Playing Starfield on PS5 Pro? Discover how to reach 90fps and what changes in the Enhanced Mode

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According to a technical analysis by ElAnalistaDeBits, Starfield on PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro offers multiple viewing modes with specific enhancements. The analysis, which used the PC version running at 4K with maximum graphics settings as a benchmark, compared the game’s performance across various platforms, including Xbox Series X. On the base PS5, Starfield offers two modes: Quality and Performance. The most noticeable difference is slightly reduced terrain detail in Performance mode to achieve greater fluidity. The PS5 Pro introduces a Pro Visual Mode, which runs at 4K and 30 frames per second (fps), and a Pro Performance Mode, which targets 4K at 60 fps. Both utilize Sony’s PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) upscaling technology. The base PS5 offers less sharpness, ray tracing, and stability in Visual/Performance settings compared to the Pro. Both PS5 versions, however, incorporate DualSense features such as adaptive triggers, touchpad shortcuts, and a lightbar that indicates health status. The PS5 Pro also includes an exclusive Enhanced mode. Resolution targets for Sony’s consoles are: Enhanced Mode (PS5 Pro): 2160p (4K) Quality Mode (PS5): 1440p Performance Mode (PS5): 1080p.

While Enhanced mode offers a visible resolution boost, the analysis found only minor visual improvements compared to Quality mode, with slight refinements in environmental occlusion and shadow presentation. The standard PS5 uses FSR upscaling, while all three modes on the PS5 Pro use PSSR for image reconstruction. PS5 Pro users can update Starfield’s PSSR algorithm via a system setting. In Performance Mode, both the PS5 and PS5 Pro aim for 60fps, with the Pro using PSSR upscaling to deliver a near-4K display. This results in smoother aiming and camera control on the PS5 Pro, beneficial for close-quarters combat. PSSR allows the Pro to render at a lower internal resolution and then create a sharper 4K image. The base PS5 in Performance Mode provides good, but less stable, 60fps performance compared to the Pro, with more noticeable frame rate dips in graphically intense scenes. The base PS5 also produces a softer image with less detail and more shimmering. While some reports have suggested potential 120fps support for Starfield on both PS5 models, these claims remain unconfirmed.

The analysis emphasized the game’s high CPU demand, noting that none of the tested consoles (PS5, PS5 Pro, or Xbox Series X) could maintain a consistent 60 fps in areas with many resources or NPCs. However, on the PS5 Pro, VSync can be disabled to unlock the frame rate in any mode. The frame rate options on the base PS5 are similar to those on Xbox Series X, allowing users to prioritize visuals or performance, which reduces resolution and certain visual settings to achieve a smoother 60fps experience. The PS5 Pro’s Enhanced mode leverages the hardware to improve visual detail while maintaining high resolution for effects, lighting, and crowds. However, testers found that Enhanced mode did not run as smoothly as expected with the frame rate uncapped or at 60fps.

Enhancing Starfield’s Performance on PS5 Pro vs. Base Model & Xbox Series X Comparison

The reviewer, who lacked a VRR display compatible with the PS5 or PS5 Pro but had one for Xbox Series X, noticed no major issues on the PS5 Pro, though the frame rate occasionally fluctuated between 60fps and 40fps during gameplay. With VRR enabled and the frame rate unlocked, the PS5 Pro reached approximately 90 fps in less demanding areas. Under the same conditions, the base PS5 achieved up to 70 fps, but unlocking the frame rate is only available in Performance mode. Compared to the Xbox Series X, the analysis found that the Xbox Series X runs at a lower average resolution than the PS5 in Performance mode. However, the Xbox Series X demonstrates greater stability, delivering 5 to 10 fps more than the PS5 in some demanding areas. With Starfield now available on PlayStation 5 and the more powerful PS5 Pro, players can explore the galaxy with the graphical and performance enhancements that each console offers.

In Case You Missed It

While we’re delving into the gaming world, let’s start with Ahmed Hassan’s latest piece from March 26th, “AAA Games Have Became Too Expensive to Produce” AAA Games Have Became Too Expensive to Produce. Hassan takes a deep dive into the rising production costs of AAA blockbusters in the U.S. and Canada, with some projects reaching budgets over $300 million. It’s an eye-opening read exploring factors like developer salaries and sales projections that explain why our favorite games keep getting pricier. Moving on to some good news for tactical RPG fans, Marcus Thompson’s recent article “Pillars of Eternity Receives Long-Awaited Update Adding Turn-Based Combat” Pillars of Eternity Receives Long-Awaited Update Adding Turn-Based Combat explores the recently released update for this beloved classic, bringing a new turn-based combat system inspired by its sequel Deadfire and various bug fixes. And finally, if you’re excited about upcoming gaming delights, don’t miss Jonathan Dubinski’s latest post “Nintendo Switch 2 Will Get Major Blockbuster Titles in 2026, Says NateTheHate” Nintendo Switch 2 Will Get Major Blockbuster Titles in 2026, Says NateTheHate. Published just this month, it reveals some tantalizing details about the impending console’s launch lineup, including the return of Star Fox and the latest Legend of Zelda adventure.