With Elden Ring Nightreign set to launch on May 30, fans have been eager to know how FromSoftware’s new cooperative action spin-off performs across current-generation consoles. Thanks to last weekend’s beta test, players on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC got a first hands-on look—and now, detailed technical analysis reveals how the game holds up across platforms.
YouTube channel ElAnalistaDeBits has released a comprehensive video comparing the PS5 and Xbox Series versions of Nightreign, examining resolution, framerate, draw distance, texture detail, and lighting across the game’s two graphics modes.
PS5 / Xbox Series X:
Dynamic resolution: commonly 1800p, minimum 1080p
Framerate: Target 60 FPS, but not stable
Xbox Series S:
Resolution: commonly 920p
Framerate: Target 60 FPS, also with dips
PS5 / Xbox Series X:
Native 4K resolution
Framerate: Hovering around 40 FPS
Xbox Series S:
Resolution: 1440p
Framerate: Approx. 35 FPS
Performance Mode: Dynamic 4K at 60 FPS
Quality Mode: Native 4K at ~55 FPS
However, visual differences between the two modes on PS5 Pro appear minimal, suggesting it may not yet be fully optimized for the new hardware.
According to ElAnalistaDeBits:
Xbox versions offer slightly better texture quality and draw distance compared to PS5 and even PS5 Pro.
No version consistently achieves 60 FPS in Performance mode.
The Xbox Series S suffers noticeable cutbacks, such as reduced vegetation density and ambient occlusion.
The analysis concludes with a pointed critique:
“FromSoftware should really consider updating its graphics engine. Nightreign is among the most visually underwhelming AAA releases, and its inconsistent performance doesn’t make up for it.“
Beyond visuals, Elden Ring Nightreign shifts focus from its predecessor’s open-world design to a co-op action format supporting up to three players. Players select from eight predefined heroes and face escalating boss battles over a span of three in-game days, giving it a roguelike progression flavor. While performance might raise concerns, the game’s cooperative gameplay loop shows promise, as highlighted in our early hands-on impressions.
TL;DR Verdict:
Elden Ring Nightreign currently shows modest visual improvements over the 2022 original but struggles to maintain stable framerates across platforms. With just a few months to go, FromSoftware may still improve optimization before launch—though expectations should remain measured.