You can trust VideoGamer. Our team of gaming experts spend hours testing and reviewing the latest games, to ensure you're reading the most comprehensive guide possible. Rest assured, all imagery and advice is unique and original. Check out how we test and review games here
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is out on all platforms, allowing players to explore 16th-century Japan. Many will want to delve into that adventure on the go, using their Steam Deck. The game has been verified for the handheld, despite all odds. So how does it run and which are the best settings to play Assassin’s Creed Shadows on the Steam Deck? We’ll explore the answers to that question in this guide.
Best video settings for Assassin’s Creed Shadows on Steam Deck
Unlike other platforms, like PC, PlayStation 5, or Xbox Series X|S, the graphics settings for Assassin’s Creed Shadows are largely locked out on the Steam Deck. That means you won’t be able to tinker as in-depth as you could on PC, for example. However, all’s not lost and there are a few settings that you can switch up to improve FPS at the cost of visual spectacle and vice-versa.
While playing Assassin’s Creed Shadows on your Steam Deck, open the Options and select the Video tab. Then, use the following settings:
| Option | Value |
|---|---|
| Image Calibration | Configure Brightness, Contrast, Luminance, and Exposure to your screen and preference. |
| Field of View | 85% |
| Raytraced Global Illumination | Diffuse Hideout Only |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:10 |
| VSync | Off |
| Resolution | 1280 x 800 |
| Upscaler Type | Intel XeSS |
| Minimum Dynamic Resolution | 15% |
| Maximum Dynamic Resolution | 15% |
| Sharpen Strength | 1.00 |
| Frame Generation | On |
With these settings, you will have a stable performance of 40-50 FPS with good-quality visuals. Your frames won’t drop below 40 during combat or in crowded areas. Meanwhile, you’ll still have the game’s stunning visuals on the screen, without compromising quality.
How does AC Shadows run on Steam Deck?
While many games fail to perform on Steam Deck, Assassin’s Creed Shadows runs extremely well for a AAA title. You can get anywhere between 30 to 60 FPS, depending on the options you choose. The most important one to dial in is the Upscaler Type. You can pick between:
- Automatic
- Intel XeSS
- TAA
- AMD FSR
Switching FSR off results in around 30 FPS. Captured by VideoGamer
Turning FSR on will net you in around 40 FPS. Captured by VideoGamer
As mentioned, Intel XeSS with Frame Generation turned On provides the best balance between consistent FPS and visual quality. The next best option is AMD FSR, which will increase your FPS from 30 to around 40, but provide even higher visual clarity. If you’re looking to get the most out of the game’s visuals, then go for AMD FSR.
TAA and Automatic aren’t as exciting as the other options. TAA can offer a bit more FPS but at a steep cost to the visuals. No matter the platform you choose to play on, make sure to read our review of Assasin’s Creed Shadows.
About the Author
