Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart, one of the most highly anticipated games for the PlayStation 5, showcased the console’s impressive solid-state drive (SSD). However, the recently announced PC version of the game has revealed that it doesn’t actually require an SSD to run. The system requirements provided by Sony, Insomniac, and port developer Nixxes show that players can opt for a traditional hard drive and still meet the minimum specs.
In a now-deleted blog post on Steam, the PC system requirements for Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart were unveiled. The post explained that if players are satisfied with minimum specifications, which include 720p resolution at 30 frames per second, they can play the game using a standard spinning magnetic hard drive. This deviates from the notion that the fast loading times of the PS5’s SSD were a crucial factor in the game’s performance.
It’s important to note, though, that this doesn’t mean the PS5’s SSD was unnecessary. Another technological innovation called Microsoft’s DirectStorage is also at play here. DirectStorage is an API that optimizes data transfer between a solid-state drive and a graphics card, significantly reducing load times in games. The PC version of Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart benefits from DirectStorage, allowing players to still enjoy fast loading times even without an SSD.
The announcement of the game’s PC system requirements has sparked discussions around the necessity of SSDs in gaming consoles. While the PS5’s SSD undoubtedly provides a remarkable gaming experience for console players, it seems that PCs can leverage other technologies, such as DirectStorage, to achieve similar performance gains.
This revelation may lead some to question whether console manufacturers should continue investing heavily in SSD technology. However, it’s essential to consider that SSDs offer distinct advantages beyond faster load times. SSDs allow for faster data retrieval, smoother rendering performance, and quicker asset streaming, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, as game developers optimize their titles for SSDs, we may see even greater benefits in the future.
The release of Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart on PC is a significant milestone, as it further blurs the line between console and PC gaming experiences. The PC version of the game provides an opportunity for a broader audience to enjoy the acclaimed title, regardless of their hardware setup. By optimizing the game for different systems, developers are recognizing the value in reaching a wider player base.
Furthermore, the introduction of DirectStorage support in PC gaming highlights the cross-pollination of technology between consoles and PCs. Microsoft’s efforts to bring its DirectStorage API to Windows PCs demonstrate its commitment to enhancing the gaming experience across different platforms. This move could potentially lead to more PC games benefiting from the advantages of SSDs or other high-speed storage solutions.
In conclusion, the PC version of Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart has revealed that the game can run on a traditional hard drive, thanks to technologies like Microsoft’s DirectStorage. While this may raise questions about the necessity of SSDs in gaming consoles, it’s important to acknowledge the unique advantages that SSDs bring to the table, such as faster data retrieval and improved performance. The release of Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart on PC marks a significant step in bridging the gap between console and PC gaming experiences, offering more players the opportunity to enjoy the acclaimed title. Additionally, the cross-pollination of technology between consoles and PCs, exemplified by Microsoft’s DirectStorage support, showcases the ongoing collaboration and innovation within the gaming industry.
