Apex Legends has released the new Performance mode for current-gen consoles, but some players have reported a disappointing visual experience when using the feature. Performance mode, which introduced a 120hz option for players on Xbox Series X/S and PS5, came as part of the Season 20 update for Apex Legends that dropped on February 13.

While Season 20, known as Breakout, has added lots of new content to the game, a 120hz mode was likely one of the most exciting aspects for console players. Since the release of current-gen systems in the latter part of 2020, fans have been clamoring for an update to take advantage of the more powerful hardware of Xbox Series X/S and PS5. While Apex Legends initially received an update that let the systems utilize higher resolutions, an fps boost did not come until the start of Season 20 of Apex Legends. Despite the wait finally being over for fans, not everything turned out as well as some had hoped.

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Following the release of the new seasonal update, some gamers have taken to social media to express their disappointment with the 120hz Performance mode for Apex Legends. For example, one Reddit user posted that their time playing with Performance mode enabled on Xbox Series X felt “underwhelming.” According to the Reddit user, the visuals took a significant hit when using the graphics feature, noting that objects in the distance looked unclear. Beyond this player’s experience, numerous gamers responded in the comment section, claiming to have encountered similar issues when attempting to play at 120fps on current-gen consoles.

These lower resolutions are understandably concerning for players on console, as being able to spot opponents in the distance can sometimes be the difference between winning and losing a skirmish. Other players noted how the mode felt like a letdown after having to wait for years for its release. "I agree, such a long awaited update and feels underwhelming," one user said.

Performance Mode Changes Aim Assist Value

Besides the lowered visual quality, Performance mode made another somewhat controversial change. According to a Respawn Entertainment developer, aim assist had been adjusted in Apex Legends when utilizing the 120 frames-per-second mode. While the exact change in value was not given, it was likely decreased to compensate for the increased smoothness of Performance mode, which could make aiming easier.

It will be interesting to see what the overall reception to Season 20 will be once players have more time with the new content. While players have not been blown away by Performance mode, other aspects of the content update have gained more positive reception. Specifically, many players think Apex Legends' Straight Shot LTM offers a fresh twist on the battle royale formula by introducing faster-paced matches with kitted weapons and a re-queue feature. Hopefully, Respawn Entertainment can listen to feedback and make the necessary adjustments to features like Performance mode in the coming days.

Apex Legends

Apex Legends is a free-to-play battle royale game made by Respawn. In this shooter, players take up the mantle of a Legend — one of the playable characters — and form a squad with other players. The game is set in the same universe as the Titanfall series and the two franchises have had many crossovers.

Platform(s)

PS4 , PS5 , Xbox One , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S , PC , iOS , Android , Switch

Released

February 4, 2019

Developer(s)

Respawn Entertainment

Publisher(s)

Electronic Arts

Metascore

89

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