Microsoft’s decision to go with eSRAM for its Xbox One instead of GDDR5 memory hasn’t gone unnoticed. Developers have already shown a preference for the PS4’s unified memory with high bandwidth. However, eSRAM isn’t without warrant.
When speaking with GamingBolt, Techland’s Jakub Klarowicz shared his positive experience with the Xbox One and its memory design. He said:
It’s especially helpful because the memory is readily available for any purpose and unit: the CPU, the GPU, textures, render targets, etc. It really smoothes out the optimization process.
Judging by the feedback from numerous developers, it’s clear that eSRAM has a lot of potential, but requires additional investment. Similar to the Cell Processor of the PS3, code needs to be programmed to utilize the eSRAM efficiently. Development cycles are already lengthy, and the additional opportunity cost is proving a headache for some developers. Techland doesn’t seem to mind, though.
Techland is currently working on Dying Light, a multiplatform survival horror game. Dying Light will be one of the first horror games to make the jump to next-gen, and its impressive visuals certainly make it even scarier to play. You can read our preview of the game from PAX Prime here.
