Valve Gives an Update on Steam Deck 2 - IGN Daily Fix

In today's Daily Fix, Valve provided a small update on the Steam Deck 2, an actor from Mass Effect Andromeda attributed the game's performance issues to EA, and a preview of the mechanics in Housemark's new title, Sorrowos. Valve programmer Pierre Lou Graf discussed the Steam Deck 2, stating they are "hard at work on it." He noted that their hardware projects, from the original Steam Controller and Steam Machines to the current Steam Deck, involve continuous learning that informs future developments. Graf previously mentioned a desire for significant battery performance improvements, aiming for more than just a 20-50% increase at the same battery life. He indicated that they are waiting for substantial advancements in silicon and architectural improvements before releasing a "nextgen performance Steam Deck," as current system-on-a-chip offerings don't meet their desired leap. While awaiting the Steam Deck 2, Valve is closer to releasing the Steam Controller on May 4th for $99, which has received positive feedback from IGN's hardware expert. Next, Tom Taylor, the male voice of the player character in Mass Effect Andromeda, spoke out about the game's critical and commercial reception, largely blaming publisher EA. Released in 2017, Andromeda faced the challenge of following the beloved Mass Effect trilogy. Taylor believes the game was "done dirty by a publisher expecting too much from it, not being fully cooked, forced out of the door too early." He also criticized the forced use of EA's Frostbite engine, which many of the team were unfamiliar with and found unsuitable for the game's storytelling. Taylor acknowledged that Andromeda was released into a "very toxic atmosphere online," becoming an "online punching bag." Despite post-launch patches, EA halted further development, canceling DLC and direct sequels. This decision deeply affected Taylor, who had anticipated a decade of engagement with the characters. While Andromeda never received a direct sequel, BioWare is now developing Mass Effect 5 with trilogy veterans, and teasers suggest elements of Andromeda's story may return, indicating its legacy is not forgotten. Finally, Sorrowos, the latest PlayStation Studios title from the creators of Returnal, builds upon its predecessor's foundations with new features designed to be more approachable for new players or challenging for veterans. This fast-paced cinematic action game, developed by Housemark, features large boss fights and a mysterious story. In Sorrowos, players embark on cycles in the world of Carcosa, fighting enemies to collect permanent resources that enhance their power. The "corrupting influence of the eclipse" alters the world, revealing new paths and inducing madness. Key mechanics include a shield, permanent progression, intense cycles lasting 30-45 minutes, and a suspend and resume feature at launch. For those seeking a greater challenge, Carcosa modifiers can increase difficulty. Sorrowos is set to release on April 30th, exclusively on PlayStation 5, and is rated T14.