Starfield is coming to Xbox, and players are wondering what the frame rate will be like. It’s unfortunate that we have to wonder if Starfield will be locked to 30 fps on console since this was supposed to be the generation where (upscaled) 4K at 60 fps became the norm. However, despite the Series X being touted as the most powerful console, it looks like some compromises are being made for this game.
Will the frame rate in Starfield be locked to 30 fps on Xbox consoles?
Starfield will be locked to 30 fps on console. On both the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X, the frame rate will max out at 30 fps.
Unlike many other titles this generation, there won’t be an option to prioritize frame rate over resolution in Starfield. There will be one graphics mode, which tops out at upscaled 1440p on Series S and upscaled 4K on Series X.
Speaking with IGN, Starfield director Todd Howard, explained this is the thought process behind locking the framerate to 30 fps:
“We do lock it at 30 fps, because we want that fidelity, we want all that stuff. We don’t want to sacrifice any of it. Fortunately, in this one, we’ve got it running great.
It’s often running way above that. Sometimes it’s 60. But on the consoles, we do lock it because we prefer the consistency. Right? Where you’re not even thinking about it.”
Todd Howard
These comments sparked controversy among gaming enthusiasts, who believed that the next-gen consoles’ promise of 4K at 60 fps should be a standard feature. While valid, Howard’s rationale of preferring a consistent gaming experience didn’t alleviate the disappointment among some fans who had hoped to see the expansive universe of Starfield in a smoother frame rate. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, discussions around performance, visual quality, and player expectations are becoming increasingly nuanced. It remains to be seen how the choice will impact Starfield’s reception upon release.
