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God of War: Unleashing the Fury at 120 FPS – Myth or Reality?

Yes, God of War Ragnarok can reach 120 FPS on the PlayStation 5, but it’s not as straightforward as simply plugging in and playing. Reaching that coveted frame rate requires the right setup, specific game settings, and a display capable of handling the output. Let’s delve into the details.

Understanding the Frame Rate Landscape

Achieving 120 FPS gameplay isn’t merely about the PS5’s raw power; it’s a complex interplay between hardware capabilities, software optimization, and display technology. The PS5 is undoubtedly capable of outputting a 120Hz signal, which is essential for displaying 120 frames per second. However, the game itself must be optimized to render frames at that rate.

God of War Ragnarok provides multiple graphics modes, each targeting different frame rates and resolutions. The key to unlocking the potential for 120 FPS lies in understanding these modes and how they interact with your display.

Graphics Modes: A Balancing Act

Favor Performance: This mode prioritizes frame rate, aiming for a smooth 60 FPS. It utilizes dynamic resolution scaling, ranging from 1440p to a maximum of 2160p, to maintain a consistent frame rate. However, with the right setup (VRR enabled) it can target for up to 120 FPS.
Favor Resolution: This mode focuses on visual fidelity, locking the game to 4K resolution. It typically targets 30 FPS, although on a 120Hz display with VRR enabled it can often achieve a stable 40 FPS.
High Frame Rate (HFR) & VRR: These settings are crucial for unlocking the 120 FPS potential. HFR unlocks the frame rate target within the selected graphics mode, while VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) synchronizes the display’s refresh rate with the game’s frame rate, eliminating screen tearing and providing a smoother experience.

The Importance of HDMI 2.1 and VRR

To experience God of War Ragnarok at 120 FPS, you need a display that supports HDMI 2.1 and VRR.

HDMI 2.1 is the latest HDMI standard, providing the necessary bandwidth to transmit a 4K signal at 120Hz. Without HDMI 2.1, you won’t be able to output a 120Hz signal from your PS5.
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) is a technology that dynamically adjusts the display’s refresh rate to match the game’s frame rate. This eliminates screen tearing and stuttering, resulting in a much smoother and more responsive gaming experience. VRR is essential for enjoying the benefits of unlocked frame rates.

Configuration is Key: Setting Up for 120 FPS Glory

Here’s a step-by-step guide to configuring your PS5 and display for 120 FPS gameplay in God of War Ragnarok:

Check Your Display: Ensure your TV or monitor supports HDMI 2.1 and VRR. Consult your display’s specifications to confirm compatibility.
Enable 120Hz Output on PS5: Go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > 120 Hz Output and set it to Automatic.
Enable VRR on PS5: In the same Video Output menu, make sure VRR is set to Automatic (if your display supports it).
Configure In-Game Settings: Launch God of War Ragnarok and navigate to the graphics settings. Select Favor Performance mode and enable High Frame Rate.
Fine-Tuning: Experiment with different settings within the Favor Performance mode to find the optimal balance between visual quality and frame rate for your setup.

Performance Expectations: What to Realistically Expect

Even with the correct setup, achieving a locked 120 FPS in God of War Ragnarok can be challenging. The frame rate will fluctuate depending on the scene’s complexity and the number of on-screen effects.

However, with VRR enabled, even frame rates between 90-100 FPS can feel incredibly smooth and responsive. It’s all about achieving a consistent and tear-free experience.

Remember that visual fidelity might take a hit to reach higher frame rates. Expect to see dynamic resolution scaling at work, meaning the resolution will adjust dynamically to maintain a target frame rate.

The Bigger Picture: Why Frame Rate Matters

Higher frame rates offer several advantages:

Increased Responsiveness: Lower input lag, making the game feel more responsive and immediate.
Smoother Motion: More fluid animations and camera movements, enhancing the overall visual experience.
Reduced Eye Strain: Smoother visuals can reduce eye strain, particularly during fast-paced action sequences.
Competitive Edge: In competitive games, higher frame rates can provide a significant advantage by allowing you to react faster to enemy movements.

While the allure of 120 FPS is undeniable, it’s important to remember that visual fidelity and artistic design are equally crucial elements of the gaming experience. Ultimately, the best graphics settings are a matter of personal preference and finding the right balance for your setup and playstyle. The study of game preferences, optimal learning conditions in games, and ways to develop educational games are some of the research conducted at the Games Learning Society.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What exactly does “dynamic resolution scaling” mean?

Dynamic resolution scaling is a technique where the game adjusts the rendering resolution in real-time to maintain a target frame rate. When the scene becomes more demanding, the resolution is lowered to prevent frame drops. This can result in a slightly softer image, but it ensures a smoother overall experience.

2. Is HDMI 2.1 absolutely necessary for 120 FPS on PS5?

Yes, for outputting 4K at 120Hz, HDMI 2.1 is essential. Older HDMI standards lack the necessary bandwidth to transmit that much data. If you’re aiming for 1080p or 1440p at 120Hz, you might be able to get away with HDMI 2.0, but HDMI 2.1 is the future-proof option.

3. How do I know if my TV supports VRR?

Check your TV’s specifications. Look for mentions of VRR, FreeSync, or G-Sync. Most modern gaming TVs support VRR, but it’s always best to confirm before making assumptions.

4. I have a 120Hz TV, but I’m not seeing the option for 120 Hz Output on my PS5. Why?

Ensure that HDMI 2.1 is enabled on both your TV and your PS5. Some TVs require you to manually enable HDMI 2.1 in the settings menu. Also, make sure you’re using an HDMI 2.1 cable.

5. What is the difference between “Performance Mode” and “Resolution Mode” in God of War Ragnarok?

Performance Mode prioritizes frame rate, aiming for a smoother gaming experience. It utilizes dynamic resolution scaling to maintain a consistent frame rate. Resolution Mode prioritizes visual fidelity, locking the game to 4K resolution but typically targeting a lower frame rate.

6. Can I achieve 120 FPS in God of War (2018) on PS5?

While God of War (2018) received a PS5 patch, it doesn’t officially support 120 FPS. The patch primarily focuses on improved resolution and a locked 60 FPS.

7. Will enabling 120 FPS make the graphics look worse?

Potentially. To reach higher frame rates, the game might need to lower the resolution or reduce certain graphical effects. This is where dynamic resolution scaling comes into play.

8. Does 120 FPS really make a difference?

For many gamers, especially those who are sensitive to frame rate fluctuations, the difference between 60 FPS and 120 FPS is significant. The increased responsiveness and smoother motion can greatly enhance the overall gaming experience.

9. Is it better to have 4K at 60 FPS or 1080p/1440p at 120 FPS?

This depends on personal preference. Some players prefer the sharper image of 4K, while others prioritize the smoother motion of higher frame rates. It’s a trade-off between visual fidelity and responsiveness.

10. My game looks blurry with 120 FPS enabled. What can I do?

Try adjusting the sharpness settings on your TV or monitor. You can also experiment with different graphics settings within the game to find a balance that works for you.

11. What other games support 120 FPS on PS5?

Many games support 120 FPS on PS5, including Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War, Destiny 2, Fortnite, Gran Turismo 7, and Rainbow Six Siege.

12. Can I use a monitor instead of a TV for 120 FPS gaming on PS5?

Yes! In fact, many gamers prefer using monitors for their gaming consoles because monitors often have lower input lag than TVs. Just make sure the monitor supports HDMI 2.1 and VRR.

13. I don’t have a VRR-compatible display. Can I still benefit from a higher frame rate?

While VRR is highly recommended for the smoothest experience, you can still benefit from a higher frame rate even without it. The increased responsiveness will still be noticeable, but you might experience occasional screen tearing.

14. Are there any downsides to using 120 FPS?

The main downside is the potential reduction in visual fidelity. To maintain a high frame rate, the game might need to lower the resolution or reduce graphical effects. Additionally, running a game at 120 FPS can put more strain on your PS5, potentially leading to increased fan noise and heat.

15. Where can I learn more about game development and technology?

If you are interested in game design, the GamesLearningSociety.org website offers valuable resources and insights into the world of game development.

The quest for 120 FPS in God of War Ragnarok is a journey that involves understanding the interplay of hardware, software, and personal preference. With the right setup and a bit of tweaking, you can experience the game in a whole new light – smooth, responsive, and visually stunning.

Is God of War 120 fps?