Redfall, the highly anticipated vampire shooter from Arkane and Bethesda, is finally receiving its biggest update following a disastrous launch in May. The second major patch for the multiplayer game will introduce the long-awaited 60 frames-per-second mode on Xbox Series X/S, along with various gameplay improvements and bug fixes.
In a statement on Bethesda’s website, the development team announced that the update would bring Performance Mode to Xbox Series X/S, as well as add stealth takedowns, new controller settings, and other changes to Redfall. While the addition of the 60fps mode is significant, players are also excited about the inclusion of accessibility features and improvements to stealth gameplay and aiming sensitivity.
However, it remains to be seen whether these updates will be enough to address the deeper disappointment surrounding Redfall’s lackluster enemy encounters and unfulfilling progression system. When the game launched earlier this year, it was met with criticism from both critics and players. Many had expected Redfall to be the long-awaited first-party blockbuster that would put an end to Microsoft’s drought of console exclusives. Unfortunately, the game failed to live up to the months of marketing hype that preceded it.
In addition to performance issues and bugs, players were also frustrated by the game’s core gameplay loop and the lack of a 60fps performance option on the Xbox Series X/S. Redfall launched with a “next-gen” price tag of $70, but without the performance option that PC players had access to. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer apologized for the situation, but a report by Bloomberg later revealed underlying issues with the game’s development.
Developed by Arkane, a studio best known for immersive sims like Prey and Dishonored, Redfall was originally planned as an online multiplayer game with microtransactions as part of a push for live-service monetization by parent company ZeniMax. Although these features were removed, the game’s confusing blend of genres and gameplay mechanics proved challenging for the studio due to a lack of development resources and constant turnover.
Despite the harsh reception, Bethesda marketing head Pete Hines assured players that Redfall would not be abandoned. He expressed hope that new players joining Game Pass in the future would give the game a chance and enjoy it with the ongoing post-launch support. Drawing upon Cyberpunk 2077’s recent success in recovering from a troubled release, many are wondering if Redfall can achieve something similar or if Microsoft will invest the necessary resources to make it happen.
However, Redfall still faces an uphill battle. The game currently has only a few dozen players on Steam at any given moment. Nevertheless, the second update for Redfall is a positive step towards addressing the game’s shortcomings and improving the overall experience for players. Only time will tell if these updates are enough to turn the tide and bring Redfall back into the spotlight.