Unlocking Widescreen Success: Why Game Developers Must Prioritize 21:9 and 32:9 Support
Ultrawide Monitors: The Frustration of Relying on Mods for Compatibility
As a PC gamer who’s been using ultrawide monitors for years, I’ve grown accustomed to the benefits they offer. But one thing that’s become increasingly frustrating is the lack of support from game developers for these wider aspect ratios. It’s like they’re ignoring a significant portion of their audience.
I’m not talking about niche usage, either. Even popular titles like Elden Ring, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, and Street Fighter 6 have no native support for 21:9 and 32:9 aspect ratios, despite being capable of accommodating these wider resolutions.
The Frustration of Relying on Mods
When modders come to the rescue, they’re often just as capable of providing fixes as developers are. But there are problems that come with relying on mods:
- Risk of ban: Anti-cheat software can detect and ban players for using modified games, which means we’re left with the option of playing offline or risking a ban.
- No guarantee of support: Modders may abandon their projects, leaving us with no support or fixes.
The Issue Behind Relying on Mods for Ultrawide Compatibility
It’s not just a matter of simplicity; it’s about the effort required to create and maintain these fixes. For instance, the RE Framework, a popular mod for Street Fighter 6, also includes cosmetic modifications. This raises questions about the impact on online play and potential bans.
The reluctance of game developers to implement ultrawide support is puzzling, given the benefits it could bring. Modders have consistently shown that it’s possible to create these fixes, and it’s time for game developers to step up.
What’s the Solution for Now?
If this trend continues, my solution would be to invest in a monitor with flexible aspect ratio capabilities, like the Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen. These devices offer the freedom to use various aspect ratios, filling empty spaces with other display sources or activities.
The Path Ahead
While we await the day when game developers take ultrawide support seriously, I’m optimistic that the growth from older titles to newer ones will bring about change. Let’s hope that PC game developers will take a cue from the success of Nixxes, the creators of PlayStation PC ports, which have consistently included ultrawide support for 21:9 and 32:9 aspect ratios.
For now, the ultrawide gaming community can only hope that game developers will recognize the importance of supporting these wider aspect ratios.
