GPU shadows

I posted this to the EQ2 boards at SOE and figured I would just post it here on my blog, as well.

Just an example of what the new GPU shadow system looks like, currently, on Test.

This was taken around 8pm NST (Norrathian Standard Time) in Hate’s Envy, in Darklight Wood.

There are a few big differences between the GPU and CPU shadow system, currently.

1.) GPU shadows are blurrier, even at the highest quality setting, and not as defined nor crisp-edged as CPU shadows.  This is particularly noticeable on shadows cast by characters.  (This is partly intentional, as it appears that the GPU shadows are also not currently able to be anti-aliased by the video card – my guess is that they utilize some of the same buffers? – so the blur lessens the jagged edges.)

2.) GPU shadows are NOT cast from torches, and other dynamic light sources, such as lamp posts and sconces.  (See first image, below.) Therefore, when indoors, the option to automatically switch back to CPU shadows is available, allowing for torches and light sources to once again create dynamic shadows from the CPU.  On my PC this change was seamless and very smooth.

3.) GPU shadows ARE cast from overhead light, and the shadow-casting objects, at the High setting, may in fact be VERY far away, and include many details that CPU shadows ignored.  For example, in the 2nd image, you can see the shadow from the sign that hangs outside the tavern, as well as the crenellated border of the tavern roof, and the trees which are spreading shadows over the ground in the image are actually trees from beyond the fenced area and up on the mountains of Darklight Wood.

4.) It appears that the GPU shadows also create various shading within tree limbs and on the walls of houses, giving added depth to objects that previously looked more flat and plain (it was particularly noticeable on the trees in Darklight, as shown in the first image.)

Additionally, the GPU shadow system currently has a slider to control how dark shadows are.  A very nice feature, for those of us who really enjoy strong atmospheric effects that include DARK shadows.