For Distance, Texture Sizes, Water Geometry etc - i think the max values are the best !
But knowint them we would know were to start, and know if we fuck up or actualy improve the game !
Oh I agree about the last statement there. I apologize if I misunderstood your post. I figured pointing to those threads especially might help you find the caps but also how they interrelate as values... ie what I meant by what they are and do.
But we'll disagree on the texture sizes and etc... which is fine. I just know a lot of the values related to texture and shadow maps can have unintended side effects. Skellige interiors with their multiple lights are a good way to test the values. Man I can get those things glitching like a strobe with some of the higher values.
Still, hope you find what you need. Good luck to you, friend!