GTA 6 runs at 30 FPS on PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Rockstar confirms GTA 6 targets 30 FPS on current consoles, but reports say a 60 FPS performance mode is still being considered.
Grand Theft Auto 6 will run at 30 frames per second on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles. Rockstar North co-studio head Rob Nelson confirmed the performance target to Portuguese outlet Flow Games, according to a report from GamesRadar+.
However, the studio is reportedly unsure about offering a 60 FPS performance mode at launch. The technical team must still be consulted to determine if such an option will be available, either for the release date or in a future update. Nelson also stated he currently lacks details on resolution or the use of features like ray tracing.
Technical analysis and context
Performance analysis from Digital Foundry suggests the game maintains a relatively stable 30 FPS output. Their scrutiny of the latest downloadable trailer indicates it appears to be running at a native 1440p resolution on PS5. They noted only very occasional single frame drops. Because the video itself is a 30 FPS asset, unseen frame drops in actual gameplay remain possible.
A 30 FPS target is standard for the series on base console hardware. The previous title, Grand Theft Auto 5, also launched targeting 30 FPS on the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, as well as the earlier PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.
The situation for the less powerful Xbox Series S remains unclear. Potential gains for PlayStation 5 Pro owners are also unknown. Rockstar has been contacted for further clarification.
The push for performance modes
Adjustable frame rates with optional Performance and Quality modes have become an industry expectation. The report cites the example of developer Rebel Wolves, which made a last-minute change to add a 60 FPS performance mode to The Blood of Dawnwalker after backlash over its initial 40 FPS target.
The confirmation comes after an extended look at GTA 6, which highlighted its visually demanding nature. The trailer revealed numerous new gameplay systems, including changes to the Wanted and carjacking mechanics, a new romance system, and a vast game world filled with activities.
This technical news arrives amidst a major week for Rockstar, following a series of leaked videos. It also coincides with ongoing employment tribunals involving dozens of recently fired Rockstar North employees, who are battling the company over alleged union-busting.
