Players are getting their chance to return to Fallout 4 with Bethesda's planned PS5 and Xbox Series X/S update this year. The post-apocalyptic sequel was first released in 2015, and it has been some time since fans have had any news on single-player Fallout content. However, by including this patch on the new generation of consoles, the developer has an opportunity to showcase one of its best open worlds -- the Commonwealth. Although some consider Fallout 4 to be lighter on role-playing elements, its locations, factions, and customization systems are great arguments to the game's credit.
Working with the latest consoles and PC hardware, a newly optimized version of Fallout 4 might be the best option for those that could not tolerate lower frame rates among other past issues. There are some major differences between next-gen Skyrim and Fallout 4 updates, minor graphical differences likely being one, but Bethesda should try to improve the player experience so that the game loop is as seamless as possible. A multitude of unique encounters can be found across the Commonwealth which all instill an air of adventure, and it is at this point where Fallout 4 can truly shine once again.
Fallout 4 Enhancements Are Overdue
Performance has been a sticking point for past Bethesda games, unfortunately affecting the fun factor during plenty of playthroughs. Higher resolutions and a smoother frame rate are two promised enhancements that have the potential to make a big difference, and polish may just be what Fallout 4 needs to be an optimal role-playing adventure in 2023. If it were possible to ignore periodic technical hiccups, Fallout 4's most emotional moments might have a better chance of being truly heartfelt instead of tragically comical. While immersion breakers are expected in sandbox-style RPGs, this upcoming update could provide greater playability with the base game and its expansions.
Dynamic game systems are notoriously difficult to blend into cinematic storytelling; it is regrettable, but NPCs and physics have a tendency to wreak havoc at inconvenient times in Bethesda games. However, Fallout 4 can still be entertaining when its exploration, action, and narrative form a cohesive experience. This sweet spot is really where players should be when they are playing which is also something that is impaired by the lack of improved compatibility. The community has done a lot of the heavy lifting so far, as some of the best Fallout 4 mods inject needed depth and visual tweaks to keep it current.
Fallout's Commonwealth Demands Fixes
Years later, Fallout 4 remains a relevant open-world RPG that still captures the attention of many players. Bethesda has reiterated that it will be fixing bugs and awarding bonus content, and this will hopefully fill in critical oversights that prevented the game from seeming whole. Far Harbor and Nuka-World were already sizable add-ons, each transporting the Sole Survivor of Vault 111 to new landmarks, although the limitations of older consoles did not do these expansions any favors. Long load times, glitches, and a poor level of detail were noticeable from a distance, but these are mostly problems that persisted from the main game and can feasibly be resolved on superior hardware.
The Commonwealth is packed with mutants and mysteries, and the next-gen update for Fallout 4 should be a good time to give the fictional world another shot. Much of the game's depth is exposed in its customization and crafting systems, and barring any bugs, there could be hours of enjoyment for those who are more open to this optimistic version of the wasteland. Side quests, workshops, and unique loot feature heavily throughout the experience, with some players sharing their favorite Fallout 4 settlement builds to this day. Supposing everything goes to plan, Bethesda's official fixes might make a return to post-nuclear Boston worthwhile.
Fallout 4 is available on PC, PS4, and Xbox One, with PS5 and Xbox Series X/S versions coming in 2023.