# Why Upgrading to the Meta Quest 3S for Superior Graphics May Not Be a Game-Changer
The Meta Quest 3S has generated excitement in the virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) realms, mainly thanks to its upgraded components, highlighted by a new CPU that claims enhanced graphics and performance. Nevertheless, even though the Quest 3S presents noticeable advancements over its predecessor, the Quest 2, not every game from the Quest 2 library will experience a substantial upgrade. Let’s explore the details of what the Quest 3S brings to the table, which games benefit from its improved features, and why certain titles might not undergo a significant visual transformation.
## The Quest 3S: A Powerhouse for VR and MR
A primary reason for upgrading to the Meta Quest 3S is its enhanced graphics and performance, enabled by the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip. This cutting-edge processor delivers superior GPU capabilities, quicker loading times, and the potential for elevated refresh rates, refined textures, and enhanced lighting and shadows. However, these advantages are not guaranteed for every game in the Quest 2 library. Developers must update their titles to fully harness the additional power that the Quest 3S offers.
### How Many Quest 2 Games Are Enhanced on the Quest 3S?
As of autumn 2024, approximately 100 Quest 2 games have received patches to boost performance and visuals on the Quest 3 and 3S. These modifications enable higher resolutions, improved textures, and more intricate environments. However, the total count of enhanced games could be even greater, as developers are continuously implementing updates.
Meta confirmed in its [Connect 2024 blog entry](https://www.meta.com/blog/quest/meta-quest-3s-announced-connect-2024) that any game with Quest 3-specific performance updates will also function on the Quest 3S from day one. This indicates that players can anticipate similar upgraded visuals and quicker loading times on both devices.
### What Enhancements Can You Anticipate?
While the Quest 3S inherently provides better GPU performance, games will only exhibit improved visuals and performance if developers have tailored them for the new hardware. For example, titles such as *The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners Chapter 2* and *Red Matter 2* have attained significant graphical improvements for the Quest 3, which will also apply for the Quest 3S.
In *The Walking Dead*, the Quest 3 patch facilitates a greater number of zombies on screen, richer environments, and more lifelike NPCs. Likewise, *Red Matter 2* takes advantage of increased rendering resolution, 4K textures, dynamic shadows, and better shadow filtering. These enhancements elevate the immersion and visual appeal of the games, but they are not consistent across all Quest 2 titles.
### Why Not Every Game Receives a Significant Upgrade
The Quest 3S’s upgraded hardware doesn’t automatically equate to enhanced graphics for every game. Developers must deploy specific patches to capitalize on the new CPU and GPU. In the absence of these updates, games will operate as they did on the Quest 2, though with quicker load times and potentially smoother performance.
In addition, some games might not need or benefit from substantial graphical enhancements. Titles that are less demanding graphically or prioritize gameplay over visuals may not experience significant upgrades, even with the improved hardware of the Quest 3S.
## Mixed Reality: A Game-Changer for the Quest 3S
An area where the Quest 3S excels is in mixed reality (MR). The headset’s full-color passthrough and 18 pixels-per-degree (PPD) resolution render MR experiences far more engaging than what the Quest 2 can deliver. As of September 2024, over 60 MR titles are available, many of which show substantial improvements on the Quest 3S compared to the Quest 2’s black-and-white passthrough.
Titles such as *Laser Dance*, *Hello Dot*, and *Living Room* are exclusive to the Quest 3 and 3S because they depend on full-color passthrough for gameplay. These games demonstrate the capabilities of MR on the Quest 3S, providing experiences that are simply unfeasible on older hardware.
## How Many Games Will Receive Quest 3S Enhancements?
Although there is no official register of every Quest 3S-enhanced game, community initiatives have assembled spreadsheets tracking which titles have undergone updates. Currently, around 90 Quest 2 games have been upgraded for the Quest 3 and 3S, with additional enhancements likely to follow as developers optimize their offerings for the new hardware.
Many forthcoming games are expected to launch with universal Quest versions and then receive Quest 3-specific patches after launch. This implies that the tally of Quest 3S-enhanced games will continue to rise as developers leverage the new hardware.
## Quest 3S Exclusives: What to
