Tag: Steam Deck

  • Steam Spring Sale: Save Up to 90% on Adventure Games for Steam Deck

    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.

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  • Top Steam Deck Games Under $5 in Steam Spring Sale 2023

    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.

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  • SteamOS Set for Public Release Soon: New Leak Revealed

    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.

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  • New Xbox Handheld Details Leaked Ahead of 2025 Release

    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.

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  • 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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