Bethesda opens free PS5 Fallout 76 test build to owners

Bethesda will let current Fallout 76 owners on PlayStation download a free native PS5 test build later this month. The developer posted the announcement in a blog outlining the test ahead of a full native PS5 release planned for later this summer.

The test build targets 60 frames per second on both the base PS5 and PS5 Pro. Resolution targets differ by hardware: 4K on PS5 Pro and 1440p on the base PS5. The build adds variable refresh rate support and includes improved draw distances and shadows.

Bethesda described the public test as a way to surface bugs and performance problems before the final launch. The studio will collect reports from testers and address issues flagged by the community to refine stability and performance for the release build.

Anyone who already owns Fallout 76 on PlayStation will be able to download the test build at no extra cost. Bethesda did not provide a specific date for the test build, only that it will arrive later this month, and reiterated the full PS5 update is planned for release later this summer.

The native PS5 edition is intended to deliver smoother frame rates and enhanced visual fidelity on PlayStation hardware. Full 4K output is limited to the PS5 Pro; the standard PS5 is targeted to run at 1440p with a 60 fps goal.

The blog post lists the main technical improvements players can expect in the test build and asks the community to report any remaining issues before the summer release.