Oculus pixel density and the MiG-21

[BlackLion213]

Hello,

 

I started using the Rift about a month ago and remain completely blown away by the experience. The MiG-21 was my favorite module before buying the Rift, but it posed several performance challenges with the Rift (which the Viggen does not share BTW).

 

I started off with a pixel density of ~1.7 and adjusted down slightly to 1.6 while turning down the graphics (flat shadows only, shorter visibility distance, etc). Even with these settings, the MiG struggled while other modules ran pretty well.

 

However, just prior to the Viggen's release, I was flying in DCS 1.5 and was pretty dissatisfied with the appearance. Constantly thinking 'DCS 2.5 can't come soon enough". So I decided to experiment. I returned to the DCS VR pre-sets and lowered the pixel density while adding a bit of MSAA (currently 4x). I have to say that I like the appearance of DCS much better this way and I'm much happier looking out the window. Also, performance is much better in this configuration and dogfighting is way smoother.

 

But the big surprise was the minimal to absent loss of clarity in the MiG-21 - the cockpit is still really legible!

 

The MiG-21 also seemed to respond disproportionately well to the lowered pixel density. It currently runs quite well in DCS 1.5 (using my GTX970).

 

After checking things out, it seems that different modules need the benefits of pixel density more than others. The MiG-21, AJS37 Viggen, Spitfire IX, and MiG-15 all have very legible cockpits with a PD of 1.2. I'm not sure what's different about them. Other modules, especially the Mirage and Gazelle lose a lot more clarity with the adjustment (might have to do with the contrast or size of their instruments?).

 

I can still tell a difference with the PD at 1.2 vs 1.7, but it's not as big as I expected and I can still read the cockpit quite reliably.

 

So if you are a MiG-21 fan like me, it might be worth adjusting your PD to something lower than you expected to fly the MiG well. The performance is much better and the legibility/aesthetics are minimally impacted. Other modules may also run well and remain legible with the lower PD.

 

I'm not saying that PD adjustments are unnecessary or over-rated, just that clarity seems to be module dependent and it may be worth experimenting on an individual basis if favorite aircraft aren't running well.

 

I'm really happy to be back in the MiG, even if the Viggen and Spitfire are occupying more of my time these days. :)

 

-Nick

[yogipol]

Hi there, I was Happy Mig 21 driver since new update arrived today. Was able to play with Pixel Density set on 2.5. But now even 1.0 is too much :-( I hope it's just me having performance issue.