Intel Officially Releases XeSS 2 SDK for Faster Game Integration, But Remains Closed-Source Technology

Intel has officially released the Software Development Kit (SDK) for its anticipated Xe Super Sampling 2 (XeSS 2) technology, allowing game developers to more efficiently implement advanced upscaling and frame generation features into their games. The release aims to encourage faster adoption of XeSS 2 across a broader range of gaming titles, streamlining the development process and offering more robust support than the original XeSS iteration.

Announced as one of Intel's major GPU-focused innovations alongside the Battlemage lineup, XeSS 2 promises significant enhancements over its predecessor, including more refined frame generation and a new low-latency mode. These enhancements are designed to provide gamers with smoother gameplay, higher frame rates, and lower input lag.

The XeSS 2 SDK is divided into three primary categories, each serving a distinct purpose, as detailed by Intel on their official GitHub repository:

• XeSS Super Resolution (XeSS-SR): Boosts frame rates universally on GPUs supporting Shader Model 6.4 (DP4A).

• XeSS Frame Generation (XeSS-FG): Provides smoother motion and higher frame rates but is exclusive to Intel Arc GPUs equipped with Xe Matrix eXtensions (XMX).

• Xe Low Latency (XeLL): Reduces input lag significantly for an improved gaming response, available on Intel's discrete and integrated Arc GPUs.

XeSS 2 also introduces support for DirectX 11 and Vulkan APIs, substantially broadening compatibility and allowing older titles to benefit from its enhanced performance. Intel has provided ready-to-use plugins for Unreal Engine and Unity, facilitating easier and quicker integration by game developers, which could greatly accelerate adoption rates in future releases.

Moreover, Intel updated its XeSS Inspector tool, which now supports debugging and optimizing XeSS 2 implementations, offering developers a more efficient and streamlined workflow.

Despite these advancements, a significant drawback remains Intel's decision to keep XeSS 2 as a closed-source technology. This approach contrasts sharply with AMD’s open-source FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), limiting cross-platform integration and community-driven enhancements. Intel previously suggested an intention to open-source XeSS but has yet to deliver on this promise, potentially hindering broader market adoption.

With XeSS 2 currently limited to a small selection of supported games, the release of the SDK is expected to expand its presence considerably in the near future.

What games would you like to see enhanced with Intel’s XeSS 2? Share your thoughts below!