AMD Turns Thin Laptop Into A Gaming Powerhouse

AMD has unveiled a new driver for its Ryzen AI 300 processors, which brings a powerful feature potentially enhancing gaming performance significantly. This innovation, known as Variable Graphics Memory (VGM), enables the integrated graphics to convert up to 75% of a system’s memory into dedicated graphics memory. AMD claims that this feature not only enhances gaming performance but also allows certain otherwise unplayable games to run smoothly.

The Ryzen AI 300 series is primarily designed for slim, portable laptops, including models like the Zenbook S 16, which are not specifically aimed at gamers. Alongside VGM, the latest driver has activated AMD’s Fluid Motion Frames 2 (AFMF 2) feature for these processors. Together, these functionalities could lead to noticeable performance gains, as illustrated in benchmarks for the Zenbook S 16 shown below.

One notable example is Guardians of the Galaxy, which AMD states requires VGM to even function. This is due to certain games having strict memory requirements hard-coded within them. Typically, the integrated graphics on a Ryzen AI 300 processor are allocated just 512MB of dedicated memory, which may lead to issues or crashes in titles that need more. VGM resolves this limitation effectively.

However, it appears that most performance gains stem from AFMF 2. In less demanding scenarios for integrated graphics, testing showed that the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 could achieve nearly 100 frames per second (fps) or even exceed that in various gameplay tests at 1080p resolution.

The advancements in AFMF 2 represent a significant leap from its predecessor. The frame generation feature now accommodates nearly any game and delivers much better image quality and stability. Additionally, support has been extended to OpenGL and Vulkan, making it compatible with a wide range of PC games.

Both AFMF 2 and VGM are accessible through a technical preview driver. This update also includes enhancements for the newly launched Warhammer 40K: Space Marines 2. As with any preview driver, users might encounter minor bugs, and AMD encourages feedback on any issues that arise during use.