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Learn everything about the graphics modes of Death Stranding 2 on the PS5, including the resolution targets, frame rates, and more.
Death Stranding 2 is arguably one of the most graphically impressive games not only on the PS5 but on any console to date. Powered by Guerrilla Games’ Decima engine, the game makes full use of the current-gen system’s capabilities to deliver a jaw-dropping graphical presentation. Surprisingly, the game doesn’t rely on ray tracing or RTGI to deliver its visuals. Instead, it uses a more advanced rasterization method and baked-in lighting techniques to deliver an immersive graphical presentation.
However, much like Guerrilla Games’ own Horizon Forbidden West and Burning Shores, there are certain limitations to Death Stranding 2’s visuals on the PS5.
Here’s everything you need to know about the graphics modes of Death Stranding 2 on the PS5, including details on the resolution targets, frame rates, and more.
All Death Stranding 2 Graphics Modes on the PS5
Similar to the original Death Stranding on the PS5 (Director’s Cut), the sequel offers two distinct graphics modes: Prioritize Quality and Prioritize Performance. On the base PS5, the Prioritize Quality preset runs the game at native 4K (3840 x 2160) with checkerboard rendering and targets a locked 30fps.
On the other hand, the Prioritize Performance preset runs the game at a locked 60fps, albeit by lowering the base resolution to 1440p and upscaling it to 4K. The structure of the graphics modes is similar to most first-party PlayStation games. Much like those titles, the frame rate in Death Stranding 2 is incredibly stable.
While there are a few drops during certain cutscenes, they are few and far between. In practice, the drops are so minor that most players won’t even notice them, even on a monitor. That said, since the game still relies on checkerboard rendering, you might notice some artifacting, especially on a large 4K panel. With that in mind, here’s a rundown of the different graphics modes for Death Stranding 2 on the PS5:
| Graphics Modes | Resolution Target | Frame Rate Target |
|---|---|---|
| Prioritize Quality | 4K (3840 x 2160) – Checkerboard Rendering | 30fps |
| Prioritize Performance | 1440p Base (Upscaled to 4K) | 60fps |
Surprisingly, there’s no VRR support in the current version of Death Stranding 2. However, since Decima does support VRR (HFR modes), it might be added to the game at a later date.
Which Death Stranding 2 Graphics Mode Should You Choose?
In most cases, the choice of graphics modes depends on a variety of factors—your TV’s resolution, support for VRR, preferred frame rate, etc. However, given how well-optimized Death Stranding 2 is on the PS5, there’s really no better choice than the game’s Performance Mode. You can use the Quality preset for photo mode and for recording clips.
However, during regular gameplay, it’s best to keep the game on Prioritize Performance. Even if you’re playing the game on a 4K TV, the upscaling is competent enough to deliver a crisp and clear image. Furthermore, given the increased focus on action in the sequel, the higher performance comes in incredibly handy.
We provide the latest news and create guides for Death Stranding 2. Meanwhile, you can check out the following Death Stranding 2 articles or catch us playing games on YouTube:
