Ubisoft blames 'Watch Dogs 2' PC delay on control concerns, graphical issues

By Danny Cowan Published October 18, 2016

watch dogs 2 delayed on pc as devs tighten up graphics watchdogs2pcdelay — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Publisher Ubisoft has pushed back the PC launch of its open-world action game Watch Dogs 2, noting that the game’s developers need extra time to optimize its controls and overall presentation.

Originally set for release alongside PlayStation 4 and Xbox One ports on November 15, the PC version of Watch Dogs 2 is now slated to premiere at the end of November.

“Our team is committed to quality and delivering the best Watch Dogs experience possible,” Ubisoft explained in a recent community blog post. “Therefore, we have made the tough but necessary decision to move the launch date for the PC version of Watch Dogs 2 to November 29. With this extra time, we’ll be able to ensure that Watch Dogs 2 runs smoothly across a broad range of hardware, as well as add that extra polish to those features which matter the most to our community.”

After acknowledging the delay, Ubisoft outlined a number of new features, additions, and tweaks it has in store for the PC version of Watch Dogs 2. By the time it hits Steam and other digital distribution platforms next month, Watch Dogs 2 will boast 4K support courtesy of an optional Ultra Textures pack, which will be available as a free download at launch.

Ubisoft further targets PC performance with the addition of sliders that allow players to control sharpness, pixel density, and field of view. The retail edition of Watch Dogs 2 will have an unlocked frame rate, along with full SLI/Crossfire support.

Other planned additions for the PC version of Watch Dogs 2 include multi-monitor support, expanded windowed mode options, and the introduction of multiple save files, which will track player progress for up to three separate playthroughs.

Ubisoft will also address PC control issues with the addition of “advanced keyboard support” and a “mouse-centric UI,” allowing players to control all interface elements with mouse input. The PC version of Watch Dogs 2 includes a mouse-and-keyboard control setup in addition to support for gamepads, and Ubisoft notes that in-game driving controls have been specifically tuned to accommodate keyboard users.

Watch Dogs 2 hits PC platforms on November 29.

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