Ninja Gaiden 4 best console graphics mode: Prioritize Frame Rate vs Graphics vs 120 FPS

Ninja Gaiden 4 is out now, and as one of the fastest action games of the year, it benefits from the best possible visuals. Platinum Games has equipped this title with three “Graphic Preset” options on the two primary competing platforms – Xbox Series X and PS5 – but PS5 Pro owners will find four total presets to choose between. The modes you can select are somewhat limited by your display, mind, and the 120 FPS Mode option will only be available when on the title screen.

No matter which console you’re playing Ninja Gaiden 4 on, we’re breaking down the best possible Graphic Preset for your console and display.

Best PS5 graphics mode – NG4

On PS5, we’re going to write off the Graphics mode, as it often runs below 60fps, and can become frustrating for a fast-paced action game.

The Frame Rate preset is very good, maintaining a solid 60fps with decent visual quality.

The 120 FPS Mode, meanwhile, is absolutely faster and sharper than anything else on offer here, and any frame rate drops can be completely covered by a VRR-capable display. However, the lower internal resolution is very clear to see, and shimmering can become distracting.

On a smaller, 1080p120 monitor, the 120 FPS Mode is great, but for playing on a larger display we recommend the Frame Rate mode for the reduction in shimmering.

Best PS5 Pro graphics mode – NG4

On PS5 Pro we do get the same modes the PS5 has available, but with the addition of a Prioritize Frame Rate (Pro) mode. This adds PSSR upscaling while targeting 60fps, and does a great job of maintaining that frame rate target with improved anti-aliasing against the base Frame Rate mode.

As a result, that’s an easy mode to suggest for all players, unless you’re using a smaller display with 120fps support and a lower resolution, in which case the 120 FPS Mode may be right for you.

Best Xbox Series X graphics mode – NG4

The Xbox Series X has all the same modes as the PS5 version of the game, but with the benefit of LFC on 120Hz displays, making the Graphics preset more bearable. Just about. The performance is basically equivalent, too.

However, like on base PS5, we once again recommend the Frame Rate preset unless you’re using a smaller high refresh rate display which would suit the 120 FPS Mode.

Best Xbox Series S graphics mode – NG4

The Xbox Series S retains the Prioritize Graphics and Prioritize Frame Rate modes of the base consoles, but there’s no 120 FPS Mode option — though you won’t need it, as the Series S works flat-out in Frame Rate mode. 

It’s not a great showing, though. While the Frame Rate mode can achieve 60fps, it is unlocked, and often shoots well above that target in slower moments, or below in combat, which is not ideal.

The Graphics preset is worse, mind, with an unlocked frame rate that is regularly below 40fps in and out of combat. We can’t recommend the Graphics present on Series S.

The Frame Rate mode is the obvious winner here, but to ensure a smooth experience you really need a 120Hz display with VRR. Otherwise, it will inevitably be a bit of a mess no matter which mode you choose.