Tag: Steam Deck

  • Deal: Wacky Pirate RPG Cheaper Than Ever on Steam

    Key Takeaway

    – Modern pirate setting in present day, with Goro Majima as an amnesiac captain
    – Combines beat-’em-up combat, RPG progression, and real-time naval battles
    – Currently at an all-time low price of $14.99 (75% off) on Steam until June 18
    – 88% positive user reviews on Steam, but mixed critical scores (e.g., 7/10 from PC Games)
    – Best for players who enjoy wacky, chaotic gameplay rather than serious pirate sims


    Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii: A Modern Pirate Tale

    Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is cleary a pirate game, but it takes a rather unusual aproach: the title is set in the present day. Players take on the role of Goro Majima, who has lost his memory and reinvents himself at sea as a modern pirate captain. There, he is searching not only for his memories, but for a legendary treasure also. The action RPG from Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio is discounted by 75% on Steam until June 18 and is available for $14.99 instead of $59.99. According to SteamDB, previous discounts had usually topped out at 70%, making the current deal a new all-time low.

    Gameplay and Feautres

    In terms of gameplay, Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii combines classic third-person action with beat-’em-up combat, RPG progression and naval battles. On land, Majima fights his way thru groups of enemies using different combat styles, swords, pistols, grappling hooks and special moves. At sea, the Goromaru takes center stage: players can upgrade their own ship, equip it with new weapons and deploy it in real-time battles against enemy crews. Crew recruitment, bounty hunts, treasure hunts, karaoke, cooking and other typical Yakuza side activities are also included.

    Community and Critical Reception

    The unusual approach seems to have struck a chord with the Steam community in particular: 88% of more than 9,400 user reviews are positive. German gaming magazine PC Games was somewhat more reserved, awarding 7 out of 10 points. The editorial team praised the entertaining setting, the well-crafted story and the enjoyable naval battles, but criticized the weak AI, the lack of tactical depth and the absence of a true “open sea” feeling, as the sea consists of separate map sections rather than an open, freely explorable world. On Metacritic, the action RPG has a Metascore of 79 and a User Score of 7.9.

    Who Should Play This?

    The sometimes widely divergent ratings are hardly surprising. Anyone looking for a serious pirate game is clearly in the wrong place with Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. Players who enjoy wacky characters, a crazy setting and plenty of chaos, however, should find alot to like here. That also applies to handheld gamers: on the Steam Deck, the title is classified as “Verified” and should therefore run smoothly.


    Sources

  • Steam Machine Import Data Hints at Summer Game Fest 2026 Reveal

    Key Takeaway

    – April shipments with 42 packages but lower weight (~12,500 kg) likely not Steam Decks
    – May 18 shipments matched the Steam Deck pattern (42 packages, ~14,535 kg), leading to a May 27 restock
    – Steam Controller ruled out as candidate due to different listing and weight
    – Remaining possibilities for April shipments: Steam Machine or Steam Frame (Valve VR headset)
    – Community expects potential Steam Machine unveiling around June 5 at Summer Game Fest 2026


    Valve’s Shipping Data Sparks New Speculation

    Valve shipping data has been fueling speculation for weeks now. Hardware imports discovered in May led many fans to believe that the Steam Machine’s release might be imminent. Disappointment followed after the Steam Deck OLED restock: “Too bad, the containers were apparently just Steam Decks,” became the prevailing assumption in the community. However, one Reddit user’s analysis now challenges that view – and is giving fans fresh hope.

    Patterns in the Data

    According to u/FelipeRSTV, previous Steam Deck imports followed a fairly clear pattern: “Game Console”, 42 packages and roughly 14,000 kilograms in weight. The post cites shipments weighing 14,720, 14,537 and 14,666 kilograms as examples. In April, however, Valve got additional shipments with the same 42-package count but a noticeably lower weight of around 12,500 to 12,600 kilograms. When two shipments matching the old pattern appeared again on May 18 – 42 packages and around 14,535 kilograms each – the Steam Deck restock followed on May 27.

    What Could Be in Those Boxes

    For u/FelipeRSTV, this suggests that the April shipments were not Steam Decks. The Steam Controller is also unlikely to be the explanation: in the data, it is reportedly listed as a “Wireless PC Controller”, with 40 packages and a weight of exactly 12,970 kilograms. That leaves two possible candidates: the Steam Machine or the Steam Frame. Both Valve’s living-room gaming PC and its VR headset are expected later this year, but neither has a specific launch date yet.

    Community Reactions

    On Reddit, some users praise the detective work, though the overall tone remains rather tongue-in-cheek. One user jokes that the community is now rummaging through “Valve’s underwear drawer” just to find any hint of the Steam Machine. Another takes a more positive view, writing that the hardware shipments were the “friends” made along the way to the Steam Machine. Still, the community appears to believe that a Steam Machine launch is close. In another Reddit thread, many users assume that the system could be unveiled on June 5 as part of Summer Game Fest 2026.

    Specifications and Speculation

    • Previous Steam Deck imports: 42 packages, ~14,000 kg
    • April shipments: 42 packages, ~12,500-12,600 kg
    • Steam Controller listed as: “Wireless PC Controller”, 40 packages, 12,970 kg
    • Possible candidates: Steam Machine or Steam Frame
    • Expected launch window: later this year, no specific date
    • Potential unveiling: June 5 during Summer Game Fest 2026
    Sources
  • ASUS ROG Ally X: Why Gamers Hesitate Despite Upgrades

    Key Takeaway

    – ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X20 upgrades (OLED display, Ryzen Z2 Extreme, improved controls) are well-received.
    – Most users praise the changes but show low purchase intent due to expected high pricing.
    – X20 likely priced over $1,000, possibly up to $1,500, especially as a bundle with AR glasses.


    Debate Over Steam Deck and ASUS Updates

    Alongside the debate over the recent Steam Deck OLED price increases, there has also being notable news in the gaming handheld market concerning another device: the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X, which is getting a refreshed version for the 20th anniversary of ROG. We have already reported separately on the technical upgrades of the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X20. A recent Reddit thread now shows how the community is reacting to those changes.

    Technical Upgrades and Community Feedback

    With the Ryzen Z2 Extreme under the hood, the ASUS handheld is already one of the most powerful devices of its kind. The new 7.4-inch OLED display is brighter and more vibrant than the previous 7-inch IPS panel, allowing the ROG Xbox Ally to catch up in exactly the area where it lagged furthest behind the Steam Deck OLED. Many users would have preferred an 8-inch display, but if ASUS can reuse the existing chassis with a 7.4-inch panel and keep the price of the upgraded version lower, that compromise may be acceptable.

    Improved Features and Pricing Expectations

    The improved D-pad and sticks are also being welcomed by many users, as is the new look created by the transparent casing. Overall, the X20’s upgrades appear to have been received well. However, very few users express a clear intention to buy it, mainly because the price is expected to be extremely high. ASUS has equipped the X20 with a 1 TB SSD and 24 GB of RAM. However, the standard ROG Xbox Ally X already offers the same memory and storage configuration and carries an MSRP of $999.

    Pricing and Bundle Details

    Even so, the OLED display is not the only feature that could justify a noticeably higher price. The X20 is apparently being offered only as a bundle with the ROG Xreal R1 Edition 20 AR glasses. Given the recent price increases for the Steam Deck, hardly anyone expects the handheld to stay below the $1,000 mark. On the contrary: some users even expect a price of up to $1,500.

    • Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor for powerful performance
    • 7.4-inch OLED display with improved brightness and vibrance
    • 1 TB SSD and 24 GB RAM storage and memory configuration
    • Standard ROG Xbox Ally X already has MSRP of $999
    • X20 offered only as a bundle with ROG Xreal R1 Edition 20 AR glasses
    • Community expects price up to $1,500 due to recent Steam Deck increases
    Sources
  • Steam Deck: Many Gamers Play Just One Game

    Key Takeaway

    – Many Steam Deck owners primarily play a single “comfort game” despite having large libraries.
    – The device is valued for convenience, portability, and quick resume rather than game variety.
    – Users do not view this as a failure; they see it as fulfilling a personalized purpose.
    – The phenomenon mirrors streaming habits, where people choose familiar favorites over vast options.
    – Usage patterns vary, including single-game focus, rotating favorites, or pairing the Deck with a gaming PC.


    The One-Game Wonder

    A user on the Steam Deck subreddit recently asked jokingly: “Has anyone else’s steam deck become a 1 game machine?” For them, the device had effectively become a “$300 Classic WoW machine.” AAA games, emulators and desktop mode apparently play little to no role in daily use.

    Community Confessions

    The question clearly struck a nerve within the community. Many users reported that, despite owning large game libraries, they spend most of their Steam Deck time with a single title. Interestingly, there is no universal favorite. The games mentioned range from Balatro and Slay the Spire to Vampire Survivors, Diablo IV, Football Manager and various MMORPGs. The pattern, however, is remarkably similar: even though hundreds of compatible games are available, many players keep returning to the same personal comfort game.

    Did Valve Fail?

    The Steam Deck was designed as a portable gateway to a player’s Steam library, providing access to thousands of games. Thanks to its desktop mode, it can even function as a compact Linux PC. So has it failed in its mission if many owners end up using it for just one game? To some extent, perhaps – especially from Valve’s perspective. After all, a device that keeps users focused on the same game is not necessarily encouraging them to buy new ones.

    But Most Users Dont Mind

    Most users, however, do not see this as a problem. Quite the opposite: if a device makes a favorite game easier, more flexible and more enjoyable to play, then it has arguably served its purpose – just not exactly in the way originally envisioned. The Steam Deck wakes from standby within seconds, works comfortably on the couch or in bed and is particularly well suited to games played in short sessions. Several users compared the phenomenon to streaming services. Despite having access to thousands of movies and TV shows, many people repeatedly return to the same familiar favorites. The Steam Deck appears to create a similar effect. Anyone who also uses their Steam Deck as a “one-game console” can share their personal favorite in the comments.

    Diverse Usage Patterns

    While many users in the thread mainly play one or two games on their Steam Deck, usage habits vary considerably. Some gamers report regularly playing a wide variety of titles on the handheld. Others describe a rotating pattern in which one game dominates for weeks or months before eventually being replaced by the next long-term favorite. Still others use the Steam Deck mainly as a companion device to their gaming PC, reserving smaller or less demanding games for the handheld while continuing to play larger, more technically demanding titles on a desktop system.

    Sources
  • Steam Free Games: Indie Hit with 89 Metacritic Score

    Steam Free Games: Indie Hit with 89 Metacritic Score

    Key Takeaway

    – Gravity Circuit is free on Steam until June 14 to promote its 2027 sequel.
    – Moonrise Fall is free on Steam until June 2, but only for Windows.
    – Gravity Circuit has a 90%+ positive rating, a Metascore of 89, and is Steam Deck verified.
    – Both games have seen major player spikes due to their free promotions.


    Grab Two Free Steam Games Right Now!

    There is two indie games that you can get for free on Steam right now. The first one is called Gravity Circuit, its a 2D jump ‘n’ run adventure that is very obviously based on Mega Man, as each level is inspired by a boss that must be fought at the end. Each of the twelve single-player levels has its own mechanics, so there is no shortage of variety through the gameplay.

    Gravity Circuit Details and Pricing

    Gravity Circuit runs on Windows as well as macOS and SteamOS, and the game is verified for the Steam Deck. Of over 3,000 reviews, more than 90 percent are positive, and the Metascore of 89 out of a possible 100 points is nothing to sneeze at. The developers Domesticated Ant Games are offering Gravity Circuit for free from now until June 14 to promote Gravity Circuit 2, the next game in the series, which is expected to be released in 2027. This promotion is apperently working, because according to SteamDB, the game has recorded over 1,700 simultanious active players over the past 24 hours, more than ever before. The highest number so far was 483 players at launch in July 2023.

    Moonrise Fall Is Also Free for a Short Time

    At the same time, Moonrise Fall is also available for free on Steam, its an atmospheric puzzle and exploration adventure that was released in May 2019 and is only available for Windows PCs. Howevre, this game is only available for free until June 2nd. Moonrise Fall has never been particularly popular, the title was usually played by less than three people at a time, but since the start of the campaign, the number of players has climbed to over 300 .

    Important Terms and Conditions

    Prices are subject to change. The offer was available at the time of publication of the article, but may be limited in time or quantity. All information without guarantee.

    Steam (Gravity Circuit | Moonrise Fall)


  • PC price hikes make Switch 2 the best handheld value

    Key Takeaway

    – Nintendo Switch 2 outperforms both Steam Deck and entry-level PC handhelds in gaming performance.
    – Switch 2’s price-for-performance is superior; PC handhelds only beat it at $1000+.
    – Developer tailoring and “mini DLSS” on Switch 2 make pricier PC handhelds hard to justify.
    – Steam Deck OLED’s $549 launch was once a strong value; Switch 2 now flips the script.
    – Lack of OLED display is Switch 2’s only major weakness versus PC handhelds.


    Nobody likes price hikes, and both the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch 2 have seen substantial price increases since launch—but Nintendo Switch 2’s was executed in such a way that the handheld still provides a more performant gaming experience versus cheaper PC handhelds from Anbernic and even more expensive handhelds like the ROG Xbox Ally.

    Gaming Performance Compared to PC Handhelds

    In terms of pure gaming performance, the Nintendo Switch 2 handily outclasses both the AMD Ryzen Z2 A leveraged by most entry-level PC handhelds and the custom AMD “Aerith” SoC used by the Steam Deck. PC handhelds don’t get stronger than the Nintendo Switch 2 until you start breaching AMD Z1 and Z2 Extreme-based handhelds…and those are scarcely available below $1000 if you’re not buying used. Add in Nintendo Switch 2’s developer tailoring and “mini DLSS”, and it becomes difficult to justify spending twice as much for only marginal performance gains in titles like Cyberpunk 2077.

    From a PC Gamer’s Perspective

    As a lifelong PC gamer, its an unfortunate admission for me to make that Nintendo Switch 2 has effectively flipped the script from when the Steam Deck launched. While Steam Deck LCD was indeed slightly more expensive than the Switch 1 at $399 USD over $299, it was substantially more powerful in the same games and included tons of extra features thanks to being a fully-fledged PC beneath its controller-friendly SteamOS interface.

    Steam Deck OLED’s launch at $549 changed the argument slightly, but with Switch OLED costing $349, the argument to spend $200 on a powerful handheld PC rather than Switch’s antiquated Tegra X1 chipset was strong. Steam Deck OLED’s launch pricing was so strong, even, that technically-superior handheld PCs without OLED screens struggled to compete with the device.

    Current State of Handheld Pricing

    Even now, handheld PCs launching without an OLED display are criticized for cost-cutting even as they push 1080p and 120-144 Hz. That omission is really the only major weakness of Switch 2 compared to PC handhelds at this point, but Nintendo’s latest & greatest is running circles around them when it comes to price-for-performance. Sadly for handheld gamers, handheld PCs have become harder than ever to justify buying.

    Sources
    • Steam Deck Price Soars 51% in Asia Amid Shortage

      Steam Deck Price Soars 51% in Asia Amid Shortage

      Key Takeaway

      – Steam Deck OLED prices surged 38–51% in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan.
      – South Korea faced the steepest hike, with the 1TB model up 51%.
      – Komodo cited logistics fees and exchange rates; component shortages are the real cause.
      – Negative response claims the hardware no longer justifies the cost.
      – Rivals like ASUS ROG Ally models may offer better value now.


      Severe Steam Deck Pricing Shifts Across Asia

      A big Steam Deck price increase is also effecting multiple Asian nations. Komodo Station, a Valve retailer which serves countries like Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, has made this unwelcome announcement. In some cases, the new prices have rised by an even higher percentage than in North America, causing concern among gamers.

      Regional Cost Breakdown and Percentages

      Reported on by VideoCardz, Komodo outlined the changes to the gaming handheld on there website. In Japan, the Steam Deck OLED 512GB is now JPY 137,980, while the 1TB model is JPY 167,980. That is a jump of around 38% to 46%, respectively. Taiwan buyers must now pay TWD 26,280 or TWD 31,800, which is an increase of roughly 38% to 41%.

      • Japanese 512GB: JPY 137,980 (38% increase)
      • Japanese 1TB: JPY 167,980 (46% increase)
      • Taiwanese 512GB: TWD 26,280 (38% increase)
      • Taiwanese 1TB: TWD 31,800 (41% increase)

      South Korea and America See Major Hikes

      Korean gamers are among the most impacted group, with new MSRPs of KRW 1,298,000 and KRW 1,578,000. The version with the highest storage capacity saw a massive 51% hike. Meanwhile, in the U.S., the 512GB option went from $549 to $789, with the 1TB alternative now costing $949 instead of $649. Compared to South Korea, that is a slightly smaller increase of 44% and 46%.

      Earlier Increases and Component Shortages

      Asian buyers already saw a less significant Steam Deck price increase back in March. At the time, Komodo blamed higher logistics fees and fluctuating exchange rates. In reality, storage and memory shortages are likely the main reason behind the gaming handheld becoming less affordable. Valve’s inability to secure the components at a reasonable expense has led to these latest adjustments.

      Despite the elevated costs, the hardware remains scarce in many different markets. Komodo recommends that if the OLED SKUs are out of stock, you should register on the website or monitor social media for updates. Similarly, since the May 27th announcement, they have sold out multiple times in North America.

      Negative Response and Competitor Value

      The response to the Steam Deck OLED price revisions has been negative, with critics claiming the system’s specs no longer justify an investment. Rivals like the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X may offer a superior value. Still, after Lenovo and MSI upped the price of some handhelds, it may only be a matter of time before all devices suffer the same fate.


      Sources

    • Deal: 12 Steam Deck-Ready Games for Under $1 Each

      Deal: 12 Steam Deck-Ready Games for Under $1 Each

      Key Takeaway

      – 12 indie games for $10 (less than $1 each)
      – Highlights include Super Meat Boy, Beat Cop, and Anomaly Agent
      – Most games are Steam Deck verified
      – Total retail value over $220
      – Deal expires June 20, 2026


      Gamers get a new bundle on Humble Bundle called “12 for $10” and it’s got some really cool indie games like Super Meat Boy, Beat Cop, and Anomaly Agent. You can snag these hits along with others by paying just $10 minimum, so each game ends up costing less than a single dollar. I think this is pretty sweet if you like platformers or action games!

      Pricing and Steam Deck Support

      Almost all of the games in this collection have official Steam Deck compatibility ratings wich is great for portable play. The total retail value for all these titles is more than $220, making this deal a huge save you won’t find often. Another thing is that the offer wont last forever because it expires on June 20, 2026, so you should act fast if you want it.

      Player Ratings and Game Details

      Every single game in this bundle has at least a 78% positive player rating on Steam, which means they’re all well liked by the community. The selection includes a variety of genres so there’s something for everyone here. You can check out the attached picture to see the full list of games and their specific player scores, it’s really helpful for making a choice.

      • All games cost less than $1 each with the $10 payment
      • Steam Deck support is available for most titles
      • Expiration date is set for June 20, 2026

      Just a heads up, the retailer might change the price at any time so the deal you see now could be different later. The price and offer was accurate when we wrote this but it can be subject to time limits or limited stock availibility.


      Sources

    • Valve Steam Machine Reportedly Priced at $1000 Before Delay

      Valve Steam Machine Reportedly Priced at $1000 Before Delay

      Key Takeaway

      – $1000 starting price rumored from a credible insider
      – Steam Machine will cost more than the current Steam Deck
      – Circana analyst estimates $1200 based on industry trends
      – Higher price may not hinder sales, as seen with restocked Steam Deck OLED
      – Release window likely near, hinted by backend “Welcome Tour” update


      Steam Machine Price Doubts Remain

      The uncertaintly over the Steam Machine price continues. Responding to component shortages, Valve recently raised the cost of its Steam Deck handhelds. Gamers now fear that the mini PC will also strain budgets. However, an insider revealed that even before the system’s release date delay, its price was higher than anticipated.

      Insider Discloses Ballpark Figure

      Jez Corden of Windows Central discussed the console affordability crisis on an XB2 podcast. When addressing the Steam Machine, he informed audiences: I heard, last year when it was first announced, it was gonna be $1000… from a very, very good source, like a very good source. The insider doesn’t specify whether that figure applies to the 512GB model or the 2TB alternative. Nevertheless, at the time, the PS5 digital was $499.99.

      Comparing Specs To Previous Pricing

      While Valve said its hardware’s cost would be more comparable to a gaming PC than a console, its specs may not have justified the investment. Some gamers are using the Steam Deck price increase to predict the cube’s MSRP. The 1TB OLED version asks $949 instead of $649, while the 512GB variation is $789, up from $549. Similar adjustments to the Steam Machine price from $1000 could see one version costing buyers $1450.

      Shortages And Analysts Estimates

      Valve attributed the revisions to its gaming handhelds to the component shortages. The SteamOS cube also relies on DDR5 memory and SSDs, which the AI boom has impacted. There are variables involved, but the company seems unlikely to willingly lose money on the more potent mini PC. When looking for other clues, fellow insider Brad Lynch recently gave buyers another hint. Around 2 months ago, he was told that the Steam Machine would be more expensive than the Steam Deck is now.

      Demand Survives Despite Higher Cost

      Meanwhile, guided by industry trends, Circana analyst Mat Piscatella provided Eurogamer with a $1200 estimate. Despite the doom and gloom, Corden noted that even at a higher price, the restocked Steam Deck OLED sold out. He believes the company may target a smaller audience with fewer units. Whether it proves to be a niche product or not, signs point to a Steam Machine release date in the near future.

      Leaked Release Window Surfaces

      In a new leak, Valve’s backend added a Welcome Tour. As Brad Lynch explained, the manufacturer announced the Steam Controller’s launch window a few weeks after a similar update. XB2 podcast, Eurogamer

      Sources
    • Valve Steam Machine Price Reportedly $1000 Before Delay

      Valve Steam Machine Price Reportedly $1000 Before Delay

      Key Takeaway

      – $1000 starting price from a reliable source
      – Higher than Steam Deck, partly due to component shortages
      – Possible $1200 or even $1450 for certain models
      – Steam Deck OLED sold out at higher prices, suggesting Valve targets a niche
      – Release likely soon, hinted by backend “Welcome Tour” update


      Console cost chaos

      The uncertainty over the Steam Machine price continues. Responding to component shortages, Valve recently raised the cost of its Steam Deck handhelds. Gamers now fear that the mini PC will also strain budgets. However, an insider revealed that even before the system’s release date delay, its price was higher than anticipated.

      Inside info from a podcaster

      Jez Corden of Windows Central discussed the console affordability crisis on a XB2 podcast. When addressing the Steam Machine, he informed audiences:

      I heard, last year when it was first announced, it was gonna be $1000… from a very, very good source, like a very good source.

      The insider doesn’t specify whether that figure applies to the 512GB model or the 2TB alternative. Nevertheless, at the time, the PS5 digital was $499.99. While Valve said its hardware’s cost would be more comparable to a gaming PC than a console, its specs may not have justified the investment.

      Deck pricing as a predictor

      Some gamers are using the Steam Deck price increase to predict the cube’s MSRP. The 1TB OLED version asks $949 instead of $649, while the 512GB variation is $789, up from $549. Similar adjustments to the Steam Machine price from $1000 could see one version costing buyers $1450.

      Valve attributed the revisions to its gaming handhelds to the component shortages. The SteamOS cube also relies on DDR5 memory and SSDs, which the AI boom has impacted. There are variables involved, but the company seems unlikely to willingly lose money on the more potent mini PC.

      Another analysts guess

      When looking for other clues, fellow insider Brad Lynch recently gave buyers another hint. Around 2 months ago, he was told that the Steam Machine would be more expensive than the Steam Deck is now. Meanwhile, guided by industry trends, Circana analyst Mat Piscatella provided Eurogamer with a $1200 estimate.

      Despite the doom and gloom, Corden noted that even at a higher price, the restocked Steam Deck OLED sold out. He believes the company may target a smaller audience with fewer units.

      Release window hints

      Whether it proves to be a niche product or not, signs point to a Steam Machine release date in the near future. In a new leak, Valve’s backend added a Welcome Tour. As Brad Lynch explained, the manufacturer announced the Steam Controller’s launch window a few weeks after a similar update.

       

      Sources