Elden Ring: Removing FPS Cap (60) via Hex Editor and Config Files

Elden Ring is a masterpiece of art and gameplay, but its PC port comes with a restrictive 60 FPS cap that can feel sluggish on modern 144Hz or 240Hz monitors. While FromSoftware locked the framerate to ensure physics stability, many players want to utilize their high-end hardware. This guide will show you how to unlock your framerate using a combination of GraphicConfig.xml tweaks and a safe hex-editing method. Note: Since this involves modifying game files, this process is intended for Offline Mode to avoid any issues with Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC).

Hardware Compatibility & Expectations

  • High-Refresh Monitors: Essential for users with 120Hz, 144Hz, or higher displays to see the benefit.
  • High-End GPUs: RTX 3070 / RX 6800 or better is recommended to maintain stable frames above 60 at 1440p/4K.
  • VRR Users: G-Sync and FreeSync users will experience much smoother frame delivery after unlocking.

Backup and Preparation

Modifying Elden Ring’s executable requires disabling Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) to prevent a ban.

  1. Backup Save Files: Navigate to %AppData%\EldenRing\ and copy your save folder to a safe place.
  2. Backup Executable: Go to the game’s installation folder and copy eldenring.exe. Rename the copy to eldenring.exe.bak.
  3. Disable EAC: You must use a launcher that skips EAC (like “Elden Ring FPS Unlocker”) or rename the EAC executable to run in offline mode.

File Location

There are two main locations we will be working with:

  • Config File: %AppData%\EldenRing\GraphicsConfig.xml
  • Game Executable: ...\SteamLibrary\steamapps\common\ELDEN RING\Game\eldenring.exe

Best Config Settings

First, adjust the XML config to ensure the game doesn’t try to force a specific refresh rate at the driver level:

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?>
<GraphicsConfig>
    <ScreenMode>FULLSCREEN</ScreenMode>
    <Resolution-WindowScreenWidth>1920</Resolution-WindowScreenWidth>
    <Resolution-WindowScreenHeight>1080</Resolution-WindowScreenHeight>
    <RefreshRate>144.000</RefreshRate> <VSync>DISABLE</VSync>
</GraphicsConfig>

The Hex Editor Step:

To manually unlock FPS without third-party software, open eldenring.exe in a Hex Editor (like HxD):

  1. Search for the Hex value: 35 8E E3 3F (This represents 60 FPS).
  2. Replace it with: 00 00 00 00 (This removes the cap).
  3. Note: Using a dedicated tool like “Elden Ring FPS Unlocker” is often safer for beginners.

Key Parameters Explained

ParameterRecommended ValueImpact
ScreenModeFULLSCREENRequired for the engine to prioritize the unlocked framerate.
VSyncDISABLEPrevents the game from locking frames to 60 via Windows DWM.
RefreshRateMonitor RefreshTells the engine which timing interval to use for frame delivery.
EAC StatusDisabledPrevents the anti-cheat from detecting the modified .exe.

In-Game Settings vs. Config

To maintain high FPS after unlocking:

  • Global Illumination: Set to “Medium” (High impact on FPS).
  • Shadow Quality: “Medium” or “High” (Avoid Maximum for better stability).
  • Ray Tracing: Set to OFF. Elden Ring’s Ray Tracing is extremely unoptimized and will likely drop you back below 60 FPS even when unlocked.

Troubleshooting & Common Fixes

  • Game Won’t Start (White Screen): This happens if the Hex edit corrupted the .exe. Restore your eldenring.exe.bak file.
  • Physics Issues: While rare, some players report that physics (like hair or cloth) move slightly faster at 120+ FPS. If this bothers you, cap your FPS at 90 using the NVIDIA/AMD control panel.
  • Online Mode Restricted: You cannot play on official servers with a modified .exe. You must revert to the original files to play online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will I get banned for unlocking FPS?

If you play online with a modified executable, yes, Easy Anti-Cheat will likely flag your account. Always use FPS unlocks in Offline Mode.

Does unlocking FPS affect game speed?

Unlike older FromSoftware titles (like DS1), Elden Ring’s game logic is not strictly tied to the framerate. Moving from 60 to 120 FPS will make the game look smoother without making the character move “twice as fast.”

Is there a way to do this without Hex editing?

Yes, the most popular method is using the “Elden Ring FPS Unlocker and More” utility found on GitHub/Nexus Mods. It handles the EAC bypass and FPS unlocking automatically in memory.

Conclusion and Expected Results

Unlocking the FPS in Elden Ring completely transforms the combat experience, making parrying and dodging feel significantly more responsive. Players with high-end GPUs can expect a solid 100-144 FPS experience depending on the resolution. Just remember to stay offline to keep your account safe!

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