. It would still be more powerful than the current Xbox One architecture, but Microsoft might be recommending optimizations in other areas rather than focusing on 4K instead.
Project Scorpio might adopt the PS4 Pro's philosophy when it comes to 4K: supported by not required. In fact, many game developers might prefer not to go all out 4K because Microsoft will require Scropio games to also run well on Xbox Ones, most of which have 900p, not even 1080p, graphics. Scorpio could, instead, resort to fancy upscaling, similar to the PS4 Pro, to take advantage of the juiced up hardware and 4K UHD TVs.
Compatibility with the Xbox One might be a prevailing theme in the Project Scorpio console, just as PS4 Pro games must also be compatible with the PS4, providing a separate mode to take advantage of the beefier hardware. On the Scorpio, that could even go deep down into details about memory management. That could keep gamers equally on the fence about upgrading to a Scorpio or even migrating from a PS4, though the Scorpio promises to be a significant update overall.
VIA: Extreme Tech