Performance and Compatibility Enhancements
AMD has unveiled its latest iteration of the Fluid Motion Frames feature, known as AFMF 2, designed to enhance frame rates in PC gaming. Currently in a technical preview, this new version promises significant advancements, particularly for users with RX 6000 and RX 7000 GPUs. AMD describes this upgrade as a result of extensive optimization efforts aimed at improving both quality and performance.
One of the notable enhancements in AFMF 2 is the improvement in overall image quality, alongside a refined fallback mechanism. This fallback feature temporarily disables frame generation during rapid on-screen movements, effectively minimizing jitter that can disrupt the gaming experience. With the integration of AI, AMD has fine-tuned its frame generation algorithm, introducing an ‘auto’ setting in Search Mode that reduces fallback occurrences, thus enhancing smoothness at higher resolutions like 1440p and 4K. However, this setting is not applied at 1080p, where it may not yield optimal results.
AFMF 2 also introduces a new ‘Performance Mode,’ which serves as an alternative to the previous default ‘Quality’ setting. This mode is particularly beneficial for integrated GPUs found in supported Ryzen CPUs, as it aims to lower overheads and maintain higher frame rates. Meanwhile, discrete graphics card users can continue to utilize the quality setting for the best visual experience.
Additionally, AFMF 2 expands its compatibility by supporting Vulkan and OpenGL games, alongside existing DirectX 11 and 12 support. Players can now enjoy borderless full-screen gameplay, enhancing the versatility of the feature.
Moreover, users can enable AMD Radeon Chill in conjunction with AFMF 2 to prevent frame rates from exceeding their monitor’s maximum refresh rate, thereby mitigating potential issues such as image tearing. AMD recommends using either Radeon Anti-lag or Chill based on expected frame rates, with Anti-lag helping to reduce latency while AFMF 2 already contributes positively to this aspect.
As AFMF 2 remains in its preview stage, it is essential to approach its performance claims with caution. AMD anticipates a smoother transition to the final version of the Adrenalin graphics driver, potentially quicker than the four-month timeline observed for the original AFMF. The improvements in input lag are particularly noteworthy, with AMD reporting an average reduction of 28% latency during testing with Cyberpunk 2077 at 4K resolution and ‘ray tracing ultra’ settings.
While in-house benchmarks provide a glimpse into AFMF 2’s capabilities, real-world testing will be crucial to fully assess its performance once it is officially released. It is important to note that AFMF operates at the driver level, distinct from FSR, and is designed to work universally across all PC games that support newer AMD graphics cards. Although AFMF may not match the results of FSR 3, it stands out as a comprehensive solution that addresses key challenges faced by its predecessor, particularly concerning input lag and motion-related issues.