Recording footage on Steam has generally been a smooth experience, but there's a notable hiccup when it comes to HDR. While Windows 11 Auto HDR handles most games seamlessly, some titles with built-in HDR can appear washed out. This issue is particularly evident in certain high-profile games.
HDR Challenges in Popular Titles
One striking example is Red Dead Redemption 2. In a scene where Arthur battles wolves in the snow, the HDR effect appears significantly washed out, detracting from the immersive experience the game is known for. This problem seems to be isolated to specific setups and might not affect every PC configuration.
On the other hand, not all games suffer from this issue. For instance, Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty manages to maintain its HDR quality without any noticeable degradation. The vivid neon lights and detailed environments in the game look just as stunning in recorded footage as they do during live gameplay.
It's worth noting that this HDR discrepancy isn't universal. Games that utilize Windows 11 Auto HDR generally perform well, maintaining their visual integrity in recorded footage. However, for titles with native HDR support, the experience can be hit or miss.
For those encountering this washed-out effect, there are a few potential solutions:
- Check Your Settings: Ensure that your HDR settings are correctly configured both in-game and within your operating system.
- Update Drivers: Sometimes, updating your graphics drivers can resolve compatibility issues.
- Experiment with Software: Different recording software may handle HDR differently, so it might be worth trying alternatives.
While the washed-out HDR issue can be frustrating, it's not an insurmountable problem. With a bit of tweaking and experimentation, you can often find a setup that works well for your specific needs. As technology continues to advance, we can hope for more consistent HDR performance across all titles and recording setups.
(Image credit: Rockstar Games/Valve)
