Tag: Steam Deck

April 9, 2025
Rare Steam Deck Prototype with AMD Picasso APU Sells for $2K
Key Takeaways
1. A Steam Deck prototype was auctioned on eBay for $2,000, despite a listing price of $2,999.99.
2. The prototype, completed in February 2020, featured an experimental AMD ‘Picasso’ APU, which was less powerful than the retail Aerith APU.
3. The Picasso APU provided about half the GPU power of the Aerith, which uses an RDNA 2-based iGPU.
4. The prototype had 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, while retail Steam Decks have 16 GB of RAM and various storage options (64 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB).
5. The future of the prototype, designated as ‘Engineering Sample 34,’ is uncertain, and it may be showcased again later.
A few years ago, Pierre-Loup Griffais posted images and a short video of some Steam Deck prototypes. Recently, one of these prototypes was auctioned on eBay in the US for a staggering $2,000. It’s important to mention that while the eBay listing indicates the final auction price was $2,999.99, an accepted Best Offer of $2,000 was actually the price paid.
Prototype Details
The images in the listing show that Valve completed this prototype around February 2020, which is about two years before the retail versions hit the market. The Steam Deck officially comes with two APU options: one called Aerith for the LCD models and another named Sephiroth for the OLED versions. However, Engineering Sample 34 shows that Valve was also experimenting with an AMD ‘Picasso’ APU, likely incorporating Zen CPU cores alongside Vega (GCN 5.0) iGPU cores.
Performance Comparison
Pierre-Loup Griffais mentioned that this Picasso APU was only providing “about half” the GPU power of Aerith, which uses an RDNA 2-based iGPU with 8 Compute Units. In comparison, newer APUs such as the Ryzen Z1 Extreme present in the Asus ROG Ally (currently priced at $599.99 on Amazon) come with 12 CUs from AMD’s advanced RDNA 3 architecture. This means that, had this prototype been released as a consumer product, it would have been quickly outdated.
At that time, Valve was also working on the Steam Deck with 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. In contrast, all the retail units of the Steam Deck come equipped with 16 GB of RAM, and storage options include 64 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB across both the LCD and OLED models. Where ‘Engineering Sample 34’ will go next is still uncertain, and it remains to be seen if it will appear in public again. Hopefully, we will see this prototype showcased in the future.
Source:
Link
Tags: AMD Picasso, Steam Deck, Valve
April 8, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 vs Steam Deck: Specs and Performance Analysis
Key Takeaways
1. The Switch 2 features a 7.9-inch display, 256 GB of storage, and supports 4K output when docked.
2. It is suggested that the console may use the Nvidia T239 chip, with fewer CUDA cores and a smaller memory bus compared to its predecessor.
3. The Switch 2’s performance is expected to be similar to the PS4 and comparable to the Steam Deck, particularly when docked.
4. Nvidia confirmed that the Switch 2 will support DLSS, which may enhance its performance compared to the Steam Deck.
5. Digital Foundry’s analysis provides insights into the Switch 2’s capabilities, though real-world performance remains to be fully seen.
The April 2nd Nintendo Direct presented important specifications for the Switch 2, which features a 7.9-inch display, 256 GB of storage, and a 4K output when docked. However, details regarding its custom Nvidia processor remain scarce. Still, Digital Foundry has made a comparison of the handheld’s performance against other consoles, such as the Steam Deck. The analysis is based on leaks about the Switch 2 that help fill in the gaps and includes gameplay video assessments.
Processor Insights
Drawing on hints from 2021, Digital Foundry suggests that the Switch 2 might use the Nvidia T239 chip. While it shares similarities with the T234, this processor has several key differences. The number of CUDA Cores is expected to decrease from 2048 in the T234 to 1536 in the T239. Additionally, the memory bus, which is 256-bit in the T234, will be reduced to 128-bit in the T239. The chip’s die size also shrinks from 455mm2 to 200mm2. Although the clock speeds are not entirely clear, the analysis hints that the Switch 2’s GPU may run at 1 GHz, with 561 MHz in mobile mode. Interestingly, the CPU is expected to operate at 1101 MHz in handheld mode but drop to 998 MHz while docked.
Performance Comparisons
With these specifications, the Nintendo handheld is anticipated to deliver visuals similar to the PS4. The released videos showcase resolutions and frame rates that align closely with what Sony’s console can achieve. Additionally, the Switch 2’s performance appears to be quite comparable to the Steam Deck, although there are some exceptions. Like its predecessor, the Switch 2 should experience an increase in power draw when docked, which Digital Foundry believes could give it an edge over the Steam Deck in this mode. Conversely, the Switch 2’s lower power usage might pose challenges when used in portable mode.
Nvidia has confirmed that the Switch 2 will support DLSS, which could change the landscape of comparisons with the Steam Deck. Nintendo has been somewhat ambiguous about this feature, and gamers might not have experienced this upscaling technology in action yet.
Conclusion
Digital Foundry’s insights, shared on their YouTube channel, provide a glimpse into what players can expect from the upcoming handheld console. As more details emerge, fans are eager to see how the Switch 2 will perform in real-world scenarios.
Source:
Link
Tags: Nvidia T239, Steam Deck, Switch 2
April 2, 2025
New Xbox Console Could Use Gaming-Friendly Windows UI Over SteamOS
Key Takeaways
1. Microsoft is developing a portable PC, Project Kennan, that aims to merge gaming console interfaces with a handheld Xbox running on Windows.
2. A new Windows 11 preview build may introduce Xbox-style menus and improve the gaming experience on handheld devices.
3. The Asus ROG Ally struggles to compete with the user-friendly Steam Deck, which offers a hassle-free gaming setup.
4. Minor updates to Windows gaming features, like a minimized Game Bar and on-screen keyboard for controllers, are steps toward enhancing handheld gaming.
5. Speculation exists about a new Xbox console launching in 2027, also running on Windows, with user-friendliness essential for success.
Plans are moving forward for a portable PC from Asus that Microsoft is backing. Through what’s called Project Kennan, Microsoft is looking to combine the interface from its gaming consoles with a handheld Xbox that runs on Windows. But, as it stands, using the operating system can be tricky with just a d-pad and buttons. A new preview build of Windows 11 could show how Microsoft plans to tackle this issue.
A Glimpse into Development
According to a post on BlueSky, Windows Central has found an intriguing mention of “Gaming_GamingPosture_ChooseHomeApp.” This wording was spotted in a language pack linked to a Windows 11 development build. Users might be able to start their device in full-screen or pick from interface options that likely feature new Xbox-style menus. Depending on how well it’s done, this software could enhance the gaming experience on an Xbox handheld.
Competing with the Steam Deck
Up until now, devices like the Asus ROG Ally haven’t quite matched the ease of use found in the Steam Deck. With SteamOS, Valve’s device allows players to install and start games without much hassle. Unlike a desktop where finding games can be a chore, the Steam Deck is designed with controllers in mind. Even if other devices boast more powerful specs, many gamers lean toward the Steam Deck due to its user-friendly approach.
Progress in Windows Gaming Features
Microsoft has made minor tweaks to Windows and its gaming capabilities. The Game Bar can now minimize, making it easier to use on smaller screens. Plus, controllers can now enter search terms using an on-screen keyboard. However, these adjustments are only baby steps toward turning Windows handhelds into real gaming machines. The upcoming Windows 11 preview build will be the first chance to see how these changes perform on a handheld device.
There’s speculation that Project Kennan could hint at another Xbox console being launched in 2027. Rumors suggest that Microsoft is working on a successor to the Xbox Series X. But, similar to the Asus handheld, this console would also run on Windows. How user-friendly it is with a controller will be crucial for its success.
Source:
Link
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, Microsoft, Steam Deck
March 25, 2025
YouTuber Installs SteamOS on Asus ROG Ally Successfully
Key Takeaways
1. A proper SteamOS version for other handheld devices is still in development, and Bazzite lacks many features of the true SteamOS.
2. YouTuber The Phawx successfully ran SteamOS 3.8 on the Asus ROG Ally, showcasing potential for the platform.
3. SteamOS is functioning well on the ROG Ally, but issues like a stuck TDP slider and unrecognized controller back paddles remain.
4. The Steam Deck outperforms the ROG Ally despite having older hardware, thanks to Valve’s software optimizations.
5. Future performance may improve with the release of Ryzen Z2 and Ryzen Z2 Extreme, depending on OEM adjustments.
It might take some time before a proper SteamOS version is released for other handheld devices. While Bazzite is a solid option, it doesn’t come close to offering all the features of the real SteamOS. On the brighter side, YouTuber and handheld specialist The Phawx has successfully gotten SteamOS 3.8 to run on an Asus ROG Ally.
SteamOS Performance
Most functions of SteamOS seem to be operating smoothly. The system recognizes the ROG Ally’s 120 Hz display and even includes a toggle for VRR. Nonetheless, the TDP slider is stuck at 15 Watts, and the controller isn’t being recognized correctly, which leaves the back paddles not working. Since this is still an early version of SteamOS, there’s a lot of work needed before it can be used on other devices.
Comparison with Steam Deck
When it comes to performance, the Steam Deck’s unique Van Gogh APU actually beats the ROG Ally’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme, even though it’s an older generation and has less powerful hardware. This can likely be credited to Valve’s software optimizations tailored for the Steam Deck.
Future Prospects
Things are expected to change once the Ryzen Z2 and Ryzen Z2 Extreme are released. However, the specific adjustments made by OEMs will play a key role in determining which option offers the best value for your money.
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, Steam Deck, SteamOS
March 24, 2025
HP Open to Developing SteamOS Handheld Gaming Device
Key Takeaways
1. HP is not entering the handheld gaming PC market due to limitations with the Windows operating system.
2. Josephine Tan, HP’s Senior Vice President, expressed frustration with the current Windows experience in handheld devices.
3. HP is open to the idea of creating a handheld device that runs on Valve’s SteamOS, which has gained popularity.
4. The likelihood of HP launching a SteamOS handheld is low, as Lenovo is currently the only partner for SteamOS devices.
5. Microsoft is working on improving the Windows experience for handheld PCs, leading companies to wait for better software before considering new partnerships.
While several major PC brands like Lenovo, Asus, and MSI have jumped into the world of handheld gaming PCs, HP is still on the sidelines. In a recent chat, they shared their reasons for not unveiling their own device, and what it might take to change that.
Windows Limitations
In an interview with XDA, Josephine Tan, the Senior Vice President and Division President of Gaming Solutions at HP, explained that the main reason for HP’s absence in the handheld gaming PC market is due to the current limitations of Windows. During the recent HP Amplify event, she mentioned, “If you look at Windows, I struggle with the experience myself.” She noted that Windows lacks the smooth experience of just turning on a handheld and picking up where you left off, unlike the Nintendo Switch.
Exploring SteamOS
When asked if HP would consider creating a gaming handheld that runs on Valve’s SteamOS, Tan seemed receptive to the idea. This isn’t too surprising, given how well the Steam Deck has performed in the handheld gaming sector, largely due to its user-friendly software. Currently, the Steam Deck is the only handheld available with SteamOS, but this is set to change soon with Lenovo’s Legion Go S (SteamOS version) already up for pre-order.
Future Possibilities
However, the likelihood of HP launching a handheld that uses SteamOS appears low. Valve disclosed earlier this year that Lenovo was the sole partner to produce a SteamOS device. This suggests that, even with the benefits of SteamOS, not all manufacturers are keen to adopt it. Even Lenovo has indicated that its upcoming Legion Go 2 will operate on Windows instead of SteamOS.
Additionally, Microsoft is actively working to enhance the Windows experience on handheld PCs. This means that companies might be biding their time, hoping for an improved software experience rather than pursuing a new partnership with Valve.
Source:
Link
Tags: HP, Lenovo Legion Go, Steam Deck
March 15, 2025
Steam Spring Sale: Save Up to 90% on Adventure Games for Steam Deck
Key Takeaways
1. The Steam Spring Sale ends on March 20, offering limited-time discounts.
2. Adventure games compatible with the Steam Deck are highlighted as great options.
3. Many popular titles are available at significant price drops during the sale.
4. Prices and deals may change due to limited time offers or stock availability.
5. Notebookcheck is not responsible for any price changes by retailers.
The Steam Spring Sale is nearing its end on March 20, giving gamers just a few more days to snag discounts on popular titles. If you’re into adventure games that work well with the Steam Deck, here are some options you might want to look into:
Discounts Ending Soon
Keep in mind that all these great deals are part of the Steam Spring Sale, so the discounts will expire on March 20. In addition to these, there are a lot of other well-known games that are also seeing significant price drops, and you can check them out through this link.
Source:
Link
Tags: adventure games, Steam Deck, Steam Spring Sale
March 15, 2025
Top Steam Deck Games Under $5 in Steam Spring Sale 2023
Key Takeaways
1. Steam’s Spring Sale features highly-rated games at lower prices, with many under $5.
2. The sale includes a wide selection of games, not just the highlighted titles; use filters to find more discounts.
3. Discounts during the Spring Sale will end on March 20, so hurry to take advantage.
4. The featured games are officially compatible with the Steam Deck and should work well on various handheld devices and PCs.
5. Prices and discounts are subject to change, and the article’s source is not responsible for price fluctuations.
Steam’s Spring Sale has begun, bringing with it a selection of highly-rated games that work well with the Steam Deck, now at much lower prices. Quite a few of these games are even priced under $5. Some of the standout titles include:
More Discounts Available
These highlighted games are not the only ones on sale; there are plenty of others enjoying hefty discounts. You can find more by using the correct filters on the Steam storefront. Just remember, the Spring Sale discounts will end on March 20, so act fast!
Compatibility and Specs
It’s also important to mention that the games listed have official compatibility with the Stem Deck, meaning they should operate well on most handheld gaming devices (like the 512 GB Legion Go, currently priced at $602.78 on Amazon), as well as on PCs and laptops that have good specifications.
Source:
Link
Tags: Legion Go, Steam Deck, Steam Spring Sale
March 15, 2025
SteamOS Set for Public Release Soon: New Leak Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Valve is likely to publicly release SteamOS beyond the Steam Deck, supported by recent code changes linked to a new hardware category called “Jupiter.”
2. The code updates suggest Valve is preparing SteamOS for third-party devices, with Lenovo’s Legion Go S expected to be the first non-Valve product to use it.
3. There is potential for SteamOS to support a wider range of hardware, possibly including ARM devices, as Arch Linux works on enhancing compatibility.
4. Wine’s recent updates for ARM compatibility strengthen the idea that SteamOS may gain broader support for ARM architecture in the future.
5. With SteamOS as a Linux-based gaming alternative, Valve could become a strong competitor to Windows in the gaming market, especially with emerging handheld gaming devices.
New information indicates that the public release of SteamOS by Valve, extending beyond the Steam Deck (currently priced at $598.99 on Amazon), could be imminent. A recent tweet from XR project manager and recognized industry figure @SadlyItsBradley has provided support for this assertion, featuring what looks like code changes linked to “Jupiter,” which might be a name for a new hardware category separate from the Steam Deck.
Code Adjustments Indicate Expansion
The code modifications suggest that Valve is updating SteamOS for devices other than its own portable console. This discovery comes at a time that aligns with earlier announcements from CES 2025, where Valve confirmed intentions to offer SteamOS to third-party device makers. Lenovo’s Legion Go S is anticipated to be the first non-Valve product to incorporate SteamOS, with a launch expected in May 2025. @SadlyItsBradley also pointed out that Valve has been actively making multiple commits as part of the preparations for a public launch of SteamOS, initially targeting handheld PCs.
Broader Hardware Support Possible
If we’re being optimistic, we might even consider the potential for broader hardware compatibility, possibly including ARM devices. In May 2024, Arch Linux started its journey toward supporting ARM and RISC-V via a test project known as ‘Arch Linux Ports,’ working with port maintainers for enhanced hardware compatibility. While this doesn’t serve as a direct confirmation, it raises the possibility that SteamOS could unofficially support ARM devices down the line. As noted in previous reports, Valve has been looking into ARM64 support for Steam games, particularly related to its anticipated standalone VR headset, Deckard. Should SteamOS and Proton receive more ARM support, it could lead to greater adoption on platforms that are not x86.
Wine’s Developments Boost Speculations
Further fueling these speculations, Wine 10.0 has recently rolled out enhanced ARM compatibility, including the ability to support ARM64EC architecture and an x86 emulation interface. Given that Proton is developed upon Wine, this makes the idea of SteamOS gaining broader ARM support a more likely scenario.
Traditionally, Windows has been the leading operating system in the gaming realm due to its extensive compatibility with gaming hardware and software. Nevertheless, with SteamOS offering a Linux-based alternative tailored for gaming, Valve might be setting itself up as a formidable rival to Windows in the gaming market, especially with rumors of an upcoming Xbox gaming handheld in the works.
Source:
Link
Tags: Lenovo Legion Go S, Steam Deck, SteamOS
March 14, 2025
New Xbox Handheld Details Leaked Ahead of 2025 Release
Key Takeaways
1. Despite the Steam Deck’s popularity, competitors like Asus ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go have not surpassed its sales, with Valve selling fewer than five million units in three years.
2. Microsoft is set to release its first Xbox-branded handheld, called Project Kennan, in collaboration with Asus, expected later this year.
3. Project Kennan is anticipated to be priced between $499 and $599 and will feature an AMD Ryzen Z2 Go APU, which reportedly offers a weaker gaming experience than the Ryzen Z1 Extreme.
4. The device will primarily function as a Windows PC, meaning that most Xbox games will not be playable on it, which may disappoint potential users.
5. Overall, Project Kennan appears to be just another Windows gaming handheld with performance comparable to existing devices, raising doubts about its market impact given Microsoft’s history with product launches.
An increasing number of companies are trying to take advantage of the Steam Deck’s popularity, even though Valve has sold less than five million units in three years. The Asus ROG Ally and the Lenovo Legion Go (currently $549.99 – refurbished on Amazon) are among the most notable competitors, but their sales still haven’t outdone those of the Steam Deck.
Microsoft’s New Venture
Now, Microsoft is anticipated to release its first Xbox-branded handheld gaming device later this year. Reports from various sources indicate that Microsoft is collaborating with Asus on the development of this device, which Windows Central has confirmed is called Project Kennan, not Project Keenan as previously thought.
Pricing and Performance Insights
According to a fresh report, Xbox Project Kennan is expected to be priced between $499 and $599, featuring an AMD Ryzen Z2 Go APU. When we looked at the Legion Go S, we found out that the Ryzen Z2 Go does not offer a robust gaming experience. In fact, it performs significantly worse than the Ryzen Z1 Extreme, despite being two years younger.
Windows Central also mentions that there will be an additional SKU for Xbox Project Kennan. However, there’s uncertainty whether this pricier option will come with a stronger chipset or just extra memory. Importantly, the website highlights that the device will be “a proof of concept of sorts,” carrying a crucial caveat:
For those expecting Kennan to play Xbox games, it’s disappointing to note that it is fundamentally a Windows PC. This means that most of your Xbox games will not be available on the device.
The Bottom Line
In essence, Xbox Project Kennan is just another Windows gaming handheld, similar to the Legion Go, ROG Ally, and others that have come before it. Alarmingly, it seems that its performance benchmarks are only on par with current-generation handhelds or even less impressive, lacking the power of a Strix Halo APU. Given Microsoft’s history of launching products late and its many failed ventures, it’s hard to see how Xbox Project Kennan will make a significant impact when it debuts later this year.
Source:
Link
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, Steam Deck, Xbox Project Kennan
March 12, 2025
Assassin’s Creed Shadows to Launch with Official Steam Deck Support
Key Takeaways
1. Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be released on March 20, despite previous delays and issues.
2. The PC system requirements are low, allowing 1080p at 30 FPS with an 8th-gen Intel CPU and GeForce GTX 1070.
3. The game will be compatible with the Steam Deck, pending classification from Valve.
4. Players may need to compromise on visual quality when playing on the Steam Deck, using AI-driven upscalers like AMD FSR.
5. Ubisoft’s intrusive application has been a challenge for Steam Deck compatibility, but official support may reduce reliance on it.
Despite many delays and issues, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is finally set to release on March 20. The game’s PC system requirements are surprisingly low, allowing players to run it at 1080p with 30 FPS using an 8th-generation Intel CPU and a GeForce GTX 1070. Also, fans who own a Steam Deck can look forward to playing this exciting new title from Ubisoft on their devices.
Steam Deck Compatibility
The official Assassin’s Creed X social media account has indicated that the game will indeed support the Steam Deck, stating that they are “awaiting the level of classification from Valve.” It’s important to note that while players will be able to play the game on the Steam Deck, it may require some compromises in visual quality, utilizing AI-driven upscalers like AMD FSR to enhance graphics.
Software Hurdles
However, the hardware limitations of the Steam Deck aren’t the main challenge. The real obstacle has always been Ubisoft’s intrusive application, which, as of now, requires some adjustments to function properly on the Steam Deck. The announcement of official support for the Steam Deck suggests that integration with the Ubisoft App might not be compulsory, a change that would surely be appreciated by many gamers.
Source:
Link
Tags: Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, GeForce GTX 1070, Steam Deck