Hawken, upcoming online mech-based shooter with GPU PhysX support, has entered stage #2 of closed beta testing. We have decided to examine the current state of hardware accelerated PhysX content in this title.
Update: PhysX effects in Hawken Open Beta. What has changed ?
From technical standpoint, Hawken is based on Unreal Development Kit engine, paired with APEX 1.2 on PhysX SDK 2.8.4.8 – such combination presents interesting opportunities.
But so far, only lowest level of PhysX Effects (“PhysX Particles – Low” option) is available, which includes only physical particles of various types – impact debris, scraps from explosions and destroyed robots, concrete chunks as result of mech movement.
Current effects are looking not bad, but to be honest, some additional polishing won’t hurt (for example, particles are not casting shadows and impacts on metal surfaces should emit sparks, not debris). Let’s just blame the Beta state.
Of course, one can disable all extra PhysX content completely, by setting “PhysX Particles” option to “Off”.
As it was announced previously, APEX Turbulence and APEX Destruction modules will also make their appearance in this game, but we don’t have a confirmation currently, whether they will available at launch or released as post-launch update.
As the release date (December 12) approaches, we will try to keep a close eye on Hawken. Meanwhile, you can join the discussion at our forum.