There are numerous platforms on which you can play Elden Ring, each with a unique set of features and performance capabilities. Here's a guide to help you understand the pros and cons of playing Elden Ring on different platforms:
PlayStation 5 (PS5)
•Performance: Elden Ring runs at 60 FPS in performance mode at 1080p resolution and around 30-40 FPS in quality mode at 4K resolution. The game uses Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) to smooth out any frame dips.
•Loading Times: Extremely fast due to the PS5's SSD, making death and fast travel less frustrating.
•Controller: Features adaptive triggers and haptic feedback with the DualSense controller, enhancing the feel of combat and exploration.
•Graphics: High-quality textures and graphical detail in quality mode. Performance mode prioritizes frame rate but sacrifices some visual fidelity.
•Cross-Gen: The PS5 version can play with players on PS4, which is great if your friends are on an older console.
•Pros: Great balance between performance and visuals, fast loading, and enhanced controller feedback.
•Cons: 60 FPS is not perfectly stable in performance mode, but it's still a smooth experience.
PlayStation 4 (PS4 & PS4 Pro)
•Performance: The PS4 version runs at 30 FPS and experiences more frame rate drops compared to PS4 Pro. The Pro version can reach 40-50 FPS in performance mode with 1080p resolution, but neither version hits a stable 60 FPS.
•Graphics: Lower quality textures and draw distances compared to next-gen consoles, but still acceptable.
•Loading Times: Longer load times on PS4 due to the mechanical hard drive, but it's still manageable.
•Cross-Gen: You can play with PS5 players, and your save files can be transferred to the PS5 version if you upgrade your console.
•Pros: Playable for those who haven't upgraded to next-gen, good enough performance on the PS4 Pro.
•Cons: Slower loading times, and more performance drops, especially on the base PS4.
Xbox Series X
•Performance: Elden Ring runs at up to 60 FPS in performance mode at 1080p resolution and 4K in quality mode with a stable 30 FPS. VRR support helps smooth frame dips.
•Loading Times: Extremely fast due to the internal SSD.
•Graphics: High-quality visuals with dynamic 4K resolution in quality mode, providing crisp details, especially on a 4K TV.
•Cross-Gen: You can play with Xbox One users, and Smart Delivery ensures you have the best version for your console.
•Pros: Strong graphical performance, fast loading, VRR support for smoother gameplay.
•Cons: Performance mode doesn't always hit a stable 60 FPS.
Xbox Series S
•Performance: Lower performance compared to Series X, with resolution targeting 1080p in quality mode and reduced graphical detail. Performance mode runs at up to 60 FPS but with some dips.
•Graphics: Lower texture quality and draw distance compared to Series X, but still acceptable.
•Loading Times: Fast loading due to the SSD.
•Cross-Gen: Compatible with Xbox One players, and you can upgrade to Series X without losing progress.
•Pros: Affordable next-gen experience with reasonable performance.
•Cons: Lower graphical fidelity and performance issues compared to Series X.
Xbox One (Base & One X)
•Performance: The base Xbox One struggles with frame rates, often running around 25-30 FPS with frequent dips. The Xbox One X performs better, offering up to 40-50 FPS in performance mode.
•Graphics: Lower resolution and graphical fidelity compared to next-gen consoles, with the Xbox One X offering higher resolution and better textures.
•Loading Times: Slower due to the mechanical hard drives in both models.
•Cross-Gen: You can play with Xbox Series X/S players, and Smart Delivery ensures your progress carries over if you upgrade.
•Pros: Playable on older hardware, good for players who haven’t upgraded.
•Cons: Poor performance on the base Xbox One, with frame drops and longer load times.
PC
•Performance: Performance on PC can vary depending on hardware. If you have a powerful GPU, you can run Elden Ring at 60 FPS or higher with uncapped frame rates using mods. However, performance issues at launch included stuttering and frame drops, but many have been addressed via patches.
•Graphics: On PC, you have the flexibility to tweak settings like resolution, texture quality, anti-aliasing, and more, allowing for the highest visual fidelity.
•Loading Times: SSDs on PC reduce loading times to be nearly instantaneous, comparable to next-gen consoles.
•Mods: The PC version allows for modding, which can enhance the gameplay experience with new content or graphical improvements.
•Cross-Platform: Unfortunately, the PC version does not support cross-play with consoles.
•Pros: Ultimate control over performance and visuals, modding support.
•Cons: Needs high-end hardware for the best experience, launch issues may persist on certain setups.
Platform Comparisons
Final Recommendations 
•Best Experience: PS5, Xbox Series X, and a high-end PC offer the best experience with smooth performance, fast load times, and stunning graphics.
•Budget-Friendly Next-Gen: Xbox Series S offers a solid experience at a lower cost, though with slightly reduced performance and visuals.
•Still Great on Last-Gen: PS4 Pro and Xbox One X provide acceptable performance for those who haven’t upgraded yet.
•PC Players: If you have a high-end rig, PC is ideal for maximum performance and flexibility with mods.
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