Tag: Steam Deck

  • Assassin’s Creed Shadows to Launch with Official Steam Deck Support

    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.

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  • Top Steam Deck Action Games Up to 90% Off for Limited Time

    Top Steam Deck Action Games Up to 90% Off for Limited Time

    Key Takeaways

    1. Several highly-rated action games on Steam are currently on temporary discount.
    2. Discounts end on March 13, after which original prices will return.
    3. The highlighted games work well with the Steam Deck and other gaming handhelds, PCs, and laptops.
    4. Price accuracy may change, and Notebookcheck is not responsible for retailer price alterations.
    5. The RTX 4060-equipped ROG Zephyrus G14 is an example of a compatible gaming laptop priced at $1,199.99 at Best Buy.

    There are plenty of highly-rated games on Steam that are currently on a temporary discount. We’ve highlighted a selection of titles that gamers should definitely check out, especially those who prefer action games that are confirmed to work with the Steam Deck.

    Important Discount Dates

    It’s important to remember that most of these discounts will end on March 13, after which the original prices will be reinstated until the next sale comes around. Also, aside from the Steam Deck, these games should perform well on many gaming handhelds, PCs, and laptops that have decent specifications, like the RTX 4060-equipped ROG Zephyrus G14, which is priced at $1,199.99 at Best Buy.

    Price Changes and Availability

    Please note: Notebookcheck cannot be held accountable for any price alterations made by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned here was accurate at the time of writing and could be subject to time limits and/or limited stock availability.

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  • Monster Hunter Wilds Poor Performance on Steam Deck: Players Struggle

    Monster Hunter Wilds Poor Performance on Steam Deck: Players Struggle

    Key Takeaways

    1. Performance Concerns: Players experienced pixelated visuals and inconsistent frame rates on the Steam Deck, despite Capcom’s assurances of improved rendering.

    2. Compatibility Issues: Monster Hunter Wilds is not officially listed as compatible with the Steam Deck, leading to performance challenges even with setting adjustments.

    3. Framerate Challenges: Maintaining a stable framerate near 30fps is difficult, even with upscaling techniques, making gameplay frustrating for Steam Deck users.

    4. Alternative Devices: Other handhelds like the Asus ROG Ally and MSI Claw 8 AI+ show better performance for the game, but expectations should be tempered due to issues with mid-range graphics cards.

    5. Cloud Gaming Limitations: Cloud gaming options like GeForce Now are not supported for Monster Hunter Wilds, limiting mobile gaming possibilities for players.

    Players were worried about how well the Steam Deck would perform during the open beta of Monster Hunter Wilds. Capcom had assured fans that rendering would be improved, which could benefit the handheld. Sadly, once the final version was released, gamers noticed pixelated visuals and frame rates that were all over the place.

    Compatibility Issues

    On its official Steam page, Monster Hunter Wilds does not show as compatible with the Steam Deck. Nevertheless, some games without this designation manage to run just fine on the device. Resourceful players often find ways to tweak their settings to work around the limitations. Still, many are discovering that Monster Hunter Wilds does not perform well, no matter the adjustments made.

    Performance Challenges

    Many players have shared videos showcasing Capcom’s new game on the Steam Deck. Even when using upscaling or FSR, it’s a challenge to keep the framerate near 30fps. On a brighter note, upscaling doesn’t seem to add noticeable lag when players are trying to catch monsters. Reducing the detail settings can help, but the overall performance is so lacking that players on the Steam Deck are looking for other options.

    Alternatives for Better Gameplay

    The Asus ROG Ally and MSI Claw 8 AI+, which run on Windows 11, are showing more power. Early feedback indicates that these systems provide slightly better performance with Monster Hunter Wilds. However, since mid-range Nvidia and AMD desktop graphics cards are having their own issues, mobile gamers should manage their expectations. A harsh review from Digital Foundry highlighted that frame rates were not matching up with the disappointing graphical quality.

    Cloud gaming could also be a way to enjoy hunting monsters while on the move. GeForce Now is an option that many would prefer for streaming, but, like other titles in the franchise, Monster Hunter Wilds isn’t supported. The cloud gaming situation on Xbox isn’t looking better either.

    At the moment, Monster Hunter Wilds isn’t the best choice for Steam Deck players. That said, the game does load up, and controls work without issues. If Capcom can manage to optimize the game further, any enhancements may eventually benefit portable PCs as well.

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    Monster Hunter Wilds Poor Performance on Steam Deck: Players Struggle
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  • Deadlock Map Rework: Fast Changes in New MOBA Hero Shooter Patch

    Deadlock Map Rework: Fast Changes in New MOBA Hero Shooter Patch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Deadlock’s map has shifted to a three-lane design, leading to shorter matches and more enemy encounters.
    2. Character movement is enhanced with a faster sprinting speed and a new Explore Map feature for practicing navigation.
    3. Technical upgrades include DLSS, AMD Anti-Lag 2.0, Nvidia Reflex, and improved AMD’s FSR3 for better visuals.
    4. Adjustments for Linux and Steam Deck users aim to resolve shader compilation issues during matches.
    5. The update includes various improvements and bug fixes for an overall better gaming experience.

    The most significant and obvious alteration is that Deadlock’s map now features a three-lane design, replacing the previous four-lane setup. This shift will likely result in shorter individual matches and an increase in encounters with enemies. The term used for this change is Map Overhaul, which also includes updates to various map elements, such as enhanced visuals, fresh building designs, and in-game elements like neutral camps, the mid boss, and destructible items within the surroundings.

    Character Movement Enhancements

    With the latest update, characters have a faster sprinting speed by default, which should contribute to a more rapid and fluid gameplay experience. Additionally, a new feature called Explore Map has been introduced, allowing players to enter an empty map for practicing navigation and movement. This is crucial in a title like Deadlock, where vertical mobility plays a significant role in gameplay.

    Technical Upgrades

    Valve has rolled out new technologies, including DLSS, AMD Anti-Lag 2.0, Nvidia Reflex, and an enhancement to AMD’s FSR3. These updates are expected to greatly enhance the visuals when using upscaling, which is common with gaming handhelds like the Asus ROG Ally X (curr. $799.99 on Best Buy) and Steam Deck. A notable technical modification for Linux and Steam Deck users is the adjustment in how in-game units get loaded, aiming to eliminate shader compilation issues during matches. A range of enhancements to in-game shaders and textures should also improve the appearance of both heroes and the game world overall.

    Update Summary

    The update today brings an overhauled map layout, along with numerous improvements and bug fixes for a better gaming experience.

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  • Lightweight Steam Deck Folio Case Now Available for Gamers

    Lightweight Steam Deck Folio Case Now Available for Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Steam Deck remains a leader in handheld PC gaming, supported by accessory brands like Dbrand, Jsaux, and Spigen.
    2. Accessory innovations include cases with features like kickstands, enhancing user experience.
    3. The Steam Deck Folio focuses on convenience by protecting only the center part of the device, leaving buttons and edges exposed.
    4. The Folio uses 3M adhesive plates for attachment, catering to users who want partial protection without a full case.
    5. The Steam Deck Folio includes features like thumbstick locks and a built-in kickstand, priced at $49 on Kickstarter, with shipping expected by September 2025.

    The Steam Deck is still pushing the boundaries of handheld PC gaming, even though we haven’t seen a second version yet. A big part of its success comes from its popularity among accessory brands like Dbrand, Jsaux, and Spigen, among others.

    Accessory Innovations

    While Valve provides a case with each Steam Deck purchase, companies like Jsaux and Spigen have introduced various enhancements like kickstands in their ModCase and Thin Fit Pro cases, which currently retails for $31.99 on Amazon. Recently, a new product known as the Steam Deck Folio has appeared on Kickstarter, offering a unique take on protection.

    Focus on Convenience

    The Steam Deck Folio prioritizes ease of use over complete device shielding. It specifically shields the center part of the Steam Deck, leaving the buttons and edges unprotected. Attached using 3M adhesive plates directly on the Steam Deck, this accessory aims to attract users who enjoy the direct experience of the Steam Deck without a full case but still desire some protection between gaming sessions.

    Additional Features and Pricing

    To help prevent wear and tear, the Steam Deck Folio includes thumbstick locks. It also has a built-in kickstand and cut-outs for the console’s I/O ports, making it compatible with existing docks. At the moment, you can support the Steam Deck Folio on Kickstarter for $49, which includes shipping. As of the latest update, project creator Andrew Reeves aims to start shipping by September 2025.

    Lightweight Steam Deck Folio Case Now Available for Gamers
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  • Trending Minimalist Snowboarding Game by Two Developers on Steam

    Trending Minimalist Snowboarding Game by Two Developers on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Exciting Scoring System: SNØ features a fun arcade-style scoring system that encourages players to link daring moves for high points.

    2. Accessibility: The game has easy controls that are simple to learn but difficult to master, providing a rewarding experience for players.

    3. Dynamic Challenges: Gameplay includes changing mountain terrains with hazards that require quick adaptation, adding to the thrill.

    4. Multiple Play Modes: Players can choose from Score Attack, Infinite Run, and Zen mode for varied experiences, including a stress-free exploration option.

    5. Camera Perspectives: The game offers different camera options—third-person, drone, and first-person—to enhance control and visibility.

    SNØ: Ultimate Freeriding captures the excitement of snowboarding with a sleek design and a fun arcade-style scoring system. This system motivates players to link daring moves to rack up impressive points. It is specifically designed for Steam Deck, and the creators guarantee up to 60 fps at high settings on the handheld device.

    Easy to Start, Hard to Master

    The game features straightforward controls that are simple to pick up but challenging to master, providing a satisfying feeling when you successfully execute high-scoring combos. You can steer your descent using the directional keys or WASD on your keyboard, with dedicated buttons for gliding, carving, and performing tricks. Both gamepad and keyboard are fully supported.

    A Challenging Experience Awaits

    Though it may seem easy at first, the gameplay is quite challenging. A key part of the fun is discovering paths on a mountain terrain that generates itself. Hazards and obstacles keep changing, forcing you to adapt quickly, resulting in tense moments as you navigate close to danger for those high scores.

    Different Ways to Play

    The game includes three play modes: Score Attack, Infinite Run, and Zen. In Zen mode, the scoring system is absent, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the beautiful environments. An online leaderboard enables you to check out the highest-scoring mountains using seed numbers, and you can choose between third-person, drone, and first-person camera perspectives for better control or visibility.

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  • Batman Games on Sale for Bruce Wayne’s Birthday on Steam

    Batman Games on Sale for Bruce Wayne’s Birthday on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. February 19 is Bruce Wayne’s birthday in the DC universe, prompting a sale on Batman games on Steam.
    2. WB Games is offering significant discounts on the Arkham series and other Batman titles.
    3. “Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League” may not be worth buying right now due to its upcoming last season and potential discontinuation.
    4. Classic Batman games are still popular and compatible with low-powered handheld devices, including the Steam Deck.
    5. It’s a good time to buy Batman games, but buyers should be cautious with newer releases that might not have long-term support.

    Canonically in the DC universe, today (February 19) is the birthday of Bruce Wayne. To mark this special day, WB Games is providing a significant discount on many Batman games available on Steam. This includes the famous Arkham series along with some more recent disappointments. You might wanna wait before buying Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League since its last season is coming out this month, and after that, this live-service game won’t receive any more updates, and it might even be discontinued.

    Classic Games Still Shine

    Many of these titles have been around for quite a while and have even been offered for free on the Epic Games Store several times. However, they remain some of the most memorable games ever created and still hold up well today. The great thing is, because of how long they’ve been out, you shouldn’t have any issues playing them on low-powered handheld devices. Even if a game shows it’s not compatible with the Steam Deck, third-party tests have shown that they perform exceptionally well on that handheld console.

    Enjoy the Discounts

    So, if you’re a fan of the dark knight, now’s a fantastic time to grab these games at reduced prices. The sale includes various titles, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Just remember to be cautious with your purchases, especially with newer releases that may not have a long shelf life. Enjoy diving into the world of Gotham, but be smart about what you buy!

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  • Essential Factors to Consider When Choosing Gaming Handhelds

    Essential Factors to Consider When Choosing Gaming Handhelds

    Key Takeaways

    1. Market Competition: The handheld gaming market is crowded, with brands like Acer, Asus, Lenovo, and MSI entering later than competitors like OneX and Ayaneo.

    2. Essential Features: Key features for successful handhelds include a user-friendly operating system (preferably Windows), quality controls, good cooling systems, and a bright, high-resolution display.

    3. Durability and Repairability: Controls should be durable and easy to repair, with hall-effect sensors gaining popularity for their reliability.

    4. Power and Storage Requirements: Modern handhelds need sufficient power, with at least 16 GB of RAM and a quick NVMe SSD of 512 GB or more for optimal gaming performance.

    5. Performance vs. Battery Life: Balancing performance and battery longevity is crucial for a good handheld gaming experience, with high-capacity batteries and software optimizations being important for extended play.

    Acer, Asus, Lenovo, and MSI have entered the handheld gaming scene somewhat later than others. In contrast, Asian brands like OneX and Ayaneo were quick to capture some of the market share from Valve’s Steam Deck.

    A Crowded Market

    Today, the handheld gaming market is nearly filled with numerous ultra-compact devices. This variety can confuse buyers, particularly those who are new to gaming and unsure of what to seek. Moreover, companies are constantly on the lookout for new niches to cater to with their products.

    Key Features of Handhelds

    Our analysis of the Lenovo Legion Go S indicates that several aspects contribute to a successful gaming handheld. This raises the important question: What features are essential in a handheld console?

    Many handheld devices prefer Windows as their operating system due to its vast game library. On the other hand, Linux stands as a viable option, as demonstrated by Valve’s Steam Deck. A straightforward and easy-to-use interface is crucial, and the Steam Deck excels in this area. However, without extra software, the Steam Deck is limited to the offerings of Steam.

    Windows 11, while popular, is only somewhat tailored for touchscreens and game controllers. Many brands include additional software to enhance performance or add features. Moreover, launchers help optimize control schemes.

    Design and Comfort

    A handheld must not only be visually appealing but also comfortable to use. It should be lightweight and compact to allow for extended play without causing discomfort in the hands or wrists. Using high-quality materials and solid craftsmanship is vital here. Good cooling systems are essential too; nobody wants a device that overheats and feels like a hot plate.

    Controls form the core of any handheld device. They must provide accurate control and be easily accessible. Quality buttons with a satisfying click, precise analog sticks, and extra input options like touchpads or programmable buttons are crucial. Adequate haptic feedback, typically from vibration motors or specialized motors like those in the Steam Deck, is also important. There can be significant differences in this regard depending on the model.

    Durability and Repairability

    It is also critical for controls to be as durable as possible. In recent years, hall-effect sensors have gained attention for their reliability. While some controllers, such as those from PlayStation or Nintendo Switch, feature easily replaceable parts, repairing handheld devices can be a tedious process, often involving long wait times, especially when spare parts are scarce.

    A display that is merely adequate won’t do for gaming handhelds. Brightness and contrast are key for visibility during daylight. The resolution is also important—devices under 7 inches (approx. 18 cm) can work well with 720p or 1080p. While 2.5K displays offer quality, they also consume more power and need to be supported by the graphics chip. The response time of the display is another element to consider. A bright IPS screen is the baseline, while OLED displays are considered the best.

    Power and Storage Needs

    Of course, gaming performance is pointless without sufficient power. Even the 15-watt APU in the Steam Deck provides a capable experience. Modern integrated GPUs like the Intel Arc with 128 EUs or AMD Radeon 780M and higher are ideal for this purpose, allowing for decent frame rates in current games. It’s also essential to have at least 16 GB of RAM, as the integrated GPU shares RAM with the CPU, reserving at least 4 GB for graphics.

    A quick NVMe SSD with a minimum of 512 GB, ideally 1 TB, is essential. More space is better since Windows takes up around 30 GB. Large games can require an additional 60 to 90 GB, so smaller SSDs fill up fast. Additionally, Windows requires at least 10% of the SSD to be free for optimal performance, meaning users should limit their usage to about 75% of total storage space to avoid slowdowns.

    Balancing Performance and Battery Life

    An excellent handheld should not only deliver power but also boast long battery life. Striking a balance between performance and battery longevity is vital. A high-capacity battery is crucial for marathon gaming sessions, and software tweaks can further improve battery performance.

    Modern handhelds offer plenty of options for gamers. For instance, upscaling along with FPS limitations can help many AAA games run smoothly at lower power levels.

    Our examination of the Lenovo Legion Go S showed it to be an intriguing device with potential in certain areas. Nonetheless, it also comes with some drawbacks that buyers should weigh before making a purchase. Gamers are encouraged to conduct thorough research and clarify their needs ahead of time. Depending on budget and gaming preferences, various devices may be suitable.

    The Legion Go S, for instance, impresses with its comfortable design. However, the APU’s performance is less impressive. The Ryzen Z2 Go doesn’t exactly wow us, but it does offer some benefits, particularly when compared to the Steam Deck. Yet, other modern alternatives are significantly stronger in this aspect.

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  • Valve Addresses AMD RDNA 4 Rumors and SteamOS Gaming Project

    Valve Addresses AMD RDNA 4 Rumors and SteamOS Gaming Project

    It’s widely known that Valve is making strides in enhancing the AMD Mesa drivers for Linux. However, some news reports from earlier this week suggested that the latest driver updates could indicate that Valve might be developing a competitor to the Xbox Series X or the PlayStation 5 (currently priced at $449 on Amazon).

    Rumors vs. Reality

    As we talked about back then, these speculations seem to be misinterpreting Valve’s real goals in improving Linux drivers for AMD’s RDNA 4 architecture. Even though Valve collaborated with AMD for the Steam Deck, Pierre-Loup Griffais, a prominent developer for the Steam Deck, provided some clarity regarding the recent enhancements to the RDNA 4 drivers:

    …we’ve [Valve] done pre-release Mesa Vulkan work on every AMD architecture since Vega because they have kindly lent us hardware, so there’s not much to read into that.

    What’s Next?

    To put it simply, the rumors surrounding AMD RDNA 4-based devices can be placed in the same category as last month’s assertion that AMD had verified a Ryzen Z2 update for the Steam Deck. At this moment, there’s no solid proof of new hardware from Valve that would operate on SteamOS. Instead, there have been some suggestions about a device with the codename ‘Fremont’, along with potential images showing designs for a Deckard controller and a Steam Controller 2.

    In summary, Pierre-Loup Griffais’ comments suggest that while Valve is actively working on driver improvements, the speculation about new gaming hardware is premature and lacks substantial backing.

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    Valve Addresses AMD RDNA 4 Rumors and SteamOS Gaming Project

     

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  • Marvel’s Spider-Man 2: Steam Deck Unplayable, ROG Ally Works

    Marvel’s Spider-Man 2: Steam Deck Unplayable, ROG Ally Works

    Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 has made its debut on PC, but the launch has been anything but smooth. Many players have reported issues like game crashes, frustrating frame drops, and some odd graphical hiccups. On a brighter note, the game has fairly modest system requirements, which could lead to a decent experience on various gaming handhelds. Nonetheless, an in-depth review from TechPowerUp reveals that the reality is a bit more complex than it seems.

    Handheld Performance Test

    TechPowerUp ran tests on two well-known gaming handhelds while playing Marvel’s Spider-Man 2: the Valve Steam Deck and the Asus ROG Ally, both utilizing AMD APUs. The Steam Deck operates with the AMD Van Gogh APU featuring a Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU, while the Asus ROG Ally comes equipped with the much stronger Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU. The latter has an 8-core CPU and a 12-CU integrated GPU, delivering an impressive 8.6 TFLOPS of performance. Now, let’s dive into how these devices performed during the tests.

    Frame Rates and Settings

    At a resolution of 720p with “very low” settings, the ROG Ally, powered by the Ryzen Z1 Extreme, achieved a playable 51.3 frames per second (FPS) at 25 watts, with a minimum of 17.8 FPS. When it dropped to 15 watts, the performance fell to 38.9 FPS, with a minimum of 13.1 FPS. In contrast, the Steam Deck struggled, managing just 26 FPS under the same conditions, with a minimum of 12.8 FPS. When set to the slightly more appealing “low” preset, the ROG Ally performed well with 46.1 FPS, while the Steam Deck was left behind at 21.1 FPS.

    Issues and Future Updates

    Notably, the game crashed on the Windows-based ROG Ally, a problem that didn’t occur on the Steam Deck. According to TechPowerUp’s findings, the Steam Deck maintained more stable frame rates, although still teetering on the edge of being unplayable, even with upscaling. The ROG Ally, on the other hand, showed much better results and is expected to improve even further with an update that introduces the new Ryzen Z2 Extreme, which comes with four extra CUs. Currently, the Steam Deck is priced at $470 on Amazon, but unfortunately, a successor isn’t anticipated anytime soon. However, Lenovo has already released SteamOS handhelds featuring Ryzen Z2-series APUs.

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