Could the console crowd be in for another generation of low-frame-rate gaming? Sadly, that may be the case. Despite the awesome power of the Xbox Series X, Ubisoft has revealed that Assassin’s Creed Valhalla will “run at least 30 FPS” on Microsoft’s next-gen console. For the glass-is-half-empty types, that’s opened up the possibility of an experience that doesn’t quite hit 60 FPS.
“Currently, we can guarantee that Assassin’s Creed Valhalla will run at least 30 FPS,” a Ubisoft representative told Eurogamer. “Assassin’s Creed Valhalla will benefit from faster loading times, allowing players to immerse themselves in history and the world without friction. Finally, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla will benefit of improved graphics made possible by the Xbox Series X, and we can’t wait to see the beautiful world we’re creating in stunning 4K resolution.”
The Xbox Series X definitely seems powerful enough to run the game in lower resolutions (e.g., 1440p) at 60 FPS, so the decision is surprising. Why not give players the choice of two modes, one of which enables higher frame rates instead of 4K?
Ubisoft’s choice also sets a disappointing precedent that other developers are likely to follow, being that 4K output is easier to market than frame rate. It’s definitely no good for Microsoft’s marketing department, which had heavily suggested that 60 FPS would be standardized on Xbox Series X titles.
Xbox Series X games won’t run at 60fps “standard output.” Microsoft tells me: “Ultimately, it is up to individual developers to determine how they leverage the power and speed of Xbox Series X.” https://t.co/6xYMwBWRSu
— Tom Warren (@tomwarren) May 11, 2020
As suggested by some Xbox Series X fans, Microsoft may want to put their foot down and mandate 60 FPS (or higher) for titles that flaunt the “Optimized for Series X” badge. “Games featuring the Optimized for Xbox Series X badge will showcase unparalleled load-times, heightened visuals, and steadier framerates at up to 120 FPS,” wrote the company – but that doesn’t mean much when a developer can slack off and still earn the privilege.
You really should change the requirements for this badge to have minimum 60FPS. I know it’s up to developers but this is such a disappointment. We were finally leaving 30FPS in the past where it belongs. Or so we thought…talk about taking the air out of next-gen hype… 👎🏻 pic.twitter.com/yMrdTJnO6a
— LarZen 🇳🇴 (@_LarZen_) May 12, 2020