Key Takeaways
1. Valve’s ARM-based Steam Frame VR headset will support Android games, starting with Walkabout Mini Golf VR.
2. The Android version of compatible games will be available on Steam without separate listings, enhancing user convenience.
3. Recent updates to the Steamworks SDK indicate support for distributing Android APK files on the Steam Frame, initially focused on VR games.
4. The integration of PC and Android gaming could lead to smoother multi-platform releases, benefiting both players and developers.
5. Valve’s testing with the Waydroid emulator suggests potential future support for Android emulation on PC Steam, expanding access to more games.
Following the reveal of the ARM-based Steam Frame VR headset, Valve has confirmed that Android games will be available on Steam for this device. It was just a matter of time before we discovered the first game that will be compatible with the Frame, and that game is Walkabout Mini Golf VR (check out the YouTube video review).
Game Compatibility
Walkabout Mini Golf VR, created using the Unity engine, is currently accessible for both ARM Android headsets such as the Meta Quest and PCVR (x86) users through its existing Steam page. A notable update was found on X/Twitter by @SadlyItsBradley, who used SteamDB to highlight that the Android APK will be available for current owners on Steam Frame right from the start. The Android version is now simply an additional option under the same Steam title.
New Developments
This update, along with the recently released Steamworks SDK 1.63, confirms the introduction of libraries for “linuxarm64” and “androidarm64” on Steam. This implies that Android APK files should soon be distributable through Steam for the Steam Frame, although at the moment it seems to be limited to VR games and SteamOS.
Future of Multi-Platform Gaming
The smooth integration of this system raises the hope that future multi-platform releases between PC and Android could eventually enable Steam users to play games on PCs, standalone VR headsets, and even smartphones. However, Valve might have reasons to proceed with caution. The primary concern would be upsetting Google, even though its recent legal defeat against Epic Games suggests that Steam could distribute games freely without being removed from the Play Store. Such a move would make cross-platform gaming between Android and PC much smoother, benefiting both Valve and developers.
Additionally, Valve’s internal tests with the Waydroid Android emulator, reported last year, might hint at the potential for Android emulation being introduced to PC Steam. This would enhance the playability and distribution of Android games that might not even have PC versions.
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