Tag: Steam Deck

  • Doom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam Deck

    Doom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam Deck

    Key Takeaways

    1. Initial Compatibility Issues: Doom: The Dark Ages wasn’t initially verified for the Steam Deck due to performance concerns, but updates have improved its playability.

    2. Game Settings Optimization: The best performance on the Steam Deck was achieved by setting the resolution to 1,280 x 720, disabling Depth of Field and Chromatic Aberration, and using FSR Quality for upscaling.

    3. Performance Metrics: The game generally runs at around 30 FPS, with occasional peaks of 42 FPS, but performance can drop below 30 FPS during intense battles.

    4. Consistent Performance in Mech Combat: Mech combat maintained a steady 30 FPS, indicating some areas of the game perform better than others.

    5. Gameplay Recommendations: Players may need to lower difficulty settings for a smoother experience, especially in later levels where enemy density increases.

    Doom: The Dark Ages isn’t verified for the Steam Deck, and a quick look at its system requirements suggests that the handheld may lack the necessary power to run the game. During my initial review, it wouldn’t even launch on my Deck OLED, but now things have changed. Thanks to an update (H/T Cary Golomb) for the Steam Deck preview channel (SteamOS 3.7.6), we can now get past the Bugsplat error and see how the game performs.

    Setting Up the Game

    Getting Doom: The Dark Ages to work on the Steam Deck is pretty straightforward. We adjusted the resolution to 1,280 x 720, turned off Depth of Field and Chromatic Aberration. For upscaling, we opted for FSR Quality. Switching to Balanced didn’t show much of a performance change, so either one will work fine. It’s important to disable Frame Gen as it significantly hurt performance. Everything else was set to low. We kept the game’s UI elements the same for a fair comparison with the PC.

    Performance Insights

    With these settings, we achieved a solid 30 FPS in most areas, with peaks of up to 42 FPS in less populated sections with fewer textures. However, the 30 FPS didn’t hold up during some later battles due to the high number of projectiles and monsters on screen. There were some noticeable frame drops, but it never fell below 20 FPS. Mech combat was similar, staying at a consistent 30 FPS. Switching to XeSS didn’t seem to improve things, but that’s likely due to the limited capabilities of the Steam Deck itself.

    Conclusion

    In general, Doom: The Dark Ages is somewhat playable on the Steam Deck. You might breeze through the early parts, but as you advance, expect more challenges as the density of enemies increases. If you really want to play this on the Deck, it might be a good idea to lower some difficulty settings to enhance your experience. Save the no-hit Ultra Nightmare run for a proper PC with a keyboard and mouse.

    Doom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam DeckDoom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam DeckDoom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam DeckDoom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam Deck
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  • Steam Deck Beta Update Introduces Battery Charge Limit Feature

    Steam Deck Beta Update Introduces Battery Charge Limit Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve has introduced a battery charge limit feature in the beta update for the Steam Deck, allowing users to set a maximum charging limit.
    2. The feature helps maintain battery health by preventing charging beyond 80%, especially for devices kept plugged in or docked for long periods.
    3. Users can access the battery charge limit option through the Power section in Settings.
    4. The Lenovo Legion Go also offers a similar battery charge limit option, reflecting a trend among handheld devices.
    5. Additional updates include a new location for the Show Battery Percentage option and adjustments to Display Dim and Suspend timeout settings.

    One solution that companies have developed to improve battery life is the introduction of a battery charge limit feature. This allows users to set how much their device charges. Typically, when this feature is on, the device will stop charging at around 80%, which helps reduce the wear on the battery. Recently, Valve has included this battery charge limit feature in the latest beta update for the Steam Deck.

    New Features for Steam Deck Users

    As per the changelog, owners of the Steam Deck who are using the beta version can now set a maximum charging limit. This new feature is said to help maintain battery health over time, especially for users who keep their Steam Deck plugged in or docked for long periods. To access the battery charge limit option, users can go to the Power section in Settings. Moreover, the Lenovo Legion Go, a competing handheld device currently priced at $599.99 at Best Buy, also offers a similar battery charge limit option that can be activated in Legion Space.

    More Updates Included

    Alongside the battery charge limit feature, there have been some adjustments made to the settings. For instance, the Show Battery Percentage option is now located within the Power menu. Additionally, the settings for Display Dim and Suspend timeout have also been moved under Power. Other improvements include fixing the issue with pasting from the on-screen keyboard, as well as addressing a bug related to the DualSense Edge gyroscope.

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  • Valve Nintendo Crossover Mod Transforms Steam Deck into Switch Handheld

    Valve Nintendo Crossover Mod Transforms Steam Deck into Switch Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. A modder created the Steam Switch 2 by combining a damaged Steam Deck with Joy-Cons, resulting in a new handheld device.
    2. The project began after acquiring a broken Steam Deck and involved multiple prototypes before arriving at the final design.
    3. Joy-Cons connect via Bluetooth, making the setup easy without soldering or firmware changes, though charging methods are still being developed.
    4. The Steam Switch 2 functions like a Steam-powered Switch and aims to address joystick drift issues with potential Hall effect sensors.
    5. The modder plans to improve the design further and may release the project files for others to create their own versions.

    One modder on Reddit recently breathed new life into a damaged Steam Deck (currently priced at $640 on Amazon for the OLED version), resulting in a creation that resembles a collaboration between Valve and Nintendo. This innovative device, named the Steam Switch 2, replaces the standard Steam Deck controls with actual Joy-Cons, all housed in a 3D-printed case and powered by a recycled motherboard.

    A New Creation

    The developer, u/Kanjo19, uploaded pictures of the completed project on Reddit, displaying the Steam Switch 2 next to an OLED Steam Deck for size reference. In the post, they mentioned that this project began as a solution after acquiring a broken Steam Deck, inspired by the announcement of the Switch 2. After producing six or seven prototype prints, they finally arrived at the version we see today.

    Easy Connectivity

    The Joy-Cons connect via Bluetooth, so there’s no need for soldering or firmware modifications. According to the modder, it’s “surprisingly simple to connect,” although they are still working out the charging method. They have already taken out the connector chip from a third-party Joy-Con grip and are in the process of routing 5V power from the Deck’s motherboard to establish a suitable internal charging system.

    A Functional Masterpiece

    In terms of functionality, it resembles a Steam-powered Switch more than a random mix of parts. Joy-Cons can be synced as a single controller through the Deck’s settings, and there are intentions to enhance the joysticks with Hall effect sensors to prevent drift issues.

    While it may not be the slimmest handheld on the market, that’s not the main focus. Given that it originated from a cracked screen and a non-working controller board, the Steam Switch 2 is an impressive and well-executed project. u/Kanjo19 intends to improve the design further and may even release the files later on, allowing others to attempt their own versions, too.

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  • Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Steam Deck Verified with High Requirements

    Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Steam Deck Verified with High Requirements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bethesda has remastered The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion using Unreal Engine 5, featuring demanding system requirements.
    2. The game is verified for use on the Steam Deck, despite not being explicitly mentioned on the official Steam page.
    3. Minimum requirements include an AMD Ryzen 5 2600X or Intel Core i7-6800K CPU, Radeon RX 5700 or GeForce GTX 1070 Ti graphics card, and 16 GB of RAM.
    4. Playable frame rates of around 30 FPS can be achieved on the Steam Deck with adjustments.
    5. The game requires 120 GB of SSD storage, potentially necessitating the uninstallation of other games for space.

    Bethesda has finally unveiled the remastered version of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, which is powered by Unreal Engine 5. As with all games utilizing this engine, the system requirements are noticeably demanding. However, Bethesda managed to get the game operational on a Steam Deck. Although the official Steam page doesn’t clearly mention this, accessing the game on a Steam Deck reveals a green check mark, signifying that it is verified.

    Minimum Requirements

    A quick look at the minimum specifications shows that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion requires at least an AMD Ryzen 5 2600X or an Intel Core i7-6800K CPU, as well as a Radeon RX 5700 or GeForce GTX 1070 Ti graphics card. Additionally, 16 GB of RAM is also necessary. This is a bit more powerful than what the Steam Deck offers, but with some adjustments, you could achieve a playable 30 FPS.

    Performance Potential

    That frame rate could likely be improved with the help of FSR and third-party applications like Decky Frame Gen or Lossless Scaling. However, a significant concern is the game’s 120 GB SSD storage requirement, which means you may need to uninstall some games to make space for Oblivion. Regardless, the achievement of getting it running on the Steam Deck is quite remarkable, and it will be fascinating to observe its actual performance.

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    Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Steam Deck Verified with High Requirements

     

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  • Cyberpunk 2077 on Nintendo Switch 2 Impresses Steam Deck Owners

    Cyberpunk 2077 on Nintendo Switch 2 Impresses Steam Deck Owners

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo showcases Switch 2 games in docking mode for optimal visuals, but handheld performance remains uncertain.
    2. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition maintains around 40 fps in a demo, but experience may vary with some frame rate dips.
    3. Digital Foundry suggests the Switch 2 could compete with the Steam Deck and PS4, despite concerns about power consumption in handheld mode.
    4. The Switch 2 is expected to feature the Nvidia Tegra T239 processor with DLSS support, though its impact on gameplay is still unclear.
    5. Deck Wizard’s YouTube channel provides promising footage of Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2, hinting at potential upscaling techniques.

    It’s not unusual for Nintendo to show clips of Switch 2 games in docking mode. This way, the titles look their best, but how they perform in handheld mode raises questions. With a better GPU enhancing the Switch 2’s specs, playing demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 seems feasible. Gamers can now view lots of YouTube footage from Deck Wizard that showcases the action RPG. The video indicates a more stable frame rate than what most Steam Deck players see.

    Performance Insights

    During much of the demonstration, the work-in-progress Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition maintains around 40 fps, although there are some dips. In Deck Wizard’s video, the game’s menus show that Performance Mode was active. While the other system settings for Switch 2 remain unclear, the demo has impressed some doubtful Steam Deck users.

    Cyberpunk 2077 holds a Steam Deck Verified status, meaning players can anticipate decent performance. Nevertheless, without modifications, many sessions peak at 30 fps. As gamers explore the most intricate environments, experiencing choppiness is not rare.

    Expectations vs. Reality

    The handheld demonstration of the CD Projekt Red game may surpass what was expected based on the known specs of the Switch 2. Digital Foundry made comparisons between the console and the Steam Deck using gameplay footage from the Switch 2. The site suggested that the new system could compete with Valve’s handheld PC or the PS4. However, there are worries that a lower power consumption could restrict the Switch 2 when it is not docked. Even with a resolution of 720p, the Deck Wizard video gives a hopeful first glimpse at the mobile performance of the Switch 2.

    With less than two months until its release, gamers still have questions about some essential features of the Switch 2. Most leaks indicate that it will use the Nvidia Tegra T239 processor, which will include DLSS support. It is thought that this feature has not yet played a role in other gameplay videos. Some shine in the Deck Wizard footage may suggest that some form of upscaling was in effect, which could assist Cyberpunk 2077 in reaching 40 fps.

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  • Rare Steam Deck Prototype with AMD Picasso APU Sells for $2K

    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.

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    Rare Steam Deck Prototype with AMD Picasso APU Sells for $2KRare Steam Deck Prototype with AMD Picasso APU Sells for $2K
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  • Nintendo Switch 2 vs Steam Deck: Specs and Performance Analysis

    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.

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  • New Xbox Console Could Use Gaming-Friendly Windows UI Over SteamOS

    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.

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    New Xbox Console Could Use Gaming-Friendly Windows UI Over SteamOS
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  • YouTuber Installs SteamOS on Asus ROG Ally Successfully

    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.

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  • HP Open to Developing SteamOS Handheld Gaming Device

    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.

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