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RAGE 2 uses the Denuvo anti-tamper tech and the Vulkan API

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The embargo for RAGE 2 has just been lifted and we can confirm that the game uses the Denuvo anti-tamper tech. Moreover, RAGE 2 is powered by the APEX Engine and uses the Vulkan API, something that will definitely please a lot of PC owners of weaker PC configurations.

First things first, though. The first hint of the Denuvo anti-tamper tech came from the game’s executable file size. As with most Denuvo games, RAGE 2’s executable file is over 300MB (to be more precise, it’s 415MB in size).

The second hint was the longer than anticipated initial loading times. Like most games that use the Denuvo anti-tamper tech, RAGE 2 was not loading fast enough (or at least similarly to other games that do not use Denuvo) and behaved similarly to Total War THREE KINGDOMS (and all other games that use this controversial anti-tamper tech).

As such, we went ahead and used a HEX Editor and found some similar calls between the RAGE 2, Total War THREE KINGDOMS and Just Cause 4 executable files. Therefore, I think it’s safe to say that, despite the game’s EULA not including it, RAGE 2 does in fact use the Denuvo anti-tamper tech.

It’s worth noting that the previous triple-A Avalanche game, Just Cause 4, was also using Denuvo. On the other hand, Generation Zero – a game that was also using the APEX Engine – was not using this controversial anti-tamper tech. Therefore, we are not pretty sure whether the decision to use Denuvo was made by the publisher or the developers.

Do note that Denuvo is currently present in the press review code for RAGE 2. We’ve already gotten in touch with Bethesda in order to find out whether the final/retail version will also include it, and we’ll update the story once – and if – the publisher responds. As always, if Bethesda removes Denuvo from the final version of RAGE 2, we’ll be sure to let you know.

Last but not least, RAGE 2 uses the Vulkan API. This is confirmed by its “ShadersVulkan_F.shader_bundle” file, as well as NVIDIA itself. As NVIDIA noted in its latest drivers.

“To ensure the explosive action of the Vulkan-powered Rage 2 runs at its very best when Avalanche Studios, id Software and Bethesda Softworks’ first-person shooter launches May 14th, download and install our new Game Ready Driver.”