Death Stranding 2: On the Beach - Ultimate PC Graphics Settings Guide (DLSS 4.5 / Performance Optimization)

This guide breaks down the optimal PC graphics settings for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, helping you balance visual fidelity with smooth performance. Whether you’re rocking an RTX 3050 or an RTX 4090, we’ve got the settings that’ll keep Sam’s journey buttery smooth.

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Table of Contents

1. System Requirements and Hardware Recommendations
2. Best Graphics Settings for 1080p 60FPS
3. DLSS 4.5 and Frame Generation Setup
4. Advanced Optimization and Troubleshooting
5. Performance Benchmarks Across Different GPUs

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System Requirements and Hardware Recommendations

Before diving into settings, let’s make sure your rig can handle the Beach.

Minimum Requirements (1080p / 30 FPS / Low Settings)

• CPU: Intel Core i5-8400 / AMD Ryzen 5 2600
• GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1060 6GB / AMD RX 580 8GB
• RAM: 12 GB
• Storage: 80 GB SSD (NVMe recommended)

Recommended Requirements (1080p / 60 FPS / High Settings)

• CPU: Intel Core i7-10700K / AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
• GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3060 / AMD RX 6700 XT
• RAM: 16 GB
• Storage: 80 GB NVMe SSD

Ideal Requirements (1440p / 60 FPS / Ultra Settings)

• CPU: Intel Core i7-12700K / AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D
• GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4070 / AMD RX 7800 XT
• RAM: 32 GB
• Storage: 80 GB NVMe SSD (Gen 4)

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Best Graphics Settings for 1080p 60FPS

Here’s the sweet spot for most players. These settings prioritize smooth gameplay while maintaining the game’s signature visual style.

Display Settings

Setting	Recommended Value	Notes
Resolution	1920x1080	Native or upscale target
Display Mode	Fullscreen	Best performance
V-Sync	Off	Enable only if screen tearing occurs
Frame Rate Cap	60 FPS	Match your monitor refresh rate
Motion Blur	Personal Preference	Disable for competitive clarity

Graphics Quality Settings

Setting	Recommended Value	Performance Impact
Texture Quality	High	VRAM dependent (6GB+ recommended)
Shadow Quality	Medium	High impact on FPS
Reflection Quality	Medium	Significant FPS cost
Shader Quality	High	Minimal impact
Lighting Quality	High	Core to visual identity
Effects Quality	Medium	Particle-heavy scenes benefit
Volumetric Quality	Medium	Fog/Timefall performance cost
Crowd Density	Low	Minimal gameplay impact
Level of Detail (LOD)	High	Distance rendering quality

Anti-Aliasing and Upscaling

Setting	Recommended Value	Notes
Anti-Aliasing	DLSS Quality / Native AA	DLSS preferred for NVIDIA
Upscaling Method	DLSS / PICO	DLSS for NVIDIA, PICO for AMD
Sharpness	50-70%	Personal preference

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DLSS 4.5 and Frame Generation Setup

This is where the magic happens. DLSS 4.5 with Frame Generation can nearly double your framerate.

DLSS Performance Modes Explained

DLSS Mode	Internal Resolution	Performance Gain	Image Quality
Quality	1440p → 1080p	~20% FPS boost	Excellent
Balanced	1296p → 1080p	~35% FPS boost	Very Good
Performance	1080p → 1080p (reconstructed)	~50% FPS boost	Good
Ultra Performance	720p → 1080p	~65% FPS boost	Acceptable

Frame Generation Settings

• Frame Generation: Enable (RTX 40-series recommended)
• Frame Generation 2x: Enable for maximum FPS
• NVIDIA Reflex: Enable + Boost (reduces input lag)

Benchmarks: DLSS Performance + Frame Generation

Our test setup (AM4-based, RTX 4070 equivalent):

Setting Combination	Average FPS	1% Low FPS
Native AA	72.4	48.2
DLSS Quality + FG 2x	128.6	52.3
DLSS Performance + FG 2x	145.8	58.7
DLSS Ultra Performance + FG 2x	152.9	56.9

Key Takeaway: DLSS Performance + Frame Generation 2x offers the best balance of visual quality and smooth performance for most players.

PICO Upscaling (Alternative to DLSS)

Death Stranding 2 also features PICO (Progressive Image Compositor), the same technology used on PS5:

• Best for: AMD GPU users or those experiencing DLSS artifacts
• Performance: Similar to DLSS Quality mode
• Image Quality: Slightly softer than DLSS but more stable

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Advanced Optimization and Troubleshooting

Fixing Stuttering and Frame Drops

1. Shader Compilation Stutter (First Launch Only)

   • Normal behavior - let shaders compile fully before playing
   • Can take 5-15 minutes on first launch
   • Subsequent launches should be smooth

2. Enable DLSS Performance Mode

   • Reduces GPU load significantly
   • Combine with Frame Generation for best results

3. Cap Your Framerate

   • Set to your monitor’s refresh rate
   • Prevents GPU overheating and power spikes

4. Update GPU Drivers

   • NVIDIA: Use GeForce Experience or download from NVIDIA.com
   • AMD: Use Adrenalin Software

5. Disable Background Applications

   • Close Chrome, Discord overlays, RGB software
   • These can cause micro-stutters

Graphics Settings That Kill FPS

Avoid these if you’re struggling with performance:

• Shadow Quality: Ultra - Massive FPS hit for minimal visual gain
• Reflection Quality: Ultra - Ray-traced reflections are expensive
• Volumetric Quality: Ultra - Timefall and fog become FPS monsters
• Crowd Density: High - Unnecessary for gameplay

VRAM Management

Death Stranding 2 can be VRAM-hungry. If you’re experiencing crashes:

• 4GB VRAM: Use Low-Medium textures, disable upscaling
• 6GB VRAM: High textures with DLSS Performance
• 8GB+ VRAM: Ultra textures available

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Performance Benchmarks Across Different GPUs

1080p Gaming (DLSS Performance + Frame Generation 2x)

GPU	Average FPS	1% Lows	Settings
RTX 3050	95-105 FPS	65 FPS	High + DLSS P
RTX 3060	120-135 FPS	78 FPS	High + DLSS P
RTX 3070	140-155 FPS	92 FPS	Ultra + DLSS P
RTX 4060	145-160 FPS	95 FPS	Ultra + DLSS P
RTX 4070	165-180 FPS	110 FPS	Ultra + DLSS P
RTX 4080	190-210 FPS	135 FPS	Ultra + DLSS P
RTX 4090	220-240 FPS	165 FPS	Ultra + DLSS P

1440p Gaming (DLSS Quality + Frame Generation 2x)

GPU	Average FPS	1% Lows	Settings
RTX 3070	85-95 FPS	58 FPS	High + DLSS Q
RTX 4070	115-130 FPS	82 FPS	Ultra + DLSS Q
RTX 4080	145-160 FPS	105 FPS	Ultra + DLSS Q
RTX 4090	175-195 FPS	130 FPS	Ultra + DLSS Q

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Quick Settings Presets

”I Just Want It to Work” Preset (1080p / 60 FPS)

• Resolution: 1920x1080
• DLSS: Quality
• Frame Generation: Off
• All Quality Settings: High
• Shadows: Medium
• Reflections: Medium

”Maximum Frames” Preset (Competitive)

• Resolution: 1920x1080
• DLSS: Ultra Performance
• Frame Generation: 2x
• All Quality Settings: Medium
• Shadows: Low
• Motion Blur: Off
• V-Sync: Off

”Visual Fidelity” Preset (RTX 4080/4090)

• Resolution: 3840x2160 (4K)
• DLSS: Quality
• Frame Generation: 2x
• All Quality Settings: Ultra
• Ray Tracing: Enable (if available)
• NVIDIA Reflex: Enable + Boost

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Recently PC Technical Issues & Fixes

Since its PC launch on March 19, 2026, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach has experienced numerous PC-specific technical problems. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of every known issue, error codes, and how to fix them.

Critical Launch Issues

1. EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION (0xc0000005) Crash

Issue: Game crashes immediately on startup with EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION error code.

Fixes:

1. Delete Corrupt Settings File:
   • Navigate to %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\KojimaProductions\DeathStranding2
   • Delete settings.cfg file
   • Game will regenerate fresh config on next launch
2. Clear DirectX Shader Cache:
   • Windows Search → Type “Disk Cleanup”
   • Select main drive (C:)
   • Check “DirectX Shader Cache” box
   • Click OK to delete
3. Update GPU Drivers:
   • NVIDIA: Download latest Game Ready Driver (avoid 595.59, use 591.86 or 595.97+)
   • AMD: Use Adrenalin Software for clean install
   • Use DDU for complete driver removal if issues persist
4. Disable Overlays:
   • Steam Overlay: Steam → Settings → In Game → uncheck “Enable Steam Overlay”
   • Discord Overlay: Discord → Settings → Game Overlay → disable
   • NVIDIA GeForce Experience Overlay: Disable in GeForce Experience settings

Why it happens: Decima Engine tries to access unauthorized RAM/VRAM pools or runs out of space during initialization.

Source: XMODhub, NeonLightsMedia

2. Infinite Black Screen on Startup

Issue: Game launches to black screen that never progresses to Kojima Productions logo.

Fixes:

1. Set Monitor Refresh Rate to 60Hz:
   • Windows Display Settings → Advanced Display
   • Set refresh rate to 60Hz temporarily
   • Launch game, then adjust back if stable
2. Disable HDR:
   • Windows Settings → System → Display → HDR
   • Turn off “Use HDR”
   • Launch game successfully, then re-enable if desired
3. Force Windowed Mode:
   • Edit settings.cfg in %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\KojimaProductions\DeathStranding2
   • Set Fullscreen=0 or Windowed=1
   • Save and launch
4. Disable Ray Tracing Before Launch:
   • Access graphics settings from launcher (before hitting Play)
   • Turn Ray Tracing completely OFF
   • Save and launch

Why it happens: Decima Engine fails to initialize monitor refresh rate or HDR settings during startup sequence.

Source: XMODhub, NeonLightsMedia

3. Vulkan API Errors and Crashes

Issue: Game crashes with Vulkan-related error messages or silent crashes during loading.

Fixes:

1. Clear Shader Cache (see Fix #1 above)
2. Disable All Overlays (see Fix #1 above)
3. Switch to PICO Anti-Aliasing:
   • Graphics Settings → Anti-Aliasing
   • Select “PICO” instead of DLSS/FSR
   • More stable for initial launch
4. Verify Game Files:
   • Steam → Library → Right-click Death Stranding 2 → Properties → Installed Files → Verify integrity
   • Epic Games → Library → three dots → Verify

Why it happens: Vulkan API processing errors caused by corrupted shader cache or conflicting overlay software.

Source: NeonLightsMedia

4. Loading Screen Crash of Death

Issue: Game crashes to desktop at the very first loading screen after hitting “Play”.

Required Graphical Tweaks (Apply in Launcher Before Playing):

Setting	Action Required	Reason
Ray Tracing	Turn completely OFF	Primary culprit causing loading screen hang
Frame Generation	Disable entirely	Fake frames cause fatal logic loops in engine
Anti-Aliasing	Switch to PICO	DLSS/FSR currently unstable at launch
Resolution	Set to native monitor resolution	Avoid custom resolutions on first launch

Additional Steps:

1. Update GPU drivers to latest version
2. Verify game files through Steam/Epic
3. Close all background applications (Chrome, Discord, RGB software)
4. Run game as Administrator (right-click → Properties → Compatibility)

Source: NeonLightsMedia, Reddit r/DeathStranding

Performance Issues

5. Severe Stuttering During Gameplay

Issue: Micro-stutters and frame time spikes during normal gameplay, especially in cutscenes.

Fixes:

1. Ensure Shaders Finished Compiling:
   • First launch may take 5-15 minutes for shader compilation
   • Do NOT force close during this process
   • Wait for compilation to complete before playing
2. Turn Off Frame Generation:
   • Graphics Settings → Frame Generation → Disable
   • Frame Gen can cause frame pacing issues
3. Try Different Upscaler:
   • If using DLSS, try FSR or PICO
   • If using FSR, try DLSS or PICO
   • Different upscalers have different stability profiles
4. Enable Dynamic Resolution:
   • Graphics Settings → Dynamic Resolution → Enable
   • Helps maintain stable frame times
5. Set Display to 59.94Hz:
   • Windows Display Settings → Advanced Display
   • Set refresh rate to 59.94Hz (not 60Hz exactly)
   • Fixes 99% of cutscene stutters according to community reports

Why it happens: Frame time spikes from shader compilation, frame generation pacing issues, or refresh rate conflicts.

Source: MagicGameWorld, Reddit r/DeathStranding

6. DLSS Frame Generation Frame Pacing Issues (3x/4x Mode)

Issue: Lower than expected 1st percentile framerates when DLSS Frame Generation set to 3x or 4x mode.

Fixes:

1. Use Frame Generation 2x Instead:
   • Graphics Settings → Frame Generation → Select 2x (not 3x or 4x)
   • 2x mode has better frame pacing
2. Enable NVIDIA Reflex + Boost:
   • Reduces input lag from frame generation
   • Improves overall responsiveness
3. Cap Framerate:
   • Set framerate cap to monitor refresh rate
   • Prevents GPU from overworking
4. Wait for Future Patch:
   • Nixxes acknowledged this issue
   • Future patches will address 3x/4x frame pacing

Why it happens: DLSS Frame Generation 3x/4x modes have frame pacing bugs in current build (Patch 1.1.53).

Source: Overclock3D

7. Low GPU Usage with Resizable BAR

Issue: GPU usage drops unexpectedly, causing poor performance despite high-end hardware.

Fixes:

1. Disable Resizable BAR in BIOS:
   • Enter BIOS/UEFI settings
   • Find “Resizable BAR” or “Above 4G Decoding”
   • Disable the feature
   • Save and restart
2. Update Motherboard BIOS:
   • Check manufacturer website for latest BIOS
   • Update may improve Resizable BAR compatibility
3. Update GPU Drivers:
   • Latest drivers may have Resizable BAR fixes

Why it happens: Decima Engine has compatibility issues with Resizable BAR on certain motherboard/GPU combinations.

Source: PCGamingWiki, Nexus Mods

Visual Issues

8. Ray Tracing Causing Crashes

Issue: Enabling Ray Tracing causes immediate crashes or loading screen hangs.

Fixes:

1. Disable Ray Tracing Completely:
   • Graphics Settings → Ray Tracing → Off
   • Only disable, don’t lower quality
2. Update to Patch 1.1+:
   • March 26 patch improved RT stability
   • Ensure game is fully updated
3. Lower Other Settings First:
   • Reduce Texture Quality, Shadows, Reflections
   • Then attempt to enable RT at Low/Medium
4. Check VRAM Usage:
   • Ray Tracing is VRAM-intensive
   • Monitor VRAM with MSI Afterburner
   • If >95%, lower Texture Quality

Why it happens: Ray Tracing implementation in launch build unstable; improved in Patch 1.1 but still problematic on some configurations.

Source: NeonLightsMedia, Overclock3D

9. Water Flickering/Rendering Bug at Higher Resolutions

Issue: Water surfaces flicker or render incorrectly at 1440p/4K resolutions.

Fixes:

1. Lower Reflection Quality:
   • Graphics Settings → Reflection Quality → Medium or Low
2. Disable Ray Traced Reflections:
   • If enabled, turn off RT reflections
3. Use DLSS/FSR Quality Mode:
   • Upscaling can reduce rendering artifacts
4. Update GPU Drivers:
   • Latest drivers may have water rendering fixes

Status: Unresolved issue in current build (as of March 2026).

Source: PCGamingWiki

10. HDR Tone Mapping Issues

Issue: HDR appears washed out or overly bright/dark.

Fixes:

1. Calibrate HDR in Windows:
   • Windows Settings → System → Display → HDR
   • Click “Calibrate HDR” and follow wizard
2. Adjust In-Game HDR Settings:
   • Graphics Settings → HDR → Adjust brightness/contrast
3. Disable and Re-enable HDR:
   • Turn off HDR in Windows
   • Launch game in SDR mode
   • Exit game, re-enable HDR in Windows
   • Relaunch game

Source: GameRant

Audio Issues

11. Audio Stuttering or Desync

Issue: Audio stutters during gameplay or becomes desynchronized from video.

Fixes:

1. Set Windows Audio to 24-bit, 48000 Hz:
   • Windows Search → “Change system sounds”
   • Playback tab → Right-click active device → Properties
   • Advanced tab → Set to “24-bit, 48000 Hz (Studio Quality)”
2. Disable Spatial Sound:
   • Right-click speaker icon → Sound settings
   • Output device → Spatial sound → Set to “Off”
3. Disable Audio Enhancements:
   • Sound Control Panel → Select playback device → Properties
   • Enhancements tab → Check “Disable all enhancements”
4. Update Audio Drivers:
   • Download latest Realtek/motherboard drivers
   • Not Windows Update defaults

Source: XMODhub (similar RE Engine audio issues)

Social Strand Service Issues

12. Steam Friends Not Appearing in Social Strand Service

Issue: Steam Friends list does not load in the game’s Social Strand Service feature.

Fixes:

1. Update to Patch 1.1+:
   • This issue was fixed in PC Patch 1.1 (March 26, 2026)
   • Ensure game is fully updated
2. Restart Steam Client:
   • Fully exit Steam (File → Exit)
   • Relaunch Steam
   • Launch game
3. Verify Steam Friends Network:
   • Steam → Friends & Chat
   • Ensure you’re logged into Steam network
   • Try viewing friends list in Steam overlay

Status: Fixed in Patch 1.1.53.

Source: Overclock3D, SteamDB

13. VR Training Missions Not Loading

Issue: VR Training Missions (“Trapped in a Strange Realm”) fail to load or crash on entry.

Fixes:

1. Update to Patch 1.1+:
   • This issue was fixed in PC Patch 1.1 (March 26, 2026)
   • Ensure game is fully updated
2. Complete Required Story Progress:
   • Some VR missions require specific story chapters
   • Ensure you’ve progressed far enough
3. Verify Game Files:
   • Corrupted mission files may prevent loading
   • Verify through Steam/Epic

Status: Fixed in Patch 1.1.53.

Source: Overclock3D, GameRant

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March 2026 Patch History

PC Patch 1.1.53 (March 26, 2026)

First major PC patch - Released one week after PC launch.

Key Fixes:

• Performance Improvements: Overall performance and stability enhancements
• VR Training Missions: Fixed bug preventing VR Training Missions from loading
• Steam Friends: Fixed Steam Friends not appearing in Social Strand Service friends list
• AMD FSR + Intel XeSS Frame Generation: Fixed enabling alongside DLSS
• UI Improvements: Various user interface enhancements
• Localization Fixes: Improved localization across multiple languages
• Ray Tracing Stability: Improved RT stability (some issues remain)

Known Issues Remaining:

• DLSS Frame Generation 3x/4x mode still has frame pacing issues
• Water flickering at higher resolutions not fully resolved
• Some users still experience loading screen crashes

Developer Statement:

“The teams at Nixxes and KOJIMA PRODUCTIONS continue to keep a close eye on player feedback and crash reports and are actively working on more patches with additional performance improvements and fixes.”

File Size: ~2-3 GB (varies by platform)

Source: Overclock3D, SteamDB, iXBT Games

PC Launch Day Patch (March 19, 2026)

Day One Patch - Released alongside PC version.

Key Features:

• NVIDIA DLSS support (including DLSS 4.5)
• AMD FSR support
• Intel XeSS support
• Ultrawide support (21:9 and 32:9)
• DualSense haptic feedback and adaptive triggers (PC)
• Uncapped frame rates
• Ray Tracing for reflections and ambient occlusion
• Deep graphical customization options

Known Issues at Launch:

• EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION crashes
• Black screen on startup
• Loading screen crashes
• VR Training Missions not loading
• Steam Friends not appearing
• Ray Tracing instability
• DLSS Frame Generation frame pacing issues

Source: GameRant, PlayStation Blog

PS5 Update 1.2 (March 19, 2026)

Simultaneous Console Update - Released same day as PC launch.

Key Features:

• “To The Wilder” difficulty mode (new punishing difficulty)
• VR Training Missions (“Trapped in a Strange Realm”)
• New live-action cutscenes (previously cut for storage)
• Fresh nightmare sequences for Sam
• “Chiral Feline” creature in private room
• Updated Photo Mode with feline-themed filters
• 21:9 ultrawide support

Source: GameRant, PlayStation Blog

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PC System Requirements (Updated March 2026)

Minimum (1080p / 30 FPS / Low Settings)

Component	Requirement
OS	Windows 10/11 64-bit
Processor	Intel Core i5-8400 / AMD Ryzen 5 2600
Memory	12 GB RAM
Graphics	NVIDIA GTX 1060 6GB / AMD RX 580 8GB
DirectX	Version 12
Storage	80 GB SSD (NVMe recommended)

Recommended (1080p / 60 FPS / High Settings)

Component	Requirement
OS	Windows 11 64-bit
Processor	Intel Core i7-10700K / AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
Memory	16 GB RAM
Graphics	NVIDIA RTX 3060 / AMD RX 6700 XT
DirectX	Version 12
Storage	80 GB NVMe SSD

Ideal (1440p / 60 FPS / Ultra + Ray Tracing)

Component	Requirement
OS	Windows 11 64-bit
Processor	Intel Core i7-12700K / AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D
Memory	32 GB RAM
Graphics	NVIDIA RTX 4070 / AMD RX 7800 XT
DirectX	Version 12
Storage	80 GB NVMe SSD (Gen 4)

Ray Tracing / DLSS Frame Gen (4K / 60+ FPS)

Component	Requirement
OS	Windows 11 64-bit
Processor	Intel Core i7-13700K / AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Memory	32 GB RAM
Graphics	NVIDIA RTX 4080 / RTX 4090 / RTX 5080+
DirectX	Version 12
Storage	80 GB NVMe SSD (PCIe 4.0+)

Important Notes:

• SSD Required - NVMe strongly recommended for asset streaming
• Resizable BAR - May cause low GPU usage on some systems; try disabling in BIOS
• DirectX 12 Ultimate - Game is hard-locked to DX12; cannot force DX11 via launch options
• DLSS 4.5 - Supported on compatible NVIDIA GPUs with Frame Generation

Source: GameRant, Overclock3D

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General Troubleshooting Checklist

If experiencing issues not covered above, try these steps in order:

1. Update GPU Drivers - Use DDU for clean install; avoid NVIDIA 595.59
2. Verify Game Files - Steam/Epic → Properties → Verify integrity
3. Delete Settings File - %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\KojimaProductions\DeathStranding2\settings.cfg
4. Clear DirectX Shader Cache - Windows Disk Cleanup
5. Disable All Overlays - Steam, Discord, NVIDIA, AMD
6. Close Background Apps - Chrome, RGB software, recording apps
7. Update Windows - Ensure latest Windows 10/11 build
8. Disable Ray Tracing - Turn off completely for initial launch
9. Disable Frame Generation - Try without FG first
10. Run as Administrator - Right-click → Properties → Compatibility
11. Check Temperatures - Use HWMonitor to rule out thermal throttling
12. Disable Resizable BAR - In BIOS if experiencing low GPU usage

Official Support:

• Nixxes Support
• Kojima Productions Support
• Steam Community Discussions
• PCGamingWiki

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