After more than 4 years since its release, Nier Automata is once again getting an update. But not for a reason why games get their essential patch.
In 2017, Square Enix gave to public an action-adventure game, which comes with subsequent success. It features humanoid robots in a futuristic post-apocalyptic setting, is notable for its intense combat and beautiful imagery. But this comes unsurprising, considering the developer behind the game’s creation had been the ever-capable hands of PlatinumGames.
Playable Though Not Seamless
But while the game is generally playable on PC, it does come with a quirk that made it seem like rough on the edges. Performance issues, essentially, but with one major known culprit behind it—the anti-tamper software security, Denuvo.
Players running the game on a beefy computer might not have noticed it. But those on a less capable machine knows exactly the struggle that comes with having something as Denuvo in the background. It can be a difference between night and day in terms of performance: one being choppy while the other is smooth.
Yet, for a massive title as Nier Automata, a security solution as Denuvo becomes imperative for business. Even if it comes at the expense of the game producer paying a hefty fee for a license and causing certain players performance hiccups. This is partly true for its proven capability to offset or, at least, delay piracy on whichever title it safeguards.
Potential Implication
It is uncertain whether it’s an issue of an expiring license to use it or simply a means towards improving the game’s performance. But, with the game getting its recent update, Denuvo is finally seeing release from the game.
Latecomers with low PC build or returners on similar hardware will find the removal of Denuvo truly a boon to gameplay. In theory, it should at least provide an essential boost to gameplay’s performance.
But not everyone is necessarily happy about it, especially Steam players who are expecting more from the patch. Particularly, some crucial modifications that will enhance the way the game plays, regardless of the hardware configuration. Although unofficial by nature, there is indeed that fix for it. And it comes from a particular modder who sought to make a more palatable version of the game.
With the recent release of the original Nier Replicant remaster, it seems a similarity can be found. PlatinumGames’ initial releases simply do come in their rough states. However, unlike Nier Automata, the previously mentioned title did get its major patch that seems to address many of its hitches.
Image used courtesy of PlayStation/YouTube Screenshot