AMD has recently released its first FSR Redstone feature that’s called Ray Regeneration. This RDNA 4-exclusive technology is meant to resolve ray-traced effects using machine learning (ML), with the aim of delivering better quality at lower compute costs. To verify this claim, folks at ComputerBase put Ray Regeneration to the test in Black Ops 7 and compared it directly to Nvidia’s alternative, DLSS Ray Reconstruction.
In most scenes, FSR Ray Regeneration netted a superior image quality and stability than Black Ops 7’s built-in denoiser. AMD’s ML-based denoiser kept more details in motion while reacting faster to changes in the frame. That said, it wasn’t without faults, as ComputerBase noted that the quality varied considerably from scene to scene. Some of these errors appear in the form of muddy or smeary images. When contacted about the subject, AMD didn’t respond to ComputerBase, which doesn’t bode well. Furthermore, according to the in-game files, the Ray Regeneration in use is 0.9.0.0, indicating that it’s perhaps not the final version.
Compared to Nvidia’s DLSS Ray Reconstruction, however, the situation is mixed. Depending on the scene, FSR Ray Regeneration retains a good amount of reflection detail, though in general, Nvidia’s solution offers the best result. Because of this, ComputerBase indicates that DLSS Ray Reconstruction should be enabled whenever possible, contrary to FSR Ray Regeneration, which is only recommended for those willing to accept its flaws.
Framerate-wise, both methods offer little to no performance impact, with ComputerBase measuring below a 3% drop in average fps at 1440p max graphics. Though measurable using tools, you are unlikely to feel these subtle changes during gameplay, let alone in a hectic multiplayer title like Black Ops 7. Yep, ray tracing is available in online multiplayer; in fact, it is only available in the multiplayer mode for some reason.
It is important to keep in mind that Black Ops 7 is the first game to support Ray Regeneration. Other games may experience different strengths and weaknesses, which will be important to see before painting a complete picture of Ray Regeneration’s capabilities. For the time being, DLSS Ray Reconstruction seems the winner, especially in still frames, while FSR Ray Regeneration shines during movement. Either way, the choice will simply rely on which GPU brand you own, since both technologies are better than the built-in denoiser.
