DF Direct Weekly #138: PlayStation Portal Hands-On, Steam Deck OLED vs ROG Ally, Suicide Squad
Nov 20, 2023
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In this podcast, the hosts discuss the PlayStation Portal and its remote play feature, compare it to the Steam Deck, and share their disappointment with recent game trailers. They also explore the performance issues of the PC version of EASWRC, highlight the immersive gameplay and impressive graphics of Assassin's Creed Nexus VR, and debate the potential release of a new powerful traditional console by Nintendo. Additionally, they delve into the importance of user experience and accessibility in game development and discuss old and rare computer peripherals from the 90s.
The RetroTINK 4K is an advanced scalar that provides exceptional upscaling and flexibility for various inputs, including retro consoles and HD consoles.
The new 'Switch' is unlikely to be a traditional console as the success of the hybrid concept makes it improbable for Nintendo to move away from it.
Playing Assassin's Creed in virtual reality enhances the gameplay experience through increased physicality, interactivity, and improved graphics on the Oculus Quest 3.
The Xbox One has become obsolete due to its perfect backwards compatibility with the Xbox Series consoles, prompting discussions about failed consoles and potential future content exploring such hardware.
Deep dives
The RetroTINK 4K and its Features
The RetroTINK 4K is an advanced scalar that provides exceptional upscaling and flexibility for various inputs, including retro consoles and HD consoles. It supports crisp scaling for HD content and also offers advanced CRT simulation features. It excels in maintaining image quality and offers flexible customization options. The RetroTINK 4K is a top-tier scaler and comes with a higher price tag, but it provides excellent image quality and functionality.
Alternatives to the RetroTINK 4K
There are alternative upscalers available, such as the RetroTINK 5X and the OSSC Pro. While the RetroTINK 5X is a solid choice for upscaling retro consoles and offers high-quality scaling, it doesn't support 4K output or have advanced features like CRT simulation. The OSSC Pro occupies a middle ground between the RetroTINK 4K and 5X, offering some of the features of the 4K but not 4K output. The Pixel FX Morph is another option to consider, although details about its features and release date are yet to be fully confirmed.
Choosing the Right Upscaler
Choosing the right upscaler depends on your specific needs. If you primarily want to upscale retro consoles and maintain image quality, the RetroTINK 5X is a suitable choice. However, if you want maximum image quality, flexibility, and support for various inputs, including HD and retro consoles, the RetroTINK 4K is worth the higher price. Consider your use case and desired features to make an informed decision.
Questioning the Validity of the New Nintendo Switch
Could the new 'Switch' actually be a powerful traditional console, with the original Switch concept continuing as Nintendo's portable option? Unlikely, as the success of the Switch lies in its hybrid nature and consolidation of Nintendo's development resources.
Nintendo's Unlikely Fast One
While it's entertaining to imagine Nintendo pulling a fast one on everyone, it seems highly improbable. The Switch's hybrid concept and its popularity make it unlikely that Nintendo would move away from it.
Speculating on a Two-Skew Release
While Nintendo could potentially release two variants of the Switch, one as a portable device and the other as a home console, it would complicate their current successful strategy and may not be in line with consumer preferences.
The evolution of VR gaming in Assassin's Creed
The podcast discusses the immersive experience of playing Assassin's Creed in virtual reality, highlighting the physicality and interactivity it adds to the gameplay. Climbing, combat, and stealth mechanics are enhanced by the use of VR, allowing players to physically engage with the game world and experience a greater sense of immersion. The graphics and performance on the Oculus Quest 3 are praised, as it surpasses earlier Assassin's Creed games in terms of visual fidelity. The ability to play as different characters from different time periods adds variety and depth to the gameplay.
Reflecting on gaming hardware and a return to VR
The podcast discusses the Xbox One becoming obsolete due to its perfect backwards compatibility with the Xbox Series consoles, offering no significant advantages to playing games on the older console. The hosts reflect on past gaming hardware, such as the Uya and the Soldier Game, which failed to gain traction in the market. They also contemplate the potential for creating content focusing on overlooked or failed consoles and peripherals. The idea of exploring failed PC hardware and GPUs from the past is suggested as an interesting topic for future deep dives and analysis.
We've finally got hold of a PlayStation Portal and we've got some initial impressions for you as we keep off this week's DF Direct Weekly, but beyond that we're talking about Steam Deck vs ROG Ally complete with some fresh benchmarks, we update you with our latest adventures with EA WRC on PC, while John spends plenty of time discussing the new RetroTink and its $750 price-point - along with his latest adventures with Meta Quest 3, Doom VR and the new Assassin's Creed VR experience.
0:00:00 Introduction
0:00:52 News 01: PlayStation Portal first impressions!
0:26:47 News 02: New Suicide Squad deep dive video lands