NVIDIA has announced the release of the Path Tracing SDK v1.0.0, which represents a milestone for RTX technology in integrating path tracing. The corresponding Path Tracing SDK has been added to the NVIDIA GameWorks GitHub page.
The new SDK is a code sample that embodies years of research and experience in ray tracing and neural graphics. It aims to serve as a starting point for path tracing integration, a reference for various integration SDKs, and a tool for learning and experimentation. The basic path tracing implementation is based on the path tracer from NVIDIA Falcor research and ported to the accessible C++/HLSL Donut framework.
Features
- DirectX 12 and Vulkan back-ends
- Reference and real-time modes
- Simple BSDF model that is easy to extend
- Simple asset pipeline based on glTF 2.0 (support for a subset of glTF extensions including animation)
- NEE/visibility rays and importance sampling for environment maps with MIS
- Basic volumes and nested dielectrics with priority
- RayCone for texture MIP selection
- Basic analytic lights (directional, spot, point)
- RTXDI integration for ReSTIR DI (light importance sampling) and and ReSTIR GI (indirect lighting)
- OMM integration for fast ray traced alpha testing
- NRD ReLAX and ReBLUR denoiser integration with up to 3-layer path space decomposition (Stable Planes)
- Reference mode ‘photo-mode screenshot’ with basic OptiX denoiser integration
- Basic TAA, tone mapping, etc.
- Streamline + DLSS integration (coming very soon)
Requirements
- Windows 10 20H1 (version 2004-10.0.19041) or newer
- DXR Capable GPU
- GeForce Game Ready Driver 531.18 or newer
- DirectX 12 or Vulkan API
- DirectX Raytracing 1.1 API, or higher
- Visual Studio 2019 or later
Previously, NVIDIA and CD Projekt Red announced that they would showcase next-generation path-tracing technology in Cyberpunk 2077. This technology, which will be offered as an option in the new version of Cyberpunk 2077, is called “RT: Overdrive” and promises to bring better lighting and shadow quality to AAA games.