Optimizing Starfield on PC: Best Settings for Smooth Gameplay

Starfield has finally landed on PC, but it seems like the game needs a bit of fine-tuning for an optimal experience. Here, we'll walk you through the best settings to make Bethesda's latest RPG run smoothly on your computer.

Bethesda

Bethesda's fresh RPG, Starfield, is out now, but the PC version seems to have a mixed reception. Some players have reported stuttering issues, indicating that the game might need some serious optimization.

Unfortunately, we can't promise a one-size-fits-all solution. The wide variety of PC configurations makes it challenging for games to run perfectly for everyone. Even a small hiccup in your system setup can cause issues.

Currently, there appear to be more problems reported by users on Intel systems, but it's uncertain whether this is a widespread issue or a vocal minority.

The vast world of starfield
Bethesda

Settings for Low-End Systems

If you're using a lower-end system with an Nvidia GPU, consider installing the Starfield DLSS mod created by PureDark. Our team has observed a significant performance boost with this mod.

For AMD users, your best bet is to rely on FSR 2, and hopefully, FSR 3 in the future. Supersampling can help improve performance in the game, but keep in mind that it's not a magic solution. Based on what we've seen so far, the game on PC could benefit from an official performance patch.

Low-end system users can also experiment with adjusting the rendering resolution, although this might make the game look less appealing. Additionally, there's a mod available that tweaks the low-end settings to assist those playing on less powerful systems.

Best Settings for High-End PCs

Even if you have a high-end system, you may still encounter issues with the game's performance. Some players with powerful hardware, like the 4090 graphics card, have reported struggling to maintain a decent framerate.

If you find yourself in this situation, consider trying some of the solutions recommended for low-end systems. Sometimes, small adjustments can make a big difference.

If your high-end system is still underperforming despite its capabilities, you might have to wait for a performance patch.

Starfield promotional screenshot
Bethesda

Games in 2023 are complex, with various systems and code that need to work on a wide range of PCs. Not everything will run perfectly, especially on newer hardware.

For those with high-end systems, try not to tweak settings beyond the presets and use DLSS or FSR supersampling to improve performance. If that doesn't work, consider lowering the settings to "High." It seems that Starfield may require a performance patch more than anything else on PC.

In addition to these suggestions, we recommend turning off motion blur and adjusting lighting and shadow options to low, unless, of course, you plan on scrutinizing the shadows in the vastness of space.

Check out some of our other Starfield guides below:
Vasco Location In Starfield - How To Get Your First Spaceship In Starfield - Starfield: 5 Skills Every New Player Should Get - How To Bind Your Weapons In Starfield - Starfield Lockpicking Guide - How Many Main Quest Missions Are There? - How To Change Your FOV

Starfield

Starfield

Starfield is an upcoming action role-playing game developed and published by Bethesda Game Studios. Set in space, the game promises to deliver a rich and immersive experience with an emphasis on exploration and discovery. Players will have the opportunity to explore vast, procedurally generated star systems, encounter alien species, and engage in space combat. Starfield is expected to feature Bethesda's signature open-world design, deep lore, and engaging storytelling. The game aims to set a new standard for sci-fi RPGs, offering players an expansive universe to explore and shape through their choices.

Genres
Role-Playing Game (RPG), Space Simulation
Platform(s)
PC, Xbox Series X/S
Release Date
Sep 6, 2023
Price
$69.99
Developer(s)
Bethesda Game Studios
Publisher(s)
Bethesda Softworks
ESRB Rating
M