Updated benchmark

[red_fang]

That's exactly my issue, too. When the benchmark first came out, I didn't understand why people bemoaned the new lightning/shadows since I was very much pleased with the softened out look. But too many were complaining about how stark contrasts and low poly edges are missing and that the smoothing over took away their "charm points" and "sharp features" even though it was nothing of the sort but only an evidence for poor graphics. I could hold a flashlight under my face and it would have the same effect and I couldn't fathom that some were seriously preferring that over the way improved and more natural results.

The strong shadows were the reason why I set character lightning up to 50. Before the benchmark update I had hoped I could turn it off again because character models were now only reflected by environmental light - which was just perfect and beautiful - but in the end SE heeded the cryout and brought back artificial light to cast these exaggerated shadows... A pity.

Agreed, I have character lighting at 25 because the shadows in the current game aren't flattering for most situations. The new lighting is a double edged sword because it looks fairly dynamic and improved the precision of shadows, but it's also super dark and also brings back the many years old problem that they said they would fix for darker skinned characters in certain lighting conditions. Overall I liked the way the old benchmark handled shadow contrast where it wasn't overly dark and I was finally happy with how my character looked, but I can't say I didn't expect it to be short lived after all the negative feedback. Disappointed, but I'm used to it at this rate.

[Angelivia]

Agreed, I have character lighting at 25 because the shadows in the current game aren't flattering for most situations. The new lighting is a double edged sword because it looks fairly dynamic and improved the precision of shadows, but it's also super dark and also brings back the many years old problem that they said they would fix for darker skinned characters in certain lighting conditions. Overall I liked the way the old benchmark handled shadow contrast where it wasn't overly dark and I was finally happy with how my character looked, but I can't say I didn't expect it to be short lived after all the negative feedback. Disappointed, but I'm used to it at this rate.

I couldn't agree more. We are of the exact same mind and at least I'm not alone in feeling that way... A shame though it still is. Thank you for your words, that's a perfectly phrased addition to my statement.