PlayStation VRR Issue Analysis

Overview

Discussion about a stuttering problem with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) on PS5 and PS5 Pro consoles.
Issue has been persistent since December last year, with many user reports.
Replicated by Oliver McKenzie through various tests.

Primary Game Tested: The Last of Us Part Two on a Samsung QN90D.
- Stuttering occurs every ~8 seconds, noticeable with 120Hz output and VRR enabled.
- Significant when frame rate is unlocked.
Other Games Tested:
- Elden Ring also displayed the issue with a 60Hz output and VRR.
Test Results: A pattern of stuttering every 8 seconds, +/- 10 or 15 frames.
Games Affected: 19 titles, including The Last of Us Part One & Two, Diablo 4, Elden Ring, Resident Evil 4, etc.
Games Unaffected: Some titles with unlocked frame rates like God of War Ragnarok, Gran Turismo 7.

Occurrence across various titles suggests a platform-wide issue rather than specific to 120Hz output.
Issue emerges after 20-30 minutes of gameplay.
Not linked to a memory leak or specific game updates.
Possible causes could be related to system-level settings or mismatches between game and hardware refresh rates.
Tests conducted on different models and brands of TVs and monitors, showing universal occurrence.

Disable VRR for a consistent gaming experience until Sony provides a patch.
Awareness of VRR settings and their impact on different games is crucial for gamers.

VRR stuttering is highly distracting and defeats the purpose of having VRR enabled.
Urgent need for Sony to address this with a system update.
Encouragement for developers to look into the issue for potential temporary mitigations.
Community engagement and reports may aid in prompting a faster resolution.

The need for a fix is critical to improve gaming experience on PS5 and PS5 Pro.
Users are advised to stay updated with Sony's responses and potential solutions.