Troubleshoot Uneven or Harsh Shadows

Diagnose Shadow Problems

If shadows appear too dark, too light, or create harsh banding patterns:

• Check shadow map resolution — Shadows that look blocky or pixelated indicate the shadow resolution is too low. Increase it if your system allows.
• Verify ambient occlusion settings — Excessive darkness around block corners and terrain crevices means ambient occlusion is too strong. Reduce its intensity.
• Look for shadow flickering — Moving shadows that flicker or shimmer suggest shadow update frequency is too high; lower it for stability.

Balancing Shadow Depth

Vibrant Hostility aims for clean, readable shadows that add depth without obscuring detail. If shadows seem unnatural:

• Adjust shadow darkness/brightness values to find a middle ground where shadows are visible but don't crush detail.
• Ensure shadow bias settings aren't causing shadows to detach from objects or appear disconnected.

Testing Your Changes

After adjusting shadow settings, visit different terrain types—forests, mountains, flat plains—and check shadows at various times of day. The shader should produce consistent, clean shadows that enhance rather than obscure your builds and landscape.