The base Xbox One is considered the worst platform to play Elden Ring on due to compromised visuals and performance1.
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Compared to the Xbox One X and Xbox Series X, the visual quality and overall detail are significantly reduced on the base Xbox One, resembling a PC running on its lowest settings1. Environmental shadows, grass density, and ambient occlusion are pared back1. For example, the starting area of Limgrave appears barren on Xbox One due to the reduced grass1.
The game typically renders at 900p on Xbox One, whereas the Xbox One X uses a dynamic 1800p. The base PS4 outputs at 1080p1.
While the Xbox One version targets 30fps, it often drops into the low to mid-20s when transitioning from small dungeons to the open world13. Distant enemies' animations are heavily compromised, with extremely low frame rates1.
The base Xbox One narrowly beats PS4 when loading back to a nearby site of grace, with a loading time of around 29 seconds1. However, the Xbox One is the slowest when fast-traveling1.
Digital Foundry's analysis determined that the base Xbox One is the version that should be avoided12. While Elden Ring on the base Xbox One isn't broken like Cyberpunk 2077 was, the experience is significantly better on other platforms1.