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Gaming enthusiasts intrigued by the possibility of playing Alan Wake 2 on the Steam Deck may find themselves at the crossroads of innovation and practicality. The ability to run the game on the handheld device is not straightforward and requires a series of specific adjustments and considerations. Running Windows on Steam Deck for Alan Wake 2 Alan Wake 2's compatibility with the Steam Deck begins with the operating system. To play the game, users must install Windows or establish a dual boot system, as it has been demonstrated that Alan Wake 2 will not launch using the native Steam OS. Adjusting the UMA Frame Buffer Size The next critical step involves delving into the device's BIOS settings to adjust the UMA Frame buffer Size to 256M. This step may appear unconventional, yet it is vital to circumvent the game's demand for 16 GB of RAM, which exceeds the Steam Deck's specifications. Overcoming GPU Recommendations Upon booting into Windows and initiating Alan Wake 2, users are likely to encounter warnings regarding GPU support. The game specifies a GeForce RTX 2060 or Radeon RX with 6 GB VRAM as minimum requirements, which outpace the Steam Deck's hardware. However, the game will run, albeit with expectations for performance adjusted. Optimizing Game Settings for Performance To achieve a semblance of fluid gameplay, settings must be minimized. The inclusion of Ray Tracing, a feature that adds significant graphic fidelity, is not feasible. Additionally, the game should be set with FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) on, using either the "Performance" preset or lower to attain a playable frame rate. DirectX 12 Ultimate and Mesh Shader Requirements The game's use of Mesh Shaders, a feature of DirectX 12 Ultimate, further complicates compatibility, as this is not supported on numerous GPUs, including some Nvidia GTX series cards. Despite these challenges, the game exhibits a surprising capacity to run within the first 20 minutes of gameplay, with frame rates varying between 19 to 45 FPS. Graphical Glitches and Gameplay Limitations As players progress, they may encounter graphical glitches, such as water not rendering correctly. The absence of combat in early gameplay also suggests that frame rates may decline substantially when action intensifies, raising concerns about overall playability. Considering Alternative Gaming Solutions The possibility of playing Alan Wake 2 on a Steam Deck prompts a broader reflection on the suitability of such an experience. Given the game's critical acclaim, the Steam Deck's constrained performance might not render the immersive experience that fans expect. For those determined to play on the handheld device, streaming solutions like Moonlight game streaming offer an alternative that could provide a more satisfying gameplay experience. Upgrading Hardware for Optimal Performance Players may also consider hardware upgrades to meet the game's minimum requirements, ensuring a gaming experience that does justice to the game's narrative and visual design. Final Thoughts While technical workarounds enable Alan Wake 2 to run on the Steam Deck, it becomes evident that the optimal gaming experience lies within systems that align with the game's intended specifications. Players eager to delve into the game's world should weigh the merits of these adjustments against the desire for graphical fidelity and seamless gameplay. Also Read:

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FSR settings.

Alan Wake 2 on Steam Deck: Performance Tips & Compatibility