Dying Light 2 is no longer hamstrung on Xbox Series S
Techland’s open-world game has received a big boost
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Dying Light 2’s latest update has added a performance mode to the Xbox Series S version of the game, which doubles the game’s frame rate.
At launch, developer Techland’s long-awaited zombie parkour sequel was locked to an arbitrary 30fps onXbox Series S, whereasXbox Series Xowners had the choice between Quality mode (4K resolutionat 30fps) or Performance mode (1080p resolution at 60fps).
The 30fps cap didn’t go down well with Xbox Series S owners, asMicrosoft’s more affordable console is more than capable of outputting at 60fps in the majority of titles, as seen in other open world games likeAssassin’s Creed Valhalla.
Fortunately, the Polish developer has been hard at work to address this disparity and the issue has now been corrected with the latest1.0.2.0 patch on Xbox. There’s a long list of improvements but the headline one is that the Xbox Series S version now includes a Performance Mode that will run the game at 60fps, meaning those who own the cheaper Xbox can have a smooth post-apocalyptic parkouring experience.
The update doesn’t dismiss Xbox Series X owners either, though, as there’s now a new option called Balanced Mode, which is essentially an ideal compromise between Quality and Performance modes. You’ll still get 60fps but with1440p resolutioninstead - in other words, you’re getting the best of both worlds on Series X.
The patch includes a whole host of fixes elsewhere as well, such as fixes to progression blocks in certain quests and issues with the co-op mode. Improvements have also been made to combat along with more natural ragdoll behaviors and audio cues and effects matching the surfaces bodies fall on. From bug fixes to improved UI/UX, the update should provide a much better overall experience for Dying Light 2 players. The full patch notes can be foundhere.
Not dead yet
The Dying Light 2’s new update is obviously a big win is for Xbox Series S owners, who no longer have to feel like they’re playing a last-gen version of the game.
Get the best Black Friday deals direct to your inbox, plus news, reviews, and more.
Sign up to be the first to know about unmissable Black Friday deals on top tech, plus get all your favorite TechRadar content.
But while Techland has managed to resolve the game’s frame rate issue, it does raise some questions over whether or not we’ll get similar performance disparities between Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S titles in future releases, especially as developers begin focusing on next-gen exclusives, such as the upcomingStarfield.
The benefit of buying the less powerful but more affordable Xbox Series S has meant a more accessible route to experience next-gen gaming. Nonetheless, there are still drawbacks when compared to what’s possible on Xbox Series X, such as lower target frame rates and resolution. The Series S can also sometimes miss graphical features such asray tracing.
Considering the many years of support and updates that made the original Dying Light such a success, it’s likely we’ll be seeing even more improvements and additions to Dying Light 2 in the near future. Having 60fps available on all current-gen platforms including Xbox Series S is nonetheless a great minimum to hit.
Alan Wen is a freelance journalist writing about video games in the form of features, interview, previews, reviews and op-eds. His work has appeared in print including Edge, Official Playstation Magazine, GamesMaster, Games TM, Wireframe, Stuff, and online including Kotaku UK, TechRadar, FANDOM, Rock Paper Shotgun, Digital Spy, The Guardian, and The Telegraph.
Where to buy the new Xbox Series X and S consoles - including the gorgeous Galaxy Black 2TB machine
Final Fantasy 14 on Xbox Series X|S will require Xbox Game Pass to play when it launches in full
Arcane season 2 confirms the hit series isn’t just one of the best Netflix shows ever made – it’s an animated legend that’ll stand the test of time
