Wuthering Waves Tiered Client Resources Explained
Wuthering Waves introduces tiered client resource downloads in Version 3.7. Choose UHD, HD, or SD packages to optimize storage and performance.
Wuthering Waves Tiered Client Resources: What You Need to Know
Kuro Games is rolling out a major quality-of-life update for Wuthering Waves with the introduction of Tiered Client Resource Downloads. This feature, entering limited testing during Version 3.6 and going live in Version 3.7, lets you choose between different resource packages based on your device's storage and performance capabilities. For a game known for its expansive open world and high-fidelity visuals, this is a welcome change that could significantly reduce the game's footprint on your drive.
If you're looking for more Wuthering Waves news, be sure to check our hub for the latest updates.
At a Glance
- Feature: Tiered Client Resource Downloads (UHD, HD, SD packages)
- Platforms: PC (official launcher), iOS, Android
- Test Start: Gradually during Version 3.6 (PC limited test), full rollout after Version 3.7
- Key Benefit: Reduced storage usage while maintaining preferred graphics quality
- PC: Up to 3 packages installed simultaneously; switch anytime
- Mobile: Only 1 package at a time; switching requires downloading the difference
How Tiered Downloads Work
The core idea is simple: instead of one massive resource package, the game will offer three tiers—UHD, HD, and SD—each containing different asset qualities. The tier you choose determines the upper limit of visual fidelity, including texture resolution, model detail, and video bitrate. In-game graphics settings remain adjustable, but the package tier sets the ceiling.
On PC, you can download and install all three tiers if you have the space, and switch between them from the launcher. Only one can run at a time. On iOS and Android, you're limited to one package, and switching means downloading the difference between the current and target tier.
Package Sizes and Specifications
Here's a breakdown of the estimated sizes and capabilities for each tier in Version 3.7:
| Platform | Tier | Size (no cutscenes) | Size (with cutscenes) | Max Resolution | Max Graphics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PC | UHD | 99 GB | 128 GB | 3840×2160 | Ultra Quality |
| PC | HD | 80 GB | 97 GB | 2560×1440 | High Quality |
| PC | SD | 58 GB | 70 GB | 1920×1080 | Balanced |
| Mobile | HD | 40 GB | 53 GB | / | High Quality |
| Mobile | SD | 35 GB | 43 GB | / | Balanced |
Note: Sizes are estimates and may vary.
Choosing the Right Package
If you're in the limited test, the game will recommend a package based on your device specs. Otherwise, you can refer to the official guidelines:
PC Recommendations
| CPU | GPU | RAM | Resolution | Recommended Package |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intel i7-12700 / AMD R7 7700 | RTX 4080 / RX 7900 XT | 32 GB | 3840×2160 | UHD |
| Intel i7-9700 / AMD R7 3700X | RTX 3060 / RX 6700 XT / Arc B580 | 32 GB | 2560×1440 | HD |
| Intel i5-9400 / AMD R7 2700 | GTX 1060 / RX 570 / Arc A380 | 16 GB | 1920×1080 | SD |
Mobile Recommendations
iOS:
| Model | Chip | RAM | Recommended Package |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 14 / iPad mini (6th gen) | A15 | 6 GB | HD |
| iPhone 11 / iPad (9th gen) | A13 | 4 GB | SD |
Android:
| Chipset | RAM | Recommended Package |
|---|---|---|
| Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Dimensity 9000 / Kirin 9010 / Exynos 2200 | 8 GB | HD |
| Snapdragon 855 / Dimensity 1000 / Kirin 980 / Exynos 9820 | 6 GB | SD |
You can download a higher tier than recommended, but doing so may lead to performance issues like frame drops or overheating. Some older mobile devices may only support the SD package due to hardware limitations.
Impact on Graphics and Video
After Version 3.7, the Ultra Quality graphics option on PC will only be available with the UHD package. If you're not in the limited test, you'll default to the HD package and won't be able to enable Ultra until you gain test access and download UHD. Additionally, video bitrates for cutscenes will vary by tier, so visual fidelity may differ. PC players not in the test will see slightly different video quality compared to previous versions.
Pre-Download and Test Details
During Version 3.6, some PC users will receive a launcher update for the limited test. However, the feature won't be active until Version 3.7. If you're in the test, pre-download for Version 3.7 will be unavailable; you'll need to download resources after the update. If you're not in the test, pre-download works as usual, but you'll get the HD package by default.
On mobile, pre-download will only fetch a portion of resources; the rest will download after the update based on your chosen tier.
Once you enter the test, you cannot exit it during Version 3.6. You'll have to wait until Version 3.7 to adjust your package.
Future Plans and Steam
Kuro Games plans to bring the official launcher to Steam in the future, which will enable pre-download and tiered resources on that platform. More details will be announced later. The feature will also gradually expand to PC platforms using non-official launchers after the test concludes.
Conclusion
The Tiered Client Resource Downloads feature is a significant step forward for Wuthering Waves, giving players more control over storage and performance. Whether you're on a high-end PC or a budget phone, you'll be able to tailor your experience. Keep an eye on official channels for the exact rollout schedule.
For more in-depth coverage, check out our Wuthering Waves ultimate tier list and our guide to the Endstate Matrix challenge cycles.