Remedy Discusses Development Challenges for Alan Wake 2 on Xbox Series S

2023-10-11 16:45:30

Remedy Opens Up About Challenges Developing Alan Wake 2 for Xbox Series S

Earlier this month, Remedy revealed that the Xbox Series S version of the highly anticipated Alan Wake 2 will not have a 60 frames per second performance mode like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 versions. According to Remedy's communications director Thomas Puha, the game has been designed as a 30fps experience focusing on visuals and ambiance, but they have managed to include a solid Performance mode for PS5 and Xbox Series X as well. Puha stated, "We'll talk details later." [source]

Xbox Series S: A Headache for Developers

This news adds to a series of challenges faced by Microsoft's cheaper console, the Xbox Series S. The console has been struggling with split-screen issues that have delayed the launch of the popular game Baldur's Gate 3. Xbox boss Phil Spencer has emphasized the importance of launching games across both the more powerful Xbox Series X and the less powerful Xbox Series S. However, developers are increasingly looking to harness the power of the PS5 and Xbox Series X, which has become a problem for the underpowered Xbox Series S. [source]

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Remedy's Struggle with Xbox Series S

Remedy, the developer of Alan Wake 2, is facing challenges in optimizing the game for the Xbox Series S. In an episode of IGN's Next-Gen Console Watch, Remedy's communications director Thomas Puha discussed the obstacles they are encountering. Puha mentioned that the GPU and limited memory of the Xbox Series S pose significant issues for the studio. Despite their efforts to maintain visual quality and a solid 30fps performance, Puha highlighted the significant difference between the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X GPUs. He stated, "You can’t have the best of both worlds. You gotta choose where you’re gonna focus." [source]

Developers' Concerns about Xbox Series S

Remedy is not alone in expressing concerns about the Xbox Series S. A VFX artist who had worked on an Xbox Series X and S game previously mentioned that many developers have been trying to get the Xbox Series S launch requirements dropped. Studios are apprehensive about repeating the challenges they faced and do not want the Xbox Series S to hinder game production. However, Microsoft sees the Xbox Series S as an integral part of their strategy to reach a wider audience, making it unlikely that games will be released exclusively for the Xbox Series X anytime soon. [source]

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Xbox Series S: More Work for Developers

Xbox Game Studios boss Matt Booty acknowledged that developing for the Xbox Series S alongside the Xbox Series X, PS5, and PC requires more effort. He stated that developers should find it easier once they've moved onto their second game for the platform, as they would have a better understanding of its intricacies. However, for Remedy and Alan Wake 2, optimizing the game for the Xbox Series S may be a formidable challenge. [source]

Final considerations, the development of Alan Wake 2 for the Xbox Series S presents significant challenges due to the console's limited GPU and memory. While Remedy is working hard to maintain visual quality and a solid 30fps performance, the Xbox Series S's constraints make it difficult to achieve the game's full next-gen glory. Developers' concerns about the Xbox Series S impacting game production have been echoed by others in the industry. Despite these issues, Microsoft remains committed to the Xbox Series S as an entry-level console, offering an affordable option for gamers. [source]

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