How To Fix Assassin’s Creed Shadows HDR Washed Out (Quick Fix)

By Edgar Nicov Last updated Sep 22, 2025

Experiencing washed-out colors while playing Assassin’s Creed Shadows with HDR enabled can be frustrating. This issue often arises from incorrect settings or compatibility problems. Fortunately, resolving this issue can enhance your gaming experience significantly. In this guide, we will explore simple methods to fix the HDR washed-out visuals, ensuring that your game looks vibrant and immersive.

HDR (High Dynamic Range) is designed to provide a wider color gamut and improved contrast, but when not set up correctly, it can result in a dull, lifeless image. This article will guide you through a series of steps to troubleshoot and fix the HDR settings for Assassin’s Creed Shadows, ultimately restoring the game’s stunning visuals.

What Causes Assassin’s Creed Shadows HDR to Appear Washed Out?

Before diving into the fixes, it’s essential to understand what might be causing the washed-out HDR effect. Common causes include:

Display Settings: Incorrect display settings on your console or PC can significantly impact how HDR content is rendered.
Game Settings: Sometimes, the game’s internal settings may not be configured optimally for HDR.
Cable Issues: Using the wrong HDMI cables can also affect HDR performance.
Graphics Drivers: Outdated or incorrect graphics drivers may lead to poor HDR performance.

Steps to Fix HDR Washed Out in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Check Display Settings
Ensure that your display supports HDR and that the HDR feature is enabled. Navigate to your display settings and confirm that HDR is turned on. Additionally, check for any specific modes that may need to be activated for gaming.
Adjust In-Game HDR Settings
Launch Assassin’s Creed Shadows and head to the graphics settings. Look for HDR settings and ensure they are enabled. You may also find an option to adjust HDR brightness or contrast; fine-tuning these can significantly improve visual quality.
Update Graphics Drivers
Keeping your graphics drivers up to date is crucial for optimal performance. Visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, etc.) to download and install the latest drivers.
Use the Right HDMI Cable
Ensure you’re using a high-speed HDMI cable that supports HDR. Older cables may not transmit the necessary data for HDR content, resulting in washed-out visuals.
Calibrate Your Display
Use your TV or monitor’s calibration settings to adjust brightness, contrast, and color balance. Look for HDR calibration options to ensure the display is optimized for HDR gaming.
Change Windows HDR Settings (for PC users)
If you’re playing on PC, go to Windows Settings > System > Display. Ensure that the "Use HDR" toggle is enabled and adjust the HDR brightness slider for better results.
Test Different Display Modes
Some monitors and TVs come with various display modes (e.g., Game Mode, Cinema Mode). Experiment with these modes to find one that complements HDR gaming best.

Tips for Better HDR Performance

Keep Your System Updated: Regularly check for firmware updates for your monitor or TV, as manufacturers often release updates that improve HDR performance.
Avoid Over-Enhancing: Be cautious with any color enhancement features on your display, as they can sometimes lead to unnatural colors.
Use Game Mode: If your TV has a Game Mode, enable it to reduce input lag and enhance HDR performance.

Enhancing your HDR experience can lead to a more immersive gameplay environment, making every detail pop.

Perfecting Your HDR Experience

By following these steps, you should notice a significant improvement in the HDR performance for Assassin’s Creed Shadows. The right settings can transform your gaming experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning graphics that the game has to offer.

FAQs

Q: What should I do if the HDR settings aren’t available?
A: Ensure your display supports HDR and check your console or PC settings for HDR options.

Q: Can using a regular HDMI cable affect HDR quality?
A: Yes, using a standard HDMI cable may result in poor HDR performance. Always use a high-speed HDMI cable.

Q: How can I tell if my monitor supports HDR?
A: Check the specifications of your monitor or TV. Look for HDR support listed in the features.

Q: Is there a way to reset HDR settings in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
A: Yes, you can reset game settings to default in the graphics menu, which may help to correct HDR issues.