The Resident Evil 4 “Chainsaw Demo” dropped last week, which also means we get a bit of a preview of how the game runs on various platforms (I’ve played both the demo and the full version of the game and they seem to be more or less the same in terms of performance). As is often the case with RE Engine games, it’s a bit of a mixed bag in terms of which console comes out on top, with PS5 benefitting in some areas and the Xbox Series X coming out on top in others. First let’s check out a comparison from ElAnalistaDeBits comparing the PC, Xbox Series X/S, and PS5 versions.

　　On next-gen consoles, Resident Evil 4 essentially offers 4 visuals modes – Resolution Mode, which runs at a native 4K and targets 60fps, and Performance Mode, which is a dynamic 4K and aiming for a locked 60fps. Both modes can be played with ray tracing on or off. ElAnalistaDeBits has provided an estimate that both PS5/Xbox Series X run at a bit over 1800p in Performance Mode, but there’s been some debate about this. That said, their framerate tests can’t be disputed, and they generally show an edge for the PS5. In Resolution Mode the PS5 runs up to 10fps faster, cruising along at around 55fps, while the XSX can drop to 45fps. Ray tracing costs both consoles around 5fps, but PS5 still generally performs better by as much as 10fps. In Performance Mode without ray tracing, both consoles hold a rock solid at 60fps. Turning ray tracing on with Performance Mode hits Microsoft’s machine a lot harder – PS5 largely maintains 60fps, while XSX can drop into the low 50s or even high 40s.

　　So, PS5 has the edge when it comes to raw Resident Evil 4 performance, but that isn’t the entire story. According to Digital Foundry’s John Linneman, the Xbox Series X has better VRR implementation, so if you have a VRR-capable screen, the XSX version may actually feel smoother in some modes. Xbox Series X is also said to have better ray tracing. It should also be mentioned that chromatic aberration is seemingly broken on PS5, causing some to believe the game’s visual quality is actually lower on the platform. Disable chromatic aberration in the display menu and the visual issues should be resolved.

　　Ah, but there’s one more thing to consider when comparing the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions of Resident Evil 4 – control responsiveness. According to a number of players, including the folks at Digital Foundry, the XSX offers laggier controls with a large aiming dead zone. So, when all is said and done, it seems PC (which seems to be a solid port without the stuttering issues affecting so many games lately) and PS5 are the platforms to go for.

　　Oh, and one more thing – RE4’s deluxe hair textures (yes, this is an option) will knock your performance down around 10fps on average on next-gen consoles. Honestly, I think the fancy-pants hair looks kind of weird anyways, so you’re best off turning it off.

　　Resident Evil 4 launches on PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, and PS5 on March 24.