Technically, Grand Theft Auto 5 for PS4 and Xbox One is an unmistakable product of last-gen design, but its re-release finesses the visuals enough to make Los Santos well worth revisiting. Both consoles receive even-handed treatment from Rockstar North, starting with the 1080p setup on each, and leading to the boosted texture resolution and broadened draw distances. Given the markdown in foliage density on Xbox One, we're surprised traffic shows no likewise downgrade around the city centre for the console - and that additions such as parallax occlusion mapping and screen-space reflections remain intact.
All of which means the PS4 advantage is based on its higher foliage density, plus its more intense lens flare effect. Otherwise, the visual comparisons and performance metrics paint both versions in a positive light; the 30fps target not being a perfect lock on either, but much improved over last-gen despite the enhancements elsewhere. On balance, at stress points the PS4 wins out on this front; despite dipping further in our racing sequences, the console has no trouble tackling alpha-heavy shoot-outs. On the other hand, the Xbox One betrays its weakness in both scenarios, albeit to a differing extent for the driving sections.
