What is film grain in games?

Film grain is a visual effect that simulates the grainy texture seen in traditional film photography. In games, film grain is often used to create a more immersive and cinematic experience by adding a certain level of texture and depth to the graphics.

Film grain can add a sense of realism and nostalgia to a game, giving it a unique visual style that can enhance the overall atmosphere. It can also help to mask imperfections in the graphics and smooth out the appearance of textures, creating a more cohesive and polished look.

However, film grain can also be a divisive visual effect, as some players may find it distracting or unnecessary. It can also have an impact on the performance of the game, as the additional texture and depth can require more resources to render.

Overall, film grain can be a powerful tool for developers to create a specific aesthetic in their games, but it should be used judiciously and in consideration of the overall visual style and performance requirements of the game.