Do Pros Use True Stretched Resolution? A Deep Dive into Competitive Gaming Display Preferences
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The answer is nuanced. While some professional gamers and streamers utilize stretched resolutions, the popularity of “true stretched” (playing in windowed mode to force a stretched aspect ratio) is waning. The reasons for using stretched resolutions in general remain relevant, however, the method by which it is achieved has evolved. Many players find that the disadvantages of true stretched, such as potential input latency, outweigh the perceived benefits. Instead, they achieve a similar effect through in-game settings or driver-level scaling without the need for windowed mode. In short, fewer pros are using true stretched today, but many still employ some form of resolution manipulation to gain a competitive edge.
Why the Appeal of Stretched Resolutions?
The enduring interest in stretched resolutions stems from the belief that it enhances gameplay in several ways. Historically, this was driven by limitations of older hardware, where a lower resolution provided a significant FPS boost. This led to a change in player experience. The game’s feel was different and some players grew to prefer that experience, even on newer hardware. Now, the reason to change the aspect ratio is more subjective.
Perceived Advantages: Larger Character Models
One of the primary reasons players use stretched resolutions is the perception that it makes enemy character models appear larger. By forcing a lower aspect ratio (like 4:3) onto a wider screen (typically 16:9), the image is stretched horizontally. While this distorts the overall picture, many players feel that the wider character models make them easier to target, leading to improved accuracy and faster reaction times.
Increased FPS and Reduced Input Lag
Historically, using a lower resolution would reduce the load on the system, thereby increasing the Frames Per Second (FPS) and potentially reducing input lag. A higher FPS translates to a smoother, more responsive gaming experience, which is crucial in competitive environments. While modern high-end PCs are less reliant on this trick, the concept remains valid, particularly for players with older hardware or those striving for the absolute highest frame rates.
Familiarity and Muscle Memory
For some players, the preference for a stretched resolution stems from years of playing on older monitors with 4:3 aspect ratios. They have developed muscle memory and become accustomed to the way the game looks and feels at that resolution. Switching to a wider aspect ratio can disrupt their established gameplay and negatively impact their performance, at least initially.
The Downsides of “True Stretched”
As mentioned earlier, “true stretched”, which involves running the game in windowed mode and forcing a stretched resolution through graphics card settings, comes with its own set of drawbacks.
Input Latency
The most significant issue is potential input latency. When running a game in windowed mode, the operating system handles the input, which can introduce a slight delay between the player’s actions and the game’s response. While this delay may be imperceptible to casual players, it can be detrimental to competitive gamers who rely on split-second reactions.
System Instability
“True stretched” can sometimes lead to system instability and compatibility issues, particularly with older games or graphics drivers. It may also interfere with other applications running in the background, causing performance problems or crashes.
Modern Alternatives to “True Stretched”
Fortunately, modern games and graphics drivers offer alternative ways to achieve a similar effect without the drawbacks of “true stretched”.
In-Game Resolution Settings
Many games, including Valorant, allow players to select a lower resolution and a different aspect ratio within the game’s settings. The game then automatically scales the image to fit the screen, preserving full-screen mode and avoiding the input latency associated with windowed mode.
Graphics Driver Scaling
Graphics card drivers, such as those from Nvidia and AMD, offer options for scaling the image when using a lower resolution. This allows players to force a stretched aspect ratio at the driver level, again without needing to run the game in windowed mode.
Is Using a Stretched Resolution Considered Cheating?
No, using a stretched resolution is not considered cheating in most games. It is a legitimate method for adjusting the display to suit personal preferences. Game developers generally allow players to customize their resolution and aspect ratio settings. It’s important to check the specific rules of each game or tournament to confirm if any restrictions apply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is using a stretched resolution bannable in Valorant?
No, using a stretched resolution is not bannable in Valorant. Riot Games allows players to adjust their resolution and aspect ratio settings within the game.
2. Does stretched resolution actually improve aim?
The impact on aim is subjective. Some players find that the wider character models make it easier to land shots, while others prefer the clarity and accuracy of a native resolution. It depends on individual preferences and playstyle.
3. What is the best stretched resolution for gaming?
There is no “best” stretched resolution. The ideal resolution depends on the game, the monitor’s native resolution, and the player’s personal preferences. 4:3 is a common choice, but others include 5:4 and various widescreen resolutions.
4. Does stretched resolution affect sensitivity?
Stretched resolution does not directly affect mouse sensitivity. However, the perceived sensitivity may change because the image is stretched, making movements appear faster.
5. Does stretched resolution give you more FPS?
Yes, using a lower resolution generally increases FPS because the graphics card has fewer pixels to render. However, the FPS boost may be minimal on high-end PCs.
6. Is it better to play on stretched or native resolution?
The choice between stretched and native resolution is a matter of personal preference. Native resolution provides the sharpest image quality, while stretched resolution may offer perceived advantages in terms of target visibility.
7. Can I use stretched resolution on any monitor?
Yes, you can use stretched resolution on any monitor, but the results may vary depending on the monitor’s native resolution and aspect ratio. Some monitors may display black bars on the sides when using a stretched resolution.
8. How do I enable stretched resolution?
You can enable stretched resolution through in-game settings or by adjusting the scaling options in your graphics card driver control panel.
9. Is stretched resolution allowed in Apex Legends?
Apex Legends previously supported stretched resolution, but recent updates have removed official support, causing issues with black bars and bugs.
10. Why do some pros prefer 4:3 aspect ratio?
Some pros prefer 4:3 aspect ratio due to familiarity, muscle memory, and the perception that it makes character models appear wider and easier to target.
11. Does stretching the resolution make the crosshair bigger?
Yes, stretching the resolution can make the crosshair appear wider, which some players find helpful for aiming.
12. What resolution do Fortnite pros use?
Most Fortnite pros use 1920×1080 resolution.
13. Does a higher resolution reduce FPS?
Yes, higher resolutions require the graphics card to render more pixels, which can reduce FPS.
14. What has the biggest effect on FPS?
The graphics card (GPU) has the biggest effect on FPS in most games.
15. Why do some players use lower resolution?
Players use lower resolution to increase FPS, reduce input lag, and potentially make character models easier to see. Some players use this as a workaround for poor eyesight.
Conclusion
While the era of “true stretched” may be fading, the desire to customize display settings for competitive advantage remains strong. Many professional gamers continue to experiment with different resolutions and aspect ratios, seeking the optimal balance between visual clarity, performance, and personal comfort. The key takeaway is to experiment and find what works best for your individual playstyle and hardware setup.
Remember to explore the valuable resources available at the Games Learning Society website. You can find out more information at GamesLearningSociety.org.