Here are my specs:

Windows 10

Intel i3 CPU 530 @ 2.93GHz (1 socket, 2 cores, 4 Logical processors)

16 GB RAM 1333MHz

SSD hard drive

*Radeon 5700

I have downloaded and installed the game, I am running on the lowest video card settings with the most recent drivers for Windows 10. This scrappy old video card does an admirable job of trying to keep up, but I just think it may not be possible to run this game using it.

The game is playable until I get into large built up areas like around Diamond City, then it starts freezing for long periods and gets jumpy and unplayable.

I suspect my only issue is my video card, but is this something I may be able to fix by playing with the video settings a little more?

I suspect my video card is my only problem in my rig, but are there any things I need to be aware of before wasting money on a new video card?

Thanks!

It is likely your card and to an extent your CPU

Definitely need a new video card. You may also research what CPU you can drop onto your Motherboard at the same time.

With 16 GB of ram, you might get a performance boost by getting ENBfix and ENBboost for Fallout 4 and using the 16 GB ram .ini file settings. Lowering the shadow distance and quality is probably the best way to go for improving your fps in cities.

I'll definitely give those a shot, I've got a tonne of RAM, might as well try to leverage it.