Zero Parades: For Dead Spies Launch Offers Strong Steam Deck Performance

The upcoming launch of Zero Parades: For Dead Spies promises an engaging experience on the Steam Deck, with notable performance metrics and settings recommendations tailored for handheld users. Early impressions indicate a largely positive reception, though a few technical issues have been noted.

Performance on Steam Deck

Zero Parades runs at a resolution of 1280×800 in a 16:10 aspect ratio on the Steam Deck, achieving an average frame rate of approximately 45fps at 90Hz for the OLED model, while the LCD version averages around 40fps. Although these figures are impressive, some players may encounter hitching in specific outdoor areas, which has been recognized as a known issue. Despite this hitching, the overall gameplay remains smooth, delivering a solid experience for fans of the genre.

Recommended Settings

To optimize gameplay on the Steam Deck, the following settings are advised: enable high render quality, set the frame rate to unrestricted or 60/90, and choose the Extra Large text size option for improved readability. The game defaults to high settings, but switching to low does not result in significant performance gains. Currently, achieving a steady 60fps is not possible, with the recommended configuration providing a mostly stable 45fps, albeit with occasional dips. Players should use the Steam Deck's Quick Access Menu to manage frame rates effectively.

Controls and Accessibility

Zero Parades offers full controller support, but the unique features of the Steam Deck enhance gameplay even further. By using a combination of default controls and adjusting the right trackpad to act as a mouse, players can gain more precise control. Assigning one of the back buttons for left-click actions improves accessibility, allowing for varied interaction methods that can enrich the overall experience.

Performance on ROG Ally

For those considering Zero Parades on the ROG Ally, the experience is less favorable. On the Z1 Extreme at 25W turbo mode, the game runs at an average of 30-40fps at 1080p on low settings, with some improvement at 720p; however, frame drops into the 30s are still common. This performance gap underscores the Steam Deck's superior handling of the game, particularly in avoiding hitching issues that affect the ROG Ally during map transitions.

Future Outlook

Zero Parades: For Dead Spies is set to launch on May 21 for PC via Steam, with a PlayStation 5 release planned for later in the year. While the game is expected to receive Steam Deck Verified status soon, it currently shows a better technical state than its predecessor, Disco Elysium. With further updates on the horizon, developers may address existing performance issues, enhancing the gameplay experience across all platforms. Enthusiasts can anticipate a detailed review upon the game’s release, which will provide deeper insights into its full capabilities and features.