The performance of Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition on Nintendo Switch has changed and should be once again, compared to the PS1 original.
We’ll cover aspects such as AI upscaling, frame rates, resolutions, graphical modes, and more. Drawing from Digital Foundry’s analysis, we will provide a comprehensive understanding of the remastered game’s performance.
About Chrono Cross – The Radical Dreamers Edition
Chrono Cross, a beloved classic RPG, has made its return with The Radical Dreamers Edition on Switch. Players have been eager to experience the remastered version, but it seems that not everything has been improved upon. In this blog post, we will dive deep into the performance of the game and compare it to the original PlayStation 1 release, analyzing aspects such as frame rate, resolution, AI upscaling, and more.
Performance Comparison to the PS1 Original
When comparing the frame rate and resolution of Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition to the PS1 original, there are some notable differences. The remastered game has a variable resolution, ranging from 900p to 936p for 3D elements, and a 1080p HUD for menus. However, the frame rate can be quite inconsistent, fluctuating between 30 FPS during travel and battles, and even dropping to as low as 10 FPS in some instances, which is worse than the original game.
The AI upscaling used in the remastered version also presents some issues. It can cause a smudged watercolor look in the new graphical mode, and basic textures may display a ripple effect. While character models have been upgraded, the upscaling sometimes results in a less than ideal image quality.
Classic Graphics vs New Visuals
Players have the option to switch between classic graphics and new visuals in Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition. The classic graphics mode presents raw images that were originally intended for 240p displays, leading to a mismatch in resolution with the higher-resolution 3D objects. In contrast, the new visuals benefit from upgraded character models and AI upscaling.
However, despite the improved graphics, the new visuals mode suffers from a lower frame rate compared to the classic mode. Players who prioritize a smoother gameplay experience may opt for the classic graphics mode.
Opening Movie and FMV Quality
The opening movie in Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition has been upgraded, offering a more refined viewing experience for players. Unfortunately, the full motion videos (FMVs) in the game are presented raw without upgrades, which can be jarring when compared to the improved opening movie.
Additionally, the music behind the FMVs is heavily compressed, which can negatively impact the overall audio quality during these cinematic scenes.
Handheld Mode Performance
Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition on Switch has a slightly better frame rate in handheld mode, making it a more enjoyable experience for players who prefer to game on the go. However, the frame rate is still not as consistent as one might hope, with occasional stutters and drops.
Digital Foundry’s Analysis
Digital Foundry, a well-known gaming analysis channel, has provided an in-depth examination of Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition’s performance. Their findings support the points discussed in this blog post, highlighting the mixed results of the remastered game’s performance, particularly in terms of frame rate and AI upscaling.
Enhanced Character Models
One of the highlights of Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition is the enhanced character models. The remaster has updated and refined the appearance of the game’s beloved characters, giving them a fresh look while still preserving their original charm. This improvement is especially noticeable in the new visuals mode, where players can fully appreciate the updated character designs.
Comparison to Other Platforms
Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition is also available on other platforms such as PlayStation 4. When comparing the performance of the Switch version to that of the PS4, the frame rate is essentially the same. This parity between platforms ensures that players can enjoy a consistent experience across different gaming systems.
Impact of Performance on Gameplay
The performance issues in Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition, such as inconsistent frame rates and AI upscaling problems, can have an impact on gameplay. Players may find it challenging to engage in battles or traverse the game world when the frame rate drops significantly. These performance hiccups could detract from the overall enjoyment of the remastered game, leading some players to opt for the smoother experience offered by the PS1 original.
Navigating the Game’s Menus
The remastered edition features a 1080p HUD for menus, providing a crisp and clear interface for players to navigate. However, the text for battles has been downgraded in the original graphics mode, which may affect the readability of important information during combat.
Audio Improvements and Limitations
While the remastered game boasts an upgraded opening movie, the audio quality in other aspects of the game has not received the same level of attention. The music behind the FMVs is heavily compressed, and the audio quality during these scenes may leave players wanting more. Nonetheless, the game’s iconic soundtrack remains a standout feature and continues to resonate with fans of the original.
Conclusion
Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition on Nintendo Switch offers a blend of upgraded visuals and nostalgic classic graphics, but its performance leaves something to be desired. While the remastered game brings some improvements, it also struggles with inconsistent frame rates and upscaling issues. Players may need to weigh the pros and cons when deciding whether to experience the game in its remastered form or return to the original PS1 classic or play it on another platform.
FAQs
- What is the frame rate and resolution of Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition on Switch?
- The game has a variable resolution of 900p to 936p for 3D elements and a 1080p HUD for menus. Frame rates fluctuate between 30 FPS during travel and battles and can drop as low as 10 FPS in some instances.
- Does the remastered game have AI upscaling issues?
- Yes, the AI upscaling can cause a smudged watercolor look in the new graphical mode and basic textures may display a ripple effect.
- Is the performance better in classic graphics mode or new visuals mode?
- The classic graphics mode offers a smoother frame rate compared to the new visuals mode. However, the new visuals mode benefits from upgraded character models and AI upscaling.
- How does the handheld mode performance compare to docked mode?
- The frame rate in handheld mode is slightly better compared to docked mode, providing a more enjoyable experience for players who prefer gaming on the go.
- What are the main takeaways from Digital Foundry’s analysis of Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition?
- Digital Foundry’s analysis highlights the mixed results of the remastered game’s performance, particularly in terms of frame rate and AI upscaling.
