Microsoft has already told us the Xbox Series X is the most powerful console ever. The company has even delved into some of the finer details. However, Auto HDR mode has remained relatively elusive in the pre-launch chatter. We know the Xbox Series consoles will have unprecedented backward compatibility. In fact, both the Series X will offer backward compatibility across four generations of Xbox (Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Series X). While the Series S has a few more limitations, it too will deliver backward compatibility. Microsoft has already described how all games will be able to tap into the full potential of the consoles’ GPU, CPU, and SSD. Yes, even titles originally available on the original Xbox.
Auto HDR
The obvious benefits of allowing this are better frame rates and smoother/faster loading times. However, Microsoft is also including Auto High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode. If you are close to modern TV tech, you will have seen this mode before. Microsoft Compatibility Program Lead Peggy Lo explains how Auto HDR will benefit the consoles: “Auto HDR is implemented by the system so developers don’t have to do any work to take advantage of this feature. Also, since Auto HDR is enabled by the console’s hardware, there is absolutely no performance cost to the CPU, GPU or memory and there is no additional latency added ensuring you receive the ultimate gaming experience.”
Auto HDR will be available for all backward compatible games, but Microsoft is going a step further. For some games, the company has developed a system to double the framerate compared to the original. “While not applicable for many titles due to the game’s original physics or animations, these new techniques the team has developed can push game engines to render more quickly for a buttery smooth experience beyond what the original game might have delivered due to the capabilities of the hardware,” Lo adds.
