Short answer
For poor performance on Steam, especially Steam Deck, install the available update and try the DirectX 11 launch option added in Hotfix 1 on October 9. This is the developer's recommended first check, not a guaranteed frame-rate fix.
Compare the same scene with DX11
- Close the game and let Steam finish its available update.
- Launch Silver Pines and select the new DirectX 11 option.
- Return to the same area with the same graphics settings. Compare camera movement and responsiveness before changing anything else.
The comparison method is our troubleshooting suggestion. The patch notes recommend trying DX11 but do not promise a particular FPS, preset, or battery life. If the option is missing, first confirm that Steam has finished updating the full game.
Better FPS does not rule out a freeze
In the official performance discussion, one Steam Deck player reported improved frame rate followed by a freeze during an area transition near the pharmacy. A developer asked for more location detail. This is a player report, not proof that every Deck has the same fault or that DX11 resolves it.
Record whether the game is merely stuttering or stops responding entirely. Avoid repeatedly replaying a long unsaved section just to collect a benchmark.
Union Apartments elevator blocked by enemies
Hotfix 1 specifically lists a fix for enemies blocking the Union Apartments elevator. Update first if that is your symptom. The notes also mention some softlock fixes without naming each scenario; they do not establish that every progression blocker is resolved or that an already affected save will always recover.
If the problem remains
Use the official performance discussion. Include your platform, game build if available, selected launch mode, exact room or transition, and whether it happens repeatedly. Distinguish a low frame rate from a freeze or an enemy physically obstructing an exit.
Is this also a confirmed console fix?
No. The announcement is for Steam. Check your platform's own update before assuming it includes these changes.
Should I copy another player's Proton or graphics settings?
The evidence here supports trying the official DX11 option. Individual settings reports are not a validated universal preset; change one setting at a time if you choose to compare them.
Sources and version
Checked October 11, 2026. Based on official notes and attributed community reports, not our own hardware benchmarks. No console patch parity or guaranteed recovery is claimed.