Vulkan isn't a new unit in Ashes of the Singularity. But it is a superb feature for AMD GPU owners to enjoy a more stable experience. There's also a whole lot more in update 2.4.
Stardock today rolled out a substantial update for Ashes of the Singularity, bumping the real-time strategy title up to version 2.4 on Steam. As well as releasing a free update for all players, the company has gone the extra mile to hand out a free piece of DLC, which contains a number of co-operative multiplayer maps. We're always fond of free post-launch content and if that weren't enough, Stardock has subtracted 50 percent from the asking price until August 28.
Let's see what's new in 2.4!
Here's a full breakdown of all the new features:
- UI: A full menu reworking makes the game more accessible with new orbital ability icons, improved chat displays, and more.
- Campaign and scenarios: Several scenarios and all three campaigns have been updated to refine difficulty levels, adjust to the changes of previous updates, and improve the user experience.
- Modding: Modders have access to more parts of the game and will benefit from several changes that make modding more intuitive.
- Balance: Changes to air units, anti-air, drones, and dreadnoughts will improve strategic diversity. The Substrate receives some additional changes in order to differentiate themselves from the PHC.
- Vulkan support: This graphics-rendering API offers enhanced OS compatibility and performance.
- Updated benchmark: The benchmark has been updated so that players can see how well their PC runs under Vulkan.
Not only does Ashes of the Singularity support DirectX 12 — and was one of the first do to so — but now also Vulkan. Firing up the game with Vulkan enabled, running the benchmark, and having a solid few hours of playtime resulted in some butter-smooth gameplay even with hundreds of units on-screen, even with a GTX 1070.
The free map pack DLC includes nine new maps specifically designed with co-op play in mind. They'll offer new experiences with regards to strategic play and teamwork. As a free addition to the game, we're excited post-launch content keeps arriving for players without requiring a wallet.
As aforementioned, Ashes of the Singularity and available DLC will be discounted by 50 percent until August 28, so if you've yet to purchase the game or any of the optional content, now's the time to do so.