Featuring content from the forthcoming, eponymous expansion that raises the MMORPG's max level to 60 and adds a ton of new content, the Heavensward Benchmark also introduces gamers to a new DirectX 11 renderer and new visual effects, which include HBAO+.
If you're unfamiliar with HBAO+, the DirectX 11-powered technique adds contact shadows where two surfaces or objects meet, and where an object blocks light from reaching another nearby game element. Compared to other ambient occlusion techniques, HBAO+'s shadows are more accurate and more detailed, and have a comparatively low performance impact, making games appear more realistic without a huge hit to your precious framerate. In the Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward Benchmark, HBAO+ more accurately shades characters, NPCs, objects, terrain, foliage, and grass.
FINAL FANTASY XIV: Heavensward Official Benchmark Software Overview
| Operating System | Windows Vista/7/8 * DirectX 9.0c or higher required.
** This benchmark is not available on Mac OS. * Minimum resolution 1024x720 |
| File Name | ffxiv-heavensward-bench.zip |
| File Size | Approx. 1.6GB |
| [7000+] Extremely High Performance |
Easily capable of running the game on the highest settings. |
| [5000-6999] Very High Performance |
Easily capable of running the game. Should perform exceptionally well, even at higher resolutions. |
| [3500-4999] High Performance |
Easily capable of running the game. Should perform well, even at higher resolutions. |
| [2500-3499] Fairly High Performance |
Capable of running the game on default settings. Consider switching to a higher resolution depending on performance. |
| [2000-2499] Standard Performance |
Capable of running the game on default settings. |
| [1500-1999] Slightly Low Performance – Changes to Settings Recommended |
Capable of running the game, but will experience slowdown. Adjusting settings may improve performance. |
| [1000-1499] Low Performance – Changes to Settings Required |
Capable of running the game, but will experience considerable slowdown. Adjusting settings is unlikely to improve performance. |
| [Under 1000] Insufficient Performance |
Does not meet specifications for running the game. |