The strategy game Ashes of the Singularity, also known affectionately here in the newsroom as the "DirectX 12 Benchmark", will get a major update and a free DLC soon.
The main highlights of the update that arrives on August 24 are the arrival of new content at no cost, including co-op maps, and support for Vulkan.
The update v2.4 includes the port to the open source API developed by the Khronos Group, which offers advantages such as reduction of loading the CPU and better use of multiple cores, for example.
In addition, the main advantage of Vulkan is a multi-platform capability. While DirectX 12 enhancements are available to full potential only in Windows 10, Vulkan can be used in earlier versions of Microsoft's OS as well as in Linux.
Support for Vulkan could even mean the game's arrival on the Penguin's operating system soon. In May, Stardock did a sort of public poll on the Ashes of the Singularity: Escalation page on Steam to see if players were interested in a game port for Linux.
As expected, the arrival of the new API will also tinker with a well-known part of Ashes of the Singularity: the benchmark. The performance measurement tool will be updated to support testing with Vulkan.
In addition, Ashes of the Singularity: Escalation will gain improvements in the user interface of the game, scenario enhancements and more access to modders. The free DLC that comes out along with the update will also bring nine new maps made for cooperative play.
Check out the new maps listed below.
Delta Serpentis: Step into complete chaos in this medium-sized 4v4 arena. Navigate carefully around terrain, but be careful - defenses could be waiting to ambush you at every turn.
Gamma Draconis: If you like fast-paced and aggressive, this 2v2 desert map is for you. Combine efforts with your teammate for a deadly push through the map’s center, or favor a more devious approach by focusing your enemy's flanks.
Leporis: Build up an economy and grow your army before facing down your opponents. Built for 4 players (2v2) and to give plenty of breathing room, the battles on this map will be large and epic.
Mirach: Choose your paths carefully on this medium-sized 2v2 desert map. Large mountains and a wide basin limits movement, so you’ll have to plan ahead in order to get the drop on your enemy before they get the drop on you.
Merga: This long and narrow 3v3 map is surrounded by lava. Strategize carefully about whether or not you want to duel with your lane opponent, or combine attacks with your teammates for a decisive push.
Rigel: A turtler’s dream, this medium 2v2 map has only a single pathway through its center. You’ll need to concentrate all of your efforts onto the central killing field in order to be successful.
Ross 128: Narrow choke points and multiple pathways across this small 2v2 map mape for different strategies and attack paths. If you’re quick, you can lock down sections of the map and create some serious roadblocks for your opponents.
Talitha: For players who like huge, long battles with two team mates, Talitha features a wide open battlefield on the desert lowground and is the biggest 3v3 map to date.
More information about the content is available on Steam. The release of Ashes of the Singularity: Escalation will take place on August 24.
