Reduce Performance Impact During Exploration

Access Performance Options

Open the shader configuration menu and locate performance or optimization settings. Look for toggles related to shadow quality, render distance effects, or advanced lighting calculations.

Lower Shadow Resolution

Shadow rendering is often the most demanding feature. Reduce shadow map resolution or quality if your frame rate drops during exploration. This maintains the shadow aesthetic while using fewer resources. You may notice shadows become slightly less detailed, but gameplay remains smooth.

Disable Optional Effects

If available, turn off secondary features like ambient occlusion, volumetric lighting, or water reflections. These enhance visuals but aren't essential to Horizon's core lighting improvements.

Test Frame Rate in Demanding Areas

Explore caves, forests, and areas with many light sources to gauge performance. Your settings are balanced when you maintain smooth, consistent frame rates without noticeable stuttering during normal survival play.

Monitor Over Time

Frame rate can vary with world complexity. If performance degrades as you explore further, incrementally reduce shader intensity until stability returns.