NVIDIA enhances Linux support for gaming, while Discord faces a data breach of millions of IDs and emails.
It’s a mixed bag in the PC gaming world today, with some technical strides forward and a concerning lapse in security. Here’s what’s been happening:
Tech Advancements on Linux Gaming
NVIDIA has released its new driver version 615.78.08 for Linux, with particular attention given to enhancing Proton’s performance through VKD3D-Proton compatibility. This update is part of NVIDIA’s New Feature Branch and promises to improve gaming experiences on Linux, which continues to grow in importance as a gaming platform. This is particularly relevant for folks using Linux as their primary gaming OS, especially with the ongoing adoption of Steam Deck and Steam Machine hardware. More details can be found within GamingOnLinux’s coverage.
Security Concerns: Discord Data Breach
In less exciting news, Discord has been indirectly impacted by a significant data breach affecting users’ security. Hackers executed a “deliberate, multi-stage attack” on Double Counter, a security service interacting with Discord. This led to the theft of approximately a million email addresses and potentially more Discord user IDs and IP addresses. While Discord itself wasn’t directly attacked, the fallout affects its user base, highlighting ongoing security vulnerabilities in third-party services. The breach’s details are covered on Rock Paper Shotgun.
Releases and Updates
- The anime-influenced arcade racer Screamer now offers a patch that simplifies control by adding a single stick drift option, addressing past criticisms of the game’s twin-stick mechanics. For players wary of adjusting to unconventional controls, this could offer a much-needed quality of life improvement, further detailed in Rock Paper Shotgun.
- Expectations rise for Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2 with confirmation of Steam Deck and Steam Machine verification. Set for release on October 14th, its verified status assures compatibility and a smooth experience on these popular gaming devices. Those eagerly anticipating its arrival can learn more from GamingOnLinux’s article.
Industry Perspectives
Peter Molyneux, the veteran game developer known for titles such as Fable and Black & White, has recently voiced his concerns over Steam’s discoverability. According to Molyneux, “there’s just too much choice,” which he views as a significant barrier for both developers and gamers in a cluttered marketplace. This sentiment feeds into ongoing discussions about digital platform management and the challenges of standing out in an ever-expanding sea of content. More of Molyneux’s insights are available in a PCGamesN interview.
Overall, this week’s headlines show the PC gaming landscape as one of both exciting advancements and ongoing challenges, particularly in security and discoverability.
