Does NFS Unbound have 120 fps?

No, Need for Speed Unbound does not offer 120 frames per second (FPS) gameplay on any platform – it‘s limited to 60 FPS across the board. But does this compromise the experience for next-gen consoles and gaming PCs? Let‘s dive into the specs and decode why Criterion opted away from 120 Hz support.

NFS Unbound Frame Rates and Resolutions

Here‘s a breakdown of Need for Speed Unbound‘s technical details by platform:

PlatformResolutionFrame Rate
PlayStation 5Native 4K (3840×2160)60 FPS
Xbox Series XUp to 4K (3840×2160)60 FPS
Xbox Series SUp to 1440p (2560×1440)60 FPS
PCDepends on HardwareUnlocked

Given the power of new consoles and gaming PCs, why did Criterion cap the frame rate to 60 FPS? Primarily to push visual fidelity to the limits.

Criterion Prioritized Jaw-Dropping Visuals

According to Criterion Games‘ creative director Kieran Crimmins in an interview with Traxion, "Pushing the hardware is always a balancing act. You have to choose what matters most."

For Need for Speed Unbound, they opted to "push visuals as far as possible." Ray tracing reflections, 4K resolution, enhanced particle effects and textures took precedence to hit a cinematic style.

Similar to the film industry‘s standard, Criterion capped the frame rate at 60 FPS to ensure stable, consistent performance that matches the filmic look. Dropping a few frames here and there would shatter the smoothness.

Based on early analysis, Criterion nailed it – Digital Foundry praised Unbound‘s "utterly spectacular visuals" and "filmic look."

Tech Experts Confirm Rock-Solid 60 FPS

But does locking to 60 FPS introduce lag, frame pacing issues or instability?

Experts like Digital Foundry analyzed Need for Speed Unbound‘s next-gen performance and found a "flawless 60 FPS lock" with "excellent frame pacing." John Linneman went hands-on with the game and felt Need for Speed has "fantastic latency all around."

Translation – despite the lack of 120 FPS, Unbound‘s technology offers lag-free, butter-smooth 60 FPS racing. Both consoles likewise provide compelling 4K gaming (native on PS5, reconstructed on Xbox Series X).

Criterion leveraged the hardware effectively to eliminate performance dips or visible frame rate fluctuations. Racers blaze along Highway Heat at consistent 60 FPS.

How Does 60 FPS Compare to 120 FPS Gameplay?

I‘ve gamed for over a decade across PC and consoles, and here‘s my take:

60 FPS offers super smooth, responsive control that excels for high-speed racing games. Developer Ghost Games targeted 60 FPS for Need for Speed 2015 onward specifically to enable reactivity and precision at breakneck speeds.

At 120 FPS, some hardcore gamers may notice a slightly snappier, more reactive sensation. I‘ve tested various titles with unlocked frame rates, and the difference is somewhat subtle. It doesn‘t fundamentally change the gameplay.

For cinematic games like Need for Speed Unbound that emphasize visual impact, going above 60 FPS requires reducing fidelity. I prefer Criterion‘s choice to showcase the insane car models and effects at 4K clarity, 60 FPS speed.

Unbound Offers Next-Gen Magic at 60 FPS

Thanks to intelligent performance optimization, Unbound gives players the best of both worlds – visual splendor and high frame rates. Ray tracing factorializes the realism with accurate lighting effects on each glossy, metallic curve.

Neon lights glimmer off puddles as midnight storms rage. Graffiti art pulsates with color as you tear past. The Frostbite engine truly sparkles, all without compromising on lightning-fast control.

Add in the DualSense‘s immersive haptic feedback on PS5, and the presentation matches the adrenaline. Criterion injects style directly into the veins of Need for Speed. For next-gen consoles in 2022, 60 FPS facilitates that sheer sensatory assault – no need for 120+ FPS excess.

I‘ll revisit if modders release unlocked frame rate patches for PC players with cutting-edge rigs. But for now, I‘m thrilled to cruise Lakeshore City at cinematic 4K clarity, optimized 60 FPS performance. Unbound plays like a visual symphony finely tuned to next-gen standards.

Let me know what settings you‘re enjoying Need for Speed Unbound at! I‘m pumped to deck out more dream rides with dazzling color and personalization when it launches December 2. This could be Criterion‘s best racer yet.

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