Hellblade 2 runs at 30fps on Xbox Series X|S and won't feature a performance mode

The Hellblade 2: Senua's Saga framerate has now been revealed, with Nina Theory confirming that Hellblade 2 will run at 30fps on Xbox consoles.

Sean Carey

Published 04 Apr 2024

It's not long before we'll all be unlocking the Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 achievements, and now, just ahead of the release of one of the biggestupcoming Xbox exclusives, it's been confirmed that Hellblade 2 will run at 30fps on Xbox Series X|S.

Hellblade 2 won't feature a performance mode on Xbox Series X|S

As reported by German outlet GamePro in a new preview, Hellblade 2 will only run at 30fps on Xbox consoles with a dynamic resolution. There are also no graphics modes to choose from on Xbox Series X|S, but the outlet notes that PC players will be able to bump up the frame rate. Hellblade 2 VFX director Mark Slater-Tunstill explained to GamePro that Hellblade 2 should feel more "cinematic" as a result.

While a 30fps cap on Xbox Series X|S for Hellblade 2 may disappoint some, GamePro's writer said they didn't mind the frame rate as the gameplay is "rather slow and weighty."

In another preview, Polygon described Hellblade 2 as "stunning" and a "tech showcase," thanks to Ninja Theory's smart use of Unreal Engine 5. Ninja Theory told Polygon that Unreal Engine 5's Nanite geometry system allowed the team to create more realistic visuals as the "turnaround between scanning the thing and putting it in the level is drastically cut, and you can spend that time finessing."

Interestingly, Polygon also reports that Ninja Theory co-founder and Hellblade writer/director Tameem Antoniades has left the company. Antoniades was involved in Hellblade 2 early on its development, but Microsoft has confirmed that he is no longer with the studio. Hellblade 2 is now being led by three creative leads: environment art director Dan Attwell, visual effects director Mark Slater-Tunstill, and audio director David Garcia.

Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 launches on May 21 for Xbox Series X|S and PC and joins Game Pass on day one. For more on the long-awaited sequel, check out everything we know about Hellblade 2.

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Written by Sean Carey

Avid Xbox and achievement fan, Sean has committed to playing the best RPGs, racing games, and first-person shooters Xbox Game Pass and his precious free time will allow. Prior to joining TrueAchievements, Sean gained a degree in journalism from Solent University.