Ray tracing’s role differs: in real-time rendering, it enhances visual realism while prioritizing performance for interactive use; in offline rendering, it enables highly accurate light simulation without real-time speed constraints.
Real-time rendering (e.g., games) uses optimized ray tracing (e.g., hardware acceleration) to maintain smooth frame rates, ensuring responsive user interaction.
Offline rendering (e.g., movies) leverages unconstrained ray tracing for detailed, physically accurate visuals, as rendering time is not critical, allowing for lifelike effects like precise reflections and shadows.