Kegetys Posted July 8, 2018 Share Posted July 8, 2018 (edited) I was slightly frustrated with poor performance when playing in VR with the new deferred rendering engine, so I had a look what would be possible to remove/simplify from the shaders to improve the framerate without too huge sacrifices in image quality. Focusing on anything that has a potentially high memory bandwidth cost (which is usually a big problem with deferred renderers + high resolutions) I was able to do some seemingly decent "optimizations". The mod nowdays also does visual improvements. Full list of changes/options: Performance optimizations: - Simplified canopy glass shader - Simplified histogram calculation - Disabled bloom & color grading - Simplified grass rendering - Reduced shadow PCF maximum sample count from 16 to 10 - Simple transparent objects rendering, ie. propellers and smoke - Disabled atmosphere for things close to camera - Removed one GBuffer entirely for bandwidth savings - Removed water refractions shader as it doesn't work with the above Visual improvements: - Albedo texture supersampling, for sharpening object textures. Visible especially with cockpit text labels. - Multi-sampled shadow sampling in terrain with MSAA enabled (less aliased shadows) - Alpha-to-coverage support for trees and tree flat shadows with MSAA enabled (less aliased trees) - Improved night vision goggles, useable in VR with smaller, properly positioned scope and new noise effect. - Optional NVG scope raise/lower feature with gain control (fixed gain) - Added dithering to HDR tonemap to smooth out banding, visible especially at the sky - The 3D mouse cursor is less bright at night time - Slight mip bias adjustment for text rendering (sharper text) Many of these can be toggled/configured from the config file. Info about albedo texture supersampling here: https://www.kegetys.fi/dcs-shaders-perf-mod-update/ AToC & Multisampled shadow sampling comparison here: https://junk.kegetys.fi/atoc.jpg Dithering comparison here: https://junk.kegetys.fi/dit.png ('off' is a bit worse in the shot than it is in-game) Example scenes: Stock shaders in Hornet, 65fps: https://junk.kegetys.fi/xzy/carrierlanding_orig_ssaa.jpg With the mod, 98fps: https://junk.kegetys.fi/xzy/carrierlanding_opt_ssaa.jpg Stock shaders in Harrier, 61fps: https://junk.kegetys.fi/xzy/readyramp_orig_ssaa.jpg With the mod, 94fps: https://junk.kegetys.fi/xzy/readyramp_opt_ssaa.jpg (These are taken in non-vr mode with some SSAA to get accurate FPS numbers) Download for DCS World 2.7.0.4625: https://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS VR Shaders mod for 2.7.0.4625.zip (latest) Download for DCS World 2.5.6.50321: http://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS%20VR%20Shaders%20mod%20for%202.5.6.50321.zip (old version) Download for DCS World 2.5.6.49314: http://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS%20VR%20Shaders%20mod%20for%202.5.6.49314.zip (old version) Download for DCS World 2.5.6.47224: http://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS%20VR%20Shaders%20performance%20mod%20for%202.5.6.47224.zip (old version) Download for DCS World 2.5.6.45915: http://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS%20VR%20Shaders%20performance%20mod%20for%202.5.6.45915.zip (old version) Download for DCS World 2.5.6.43503: http://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS%20VR%20Shaders%20performance%20mod%20for%202.5.6.43503.zip (old version) Download for DCS World 2.5.5.41371: http://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS%20VR%20Shaders%20performance%20mod%20for%202.5.5.41371.zip (old version) Download for DCS World 2.5.5.34644: http://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS%20VR%20Shaders%20performance%20mod%20for%202.5.5.34644.zip (old version) Download for DCS World 2.5.5.33184: http://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS%20VR%20Shaders%20performance%20mod%20for%202.5.5.33184.zip (old version) Download for DCS World 2.5.4.25729: http://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS%20VR%20Shaders%20performance%20mod%20for%202.5.4.25729.zip (old version) Download for DCS World 2.5.3.21107: http://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS%20VR%20Shaders%20performance%20mod%20for%202.5.3.21107.zip (old version) Download for DCS World 2.5.2.19273.411: http://junk.kegetys.fi/DCS%20VR%20Shaders%20performance%20mod%20for%202.5.2.19273.411(b).zip (old version) See the readme for install instructions. Its very likely it will break with future DCS versions that change the shaders... It works in non-VR mode too, but likely the performance gain is not that huge unless you play in very high resolution. FAQ Does the mod work in multiplayer? Only on servers with disabled integrity check. My game freezes at startup with the mod? It just takes a long time to compile the shaders at first run, be patient. If you want, you can monitor the progress with SysInternals DebugView. Game freezes when starting a particular mission? Likely you have loaded a new terrain for the first time after installing the mod and metashaders for the terrain are getting recompiled. Just wait as above and it should be fast the next time. Plane cockpit is missing/transparent? This seems to happen randomly when the shaders for the cockpit were just compiled. Re-entering the plane/restarting the mission or DCS should fix it and it should not happen any more when the shaders are already compiled. Changelog 2.7.0.4625: - Compatibility with DCS World version 2.7.0.4625 (15.4.2021) - Removed the ENABLE_HMD_MASK & MASKSIZE settings as a correct mask is included in DCS now 2.5.6.50321: - Compatibility with DCS World version 2.5.6.50321 (6.6.2020) - Fixed tree AToC in TGP 2.5.6.49314: - Renamed the mod to 'DCS World VR shaders mod' - Compatibility with DCS World version 2.5.6.49314 (23.5.2020) - Removed MSAA_MASKSIZE setting as ED "cloned" it to DCS itself - Added multi-sampled terrain shadow sampling (less aliased shadows with MSAA) - Added alpha-to-coverage support for trees and tree flat shadows (less aliased trees with MSAA) - Fixed ship wakes being permanently "burned in" with high water detail - Simple transparent objects rendering setting (off by default - not well tested) - Fixed some issues with NVG especially with NVG_GAIN_ADJUSTS_POSITION enabled 2.5.6.47224: - Compatibility with DCS World version 2.5.6.47224 (19.4.2020) - Fixed some potential issues with GBuffer decoding - Fixed simple glass albedo color - Added ENABLE_NO_BLOOM setting to keep bloom enabled (appears to perform better nowdays) - Changed HMD mask outside area to write black rather than discard to be compatible with bloom - Added albedo texture supersampling (ENABLE_DIFFUSE_SS setting) 2.5.6.45915: - Compatibility with DCS World version 2.5.6.45915 (3.4.2020) 2.5.6.43503: - Compatibility with DCS World version 2.5.6.43503 (16.2.2020) - Restored original sun flare - Added simplified version of histogram calculation (previously it was removed completely) - Above can be turned off with ENABLE_SIMPLE_HG setting - Removed the sRGB fix as the game seems to have some other workaround for it now - ENABLE_SIMPLE_SHADOWS now limits the sample count to 10 instead of 16 v2.5.5.41371: - Compatibility with DCS World version 2.5.5.41371 (4.1.2020) v2.5.5.34644: - Compatibility with DCS World version 2.5.5.34644 (14.8.2019) v2.5.4.28615: - Restored resolveDepth as it was causing problems with haze and NVG depth effect - Fixed fog not being visible near the camera - NVG effect improved for VR goggles (smaller scope, correct positioning, new noise) - NVG gain now does something proper rather than just brightens up the sky - NVG parameters configurable from _HMD.hlsl - Included the sRGB gamma fix in the mod (fix elevated black levels, visible esp. at night) - Added simple dithering to HDR tonemap to smooth out banding, visible especially at the sky - Made the 3D mouse cursor less bright at night time - Some optimizations can now be turned off from _HMD.hlsl (simple shadows, grass, canopy) v2.5.4.25729: - Compatibility with DCS World version 2.5.4.25729 (20.12.2018) v2.5.3.21107: - Compatibility with DCS World version 2.5.3.21107 (31.8.2018) - Fixed moonlight illuminating cockpit glass too much v2.5.2.19273.411(b): - Fixed compile error with DIFFUSE_UV v2.5.2.19273.411: - Fist version Edited April 15, 2021 by Kegetys update for 2.7.0.4625 9 6 As a cyborg, you will serve SHODAN well http://www.kegetys.fi Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Johnny Dioxin Posted July 8, 2018 Share Posted July 8, 2018 Thanks for sharing this - will be interesting to see what effect it has on my rig. Rig: Asus TUF GAMING B650-PLUS; Ryzen 7800X3D ; 64GB DDR5 5600; RTX 4080; VPC T50 CM2 HOTAS; Pimax Crystal Light Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
REDEYE_CVW-66 Posted July 8, 2018 Share Posted July 8, 2018 Interesting! Will test! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Zeroskills Posted July 9, 2018 Share Posted July 9, 2018 (edited) I gave this a shot. Resolution seemed better and the frame rate seemed the same, but I definatly have the weird artifacts around the edge of my vision now. It kind of felt like I was getting eye strain after 10 minutes or so. Any suggestions for the MASKSIZE value for an Oculus Rift? Edit: I used 0.575 for the MASKSIZE and it got rid of the artifacts at the edge of my vision and FPS seemed unaffected. A lower value might work, but trying it out will have to wait until I have more time. Edited July 9, 2018 by Zeroskills Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nero.ger Posted July 9, 2018 Share Posted July 9, 2018 this looks VERY interresting. Does it work in MP or does the Integrity Check freak out? 'controlling' the Ka50 feels like a discussion with the Autopilot and trim system about the flight direction. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Highwayman-Ed Posted July 9, 2018 Share Posted July 9, 2018 (edited) definatly have the weird artifacts around the edge of my vision now. Same, although I still just had them at .575... :puke: this looks VERY interresting. Does it work in MP or does the Integrity Check freak out? It will kill the integrity check as it is making changes to core game files, but it does look very promising. Edited July 9, 2018 by Highwayman-Ed Intel i9-9900KF @5.2GHz MSI Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon 32GB G.Skill Trident Z DDR3200 RAM MSI RTX 2080 Ti Gaming X Trio 40" Panasonic TH-40DX600U @ 4K Pimax Vision 8K Plus / Oculus Rift CV1 / HTC Vive Gametrix JetSeat with SimShaker Windows 10 64 Bit Home Edition [sIGPIC][/sIGPIC] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Roller25 Posted July 9, 2018 Share Posted July 9, 2018 Definitely made a difference on my machine.. VR with Oculus and runs much smoother.. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nero.ger Posted July 9, 2018 Share Posted July 9, 2018 It will kill the integrity check as it is making changes to core game files. not that there was any doubt, just to confirm i tested it and its triggering IC problems 'controlling' the Ka50 feels like a discussion with the Autopilot and trim system about the flight direction. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cibit Posted July 9, 2018 Share Posted July 9, 2018 Can this be used via OvGME? Do the visuals suffer much @ Highwayman-ED be nice to hook up with some hornet flying with you mate :) Hope all is well with you down under :thumbup: i5 8600k@5.2Ghz, Asus Prime A Z370, 32Gb DDR4 3000, GTX1080 SC, Oculus Rift CV1, Modded TM Warthog Modded X52 Collective, Jetseat, W10 Pro 64 [sIGPIC][/sIGPIC] Adding JTAC Guide //My Vid's//229th AHB Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Highwayman-Ed Posted July 9, 2018 Share Posted July 9, 2018 (edited) Can this be used via OvGME? Do the visuals suffer much Yes, it can and no they don't. The only thing that I've noticed any real degradation with is the grass, and right now, I'm not seeing a lot of that in my Hornet ;) (Notice I said in my Hornet, I'm seeing plenty of it at the end of my silk let downs :( ) I've found setting the mask size to 0.600f works great for me with a CV1 and I will congratulate Kegetys for making my text easier to read in my MFD's! Edited July 9, 2018 by Highwayman-Ed Intel i9-9900KF @5.2GHz MSI Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon 32GB G.Skill Trident Z DDR3200 RAM MSI RTX 2080 Ti Gaming X Trio 40" Panasonic TH-40DX600U @ 4K Pimax Vision 8K Plus / Oculus Rift CV1 / HTC Vive Gametrix JetSeat with SimShaker Windows 10 64 Bit Home Edition [sIGPIC][/sIGPIC] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Roller25 Posted July 9, 2018 Share Posted July 9, 2018 @kegetys so we do not need to enable MSAA in the DCS settings? I noticed you don't have it enabled in your settings. Awesome work. If this was just a quick attempt, I can't wait to see how you tweak it further! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cyb0rg Posted July 9, 2018 Share Posted July 9, 2018 (edited) Working here. Got my FPS back. Tanks. Edit : I really don't like this deferred shading thing. :D Edited July 9, 2018 by Cyb0rg [sIGPIC][/sIGPIC] Asteroids ____________________________________________ Update this :D Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mmaclauchlan Posted July 9, 2018 Share Posted July 9, 2018 Tried it out briefly today. Running a GTX1060. Incredible improvement in FPS, it's absolutely fluid now. No loss in graphics quality; in fact, I was able to change shadows from flat to high without any visible loss in FPS. So... Better graphics coupled with a dramatic increase in FPS. What sorcery is this?! Matthew 'Mags' Maclauchlan Oculus CV1, Thrustmaster FCS HOTAS/Pedals Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Roller25 Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 What sorcery is this?! :lol: Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tn_prvteye Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 Are you a wizard? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
javelina1 Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 interesting. will check this out this weekend, (too much RL activities during the week). thanks OP. MSI MAG Z790 Carbon, i9-13900k, NH-D15 cooler, 64 GB CL40 6000mhz RAM, MSI RTX4090, Yamaha 5.1 A/V Receiver, 4x 2TB Samsung 980 Pro NVMe, 1x 2TB Samsung 870 EVO SSD, Win 11 Pro, TM Warthog, Virpil WarBRD, MFG Crosswinds, 43" Samsung 4K TV, 21.5 Acer VT touchscreen, TrackIR, Varjo Aero, Wheel Stand Pro Super Warthog, Phanteks Enthoo Pro2 Full Tower Case, Seasonic GX-1200 ATX3 PSU, PointCTRL, Buttkicker 2, K-51 Helicopter Collective Control Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MurderOne Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 Impressive. I'm running a pretty decent rig, and was having FPS issues with the Hornet in the Gulf; this solves that. Be sweet if ED could implement something like this. Thanks for your work! Sorry, no cool signature here. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jimiC Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 Is it possible to get an ic ok version for mp or is there practically no changes that will work in that case Sent from my SM-G925I using Tapatalk Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kariyann71 Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 Hi Kegetys, you’ve done a great mod. Yesterday night I tried to set my settings to MSAA 2x using your mod. Unfortunately DCS freeze during startup. Since I restored the legacy shaders directory, no problem ? I run VR with a WMR headset via SteamVR. Does anybody get the same issue ? Envoyé de mon iPhone en utilisant Tapatalk Corei7 2600K 4.4Ghz OC - NVIDIA GTX 1080 Ti 11Gb - 16 Gb DDR3 HP Reverb PRO HMD - Thrusmaster TWCS + TopGun Stick Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kayos Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 I didn't noticed any difference. 45-90fps. Maybe I did something wrong. I'll try again. [sIGPIC][/sIGPIC] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Highwayman-Ed Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 Is it possible to get an ic ok version for mp or is there practically no changes that will work in that case Sent from my SM-G925I using Tapatalk Nope, not unless ED does it as it makes changes to core game files Intel i9-9900KF @5.2GHz MSI Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon 32GB G.Skill Trident Z DDR3200 RAM MSI RTX 2080 Ti Gaming X Trio 40" Panasonic TH-40DX600U @ 4K Pimax Vision 8K Plus / Oculus Rift CV1 / HTC Vive Gametrix JetSeat with SimShaker Windows 10 64 Bit Home Edition [sIGPIC][/sIGPIC] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cabzi Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 Wow, Kegetys to the rescue! While I don't own VR gear yet (waiting for next gen), I can only imagine you guys are in for a treat. This guy is a true talent and THE WIZARD of modding (you would know, if you ever played OFP or ARMA). I really hope ED will pay attention to what he brings to the game. i7-6850K | GTX1080 | 32GB DDR4 | Windows 10 Pro Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
S-GERAT Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 Yesterday give it a try and while I can't check the performance improvement ( ASW was active and locked at 45 fps ) I feel that was back in time to 1.5 version of DCS so for sure it would give a big performance improvement. Unfortunately I can't go back to these graphic quality levels, but congrats to the autor for his great job. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
msalama Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 So yes, i will critic and demand if i need to. Nothing wrong with criticism per se. But constantly using phrases like "they can't make anything like this" is just stupid and thoughtless, because if you don't have any manners, you won't get heard either. How old were you again? The DCS Mi-8MTV2. The best aviational BBW experience you could ever dream of. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kunterbunt Posted July 10, 2018 Share Posted July 10, 2018 There are a lot of interesting ideas in this mod. The ED team can try to take over some of them in future releases. I will test this on my computer as soon as I get the time. I only fly in vr, so this is huge for me. I believe the most important part is the MSAA can be limited to the middle of the screen. This is the first step to forfeated rendering and a very big deal for us. My Rig: AMD Ryzen 9 3950X | 64GB DDR4-3200 Ram | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Ti | Thrustmaster Hotas Warthog | MFG Crosswind rudder pedals | HP Reverb Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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