Optimize Shader Performance Without Losing Quality

Identify Performance Bottlenecks

Enable the FPS counter and note your frame rate in different areas. Shaders impact performance most in open sky areas, near water, and in complex terrain. Kinescope's cinematic effects—soft shadows and reflections—are the primary performance cost.

Reduce Expensive Effects Strategically

• Shadow Resolution: Lower shadow map resolution to improve FPS with minimal visual loss
• Reflection Quality: Reduce water or sky reflection detail if performance dips near oceans
• Ambient Occlusion: Disable or lower if caves and crevices appear too dark but performance improves significantly
• Bloom/Glow: Reduce bloom intensity on bright blocks to lighten GPU load

Test and Balance

Make one change at a time and test FPS in the same location. Find the sweet spot where the cinematic look remains but your frame rate stays playable.

Monitor in Gameplay

Check performance during actual play—mining, building, and exploring—not just standing still. Adjust further if needed to maintain smooth gameplay while keeping Kinescope's distinctive visual style.