🌟 Public Release – Version 1.6.1

It’s here! After extensive testing and refinements, this version is ready for full release. Packed with new features, optimizations, and quality improvements, this update is the biggest step forward yet.

As always, feedback is incredibly valuable, and I appreciate everyone who's supported the project so far.

Join the community on Discord – espens-shaderpacks

What’s New in This Release

Expanded Screen Space Reflections (SSR)

Three SSR modes are now available for both translucent and solid materials, with massive performance enhancements:

• Sky Only SSR
  Perfect for adding a subtle shine to metals or polished blocks.
  Reflects only the sky, delivering a clean, atmospheric effect.

• Simplified SSR
  Designed for everyday use with proper reflections and roughness.
  Takes a few creative liberties in accuracy, but the results are great – most won’t notice the trade-offs!

• Accurate Reflections
  Built on the old SSR solution but with reduced noise and improved speed.
  Doesn’t take as many shortcuts as the simplified method – ideal for powerful rigs or when you need that perfect screenshot.

Performance Enhancements

Performance has improved significantly across the board, especially on the default Medium profile.

• Bloops’ lowest-end profile remains as optimized as ever and is now nearing the limits of what can be achieved without sacrificing shadows, textures, or other fundamentals.
• Work continues on a shadowless version, and I’m looking for ways to work around some remaining bottlenecks when running on low-end hardware.

Bug Fixes & System Tweaks

• Fixed issues with distant horizons and the global illumination system, ensuring a smoother experience across the board.
• Various smaller improvements to refine rendering quality.

New Feature: Litematica Support

Litematica support has now been added! You can find this under Misc Settings.

What’s Next?

While 1.6.1 brings major improvements, the next version will introduce some highly requested features from the community.

For now, enjoy the update! 🎉 Thank you all for your incredible support.