Phantom Blade Zero Patch Boosts Steam Machine Performance to Nearly 60 FPS at 2K, but Steam Deck Still Struggles to Maintain 30 FPS

Phantom Blade Zero has received a notable performance improvement following its latest update, making the action RPG considerably smoother on Steam Machine hardware. According to testing conducted by Steam Deck HQ, the November 4 patch has helped the game reach nearly 60 FPS in previously demanding areas using Medium graphics settings and 2K resolution.

However, the improvements have not translated equally across Valve’s hardware. The Steam Deck continues to struggle with demanding encounters and crowded environments, with performance occasionally dropping below 30 FPS.

The findings come from Steam Deck HQ editor Noah Kupetsky, who compared the game’s performance before and after installing the update. While S-GAME has confirmed general performance improvements in its official patch notes, the specific frame-rate gains on Steam Machine come from independent testing rather than an official developer benchmark.

Phantom Blade Zero Now Runs Closer to 60 FPS on Steam Machine

Before the update, Phantom Blade Zero struggled to maintain a consistent frame rate on Steam Machine, particularly in demanding locations such as Pangzhen. Players had to limit performance to 30 FPS to achieve a relatively stable experience.

Kupetsky tested the updated version using the same settings as his earlier evaluation: 2K resolution, FSR Balanced, and Medium graphical quality. The results showed a considerable improvement, with most demanding encounters now running close to 60 FPS.

Some battles still experience occasional drops, reaching approximately 51 FPS at their lowest in the reported tests. Crowded locations also produce minor stutters, but performance generally remains above 50 FPS.

This represents a substantial improvement over the previous experience and makes the game considerably more comfortable to play on Steam Machine.

Steam Deck Still Cannot Maintain Stable 30 FPS

The Steam Deck has not received the same benefit from the latest update. Despite the general performance improvements, Kupetsky reported that the game still struggles to maintain 30 FPS, even with graphics settings reduced to their lowest levels.

Pangzhen remains particularly demanding, with crowded areas and larger combat encounters causing noticeable stuttering. Frame rates can occasionally fall to around 20 FPS, making the experience less consistent during exploration and battles.

The difference between the two devices highlights how demanding Phantom Blade Zero remains on less powerful hardware. While Steam Machine owners can now enjoy a considerably smoother experience, Steam Deck users may need to wait for further optimization.

What the November 4 Phantom Blade Zero Patch Changes

S-GAME’s Version 1.0302256 update introduces several improvements beyond general performance adjustments. On PC, the developer has changed shader compilation to reduce startup times by no longer compiling ray-tracing shaders by default.

The patch also reduces stuttering when using Bluetooth-connected controllers and fixes an NVIDIA Reflex issue involving V-Sync. Other additions include new hit-sound intensity settings, PC control remapping, combat adjustments, and several progression and visual bug fixes.

For now, the update is a significant step forward for Steam Machine performance, but Steam Deck optimization remains an area where S-GAME has more work to do.