The Callisto protocol has been available since yesterday and seems to appeal to most horror game fans. If the title obviously has many qualities, it stands out above all for its graphic aspect and flashy faces of realism. Unfortunately, performance isn’t always there, especially on the Xbox Series X, as evidenced by Digital Foundry’s analysis.
Ray tracing reflections are missing on Xbox Series X
Whether it’s PS5 or Xbox Series X, the Callisto protocol offers two graphics modes. The former focuses on image quality at 30fps, while the latter promises increased fluidity at 60fps but much lower image quality.
In quality mode, the game impresses with its handling of light and reflections. This is mostly true of the PS5 version, which offers shadows as well as ray tracing reflections.
The Xbox Series X only offers ray-traced shadows and no dynamic reflections, as seen in the image above. This especially affects mirrors, windows, and other puddles of water.
The frame rate is also worse on the Xbox Series X.
In addition to the visual benefits, the PS5 offers an overall more consistent framerate than the Microsoft console in quality mode. Experts note that the Xbox Series X is more prone to slowdowns. Even if the game remains playable overall, intense scenes cause more significant framerate drops on the Microsoft console.
Performance mode provides more stable and comparable performance on both machines. Drops below 60fps are less common and also less frustrating if you have a VRR compatible screen.
No ray tracing or 60 FPS on Xbox Series S
For its part, the Xbox Series S doesn’t offer a 60fps performance mode; You can only enjoy the game at 30 FPS, and there are no ray tracing effects. In addition to the lower resolution (dynamic 1080p), it also offers lower quality textures.
Overall, the PS5 version has certain advantages over the Microsoft consoles, more specifically the Xbox Series X. This is no doubt due to the fact that several PlayStation studios came to lend a helping hand to Striking Distance Studios during development, and we hope that updates will come, correcting the situation for Xbox players.
Callisto Protocol remains an impressive title both visually and aurally. If you want to know more about it, our full test of the game is already available. Recall that the game was released on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5 and PC, as well as on Xbox One and PS4.