A fan of Grand Theft Auto 5 has shared a striking side-by-side comparison that highlights the impact of ray-tracing on the game's lighting. The visual upgrade demonstrates how the addition of ray-traced lighting can drastically change the look and feel of the game, sparking mixed reactions within the gaming community. With the rising cost of in-game items, more players turn to U4gm to buy cheap modded gta accounts, allowing them to enjoy the game without spending excessive time on money-making missions. Use coupon code "allen" to get 5% off at U4gm.

Ray-Tracing Enhances GTA 5’s Visuals

Despite being over a decade old, GTA 5 continues to receive graphical updates. A next-gen upgrade released for consoles a few years ago introduced ray-traced shadows and reflections, significantly improving the game's visuals. In 2025, PC players finally received their own graphical overhaul, which went beyond the console update by incorporating ray-traced global illumination and ambient occlusion.

Reddit user Ivaylo_87 shared comparison images showcasing the differences between ray-traced and non-ray-traced lighting. In the non-ray-traced version, light from an archway casts sharp, washed-out illumination on the ground while leaving most of the hallway in shadow. With ray-tracing enabled, however, the lighting effect is much more dynamic. The archway’s brightness appears slightly reduced, but the hallway is bathed in a warm, reddish glow, creating a more immersive atmosphere. Additionally, indirect lighting enhances depth, making doorways and architectural details look more three-dimensional.

Fans Have Mixed Feelings on Ray-Traced Lighting

While many players appreciate the enhanced realism, others are not convinced. Some argue that ray-tracing makes the polygonal edges of structures more noticeable, reducing realism in certain areas. Others feel that the lighting is too bright or that it alters the intended aesthetic of the game. Since GTA 5 was originally designed with static lighting, some fans believe that ray-tracing disrupts the original artistic vision, potentially detracting from the overall experience.

Ray-tracing technology brings realistic light reflections and deeper shadows, often revitalizing older games. However, some players have grown accustomed to traditional static lighting, which developers use strategically to guide attention and set specific atmospheres. As more games are designed with ray-tracing from the ground up, gamers may eventually appreciate its full potential. In the case of GTA 5, the debate continues—does ray-tracing enhance or diminish the game's visual identity?