Category: Gaming

  • Surgent Studios’ Dead Take: Sam Lake and Star Cameos Revealed

    Surgent Studios’ Dead Take: Sam Lake and Star Cameos Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date: Dead Take will launch on July 31 for PC on Epic Games Store and Steam.
    2. Star-Studded Cast: The game features actors like Jane Perry and Alana Pearce, known for their roles in popular games.
    3. Cameo Appearances: Notable industry figures, including Laura Bailey and Matthew Mercer, will make cameo appearances.
    4. Engaging Narrative: The story follows Chase Lowry’s quest to find his missing friend, Vinnie Monroe, after a Hollywood party.
    5. Themes of Ambition: The game explores themes of falsehood and ambition in the competitive world of acting.

    Surgent Studios, the minds behind the highly anticipated psychological horror title, Dead Take, has announced a stellar line-up of actors and a confirmed release date. This game is set to launch on July 31 for PC on both the Epic Games Store and Steam. The storyline delves into themes of falsehood and ambition, all taking place within a luxurious mansion in Hollywood Hills.

    Impressive Cast

    Dead Take boasts a remarkable line-up of talented actors, featuring the likes of Jane Perry, recognized for her performances in Dragon Age: The Veilguard and Baldur’s Gate 3. Alana Pearce, famous for her role as Lana in a sidequest of Cyberpunk 2077 and V/H/S Beyond, is also a part of the cast.

    Industry Veterans

    In addition to these leading roles, the game will showcase cameo appearances from notable industry figures such as Laura Bailey, known for her work in The Last of Us: Part II and Spider-Man 2, and Matthew Mercer, who lent his voice to Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth.

    To add to the excitement, Sam Lake, the Creative Director of Remedy Entertainment, recognized for his work on Alan Wake II and Max Payne, will also make a cameo in Dead Take. Furthermore, Connor Marc Colquhoun, a YouTuber and voice artist known as CDawgVA, will join the ensemble as well.

    Engaging Storyline

    The narrative focuses on Chase Lowry, portrayed by Neil Newborn, who embarks on a quest to uncover the mystery of his missing friend, Vinnie Monroe, played by Ben Starr. Vinnie vanishes following a lavish Hollywood party.

    Abubakar Salim, the Creative Director at Surgent Studios, emphasized the importance of having actors who have truly experienced the life of performance. He remarked, “Dead Take is about actors. So we need actors who’ve lived it. It’s a game about the high ambition and the rot underneath it. The lies we tell ourselves to get in the spotlight and the monsters we become to stay there. Everyone in this cast has felt that pressure. This was a chance to bleed it out.”

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  • Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds to Launch Physical Cart on Switch 2 in 2026

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds to Launch Physical Cart on Switch 2 in 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will have a full physical cartridge release for the Nintendo Switch 2, addressing concerns about digital-only releases.
    2. The digital launch is scheduled for Holiday 2025, while the physical version for Switch 2 will arrive in early 2026.
    3. The Standard Edition is priced at $69.99 and the Digital Deluxe Edition at $89.99, with pre-orders for the original Switch starting at $59.99.
    4. Players can upgrade from the original Switch version to the Switch 2 for a fee, rumored to be around $10, allowing progress transfer.
    5. The game features extensive customization options with over 40 vehicles, 70 gadgets, and 100 parts and decals for creating unique vehicles.

    SEGA has revealed that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will be getting a full physical cartridge release for the Nintendo Switch 2. This news eases worries among fans about Nintendo’s tendency to use the Game-Key Card system, which only provides a license to access the game instead of a full physical copy.

    Release Dates for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is set to launch digitally in Holiday 2025. However, those eager to play it on the Switch 2 will have to wait until early 2026 for the physical version. SEGA has assured players that the physical cartridge will include “the full base game on the cartridge.”

    A Win for Collectors

    This announcement is a significant victory for Nintendo Switch 2 owners, especially in a time when digital keys and Game-Key cards are becoming increasingly common. This trend has frustrated many collectors and gamers who wish to own a tangible copy of their favorite games. Although the price for the physical edition of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is still pending, the digital pricing has been confirmed.

    The Standard Edition of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will cost $69.99, and the Digital Deluxe Edition is priced at $89.99. For those who own the original Nintendo Switch, including the Switch OLED and Lite models, pre-orders are now available starting at $59.99.

    Upgrade Options for Players

    Moreover, players who purchase Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on the original Switch will have the opportunity to upgrade to the Switch 2 version for a fee. While the price of the Upgrade Pack has not been officially announced, rumors suggest it could be around $10. This allows players who buy a Nintendo Switch 2 later to transfer their progress without needing to buy a completely new game.

    Pre-orders for the original Switch version are currently open, but SEGA has yet to start pre-orders for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on the Nintendo Switch 2.

    In a recent trailer, SEGA demonstrated how players can combine racers, vehicle components, and gadgets. It appears that the developers are taking customization to new heights in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, offering more than 40 vehicles, 70 gadgets, and over 100 parts and decals. This will enable players to create thousands of unique custom vehicles.

    SEGA’s efforts in enhancing the gaming experience are clearly aimed at providing players with more creative freedom than ever before.

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  • 8BitDo Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard Mecha Break Edition Available Directly

    8BitDo Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard Mecha Break Edition Available Directly

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitDo’s Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard – Mecha Break edition is currently out of stock on Amazon but available on their eShop for $119.99.
    2. Orders from the eShop will begin shipping on July 22nd.
    3. The keyboard includes Dual Super Buttons, a 2.4GHz adapter, 21 additional PBT keycaps, a keycap puller, and three stickers.
    4. UK customers can pre-order the keyboard on Amazon UK for £104.99, with a release date of September 19.
    5. Key features include 87 keys with Kailh Glaze Jellyfish Pro switches, RGB backlight, hot-swappable PCB, and multiple connectivity options.

    8BitDo has launched its Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard – Mecha Break edition, which is up for grabs after a week of pre-orders. Sadly, the Amazon page indicates that the keyboard is currently out of stock. But don’t worry, there’s another option to buy it.

    Purchasing Options

    You can also find this special edition mechanical keyboard on 8BitDo’s eShop, which caters to customers around the world. It carries the same price of $119.99 as the Amazon pre-order listing. Just keep in mind that orders from the eShop won’t start shipping until July 22nd.

    Features and Accessories

    Aside from the shipping delay, the Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard – Mecha Break edition from the eShop is identical to the one on Amazon. It includes 8BitDo’s Dual Super Buttons, a 2.4GHz adapter, 21 additional PBT keycaps, a keycap puller, and three cool stickers.

    Availability in the UK

    While the keyboard is currently out of stock in the US Amazon store, it’s available for pre-order on Amazon UK at a price of £104.99. However, UK customers will have to wait a little longer, as the release date is set for September 19.

    Technical Specifications

    The Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard – Mecha Break edition features 87 keys equipped with Kailh Glaze Jellyfish Pro switches, an RGB backlight, a hot-swappable PCB, and connectivity options that include Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired USB.

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  • 8BitDo Pro 3 Wireless Controller: Nintendo Switch 2 Compatible

    8BitDo Pro 3 Wireless Controller: Nintendo Switch 2 Compatible

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitDo has launched a new wireless controller called the Pro 3, following the Limited Edition Space Grey SN30 Pro for its 12th anniversary.
    2. The Pro 3 features a 2.4 GHz mode and supports wired and Bluetooth connections for multiple devices, including Apple, Android, Nintendo Switch, SteamOS, and Windows.
    3. The controller weighs 242.4 g and has dimensions of 153.6 x 100.5 x 64.5 mm.
    4. The Pro 3 is available for $69.99 in G Classic, Grey, and Purple colors, with charging docks included.
    5. Pre-orders for the Pro 3 began shipping on August 12 from both 8BitDo and Amazon.

    8BitDo has made a comeback with an exciting new controller, just days after launching a Limited Edition Space Grey version of the SN30 Pro to mark its 12th anniversary. This time, the company has refreshed its Pro controller series with the Pro 3, which closely aligns with its recent Ultimate 2 models.

    A Look at the Pro 3

    Interestingly, the Pro 3 is the new wireless controller from 8BitDo that popped up on Amazon a few weeks ago. The Pro 3 brings a 2.4 GHz mode to the table and also supports wired and Bluetooth connections for a variety of devices, including Apple, Android, Nintendo Switch, SteamOS, and Windows. Additionally, this controller packs the following specs into a compact 242.4 g weight and dimensions of 153.6 x 100.5 x 64.5 mm:

    Availability and Pricing

    Although 8BitDo hasn’t yet shared details on its social media accounts, the Pro 3 is already up for grabs directly from 8BitDo or on Amazon, with options in G Classic, Grey, and Purple colors. For those interested, all color variations are priced at $69.99, and they come with charging docks included. As of the time this was written, Pro 3 pre-orders were set to start shipping on August 12 from both 8BitDo and Amazon.

    8BitDo & Amazon (1) (2) (3) via Wario64

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    8BitDo Pro 3 Wireless Controller: Nintendo Switch 2 Compatible8BitDo Pro 3 Wireless Controller: Nintendo Switch 2 Compatible

     

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  • XMG Launches Updated FOCUS 17 Gaming Laptops with RTX 5070 Ti

    XMG Launches Updated FOCUS 17 Gaming Laptops with RTX 5070 Ti

    Key Takeaways

    1. Processor Choices: The XMG FOCUS 17 uses Intel Core i9-13900HX and i9-14900HX processors, opting for older Raptor Lake chips to keep costs in the upper-mid-range while still delivering strong gaming performance.

    2. GPU Performance: It features the Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti mobile GPU, known for its excellent price-performance ratio, equipped with 12 GB of GDDR7 RAM and a maximum TGP of 140 W.

    3. Display Specifications: The laptop boasts a 17.3-inch IPS display with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,440 pixels, a 240 Hz refresh rate, 300 nits brightness, and full coverage of sRGB and extended DCI-P3 color spaces.

    4. Storage and Memory Expandability: The FOCUS 17 includes two M.2 SSD slots supporting PCIe 4.0, and can be expanded up to 96 GB DDR5-5200 or 64 GB DDR5-5600 RAM.

    5. Pricing and Configuration: The starting price for the base model with Core i9-13900HX and RTX 5070 Ti is €1,849, with an option to upgrade to the i9-14900HX for an additional €100.

    XMG / Schenker is bringing back the FOCUS series with a gaming laptop that is quite unique for 2025. After being absent for two years, the FOCUS lineup returns with a strong sub-€2000 model that merges affordable components with cutting-edge technology.

    Unusual Processor Choices

    What catches the eye about this model is its choice of processors. Instead of using the latest Arrow Lake chips, XMG has opted for the Core i9-13900HX and its updated version, the Core i9-14900HX, to maintain pricing in the upper-mid-range category. Both of these Raptor Lake CPUs still provide great gaming performance and are currently more cost-effective compared to the Core Ultra 9 275HX.

    Impressive GPU Performance

    When it comes to graphics, the Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti mobile GPU in the FOCUS 17 offers the best price-performance ratio within all RTX 5000 models. With 12 GB of GDDR7 RAM and a maximum TGP of 140 W, it manages to reach frame rates close to the maximum refresh rate of the display using DLSS4 and MFG.

    The 17.3-Inch Screen

    A striking feature of this year’s Focus laptops is the 17.3-inch size. “Big laptops with a 16:9 display are becoming less common in 2025, especially those with RTX 50 series GPUs. However, we decided to launch the XMG FOCUS 17 (M25) with a 17.3-inch display after receiving numerous requests from customers during the RTX 50 launch,” said Robert Schenker, CEO of Schenker Technologies.

    Quality Display Features

    Regarding the 17.3-inch 16:9 display, XMG includes a top-notch IPS panel featuring a resolution of 2,560 x 1,440 pixels, a 240 Hz refresh rate, and a standard brightness of 300 nits. It covers 100% of both sRGB and extended DCI-P3 color spaces and comes with a MUX switch as well as an FHD webcam with a physical privacy shutter.

    Storage and Memory Options

    In terms of storage, there are two M.2 SSD slots that support PCIe 4.0 X4 speeds. The RAM can be expanded to a maximum of 96 GB DDR5-5200 or 64 GB DDR5-5600 through two SO-DIMM slots. XMG also provides thermal pads for both the SSDs and RAM.

    Connectivity and Ports

    The port selection includes an HDMI 2.1 full bandwidth video output, a GbE jack, a USB-C 3.2 Gen port with DP2.1 (DP 80), and a power connector at the back. The sides are equipped with a USB-A 3.2 Gen2, a USB-A 3.2 Gen1, a 2-in-1 audio jack, and another USB-C 3.2 Gen2 with DP2.1 (DP 80) and PD 100 W support. For wireless connectivity, there’s Wi-Fi 6E or an optional Wi-Fi 7 card.

    Design and Build Quality

    With the new FOCUS 17’s dimensions of 397 x 265.1 x 24.9 mm, there are no design flaws in the keyboard. It comes with a full numeric keypad, full-size arrow keys, a Fn lock function, and customizable multi-color backlighting. The touchpad measures 150 x 90 mm and has a smooth mylar surface. The maximum height of the chassis is 28.6 mm, and the weight is 2.79 kg, including the 73 Wh battery.

    Base Configuration and Pricing

    The base version of the XMG FOCUS 17 (M25) includes an Intel Core i9-13900HX, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti, 16 GB (2x 8) DDR5-5600 RAM, and a 500 GB SSD. The starting price for this configuration is €1,849, which includes 19% VAT. An upgrade to the Intel Core i9-14900HX is available for an additional €100. The Core i9-14900HX will be offered long-term, but the availability of the lower-cost Core i9-13900HX will depend on demand.

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    XMG Launches Updated FOCUS 17 Gaming Laptops with RTX 5070 TiXMG Launches Updated FOCUS 17 Gaming Laptops with RTX 5070 TiXMG Launches Updated FOCUS 17 Gaming Laptops with RTX 5070 TiXMG Launches Updated FOCUS 17 Gaming Laptops with RTX 5070 TiXMG Launches Updated FOCUS 17 Gaming Laptops with RTX 5070 TiXMG Launches Updated FOCUS 17 Gaming Laptops with RTX 5070 Ti
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  • New Skyrim Mod Inspired by BioShock Universe

    New Skyrim Mod Inspired by BioShock Universe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Skyrim modding community remains active and vibrant, with dedicated creators offering new features and experiences.
    2. The new mod, Call of the Deep, transports players to a Dwemer city underwater, reminiscent of BioShock’s Rapture.
    3. The mod includes a fully voiced storyline that immerses players in a captivating adventure.
    4. Players can expect new gameplay elements, including unique weapons, spells, and challenging monsters.
    5. Call of the Deep is available for the Special Edition and Anniversary Edition on PC, and it may be the final project for its creator, arminZX12.

    It’s been a long time since Skyrim first came out—fourteen years, to be exact—and in that time, a ton of mods have been crafted by passionate fans. Recently, though, a truly amazing mod has surfaced that transports players to a world that feels a lot like BioShock.

    A Thriving Community

    The community surrounding Skyrim is still very much alive, with many mod creators from all corners of the globe ready to share their skills with gamers, bringing in fresh and exciting features. Some mods are so well-developed that they can easily be compared to downloadable content (DLC), providing players with new and thrilling quests filled with unexpected turns and experiences that are hard to find elsewhere.

    A Unique Adventure Awaits

    This new mod, named Call of the Deep and crafted by the skilled arminZX12, invites you to explore a long-lost Dwemer city that lies deep underwater, echoing the vibes of Rapture from BioShock. The mod is fully voiced, ensuring that players can immerse themselves in a captivating storyline packed with mystery and adventure.

    Fresh Features and Challenges

    There’s more to this mod than just the story; it also introduces gameplay elements that Skyrim players have never seen before. You’ll have access to new weapons and spells, along with special items like alchemist accessories. With a mod this extensive, expect to encounter new monsters and formidable bosses that will surely test your skills.

    If you’re ready to dive into these exciting new waters and explore a fresh realm within your beloved game, you can grab it from Nexus Mods. Keep in mind, though, that this mod is only available for the Special Edition and the Anniversary Edition on PC. Additionally, this might be arminZX12’s final project as a modder, making it a perfect opportunity for him to finish on a high note.

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  • Battlefield 6 Class System Overhaul: Key Criticism Persists

    Battlefield 6 Class System Overhaul: Key Criticism Persists

    Key Takeaways

    1. DICE is returning to a classic class setup for Battlefield 6, focusing on clear roles and teamwork.
    2. The new class system includes customizable Training Paths and unique signature elements for each class.
    3. Community feedback has been largely positive, with players appreciating DICE’s responsiveness to concerns.
    4. A major point of contention remains the lack of restrictions on weapon choices, which some believe undermines class identity.
    5. Despite recent improvements, doubts linger about whether DICE can fully regain community trust before the game’s release in March 2026.

    After receiving a lot of backlash for the specialist system in Battlefield 2042, many fans were eager for Battlefield 6 to return to the classic class setup. This setup features clear roles, specific duties, and emphasizes teamwork. On May 21, DICE shared the first details about the new class system. While many welcomed this approach, it also led to some criticism. After testing in the Battlefield Labs, DICE provided a detailed update on Reddit on July 14, which included some unexpectedly significant changes.

    New Class System Overview

    DICE’s new class system consists of two main components: customizable Training Paths and signature elements unique to each class. With this framework, the aim is to find a balance between clearly defined roles and the loadout customization that players expect from modern shooters. Here’s a brief rundown:

    Developers have also made critical updates to the functionality of each class and implemented numerous balancing adjustments to create a more refined gameplay experience that encourages team play.

    Community feedback

    On Reddit, a lot of players shared their positive reactions to the updates and recognized DICE’s efforts to listen to the community. Comments like “This is a big step in the right direction” indicate that not all trust in the developers has been lost. However, a significant issue still lingers: the lack of restrictions on weapon choices. This decision faced backlash in May and continues to be a point of contention. Many gamers believe that fixed weapon assignments are vital for maintaining class identity and promoting effective teamwork. The ability to select any weapon also brings back memories of the disliked specialist system from Battlefield 2042, which blurred traditional role boundaries.

    Looking Ahead

    Even with DICE’s swift response and the numerous positive changes, there remains an air of doubt. It’s unclear whether the studio can genuinely regain the long-term trust of its community, and only time will tell. EA has stated that Battlefield 6 is set to launch no later than March 2026.

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  • Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition Launches with DLC and Reviews

    Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition Launches with DLC and Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release and Pricing: Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition is available on Steam starting July 15, 2025, for $19.99.

    2. System Requirements: The game has low system requirements, needing an Intel Core i3-6100, a 2 GB graphics card, 8 GB of RAM, and 7 GB of storage.

    3. New Content: The update includes eight new unit types, four new lords, two historical campaigns, and four trails, along with plans for future DLC.

    4. Free Updates: Players can expect free updates in autumn and winter, adding new lords, campaigns, maps, and custom lord design features.

    5. Reception: The game received a Metascore of 81, but criticism includes unwieldy controls and the lack of modern control groups, maintaining a somewhat outdated interface.

    Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition is now available on Steam starting today, July 15, 2025, for $19.99. This updated version of the 23-year-old strategy game is not demanding on system requirements, needing just an Intel Core i3-6100 processor, a graphics card with 2 GB of video memory, 8 GB of RAM, and 7 GB of available storage.

    New Content and Features

    In addition to improved graphics and technical aspects, Firefly Studios is introducing a lot of fresh content. This includes eight new unit types, four new lords, two historical campaigns, and four trails. A recent video shared by the developers outlined their plans for upcoming updates and paid downloadable content (DLC). They intend to release two expansion packs, one in autumn and another in winter, with each pack bringing two new lords and a new trail.

    Free Updates Ahead

    Even more exciting are the upcoming free updates. In the autumn, players will receive a new lord, an economic campaign, and several multiplayer maps at no charge. Then in winter, gamers can look forward to an additional co-op campaign, new maps, and the ability to design custom lords, complete with unique behaviors and castle designs. Meanwhile, early reviews are starting to emerge for Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition.

    Reception and Criticism

    The game has received a Metascore of 81 out of 100, which indicates a generally positive reception, but not without some reservations. According to GameStar’s review, one of the main critiques is the unwieldy controls, which can disrupt the fast-paced gameplay. It’s important to note that modern control groups for units and buildings are noticeably missing from this Definitive Edition. The remaster stays true to the original game, as evidenced by its somewhat outdated user interface.

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    Stronghold Crusader: Definitive Edition Launches with DLC and Reviews
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  • Steam Deck Unofficial Lossless Scaling Plugin Promises 3x FPS Boost

    Steam Deck Unofficial Lossless Scaling Plugin Promises 3x FPS Boost

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new plug-in for the Steam Deck enables real-time frame generation, potentially doubling or tripling frame rates in various games, including significant improvements in titles like Elden Ring and Shadow of the Colossus.

    2. The plug-in is based on LSFG-VK, a Linux compatibility layer, but its creator, PancakeTAS, has distanced themselves from the Decky version, highlighting concerns about visual glitches and default settings.

    3. User reactions are mixed; while many praise the plug-in for its performance and ease of use, some report issues like input lag and amplified frame drops.

    4. The plug-in supports multiple graphics APIs (DirectX and Vulkan) and does not require changes to game files, making it accessible for users willing to purchase the Lossless Scaling app.

    5. The community has a history of friction over open-source collaborations, raising questions about proper acknowledgment and sharing practices within the gaming development space.

    A recent plug-in created by the community is said to be enabling real-time frame generation on the Steam Deck, causing some quiet debates in the gaming community. This plug-in, made for Decky Loader, adds Lossless Scaling Frame Generation (LSFG) directly into the SteamOS Gaming Mode. This means players could possibly double or even triple their frame rates in a wide range of games, from modern AAA releases to emulating PS2 classics. Early tests show that Elden Ring can jump from 30–40 FPS to about 80–90 FPS, while Shadow of the Colossus, when emulated, seems to exceed 100 FPS.

    Development Background

    This plug-in is built on LSFG-VK, a Linux compatibility layer created by PancakeTAS, who has since distanced themselves from the Decky version. In a message on Discord, they mentioned, “I was not involved in this Decky plugin… Please don’t judge LSFG‑VK based on this.” They criticized the standard 30% flow scale for leading to visual glitches and pointed out that performance mode is turned off by default, which they believe isn’t ideal for the Steam Deck’s hardware.

    User Reactions

    Despite these concerns, excitement is buzzing on Reddit, although many users are cautious about potential issues. One user, TheBLKMN, praised the plug-in’s straightforwardness and its performance, stating: “10/10, it just works. Don’t notice much visually, there is some slight lag felt, but that’s to be expected… Make the harder to run games look smoother, which is all I wanted!” Another user, soft‑tack, called LSFG “freaking amazing,” referring to it as “magic launch commands” that allow the Deck to achieve a DLSS-level of smoothness.

    A Word of Caution

    Nonetheless, some users have voiced concerns about its drawbacks. Fast_Trigger commented: “Input lag and artefacts are what killed it for me.” Similarly, Snowmobile2004 pointed out, “Lossless scaling can’t remove frame drops; if anything, it’ll amplify existing ones 2×.”

    Even with these critiques, the plug-in seems to be popular due to its ease of usage. It supports DirectX 9–12, Vulkan, and OpenGL, works with non-Steam games, and requires no changes to game files. To get started, users only need to purchase the Lossless Scaling app from Steam ($6.99), install the plug-in via Decky Loader, and set launch options for each game.

    Community Dynamics

    This situation isn’t the first instance of open-source collaborations causing friction. The community has faced similar issues before, such as Proton-GE being repackaged without acknowledgment, or GOverlay overlapping with MangoHUD without proper syncing. The ongoing question remains: when does sharing cross into the territory of stepping on others’ toes?

    Members of r/SteamDeck and the Decky Loader Discord recommend adjusting a few settings, like setting Flow Scale to 85–100%, turning on Performance Mode, and using a 2× FPS multiplier to find the right mix of responsiveness and visual clarity. For a detailed guide, check out the walkthrough video below—it’s definitely worth watching.

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    Steam Deck Unofficial Lossless Scaling Plugin Promises 3x FPS Boost
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  • Switch 2 Update Enhances Backward Compatibility Features

    Switch 2 Update Enhances Backward Compatibility Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Some original Switch titles, like Portal 2, faced crashes and stability issues on the Switch 2 before the firmware update.
    2. Firmware version 20.2.0 fixes Parental Control transfer issues, network search problems, and enhances system stability.
    3. The update has improved backward compatibility, resolving issues for games like Portal 2 and Crypt of the Necrodancer.
    4. User feedback indicates that games such as Age of Calamity and Slay the Spire are performing better, while Borderlands 3 still has bugs.
    5. Clearer patch notes detailing specific fixes would be beneficial for users.

    Some original Switch titles have faced problems while running on the Switch 2, including crashes and stability issues. One notable case is Portal 2, which would frequently crash after it was updated. However, with the new firmware update, Nintendo appears to have tackled some of these compatibility challenges, although the patch notes remain quite limited.

    Firmware Update Release

    Nintendo rolled out firmware version 20.2.0 which, per the official patch notes, resolves the issue where Parental Control settings were not transferring from the original Switch to the Switch 2 during system migration. It also fixes the problem of getting stuck on the “Searching for networks” screen and enhances overall system stability. What’s not mentioned is the improved backward compatibility for certain titles.

    Compatibility Improvements

    Data miner OatmealDome observed that the update has resolved the crashing issue for Portal 2 on the Switch 2. The Nintendo eShop has also been modified to confirm that the game is compatible with the Switch 2. Another user pointed out that Crypt of the Necrodancer is now functioning, and its store page, which previously marked the game as unsupported for the Switch 2 until July 8 (as per a Wayback Machine snapshot), now indicates “Supported – Game behavior is consistent with Nintendo Switch.”

    User Feedback

    Various users have reported that games like Age of Calamity and Slay the Spire are now performing well too. However, not every game has seen improvements, as Borderlands 3 continues to have bugs, noted by a commenter on OatmealDome’s post.

    Overall, it’s encouraging that Nintendo is making efforts to enhance the stability and compatibility of some original Switch games with the Switch 2. Nevertheless, it would be more beneficial if the patch notes included clearer details about what specific fixes were implemented.

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