Microsoft simply unveiled DirectX Raytracing (DXR) 1.2 on the Recreation Builders Convention 2025, an replace to the DirectX expertise stack it is calling “the subsequent evolution in graphics.” Whereas the complete showcase shall be proven to the general public later, the corporate is promising some main developments in path tracing efficiency through opacity micromaps and shader execution reordering.

In line with a developer weblog put up by Senior Program Supervisor Lead at Microsoft, Cassie Hoef, Microsoft is working with {hardware} companions like AMD, Intel, NVIDIA, and Qualcomm, in addition to sport builders, to showcase the most recent DXR implementation.

The brand new applied sciences that can allow the huge efficiency boosts in ray tracing are described like this:

• Opacity micromaps considerably optimize alpha-tested geometry, delivering as much as 2.3x efficiency enchancment in path-traced video games. By effectively managing opacity knowledge, OMM reduces shader invocations and enormously enhances rendering effectivity with out compromising visible high quality.
• Shader execution reordering gives a serious leap ahead in rendering efficiency — as much as 2x quicker in some situations — by intelligently grouping shader execution to reinforce GPU effectivity, scale back divergence, and enhance body charges, making raytraced titles smoother and extra immersive than ever. This function paves the best way for extra path-traced video games sooner or later.

“We’re thrilled that our {hardware} companions are absolutely embracing these cutting-edge options,” added Microsoft. “NVIDIA has dedicated driver help throughout GeForce RTX GPUs, and we’re actively working with different {hardware} distributors, together with AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm, to make sure widespread adoption.”

The corporate had additionally unveiled different upcoming applied sciences on the GDC presentation, together with reminiscence utilization discount with the usage of “Neural Block Texture Compression,” in addition to neural supersampling and denoising for correct real-time path tracing visuals with out hurting efficiency.

Anticipate extra details about DirectX Raytracing 1.2, with demos showcasing the enhancements from builders, to reach quickly.