Zortch 2 demo tested on Steam Deck: a fun new boomer shooter that actually works well on the handheld
Aside from getting a sneak peek at the next highly anticipated title, game demos on Steam are a fantastic way of finding new games you may have never otherwise come across. We recently saw that classic FPS System Shock 2 got a remastered version that runs great on the Steam Deck, so we figured we’d search around for more games for the popular Valve handheld with that classic FPS feel.
We spotted Zortch 2, the sequel to the ‘Overwhelmingly Positive’ Zortch, a boomer shooter (we mean that in an affectionate way) built on a “custom engine that runs well on low-spec machines”. Sounds perfect for the Steam Deck if you ask us. Plus, it comes with full controller support. Although the release date is yet to be announced, the demo is now available on Steam.
Zortch 2 demo tested on Steam Deck
If you aren’t aware, boomer shooter refers to modern games that look to recreate the look and feel of classic FPS games such as DOOM and Quake. As such, Zortch 2 is a single-player FPS in a sci-fi setting and features “combat-heavy gameplay” and “awesome music”. Seven difficulty modes from very easy ‘Initiate’ to extreme ‘MAXXED’ cater to everyone’s skill level.
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For reference, the screenshots above were taken on the default 60 (Vertical) value; the max value is 120.
The Steam Deck’s controls were recognized as soon as booting up the Zortch 2 demo, and you can configure them without any hassle from the menus. There’s even aim assist if you struggle with shooters on the Deck. Otherwise, there is nothing essential to tinker with unless you want to crank up the FOV or mess around with the binds.
Performance-wise, there is absolutely nothing to complain about. You can either play with V-Sync and enjoy a locked 60 FPS (or 90 FPS if you’re playing on the Steam Deck OLED). Turn V-Sync off, however, and we easily hit triple-digit framerates. The demo comes with a relatively simple test level, so it’s hard to gauge how the performance will compare on the finished product, but we don’t imagine there will be any problems.
Greeted by the movement tutorial, you’ll be introduced to a few (more new-school) mechanics that make it into this otherwise classic-style FPS. Namely, sprinting and crouch sliding. Although these are taught to you with the keyboard controls, it didn’t take long to pick them up by quickly reading through the controller bindings. Speaking of, setting sprint to the left thumbstick (L3) and switching it to toggle mode certainly felt more comfortable.
Then, aside from the wrench, you are first introduced to the rocket launcher, which gives us an explosive look at unique alt-fires in the game – the rocket launcher’s is particularly fun, while the wrench can be thrown like a boomerang. Oh, and you can also drive a forklift – not so fun in first person, though we quickly figured that you can bind a third-person camera in the settings.
Despite having a brief amount of time with the demo, it’s a promising look for fans of the genre. And if it isn’t the kind of game you’d expect to work well on a handheld, you’d be wrong. It has a solid amount of customization and handheld-friendly content for an indie developer, who goes by the name of Mutantleg.
