OVERKILL and Starbreeze Entertainment have ended native Linux support for PAYDAY 2. The change arrives alongside Update 247, a significant overhaul that moves the game to a 64-bit architecture.
Update 247 Technical Changes
Update 247 introduces substantial engine modifications beyond the transition to 64-bit. These changes are designed to improve performance and modernize the game's technical foundation:
- Renderer: The game now uses DirectX 11.
- Performance: Improved CPU utilization, specifically for multi-threading on performance cores, and faster loading times.
- Storage: A new asset compression system reduces the game's overall footprint on storage drives.
- VR Integration: Native VR support is now included, removing the need for separate executable files for flatscreen and VR play.
- Matchmaking: In-game voice chat is now implemented through Epic Online Services.
Gameplay and Interface Updates
The update also includes various quality-of-life improvements and bug fixes, including native support for PlayStation 4 controllers and a simplified lobby code system now limited to six alphanumeric characters. Matchmaking distance filters have been updated, replacing the old "Close/Far/Worldwide" options with "Country/Region/Worldwide."
For gameplay, the developer addressed several issues, including a potential instant-detection bug when entering rooms and a limit on the number of corpses and shields disposed of per frame to prevent lag spikes. Several weapon tweaks were also included, such as an increase in damage for the China Puff 40mm Grenade Launcher from 960 to 1000.