Apple’s A17 Pro chip brings a significant boost to the gaming prowess of the iPad mini 7, showcasing a level of performance that might surprise many. This compact device, despite featuring a GPU that’s slightly less powerful than the one in the iPhone 15 Pro series, delivers impressive gaming experiences, as demonstrated with the Resident Evil 4 Remake. This iconic game runs at a commendable 50-60 frames per second on the iPad mini 7, albeit with some compromises in visual fidelity.
Resident Evil 4 Remake, known for its high-quality graphics and engaging gameplay, takes advantage of Capcom’s renowned RE Engine. This engine is celebrated for its ability to deliver optimized gaming experiences even on devices that are not typically associated with high-end gaming. The game runs at a resolution of 1,280 x 840, benefiting from Apple’s MetalFX upscaling technology to maintain performance.
However, achieving these frame rates does require some concessions, particularly in image quality. Upscaling to 840p leads to some noticeable pixelation, especially visible in details like the character Leon Kennedy’s hair, an issue common with various upscale technologies. Yet, on the compact 8.3-inch screen of the iPad mini 7, the densely packed pixels help to mask these imperfections to a degree.
For gamers seeking a portable solution capable of running AAA titles, the iPad mini 7 presents an enticing option. Its portability and power make it appealing, especially if one is willing to accept minor visual trade-offs. Priced at $484 for the Wi-Fi-only version with 128GB of storage, this tablet could be an attractive choice for those hoping to see more top-tier games becoming available on iPadOS.
This gaming capability could position the iPad mini 7 as not just a compact tablet for everyday use but also a viable option for gaming on the go, provided that users are looking for performance over perfection in graphics.
