What Games Have a Built-in Benchmark?
Many modern games include built-in benchmark tools, offering a convenient way to test your system's performance and tweak settings for optimal gameplay. These benchmarks aren't always explicitly labeled as such, but they provide a standardized test to measure your frames per second (FPS), graphics card utilization, and other key performance indicators. This allows you to fine-tune graphics settings to balance visual fidelity with smooth gameplay.
This article explores games with built-in benchmarks, addressing common questions about their functionality and value.
Why Do Games Include Benchmarks?
Game developers integrate benchmarks for several key reasons:
- Optimization: They use internal benchmarks during development to identify and fix performance bottlenecks.
- Troubleshooting: A benchmark provides a controlled environment to isolate hardware or software issues affecting in-game performance.
- User Experience: It empowers players to customize their settings to achieve a desired level of visual quality and smoothness, leading to a better gaming experience.
- Marketing: High benchmark scores can be used in marketing materials to showcase the game’s visual capabilities and performance.
What are the Benefits of Using a Built-in Benchmark?
Utilizing a game's built-in benchmark offers several advantages over third-party tools:
- Real-world performance: The benchmark uses in-game assets and scenarios, providing a more accurate reflection of actual gameplay performance.
- Convenience: It's readily accessible within the game, eliminating the need for separate benchmarking software.
- Specific to the game: The benchmark is tailored to the game's engine and graphics settings, giving the most relevant results.
Which Games Include Built-in Benchmarks? (Examples)
While not every game offers a dedicated benchmark mode, many high-end titles do. The availability can also depend on the game version or platform. Some notable examples include (but are not limited to):
- Many AAA titles from companies like Ubisoft, EA, and Bethesda: These studios frequently include benchmark tools in their high-profile releases. Checking the game's options menu is the best way to confirm.
- Games utilizing specific game engines: Engines like Unreal Engine 5 often have built-in tools developers can utilize to easily create benchmark sequences. This means games built using these engines might have benchmarks.
- Racing simulators: Often have built-in benchmarks to test performance in high-detail environments.
How Do I Access and Run a Built-in Benchmark?
The process varies by game. Typically, you'll find it within the game's options menu, often under sections labeled "Graphics," "Settings," "Options," or "Benchmark." Look for options such as "Run Benchmark," "Performance Test," or similar phrases. The benchmark often allows you to select specific settings (resolution, graphical presets, etc.) before running the test.
Are There Any Downsides to Using Built-in Benchmarks?
- Limited Customization: Some built-in benchmarks offer less customization than dedicated benchmarking tools.
- Game-Specific Results: The results only reflect performance within that specific game, not necessarily across all titles.
How Can I Improve My Game Performance After Running a Benchmark?
Once you've run the benchmark and identified performance bottlenecks, consider these steps:
- Lower Graphics Settings: Reduce settings like shadows, anti-aliasing, and textures.
- Update Drivers: Ensure your graphics card drivers are up-to-date.
- Close Background Applications: Close unnecessary programs running in the background.
- Upgrade Hardware: If your hardware is significantly underperforming, consider upgrading your CPU, GPU, or RAM.
By utilizing built-in benchmarks, you can significantly enhance your gaming experience by optimizing settings for optimal performance and visual quality. Remember to always check your game's options menu to see if a benchmark is included.
