Tag: Overwatch 2

  • Overwatch Switch 2 Upgrade Runs at 30fps, Blizzard Plans Performance Patch

    Overwatch Switch 2 Upgrade Runs at 30fps, Blizzard Plans Performance Patch

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Overwatch Switch 2 upgrade is underperforming, with the game only running at half the advertised frame rate and worse image clarity.
    2. There is confusion among players about whether the correct update was uploaded, and Blizzard has acknowledged the FPS issue, promising a future patch.
    3. Despite the upgrade, the new version appears to lack significant improvements, although some features like HD Rumble and interface changes suggest a possible new release.

    Initial Performance Concerns with Overwatch 2 on Switch 2

    Many gamers were excited about the improved specs that the Switch 2 offers, which are supposed to give games like Overwatch 2 a graphics upgrade that rivals other gaming platforms. But, unfortunately, the launch has been quite disappointing. The free-to-play Overwatch 2 upgrade for the Switch 2 was promised to run at smooth 60 fps, whether in docked or handheld mode. Instead, it is only managing to hit about half that, causing frustration among players.

    Graphics and Frame Rate Limitations

    The previous version of Overwatch 2, which was released during early access on the original Switch back in 2022, had modest graphics. The game’s visuals did not compare favorably with newer consoles like the PS5, Xbox Series X, or powerful PCs. When the upgrade for the Switch 2 was announced, many expected that the game would showcase significantly better visuals with higher frame rates. But, in reality, as the new season begins, the game still runs sluggish at 30 fps, and players are even reporting that the picture quality appears to be worse than before.

    Players’ Observations and Speculations

    Some users on forums and social media suggest they might be downloading an incorrect version of the game, which may explain some of the issues. In particular, posts from Reddit mention that features like HD Rumble and a new control scheme appear to be functional, and some speculate that the visuals could be rendered at a higher resolution. But not all gamers are convinced, and confusion remains about whether the properly optimized update was actually released or uploaded to the eShop.

    Blizzard Official Response and Future Updates

    Blizzard has finally acknowledged the problem, mainly the lower-than-expected FPS on the Switch 2. On their official forums, they stated: “We are aware of an issue with the FPS limit on the Nintendo Switch 2 being lower than intended. We are working on a patch to resolve this issue.” Players are hopeful that these performance issues will be addressed shortly, with an upcoming fix promised soon.

    What the Future Holds for Switch 2 Gamers

    When the performance issues are sorted out, the Switch 2 could become a very appealing portable for shooters. Games like EA’s Apex Legends are already running at the desired 60 fps, creating a benchmark for what’s achievable. Rumors also hint at other big titles like Call of Duty making its way to the system, which could further boost its appeal. Moreover, the enhanced Handheld Mode Boost feature may improve performance for games that aren’t yet perfectly optimized specifically for this console.

    Sources
    Tags: , , , ,
  • 3000-Hour LG OLED Monitor Burn-In Test: Minor Defects Found

    3000-Hour LG OLED Monitor Burn-In Test: Minor Defects Found

    Key Takeaways

    1. Burn-in Issues: The LG UltraGear 32GS95UV monitor showed noticeable burn-in after 3000 hours of use, primarily due to static elements from games like Overwatch 2.

    2. Test Conditions: The test involved continuous use of the monitor for 125 days at high brightness settings, with standard preventive measures in place.

    3. Impact of Gaming: A significant amount of pixel degradation occurred after only 400 hours of gameplay, highlighting the risks of prolonged exposure to static images.

    4. User Experience: Despite visible burn-in, many users may not notice the effects during regular use, and the vibrant display quality may outweigh concerns about wear.

    5. Preventive Measures: OLED screens have built-in protection features, but users are advised to enable dark modes and avoid static content to minimize burn-in risk.

    As OLED displays have become more common, their long-term performance has started to show. A recent burn-in test from the well-known Optimum YouTube tech channel revealed that after 3000 hours of usage, some noticeable permanent damage appeared on the LG gaming monitor. However, it’s likely that many users wouldn’t see these issues unless they looked very closely.

    Test Details

    The monitor used for testing was the LG UltraGear 32GS95UV, which features a dual-mode WOLED panel. Optimum assessed the device after two years, with the 3000 hours translating to 125 days of non-stop use. Brightness settings were kept between 80% and 100%, with the default preventive measures from the manufacturer. The YouTuber also set the Windows taskbar to autohide and instructed the operating system to turn off the display after 15 minutes of inactivity.

    Usage Scenarios

    The screen was occupied with various productivity and editing applications, while Overwatch 2 served as the main entertainment source. Interestingly, it was discovered that the Blizzard game caused most of the pixel degradation. A mere 400 hours of gameplay was sufficient to create lasting marks on the LG monitor.

    To check for defects, the burn-in test utilized solid gray and colorful patterns. Among the results, a faint health bar from the hero shooter was visible in the lower-left corner of the screen. Players with OLED monitors have reported facing similar problems due to the numerous static indicators.

    User Experience

    Since the traces of the game’s user interface are often not noticeable during regular use, Optimum feels comfortable continuing to use the 32-inch UltraGear. The advantages, such as vibrant colors and rich blacks, might justify some wear over time. However, the channel warns that experiences can vary for different users.

    OLED screens have built-in protection methods like pixel shifting and cleaning to help prevent burn-in. Still, high-contrast elements that stay still on the screen can lead to clearer imperfections. It’s smart to enable dark mode in Windows and as many applications as possible as a precaution.

    The severity of burn-in is also a matter of personal opinion, as seen in the comments section of the YouTube video. Gamers who spend extended hours playing Overwatch feel that the damage appeared too quickly for comfort.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Overwatch 2 Update Wins Back Players After Marvel Rivals Release

    Overwatch 2 Update Wins Back Players After Marvel Rivals Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Overwatch 2 has seen improved player reviews and increased numbers following the Season 15 update released on February 18th.
    2. The return of loot boxes allows players to earn cosmetics without spending real money, with up to three boxes available weekly.
    3. New gameplay perks have been introduced to keep the game engaging and change tactical plans during matches.
    4. Player ratings on Steam have risen from 17% to 23% since the Season 15 patch, reflecting a positive reception.
    5. Despite challenges from Marvel Rivals, Overwatch 2 remains a strong franchise, attracting players back after major updates.

    More than many other games, Overwatch 2 has been affected by the Marvel Rivals situation. As some players have been missing certain features that were highly requested, a few have turned their attention to the alternative from NetEase Games. Nevertheless, the update for Season 15 in Overwatch 2 has, at least for the moment, led to better reviews on Steam and an increase in player numbers.

    Important Updates in Overwatch 2

    The recent patch for Overwatch 2, released on February 18th, brought notable changes. One of the most significant alterations from the original Overwatch is the absence of loot boxes. While the developers saw this as a positive change, players found it hard to earn cosmetics without spending real money. Now, loot boxes have returned to Overwatch 2, allowing committed players to earn up to three boxes weekly, and wins can help speed up this accumulation.

    New Gameplay Features

    Inevitably, without new gameplay elements, shooters can become monotonous. In response to the Marvel Rivals concern, Blizzard introduced new perks in the Overwatch 2 update on February 18th. As players engage in matches, they can unlock both minor and major hero perks that might change tactical plans throughout the game.

    Player Reactions and Trends

    Players should be cautious about jumping to conclusions based on limited data. Still, since the Season 15 patch, Overwatch 2 has seen a rise in favorable Steam reviews. Currently, the game has a rather unimpressive rating of about 23%, though this is a rise from the 17% it had in Spring 2024. Typically, games experience a boost in player activity following major updates. Moreover, player counts on SteamDB for Overwatch 2 have also increased for the first time since the Marvel Rivals launched in December.

    In its own right, Marvel Rivals has faced controversies after NetEase let go of certain American developers. While the game still holds a dominant position with significantly higher user counts on Steam, it has been experiencing a slow decline since its peak in January. Although these patterns might not persist, Overwatch is a well-established franchise, poised to welcome back players who may have drifted away.

    Source:
    Link

    Overwatch 2 Update Wins Back Players After Marvel Rivals Release

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Overwatch 2 x Cowboy Bebop Trailer: New Skins for Cassidy, Ashe, Sombra, Mauga, Hammond

    Overwatch 2 x Cowboy Bebop Trailer: New Skins for Cassidy, Ashe, Sombra, Mauga, Hammond

    Blizzard Entertainment has unveiled the trailer for the highly anticipated collaboration between Overwatch 2 and Cowboy Bebop. Cowboy Bebop, a popular Japanese neo-noir space Western anime that aired in the late 1990s, serves as the inspiration for this exciting crossover.

    New Character Skins Inspired by Cowboy Bebop Crew

    The trailer introduces new character skins in Overwatch 2, each drawing inspiration from the main characters of Cowboy Bebop. Cassidy will sport a skin inspired by Spike Spiegel, complete with a trench coat and a retro-futuristic six-shooter. Similarly, Ashe will take on the persona of Faye Valentine, accompanied by a unique appearance for Bob. Sombra’s skin pays tribute to ED, the anime’s hacking expert, while Mauga’s skin is a nod to Captain Jet Black from Cowboy Bebop. Despite the absence of corgis in Overwatch, Hammond will embody EIN from the anime. Players can also look forward to hearing the iconic Cowboy Bebop theme song, “Tank!,” in the game.

    Release Date and Pricing Details

    These new skins are set to be available on March 12. While Blizzard has not yet disclosed the exact prices, past events such as the collaboration with KPOP group Le Sserafim suggest that individual skins may be priced around $25 (2500 premium coins) each. Additionally, players might have the option to purchase a bundle featuring all the skins at a price of $68 (6800 premium coins). Notably, Blizzard previously lowered the price of the 7500 premium coins pack to $50 during the Le Sserafim crossover, indicating a potential strategy to incentivize players to purchase the complete bundle once again.

    Overwatch 2 x Cowboy Bebop Trailer: New Skins for Cassidy, Ashe, Sombra, Mauga, Hammond
    Tags: