Tag: Steam Deck

  • Rare Steam Deck Prototype Unveiled: One-Third the Power of ROG Ally

    Rare Steam Deck Prototype Unveiled: One-Third the Power of ROG Ally

    Key Takeaways

    1. Engineering Sample 34, a Steam Deck prototype, was sold for $2,000 on eBay and features an AMD Picasso-based APU with 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage.
    2. The prototype was initially uncertain to resurface but was acquired by Bradley Lynch and is now with Bringus Studios for preservation.
    3. Bringus Studios has uploaded a Linux probe and successfully run Bazzite on the prototype, which was finalized in February 2020 but produced in November 2019.
    4. The APU in Engineering Sample 34 is a modified Ryzen 7 3700U, utilizing four Zen+ CPU cores and an integrated Radeon RX Vega 10 GPU with over 5 GB of shared RAM.
    5. The performance of Engineering Sample 34 is about one-third that of the Ryzen Z1 Extreme found in current gaming handhelds, leading to difficulties in running many games.

    Around two months have passed since a unique Steam Deck prototype was sold on eBay. Just to summarize, ‘Engineering Sample 34’ was purchased for $2,000 by an unidentified buyer on eBay. The listing indicated that Valve had been testing the Steam Deck with an AMD Picasso-based APU, along with 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage nearly two years before they released the handheld device we are familiar with today.

    Discovery and Ownership

    Initially, there was uncertainty about whether Engineering Sample 34 would ever surface again. However, the eBay listing was acquired by none other than Bradley Lynch, who runs the SadlyItsBradley YouTube channel. Reportedly found at a Seattle Goodwill, Engineering Sample 34 has now landed in the possession of Bringus Studios, which has begun the process of preserving the device.

    Technical Insights

    For example, Bringus Studios has already uploaded a Linux probe to the internet. Additionally, the YouTuber has succeeded in getting Bazzite to run on the prototype, and you can check out the walkthrough in the video below. While the prototype was finalized in February 2020, it appears Valve actually produced it months earlier in November 2019. Bringus Studios further shows that the APU powering the sample is indeed the Ryzen 7 3700U, though it is a modified version of it.

    Performance Comparison

    Consequently, Engineering Sample 34 utilizes four Zen+ CPU cores along with eight threads and a Radeon RX Vega 10 integrated GPU that has access to just over 5 GB of shared RAM. Therefore, the performance of the prototype is roughly one-third that of the Ryzen Z1 Extreme, which powers contemporary gaming handhelds like the Asus ROG Ally (currently priced at $639.99 on Amazon). It’s not surprising that Engineering Sample 34 has difficulties running many games, even more so than Pierre-Loup Griffais hinted at a few years ago. Be sure to watch the video below for further details.

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    Rare Steam Deck Prototype Unveiled: One-Third the Power of ROG Ally
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  • Chizha Docking Station for Steam Deck: Touchscreen & SSD Space

    Chizha Docking Station for Steam Deck: Touchscreen & SSD Space

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dockcase has launched the Chizha docking solution, designed for gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck.
    2. The docking station features multiple ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, HDMI 2.0, optical audio output, and Gigabit Ethernet.
    3. It supports video output for 4K content at 60 FPS and has two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports and one USB 2.0 port.
    4. The Chizha includes space for an M.2 2280 SSD and a built-in 40mm fan for cooling.
    5. It has a touchscreen for easy adjustments, but pricing and release date details are not yet available.

    Dockcase has introduced a new docking solution called the Chizha. This product is specifically designed for gaming handheld owners, especially those with the Steam Deck. Its design resembles a sleek mountain, providing a secure hold for the Steam Deck while enhancing its storage and connectivity options.

    Versatile Connectivity Options

    Measuring 212.4 x 178.7 x 90.1 millimeters, this docking solution comes with various ports. To begin with, it has a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port for connecting the gaming device. Users can take advantage of HDMI 2.0 for video output, which supports 4K content at 60 FPS. For audio, there is an optical output option. Additionally, a Gigabit Ethernet port is included for those who prefer a wired internet setup. The device also features two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports in both Type A and Type C formats, along with a USB 2.0 port. The docking solution supports USB PD with a power output of 100 watts.

    Enhanced Storage and Cooling

    This docking station can fit an SSD in M.2 2280 format and has a built-in 40mm fan for cooling. It also comes with a touchscreen, allowing for easy setting adjustments. There is no information available yet about the pricing or release date.

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    Chizha Docking Station for Steam Deck: Touchscreen & SSD Space

     

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  • Steam Deck Transformed into Compact Bento Keyboard-PC

    Steam Deck Transformed into Compact Bento Keyboard-PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Innovative Design: Bento is a DIY project that integrates a complete Steam Deck setup within a wireless keyboard, featuring a battery and fan for a compact AR display solution.

    2. Unique Display Method: Instead of a traditional screen, Bento uses display glasses connected via a dongle, keeping the keyboard shell tidy and compact.

    3. Creative Rebuild Process: The creator disassembled a Steam Deck and reconstructed it using a 3D-printed housing, facing challenges with ventilation and component fitting.

    4. Nostalgic Aesthetic: The design has a retro feel, reminiscent of the classic Commodore 64, appealing to fans of vintage tech.

    5. Future Enhancements Planned: The project is ongoing, with plans for interchangeable input modules, improved case design, and a product demo video.

    Reddit user u/michaelthatsit is attracting quite a bit of interest within the Steam Deck modding scene with an innovative and tidy DIY project known as Bento. At first, it appears to be just a regular wireless keyboard. However, when you open it up, you’ll find a complete Steam Deck setup inside, including a fan, a battery, and everything needed to power a wearable AR display.

    Unique Display Solution

    Rather than utilizing a conventional screen, Bento employs a pair of display glasses that receive video through a dongle located within the case. This design choice keeps the keyboard shell neat and compact. Additionally, the overall layout showcases some smart design choices. For instance, there’s a specially carved area on the right side that functions as a “bento” tray for the dongle and potentially for future mouse attachments.

    Creative Rebuild Process

    To achieve this design, the creator completely disassembled a Steam Deck and reconstructed it into a two-part 3D printed housing. Ventilation was added to both the top and right sides, although it is said that cooling might still be an issue due to limited space—a problem the designer intends to fix in the next version.

    Most of the build was designed and refined using Shapr3D, with numerous failed prints during the process. Components were obtained from eBay, and the entire idea originated from observing how well the internals of a Steam Deck could fit within the dimensions of a keyboard. The design has a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of the classic Commodore 64.

    Future Developments on the Horizon

    What’s fascinating is that this project is still in the works, with hints of future improvements such as interchangeable input modules and a more robust case for the electronics. There are also plans for a product-style demo video once everything is finalized.

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  • New Puzzle-Platformer Game Launches on Steam with Discount and Positive Rating

    New Puzzle-Platformer Game Launches on Steam with Discount and Positive Rating

    Key Takeaways

    1. Popucom is a cooperative puzzle-platformer game launched on Steam on June 1, receiving a “Very Positive” rating.
    2. The gameplay focuses on color-based puzzles and requires teamwork, with options for online and local split-screen co-op.
    3. Players encounter both match-3 style puzzles and more complex environmental challenges that require cooperation and clever thinking.
    4. While combat is not the primary focus, the game includes quick skirmishes and boss battles, set in a visually captivating world.
    5. Popucom features a colorblind mode and has been praised for its art style and engaging gameplay, though there are compatibility issues with the Steam Deck.

    Popucom is a vibrant new platformer game that focuses on cooperative play and teamwork. Released on Steam on June 1, the game has quickly gained a notable “Very Positive” rating. The main gameplay mechanics of Popucom center around color, and the developers have introduced several unique features to differentiate it from other games in the genre. The price of Popucom is quite reasonable, available for $17.99 after a 10% discount for its launch on Steam.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    At its heart, Popucom is a traditional puzzle-platformer that requires players to solve puzzles in their environment while navigating a colorful world to progress. Importantly, Popucom is designed solely for co-op play, requiring players to either connect in an online party or set up a split-screen session for local co-op — making it an excellent choice for families. The puzzles often follow a familiar match-3 pattern, where positioning or moving objects correctly is essential for advancement. However, players will also encounter more complex environmental puzzles that demand cooperation, timing, and clever thinking to overcome. In addition to color-based challenges, players will gather various items that are crucial for solving certain puzzles or removing barriers.

    Combat and Environment

    Although combat isn’t the primary aspect of Popucom, there’s still plenty of action, ranging from quick enemy skirmishes to intense boss battles reminiscent of bullet-hell games. As you navigate this odd new planet, you’ll encounter a variety of foes while working to “restore the world to its former glory.” Visually, Popucom is captivating, featuring somewhat simplistic character and environment designs, all set against stunning views of the expansive sky.

    Reception and Compatibility

    Even though Popucom just launched on Steam a week ago, it has already made a significant impression, with around 1,000 reviews submitted and a “Very Positive” rating. Many reviews highlight Popucom’s delightful art style, engaging and original gameplay, challenging puzzles, and the unexpected addition of a colorblind mode, which has been well received.

    The early access demo of Popucom was compatible with the Steam Deck, but it seems there were issues when the full game launched. Therefore, those wanting to play on-the-go may need to consider alternatives such as the Lenovo Legion Go (currently $699.99 from Lenovo US) or the Asus ROG Ally.

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  • New Open-World Survival Game: Space Minecraft with Pirates

    New Open-World Survival Game: Space Minecraft with Pirates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cubic Odyssey combines Minecraft-style gameplay with an outer space setting, featuring resource gathering, mining, and crafting mechanics.
    2. The game includes RPG elements like character customization, skill development, and new crafting recipes.
    3. Players face a galactic threat called The Red Darkness, which they can choose to fight against or coexist with.
    4. It offers both single-player and co-op modes, and is compatible with the Valve Steam Deck and other devices.
    5. Community feedback is generally positive, with the developer actively releasing patches and a roadmap to improve the game experience.

    If you enjoy Minecraft and the open-world survival genre, then Cubic Odyssey could be worth checking out. This new game on Steam takes the familiar Minecraft formula and expands it with various features inspired by other well-liked gaming styles. You can get Cubic Odyssey on Steam for $24.99, but there’s also a free demo available for those who want to try it out without spending their hard-earned cash.

    Gameplay Overview

    Cubic Odyssey can be described as “Minecraft in space,” showcasing a combination of blocky art in a scenic open world. However, it’s more than just that. The game offers resource gathering, mining, and crafting mechanics similar to the original survivalcraft games. Like the ambitious claims from games such as No Man’s Sky, the developers assert that every planet visible can be landed on, explored, mined, and settled by players. Additionally, Cubic Odyssey provides “RPG-like depth,” enabling character customization, skill development, and new crafting recipes for upgrades and gear to enhance your adventures in space.

    Unique Features

    What sets Cubic Odyssey apart is its outer space setting, incorporating storytelling elements and presenting players with a galactic threat. Known as The Red Darkness, this threat is an interplanetary plague that “mutates wildlife, consumes planets, and jeopardizes all life.” As expected in an open-world survival game, players can choose to fight against The Red Darkness or simply coexist with it. The game also introduces mechanics beyond just being a Minecraft clone, such as interactions with other civilizations on alien worlds and encounters with space pirates during your travels.

    Cubic Odyssey offers both single-player and co-op modes, with options for LAN and online multiplayer. It is fully compatible with the Valve Steam Deck and has a Platinum ProtonDB rating, meaning it runs smoothly on devices like the Lenovo Legion Go (currently priced at $699.99 from Lenovo US).

    Community Feedback

    The reviews for Cubic Odyssey aren’t as glowing as some recent titles we’ve discussed, but they still present a generally positive outlook. Common issues mentioned include minor bugs, slow late-game progression, and a challenging resource grind. However, the game shines with enjoyable mobility through cruisers and land-speeders, a creative concept, and a lot of fun in the crafting aspects. The developer seems committed to improving the game experience, having released five patches or hotfixes within two weeks of launch to address major concerns. They’ve also published a roadmap that takes community feedback into account and outlines plans to resolve many ongoing issues.

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  • Nvidia GeForce Now Delivers Smooth Gameplay on Steam Deck

    Nvidia GeForce Now Delivers Smooth Gameplay on Steam Deck

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cloud Gaming Access: GeForce Now allows Steam Deck users to access a wide range of PC games from various platforms, including Epic, Xbox, and Ubisoft, all from one app.

    2. Performance Consistency: The service maintained 60 FPS during gameplay, even under significant lag, with a typical ping of 45-50 milliseconds and minimal input lag.

    3. Extended Battery Life: GeForce Now offers a 50% increase in battery life on the Steam Deck, providing nearly 5 hours of gameplay compared to 3 hours with a standard game.

    4. Fast Game Load Times: Games loaded quickly, with GeForce Now often outperforming the Steam Deck in load times by 3-5 seconds, making the experience smoother.

    5. Family Account Limitations: Users with family accounts on platforms like Steam may face issues with automatic library sync, requiring potential workarounds for accessing family-shared games.

    All tests for this review were done on a Steam Deck LCD using the Southwest GeForce Now servers.

    GeForce Now on Steam Deck

    Nvidia GeForce Now allows gamers to play all their favorite titles via the cloud, and its arrival on the Steam Deck might just transform the typical Steam Deck experience for launching games from various app stores. Users can connect their Epic, Xbox, Battle.net, Ubisoft, and Steam accounts, giving Steam Deck owners access to a large portion of the PC gaming libraries all from one application. We conducted numerous tests, assessing everything from graphics to input lag, and Nvidia performed exceptionally well across the board. The service maintained 60 FPS for every stream, even during moments of significant lag. In my own testing, I experienced a ping of 45-50 milliseconds for most of my gaming session, particularly during my Performance Day Pass, and surprisingly, I didn’t encounter any significant issues! Nvidia even sent me a warning before each stream that didn’t meet its optimal ping, but I only faced problems when my ping surpassed 60 milliseconds.

    Improved Battery Life

    Furthermore, Nvidia claims a 50% increase in battery life, and honestly, this claim holds true. With the same performance and display settings, Balatro ran for 3 hours on a full charge, whereas GeForce Now provided nearly 5 hours of gameplay. Before this review, I didn’t even know Nvidia’s GeForce Now app existed. Now, I’m genuinely thinking about getting a 6-month Performance subscription, especially with the ongoing summer sale — a fantastic deal for anyone interested in following suit.

    Game Performance and Compatibility

    During my Performance Day test on the Steam Deck, I played main titles like Genshin Impact, Marvel Rivals, Monster Hunter World, and Balatro. Each of these games consistently maintained 60 FPS, even at lower Wi-Fi speeds. In terms of input lag, I noticed no significant difference, even in the more demanding games I tried; everything felt very responsive, and without the performance overlays, I might have forgotten I was streaming. With automatic library syncing for all platforms except Epic Games Store, Nvidia GeForce Now complements my Heroic Games Launcher perfectly, filling in most gaps for PC gaming on my Steam Deck (Heroic Games Launcher manages GOG, Epic, and Amazon Prime game launches). Additionally, every game loaded quickly and smoothly during my Performance Day tests, taking no longer than a typical launch from the library. I timed both Balatro and Monster Hunter World, and Balatro only took an average of about 2.5 seconds longer than a regular launch, which feels hardly noticeable compared to the usual 5-6 seconds my Steam Deck typically requires. Unless the game is particularly demanding, GeForce Now frequently outperforms the Steam Deck by at least 3-5 seconds in load times.

    Family Account Limitations

    One downside is for users with family accounts on platforms like Steam; unfortunately, those games don’t benefit from the automatic library sync. I haven’t fully tested a workaround mentioned on Reddit, but some users in online forums have claimed success in getting games from their Steam Family Group to work by marking Family Group titles correctly for play.

    GeForce Now presents numerous advantages over alternative gaming methods, especially when compared to a standard Steam Deck experience. For heavier titles, GeForce Now can deliver faster load times and even offers potential 4K 60 FPS streaming on a TV or 1440p at 120 FPS on a monitor, enhancing what the Steam Deck typically provides. For games that are beginning to show the Steam Deck’s limitations, this app might ultimately offer a superior experience, relying solely on a stable internet connection to maximize your Steam Deck’s capabilities.

    Getting Started with GeForce Now

    For those interested in playing, visit Nvidia’s download page and scroll down to your preferred device to download and follow the instructions. For games like Genshin Impact, using the Steam Template with Keyboard (WASD) and Mouse is often more effective on the Steam Deck, with some minor adjustments needed through the tutorial. After that, head into the game’s controller settings to connect an external controller. To find the Steam Template for Keyboard (WASD) and Mouse, go to your controller settings on Steam, select community layouts, and browse templates until you locate it. I found this setup to provide the best experience compared to Nvidia’s suggested method (which was Gamepad with Mouse Trackpad, for those curious).

    I plan to dive into Baldur’s Gate 3 (a game compatible with mods) as soon as I acquire my pass, and whether you choose to get a subscription or a day pass on GeForce Now, enjoy your gaming! Also, check out our video from Notebookcheck’s Alex Wätzel via the link below!

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  • New Co-op Open-World RPG Blends Cozy Gaming and Monster Hunting

    New Co-op Open-World RPG Blends Cozy Gaming and Monster Hunting

    Key Takeaways

    1. Strong Launch: Fantasy Life i debuted on Steam on May 21, 2025, attracting over 20,000 players and reaching a peak of 49,403 concurrent players in its first week, ranking third on SteamDB’s top sellers chart.

    2. Unique Gameplay: The game combines traditional JRPG elements with resource management, colony building, and a “slow life RPG” experience, allowing players to manipulate their environments.

    3. Engaging Storyline: Players explore a mysterious island, traveling back 1,000 years, and can switch between 14 distinct roles, engaging in activities like fishing, crafting, and battling legendary creatures.

    4. Visual Style: Featuring a Nintendo-style, low-poly aesthetic, the graphics are accessible for a wide range of hardware, requiring only an Nvidia GeForce GTX 750 Ti for minimum performance.

    5. Multiplayer Options: The game supports online multiplayer for up to four players and offline multiplayer for two players, making it a suitable option for portable gaming on devices like the Steam Deck.

    Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time made its debut on Steam on May 21, 2025, and quickly attracted a large fanbase of over 20,000 players. Within its first week, the game reached a peak of 49,403 concurrent players, as reported by SteamDB. This impressive performance placed it third on SteamDB’s top sellers chart for that week and secured the top spot for most concurrent players, all while being priced at $59.99.

    A Unique Gaming Experience

    Described by its developers as a “slow life RPG,” Fantasy Life i offers a broad range of gameplay experiences. It combines elements of traditional JRPGs, such as cooperative monster hunting and open-world exploration, with features like resource management and colony building, allowing players to manipulate their environments.

    An Engaging Storyline

    The narrative of Fantasy Life i resembles that of an isekai anime. Players step into the role of an adventurer who arrives on a mysterious island, eager to discover its secrets. This journey takes them back 1,000 years into the past, to a time when the island’s civilization flourished. Throughout their exploration, players can climb, swim, and ride various mounts, while switching between 14 distinct roles, referred to as “lives.” These roles range from relaxing activities like fishing and gathering resources to more complex tasks like crafting, cooking, and researching, as well as delving into dungeons, solving puzzles, and facing legendary creatures.

    Building Your Own World

    Players can also adopt a broader perspective by settling the island in a manner similar to colony simulation or city-building games. They have the opportunity to construct houses, design their towns, and even reshape the landscape, including moving and creating essential features like rivers and roads. Fantasy Life i also offers players substantial decoration options within their homes, providing various furniture and decor to create a personalized space.

    Visual Style and Performance

    The graphics in Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time lean towards a Nintendo-style, low-poly aesthetic. However, there is a clear artistic vision that aligns with the overall cozy theme of the game. The simple graphics make it accessible for a wide range of hardware, with the minimum recommended GPU being an Nvidia GeForce GTX 750 Ti, which was released over ten years ago.

    Positive Reception

    Steam reviews for Fantasy Life i highlight the game’s flexibility and the abundance of engaging content. Many players commend how well the various gameplay elements come together, despite the game’s wide scope. Progression is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, with many users expressing that it feels meaningful and rewarding.

    Multiplayer Options

    Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time allows for up to four players in online multiplayer mode, in addition to a family-friendly multiplayer option that accommodates two players for offline adventures on the same machine. With its mix of online, offline, and cooperative gameplay, along with relatively lightweight system requirements and a Platinum ProtonDB rating, it’s an ideal choice for portable gaming on devices like a Steam Deck or Lenovo Legion Go (currently priced at $699.99 from Lenovo US) or Lenovo Legion Go S (currently priced at $759.99 from Lenovo US).

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  • New 3D Co-op Metroidvania Hits 1M Sales in 2 Weeks, 80% Positive Reviews

    New 3D Co-op Metroidvania Hits 1M Sales in 2 Weeks, 80% Positive Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sales Success: Revenge of the Savage Planet sold 1 million copies within 12 days of its launch on May 20.

    2. Future Updates: Raccoon Logic Studios is working on a roadmap for future game updates, though specifics have not yet been revealed.

    3. Story and Gameplay: The game features a storyline focused on revenge in a corporate-driven future, with gameplay that includes exploration, puzzle-solving, and upgrades across four unique planets.

    4. Reception: The game has received mostly favorable reviews, holding an 80% Positive rating on Steam, praised for its entertainment value, intuitive controls, and overall gameplay experience.

    5. System Compatibility: Revenge of the Savage Planet has reasonable system requirements and is compatible with handheld devices, holding a Gold rating on ProtonDB for performance.

    Revenge of the Savage Planet just launched only 12 days ago, and it appears that the positive reviews surrounding this indie sci-fi Metroidvania were truly warranted. On May 20, Raccoon Logic Studios Inc. shared that it has sold 1 million copies of this new 3D sci-fi platformer since it debuted.

    Future Updates on the Horizon

    In a Steam News announcement confirming this accomplishment, Raccoon Logic Studios, the creators and publishers of Revenge of the Savage Planet, mentioned that the development team is currently working on a roadmap for future game updates. This means more mayhem and excitement will be arriving soon. However, Raccoon Logic has not detailed what those updates will include.

    Story Overview

    “In a future turned upside down by corporate greed and foolishness, you find yourself redundant and deserted on the distant edge of space with limited equipment and no safety net. To exact revenge on your former boss and find your way back to Earth, you’ll need to explore every corner, gather numerous upgrades, and turn over every strange alien rock.”

    This is how Raccoon Logic Studios presents the storyline of Revenge of the Savage Planet. The bright, exaggerated visuals and whimsical character design effectively reflect this narrative. Players can enjoy Revenge of the Savage Planet in single-player mode or through split-screen or online co-op, making it a fantastic option to play with family and friends.

    Reception and Reviews

    While Revenge of the Savage Planet received mostly favorable reviews from gaming and tech outlets, its Steam rating stands at an admirable—yet not astonishing—80% Positive. Many Steam users praise Revenge of the Savage Planet for its entertainment value and for how it expands upon the first game in the series. Reviewers commonly highlight intuitive controls, the design of the world and characters, the overall gameplay experience, and the progression system as notable strengths, along with a light-hearted tone.

    The gameplay resembles that of a classic 3D platformer infused with Metroidvania elements. Players will explore four distinct planets, solve various puzzles, complete quests, gather upgrades, and discover hidden secrets scattered across the landscapes. Each planet features its own unique environment, aesthetic, and local flora and fauna to engage with. Revenge of the Savage Planet adopts a third-person perspective, offering players a variety of weapons and upgrades to keep the experience engaging.

    System Requirements and Compatibility

    Revenge of the Savage Planet also has fairly reasonable system requirements and holds a Gold rating on ProtonDB, indicating it should perform well on the Steam Deck and other handheld gaming devices, such as the Lenovo Legion Go (currently priced at $699.99 from Lenovo).

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  • Revolutionary FPS Game Now Just $4 on GOG – Huge Discount!

    Revolutionary FPS Game Now Just $4 on GOG – Huge Discount!

    Key Takeaways

    1. Revitalization of the Franchise: Doom 2016 successfully reinvigorated the series with a more intense gameplay experience and a memorable main character, the Doom Slayer.

    2. Hellish Setting: The game is set on Mars during a demon invasion, featuring a storyline that can be ignored in favor of fast-paced action.

    3. Diverse Arsenal: Players have access to a wide range of weapons, including iconic ones like the Super Shotgun and functional chainsaw, adding to the satisfaction of gameplay.

    4. Distinctive Soundtrack: The soundtrack by Mick Gordon combines Djent, metal, and industrial music, enhancing the gaming experience and making it enjoyable for workouts.

    5. Affordable Gaming: Doom 2016 is available for just $3.99 on GOG, making it an accessible entry point for new players ahead of the release of its sequel, Doom: The Dark Ages.

    2004’s Doom 3 was seen as a big letdown because it attempted to juggle too many ideas at once and ended up failing badly. Learning from this, idSoftware went back to the basics and spent a whole thirteen years rethinking their approach. They returned in 2016 with Doom, which was a huge hit, unlike its earlier counterpart. Now, nearly nine years later, this game can be played on practically any PC made in the last ten years, and even on handheld devices like the Steam Deck.

    Revitalizing the Franchise

    Doom (often called Doom 2016) breathed new life into the series and cranked the intensity way up. The main character, once just a forgettable hero, transformed into the Doom Slayer, a fierce demon destroyer known for his extreme brutality. From the very start, you find yourself smashing an imp’s skull into a coffin, and the level of destruction only escalates from there.

    A Hellish Setting

    Set on Mars, Doom 2016 drops you into the middle of a hellish invasion. Your mission is to put a stop to this chaos, just like you’ve done in previous installments. Unlike earlier versions of Doom, this game actually has a bit of a storyline, but you can easily choose to ignore it. After all, there are demons to take down, and you can’t let story details slow you down.

    A Diverse Arsenal

    As with its predecessors, Doom 2016 features a broad array of weapons, including iconic ones like the Super Shotgun and BFG. The chainsaw is now a functional weapon in your arsenal, and using it to shred a demon before watching it burst into ammunition is incredibly satisfying.

    A Distinctive Soundtrack

    While Doom 2016 shines as a technical marvel with its high-speed action, what truly distinguishes the game is its soundtrack. Mick Gordon’s unique mix of Djent, metal, and industrial music enhances the experience of battling through hordes of hellish creatures. Plus, it doubles as excellent workout music. Seriously, give it a try.

    Affordable Gaming

    You can grab Doom 2016 on GOG for only $3.99. Although it has been cheaper on Steam in the past, it is currently at full price there. Now is a perfect opportunity to dive into Doom 2016 if you’re new to the series. With Doom: The Dark Ages set to launch on May 15 for PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Game Pass, you can experience the game that started it all before jumping into its sequel, Doom Eternal.

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  • Doom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam Deck

    Doom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam Deck

    Key Takeaways

    1. Initial Compatibility Issues: Doom: The Dark Ages wasn’t initially verified for the Steam Deck due to performance concerns, but updates have improved its playability.

    2. Game Settings Optimization: The best performance on the Steam Deck was achieved by setting the resolution to 1,280 x 720, disabling Depth of Field and Chromatic Aberration, and using FSR Quality for upscaling.

    3. Performance Metrics: The game generally runs at around 30 FPS, with occasional peaks of 42 FPS, but performance can drop below 30 FPS during intense battles.

    4. Consistent Performance in Mech Combat: Mech combat maintained a steady 30 FPS, indicating some areas of the game perform better than others.

    5. Gameplay Recommendations: Players may need to lower difficulty settings for a smoother experience, especially in later levels where enemy density increases.

    Doom: The Dark Ages isn’t verified for the Steam Deck, and a quick look at its system requirements suggests that the handheld may lack the necessary power to run the game. During my initial review, it wouldn’t even launch on my Deck OLED, but now things have changed. Thanks to an update (H/T Cary Golomb) for the Steam Deck preview channel (SteamOS 3.7.6), we can now get past the Bugsplat error and see how the game performs.

    Setting Up the Game

    Getting Doom: The Dark Ages to work on the Steam Deck is pretty straightforward. We adjusted the resolution to 1,280 x 720, turned off Depth of Field and Chromatic Aberration. For upscaling, we opted for FSR Quality. Switching to Balanced didn’t show much of a performance change, so either one will work fine. It’s important to disable Frame Gen as it significantly hurt performance. Everything else was set to low. We kept the game’s UI elements the same for a fair comparison with the PC.

    Performance Insights

    With these settings, we achieved a solid 30 FPS in most areas, with peaks of up to 42 FPS in less populated sections with fewer textures. However, the 30 FPS didn’t hold up during some later battles due to the high number of projectiles and monsters on screen. There were some noticeable frame drops, but it never fell below 20 FPS. Mech combat was similar, staying at a consistent 30 FPS. Switching to XeSS didn’t seem to improve things, but that’s likely due to the limited capabilities of the Steam Deck itself.

    Conclusion

    In general, Doom: The Dark Ages is somewhat playable on the Steam Deck. You might breeze through the early parts, but as you advance, expect more challenges as the density of enemies increases. If you really want to play this on the Deck, it might be a good idea to lower some difficulty settings to enhance your experience. Save the no-hit Ultra Nightmare run for a proper PC with a keyboard and mouse.

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