We’re not sure this news validates concerns that the Wii U is underpowered, but here it is anyway. Digital Foundry went hands-on with a recent build (most likely the retail copy as the game has gone gold for Japan) of Bayonetta 2, and among some very good impressions about the gameplay they left with one unfortunate fact: it’s currently struggling to maintain a steady 60 frames per second at its base resolution of 720p.
A framerate test they put on showed the game spending a lot of time around a 42 frames per second mark, and even dipping as low as 32-34 frames in some areas. Platinum Games — the developer behind Bayonetta 2 — spent a lot of time talking about targeting 60 frames per second so it’s a bit of a shame that they have yet to reach the mark. Digital Foundry claims this is with the version of the game that has gone gold, which is not hard to believe as the game is due for launch in Japan in about a week’s time.
There are a couple of takeaways here that should wipe away any worry you have, though:
- Digital Foundry still walked away impressed by the overall visuals of the game, so at least there’s a good reason for it to dip below 60 frames per second.
- There is a great possibility that the game’s performance could be improved after launch with a software update.
Even if Platinum Games can’t rectify the issue Bayonetta 2 should turn out to be a fantastic game, and we certainly can’t wait to get our hands on it. Let us know if this is going to be affecting your purchase decision in any way!
