Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 has lifted its earlier requirement for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) monitors to access 120Hz performance mode on Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5. The developers announced through the Season 1 update that all consoles with 120Hz displays can now run the game at 120Hz, regardless of VRR support.
Before the update, players needed VRR-capable monitors to achieve the 120Hz performance mode on these consoles, a decision that drew criticism from users without such hardware. Responding to the feedback, the studio removed this limitation while advising that VRR monitors still provide the best experience.
Season 1 Update Enables 120Hz on All 120Hz Displays Without VRR
The Season 1 patch notes state, “We have opened up ‘Performance Mode (120Hz)’ for all PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X|S players with 120Hz displays, regardless of VRR support. For the best experience, VRR is recommended.” This change means that any Xbox or PlayStation console paired with a 120Hz monitor or TV can now access the higher framerate mode previously restricted by VRR requirements.
This update impacts console players directly by removing a hardware limitation that previously affected some users’ ability to play Modern Warfare 4 at higher refresh rates. It facilitates smoother gameplay on a broader range of displays without forcing players to upgrade their monitors.
Implications for Xbox and PlayStation Players
Modern Warfare 4 launched requiring VRR to access 120Hz on consoles, an unconventional approach given many players lack VRR-enabled displays. The reversal aligns the game with more typical performance mode implementations, benefiting players on both Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 platforms.
While VRR support can still enhance the visual experience by reducing screen tearing and stuttering, its removal as a strict requirement allows more players to enjoy 120Hz gameplay on their existing setups. This adjustment may influence how competitive multiplayer performs across different hardware configurations.
Modern Warfare 4 recently experienced a notable sales decline of 32%, though it remains to be seen if this update or upcoming Season 1 content will affect player engagement or sales trajectories.
The Season 1 update is currently live, so Xbox and PlayStation players can immediately benefit from this change. No further platform-specific changes to the refresh rate mode were reported as part of the patch.
