Steam’s New Tool Detects Fake vs. Real Frames in Games

▼ Summary
– Nvidia and AMD have improved frame generation technologies, and Steam now helps distinguish between real and generated frames in PC gaming.
– Valve’s updated performance tools show separate FPS counters for hardware-rendered frames and frame-generated ones, aiding in troubleshooting.
– Frame generation issues often occur when the base frame rate is too low, causing a mismatch between responsiveness and visual smoothness.
– The update includes additional overlay features like GPU/CPU utilization, frame rate graphs, and customizable display settings.
– The new tools are currently available only for Windows users with modern GPUs, with broader support planned for the future.
Understanding the difference between real and generated frames in games just got easier, thanks to Steam’s latest performance tool update. Valve has introduced new features that help gamers distinguish between frames rendered by their hardware and those artificially generated by technologies like Nvidia’s DLSS or AMD’s FSR. This enhancement provides valuable insights into how frame generation impacts gameplay, allowing for better optimization.
The updated in-game performance overlay now includes a dedicated FPS counter that separates native frames from AI-generated ones. This helps players identify potential issues, especially when the base frame rate isn’t high enough to support smooth frame generation. A mismatch between input responsiveness and on-screen fluidity can create a jarring experience, but Valve’s tool makes it easier to spot and adjust settings accordingly.
Beyond frame analysis, the update enriches the overlay with detailed performance metrics, including GPU and CPU utilization, frame rate highs and lows, and a dynamic frame rate graph. Users can customize the display with four different levels of detail, adjusting colors and transparency to blend seamlessly with any game.
Currently, this feature is exclusive to Windows users with modern GPUs, with broader support planned for the future. For those interested in the technical side, Valve offers a comprehensive breakdown of how these performance metrics are calculated. This upgrade not only enhances transparency but also empowers gamers to fine-tune their setups for the best possible experience.
(Source: Game Spot)