Stalker 2 is the latest addition to the long-running Stalker series that debuted back in 2007. Now, as per 2024 standards, Stalker 2 is surely a game to embrace given its realistic graphics and immersive sim elements, but this is what makes it an impossible task for handhelds like the Steam Deck to run the game without compromising on visuals. While the Steam Deck is a handy device, it is not capable of running every AAA game you throw at it at 60 FPS. Similarly, Stalker 2 Heart of Chornobyl is one such game. While you can technically play the game on the Steam Deck, your in-game experience will be highly dependent on the settings scheme you choose. So, consider reading this guide to learn about the best settings you can apply in-game while playing on the Deck.
When it comes to PC handhelds, being the oldest one, the Steam Deck’s base version isn’t quite powerful when compared to its rivals like the Rog Ally and Lenovo Legion Go. What’s keeping the Steam Deck in the competition is its optimization and custom Linux-based Steam OS. However, the Steam OS is both a boon and a bane for the Deck. Anyway, while Stalker 2 runs on the Steam Deck, you won’t be getting anywhere close to playable FPS in-game if you don’t choose the right settings. We have shared more information on this below.
Also read: Stalker 2 Heart of Chornobyl Steam Deck, Asus Rog Ally, & Lenovo Legion Go Support Details
Best Stalker 2 Heart of Chornobyl Steam Deck Settings for High FPS & Performance
Well, it is quite obvious that to play Stalker 2 on your Steam Deck, you will have to forget getting a visually appealing experience. You have to compromise on the visuals heavily, and only then will the Deck be able to pump out enough FPS for you to enjoy a stable in-game experience. That said, apply the following changes:
Graphics
- Overall Quality: Low
Object Quality
- Texture Quality: Low
- Hair: Low
- Object Details: Low
- Effects Quality: Low
- Materials: Low
Post Processing
- Post Processing: Low
- Anti Aliasing: Low
- Motion Blur Quality: Low
- Motion Blur Strength: 50%
- Depth of Field: Off
- Light Shafts: Disabled
- Sharpness: 10%
Performance Boost
- Upscaling Method: FSR
- Upscaling Quality: Ultra Performance
- Resolution Scale: 66
- FSR 3 Frame Generation: Enabled
Shading Quality
- Shading Quality: Low
- Global Illumination: Low
- Reflections: Low
- Shadow Quality: Low
Environment Quality
- Clouds: Low
- Fog: Low
- Sky: Low
- Foliage Quality: Low
- Environment Draw Distance: Near
Display
- Graphics Card: Default
- Display: Default
Display Mode
- Screen Mode: Window
- Display Resolution: 1280×800
Viewport
- Aspect Ratio: 16:10
- FOV: 90
Frame Control
- Vertical Sync: Enabled
- FPS Limit: No Limit
Well, these settings are fine-tuned to provide close to 30 FPS in-game. While 30FPS in a first-person shooter game is not quite ideal, this is the best you can get out of your Deck without adding any mods. If you want to go down the modding route, we have a guide coming right up for the same. So, stay tuned to Android Gram.
