since when 30 fps becomes unplayable
since when 30 fps becomes unplayable
I'm not old enough to remember, but back in 2011 when I began playing games on a computer, 60 frames per second was perfect. 30 frames per second works on consoles, but I get a bad feeling whenever I realize I could play the game at 60fps instead of 30.
Framepacing influences gaming at 30fps or disrupts it. Most users prefer a steady 30-33fps without any drops.
Proofs of Puddings - 16minutes 31Seconds.
Digital Foundry on the Playstation Classic - 30FPS split screen showing constant 30fps versus mismatched 30fps and framepacing issues.
https://youtu.be/UU0dn9pRKuw?t=991
In total war I really like a consistent 30. First, the screen movement while scrolling doesn't match how I naturally move my head. Second, the gap between 30 and 60 feels like about 20% power, which usually means a very tailored setting that gives 30-40 on the campaign map and 40-50 in battle (wh2)
It varies based on the game, individual, and all past experiences with them.
From my perspective, working with 60-144 fps (or 20-60 fps depending on the game) daily over two years on PC and over a decade on console, I see that my consoles gather only dust. It comes down to what else a PC can offer games that makes it my top choice.
I understand this isn’t about comparing consoles versus PC, but it’s relevant here. There’s no single feature a console excels in compared to my PC, which is what really matters to me. You might discover something better, but for now, 30 fps isn’t unplayable—it just feels like lowering the experience you’re getting. People differ in their tastes, personalities, and financial situations.
I favor a steady 45 fps more than 50-60 fps with inconsistent frame rates. It really depends on various factors; higher fps is preferable in competitive games (though I played Dota 2 mostly at 40-60 fps and it worked perfectly)
Most of the time, overall fps is important for me, especially in first-person games, particularly fast-paced ones. For instance, in Cities: Skylines even at 20 fps feels quite manageable.
Since 30 FPS has consistently felt slow to me. Even at that speed, you still notice the stutters (theoretically). For me, I rely solely on my own experience. The gap between 30 and 60 to 100 to 200 FPS is massive. When I reach 200-300 FPS, it feels almost perfect, smooth and flawless. At lower numbers, around 30 or below, everyone knows it's frustrating.
So while I used to aim for 30 FPS, it was mainly because I was a beginner with limited resources. I could say "30 FPS is enough for the human eye anyway"—but in reality, I just couldn't afford better. 30 FPS no longer fits my needs. I don’t even imagine playing a game at that speed... probably I’d just pick another title or upgrade my setup.
While it could be advantageous
for competitive games, it's the ideal
for games that demand accuracy, precision and timing. Consider The Witcher 3 or Shadow of Mordor/War. These titles I believe aren't exactly competitive games. What you can achieve with your sword is significantly more satisfying at higher FPS levels. I say the same about driving games, even outside competition. Driving in GTA 5 at 90+ fps offers the most immersive experience. 60 is acceptable but reaching 90+ provides a similar thrill to a roller coaster as you go faster. Driving at 30 fps then feels sluggish and slow, just like using a sword in The Witcher 3 and Shadow of War. Scroll to the 1:01 mark of this video. It would be interesting if there was a third camera showing 90 fps or a fourth camera showing 120 fps (YouTube only supports up to 60 fps). Higher FPS makes everything feel more realistic, particularly when speed increases.