Tag: Steam Deck

January 7, 2025
Steam Deck 2: Valve Designer Talks Rumored AMD Ryzen Z2 Update
Rumors about Valve possibly launching new hardware have been floating around for the past month or so, partly due to some leaks from databases. To summarize, information about the rumored Steam Controller 2 came out in late November. In addition, new details about Valve’s much-speculated ‘Deckard’ VR headset also surfaced, quickly followed by a leak regarding a gaming device codenamed ‘Fremont’.
AMD Confirms Steam Deck Update?
Today, VideoCardz published an article that claimed AMD had ‘confirmed Valve Steam Deck update’ as part of the Ryzen Z2 series announcement. This lead to various news outlets resharing the information, even though there was no clear reference to a new Steam Deck in the leaked documents shared by VideoCardz. Instead, the Steam Deck was mentioned alongside other devices like the Legion Go and ROG Ally, which use older Ryzen Z1 and Ryzen Z1 Extreme APUs.
Valve’s Clarification
However, Pierre-Loup Griffais, a key figure in the Steam Deck’s design, has stepped in to clarify Valve’s stance. He directly stated that ‘there is and will be no Z2 Steam Deck’, putting an end to the speculation right there.
As for Valve’s official position, they have only mentioned plans for a next-generation Steam Deck to be released in ‘a few years’. Since the Steam Deck performs similarly to the Radeon 890M in benchmarks, it seems unlikely that the Ryzen Z2 series would be used for a device that Valve wants to deliver with ‘a significant bump in horsepower’.
Upcoming Devices
Meanwhile, there is solid evidence indicating that a SteamOS-powered Legion Go gaming handheld is nearing its launch. Lenovo has strongly suggested that this device will be revealed later this week at CES 2025. However, it won’t be a direct successor to the original Legion Go gaming handheld that Lenovo launched last year (currently priced at $619.99 on Amazon). Instead, it may come as a more affordable option with fixed controllers and a lower price point, aimed at meeting lesser performance targets.
Source: Link
Tags: Ryzen Z2, Steam Deck, Valve
December 27, 2024
Jsaux 7-in-1 Docking Station with Cooling for Handheld Consoles
Jsaux has introduced a new Docking Station, marking the first in its line to feature built-in fans that attach magnetically to align perfectly with the back of the user’s handheld device.
Features of the Docking Station
This docking station comes with dual fans that showcase Dynamic 7-Color Gradient RGB lighting. The base, which also serves as a cradle for the console, supports various RGB modes including Breathing, Chasing, Gradient, Monochromatic, and Stacking. Additionally, it maintains the same design as its 6-in-1 predecessor, enabling users to utilize the main dock body without the fans and base.
Connectivity Options
offer data transfer speeds of 5Gb/s
However, the manufacturer only lists compatibility with specific consoles, namely the Steam Deck, Steam Deck OLED, and Lenovo Legion Go. Unfortunately, others, like the MSI Claw, may not work with this docking station.
Pricing and Availability
The 7-in-1 RGB Cooling Docking Station is currently available for pre-order directly from Jsaux for $59.99. In comparison, the non-RGB 6-in-1 version can be found on Amazon for a reduced price of $36.80, thanks to a 20% discount coupon, as of today, December 26, 2024.
Source: Link
Tags: Jsaux Docking Station, RGB Cooling Dock, Steam Deck
December 7, 2024
Ayaneo Flip KB Handheld Console: Great Functionality & Performance
While the Steam Deck console and its clones feature a sleek design that merges a screen with game controllers on either side, they can appear rather bulky, particularly with models boasting screens larger than 7 inches. To address this issue, manufacturers have looked back to the Nintendo DS clamshell style, which allows users to open and adjust the screen. Although this design isn’t as trendy as the Steam Deck’s right now, more console creators are beginning to embrace it. Ayaneo has recently introduced its version with the new Flip KB / DS model.
Testing the Flip KB Model
We had the chance to try out the Flip KB version, which swaps out the lower screen for a mini keyboard. The clamshell design is not only stylish but also more compact than typical Steam Deck clones, even if it does have a bit more thickness. It runs on AMD’s Ryzen 7 8840U, housing eight Zen 4 cores and sixteen threads alongside the Radeon 780M integrated GPU. This console impresses with solid functionality and respectable graphics performance, all while keeping its thermal design power (TDP) capped at 30 W.
Display and Features
On the bright side, the console boasts a 7-inch IPS display with a glossy finish and an average peak brightness of 720 nits. Since the reviewed model was a pre-mass-production version, the resolution was limited to 1080p, so we couldn’t test lower resolutions that could use less power. Other advantages of this model include top-notch game controllers, future-ready connectivity through USB4 and OCuLink ports, a speedy microSD card reader, and the AYASpace 2.0 control center.
Downsides to Consider
However, there are certain downsides as well. The CPU performance lags a bit behind other chips like the Z1 Extreme or the older R7 7840U that aren’t restricted by a 30 W limit. Additionally, the overall power efficiency doesn’t quite match the TDP limit. Under full load, the fan noise is noticeably higher than average, even though the cooling system employs a vapor chamber. Battery life is also impacted by the smaller 45 Wh capacity and the previously mentioned locked resolution.
Tags: Ayaneo Flip KB, Ryzen 7 8840U, Steam Deck
November 26, 2024
Playtron OS Alpha 2: Enhanced Hardware Support Features
For those who don’t know, Playtron OS is a gaming-focused operating system based on Fedora Linux. Since the launch of Steam OS, many companies have been trying to produce their own OS to rival Valve’s offering. The Playtron OS development team aims to create a lightweight and secure distribution which works well with popular gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, and AYANEO devices, while also ensuring compatibility for games that are not just on Steam. Interestingly, the OS isn’t just for handhelds; the alpha two version includes features that will also assist laptop and desktop users.
Key Updates in the Alpha Two Release
The main focus of the Playtron OS alpha two release is on hardware support. Here are some key highlights from the latest update:
The Playtron OS Alpha Two introduces several new features and significant updates to various components.
Known Issues in Alpha Two
However, as this is still an alpha version, there are several bugs that need to be fixed. Many of the problems from alpha one persist, and users may encounter some entirely new issues in alpha two. Those interested in trying out the OS should take note of some critical problems, such as:
As expected with an alpha release, the list of bugs is ongoing. For further information on the update or to download the OS, please check out the official announcement linked below.
Source: Link
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, Playtron OS, Steam Deck
November 25, 2024
Sony Developing Handheld Console for Native PS5 Game Play
A previous speculation suggested that Sony was closely monitoring the handheld console scene after the Steam Deck achieved great success. Although Sony did release the PlayStation Portal, it’s not really a direct rival to the many Windows-based consoles available today. Now, a report from Bloomberg reinforces the idea of Sony possibly re-entering the handheld gaming market.
Sony’s Future Plans
Sony’s concept “builds on” the PS Portal and aims to allow players to enjoy PlayStation 5 games while traveling. Of course, this project is still in the initial phases of development, so it likely won’t be available for some time. Creating a handheld device that can deliver PS5-level graphics will require significant advancements in technology that simply aren’t ready yet.
Technical Challenges Ahead
To begin with, high-bandwidth memory will be necessary to supply the GPU with data efficiently. This might be somewhat addressed with LPDDR6 modules. Then there’s the challenge of finding a CPU and GPU combination that can produce PS5-quality graphics without excessive power consumption. A Zen 4/Zen 5 along with a UDNA chip could potentially make this happen, but that won’t be anytime soon.
Additionally, for Sony and AMD to succeed, they will need access to TSMC’s advanced manufacturing processes. Traditionally, AMD has lagged by one node, so if that trend continues, they might not have access to TSMC N2 until 2026, which could set the stage for a 2027 launch. All these elements, along with AI image upscaling techniques like PSSR, should make the concept feasible, at least in theory.
Developer Support Challenges
However, there’s also the hurdle of developer backing. Game studios will have to release toned-down versions of their titles to function on the PlayStation handheld, complicating the entire process. Ideally, Sony would benefit from positioning this device as a companion to the PlayStation 6. This separation actually makes sense, as it provides two distinct ways for users to engage with the same games.
An earlier statement from Phil Spencer of Xbox indicated that Microsoft is also developing a handheld console that is “a few years away.” There’s a strong possibility that both devices could launch within weeks of each other, escalating the competition in the console market. Plus, we can’t forget about the Steam Deck 2, which has been said to not be launching soon, but Valve could disrupt Sony and Microsoft’s plans with its next-generation handheld.
Source: Link
Tags: amd, PlayStation Portal, Steam Deck
November 16, 2024
Xbox App Receives UI Overhaul for Windows Gaming Handhelds
Microsoft appears to have finally acknowledged the competition in the gaming arena. They recently confirmed they are developing a handheld gaming device and are now working to enhance the Xbox app experience across multiple gaming platforms. An update is being rolled out for the Xbox App on Windows, introducing a new Home experience and a Compact mode designed for handheld devices, which seems to be heavily influenced by Valve’s Steam Deck.
Home Layout and Compact Mode
The most significant changes come from the redesigned Home layout and the introduction of Compact mode, which features a new function called “Jump Back In.” This new ribbon showcases recent games, much like the Recent Games section found in Steam Deck’s SteamOS and Steam Big Picture. When Compact mode is activated, this section appears in the upper half of the Xbox App for Windows. This update aims to simplify returning to your most recently played games on devices like the Asus ROG Ally (currently priced at $499 at Best Buy).
Enhanced Navigation and Features
The revamped Home UI for the Xbox app on Windows now includes a clean column of icons and shortcuts on the left side of the screen, enhancing navigation on smaller displays. Additionally, the update brings news and suggested content from Game Pass and the Xbox Store directly into the Home UI, again borrowing ideas from the SteamOS framework.
The new Home experience combines the latest and most exciting content from Game Pass and the Store into one easy-to-access location. Users will also find access to the latest games, news, tailored recommendations, free-to-play offerings, and special deals.
Competition with Valve
Valve has also stirred things up with recent SteamOS updates that improved compatibility with the Asus ROG Ally’s display and button setups. The company has declared that SteamOS will eventually be downloadable as an ISO for other AMD-based gaming systems and handheld PCs, which predominantly operate on Windows—an operating system often criticized for its inadequate handheld optimizations. With Microsoft’s handheld-oriented updates, it seems that both Valve and Microsoft are in a direct competition, aiming to create a widely available handheld operating system.
For comprehensive details on the November Xbox App update, including a new friend request feature and AI-powered search, you can check the full notes here.
Source: Link
Tags: Asus ROG Ally, Steam Deck, Xbox App
November 6, 2024
Steam Deck Now Available in Australia for Gaming Enthusiasts
Gamers in Australia have some exciting news: Valve will start selling the console in their region on November 19. As of now, it seems that pre-orders are not yet available, but this should change soon. The shipping for the consoles will commence at 10 AM AEDT on November 19.
Variants and Pricing
Valve is offering both the LCD and OLED versions of the Steam Deck. The LCD variant comes with 256 GB of storage and is priced at A$649 (US$428). If you’re looking for more storage, the 512 GB Steam Deck OLED will cost A$899 (US$593), while the 1 TB model will be available for A$1,049 (US$691).
Discontinuation of LCD Variant
As previously mentioned, Valve has basically stopped producing the Steam Deck LCD variant, so it will eventually run out of stock. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as the OLED version has several quality-of-life improvements that makes it a better choice. These enhancements include a bigger battery, Wi-Fi 6E support, and a smaller 6 nm SoC.
The Future of Handheld Gaming
Moreover, a new Steam Deck isn’t expected to release in the near future. However, the handheld gaming market has become more diverse with big names like Asus, MSI, Acer, and Lenovo getting involved. There are also many options from Chinese companies such as Ayaneo, AYN, OneXPlayer, and Aokzoe to consider.
Tags: OLED, Steam Deck, Valve
October 31, 2024
EA Cancels Apex Legends Linux Version Over Anti-Cheat Issues
EA has decided to end support for the Linux version of Apex Legends. This means that Steam Deck users will need to install Windows if they want to enjoy the game, a situation that also impacts the rising number of Linux gamers. The company claims this move is aimed at combating cheaters, who they say tend to favor Linux distros rather than Windows. EA shared this information in a post on X:
Cheating Issues on Linux
The Linux operating systems’ open nature makes it appealing for cheaters and those who develop cheats. It is true that cheats on Linux are more difficult to detect, and the data indicates a growing trend that demands significant attention from EA’s team, especially considering the relatively small size of the Linux platform. There are even instances where cheats designed for Windows are being used on Linux to make detection more challenging.
Easy Anti Cheat and Its Implications
Apex Legends employs Easy Anti Cheat (EAC), which is a service running at the kernel level that identifies unauthorized modifications to the game’s files. Although it might be simpler to bypass this system on Linux, restricting access to an entire platform seems a bit too harsh and almost inept. EA claims that only a limited number of players will be affected, but those individuals are losing access to a game they enjoy along with any in-game skins they previously acquired. It would be best if EA considered providing refunds to those impacted, but there has been no announcement regarding that so far.
The Future for Apex Legends Players
With this decision, the future for Linux users who want to play Apex Legends looks bleak. Many gamers feel frustrated that they have to jump through hoops to continue playing a game they love. The community is left hoping for a resolution or at least some compensation for their losses. For now, it seems like the situation is still developing, and players will have to wait to see how EA addresses their concerns.
Tags: Apex Legends, Linux Gaming, Steam Deck
October 30, 2024
Free New 1v1 Shooter on Steam Gets High Ratings
On October 24, 2024, the free first-person shooter Straftat, created by the Lemaitre brothers, Sirius and Leonard, was launched on Steam. This game is rated for ages 18 and up, concentrating solely on 1v1 battles. With more than 70 distinct maps that change every few rounds, Straftat offers a refreshing gameplay experience, showcasing a different set of weapons on each map. This diversity injects excitement and depth, making it appealing for those who enjoy 1v1 matches similar to classic games like Quake or Unreal Tournament.
Expansion Content and Pricing
Straftat represents the debut of the Lemaitre Bros on Steam, with the only additional content being a DLC that greatly enhances the game – introducing 70 new maps, 10 extra weapons, along with a selection of hats for character personalization. Normally, this expansion is priced at $5, but until October 31, it can be purchased for $4.50 with a 10% discount.
Visuals and System Requirements
When it comes to visuals, Straftat doesn’t exactly stand out, but that’s common for free games. Its style leans more towards functionality than flashiness, carrying a retro feel that brings to mind Quake, where details are minimal yet effective. A key benefit is its small storage space and low graphic needs, allowing it to run on various systems. Currently, Steam is evaluating how well this 1v1 shooter works on the Steam Deck, which is priced at $389 on Amazon.
Player Reception
On Steam, Straftat has been met with very positive feedback. An impressive 98 percent of over 700 players have rated this first-person shooter favorably. Besides the vintage graphics, there are few minor critiques, like the somewhat traditional weapon handling and limited crosshair customization options. Ratings from Metacritic are still awaited. You can check out first impressions of the game in its official trailer.
Tags: First-Person Shooter, Steam Deck, Straftat
October 29, 2024
Assassin’s Creed Mirage Update: Steam Deck Support and Optimization
Ubisoft has officially stated that Assassin’s Creed Mirage will be available for the Valve Steam Deck at its launch. Now, the company is enhancing this experience by adding a special Steam Deck mode, which includes optimizations to ensure the game performs well on the Steam Deck’s less powerful hardware.
Automatic Settings for Smooth Gameplay
As per a recent update shared in the Ubisoft Discord community and on the game’s Steam Store page, starting October 29, Assassin’s Creed Mirage will have the ability to automatically recognize when it’s being played on the Steam Deck. It will then apply optimized settings to maintain smooth frame rates. Since it’s a PC port, players still have the option to adjust settings to their liking afterward; however, Ubisoft encourages users to stick with the defaults.
Recommended Presets for Best Experience
The game will automatically identify your Steam Deck and utilize default settings aimed at enhancing performance on this particular device. For a seamless experience while following Basim’s journey, it is advisable to continue using the suggested presets.
Uncertainty About Default Settings
It’s not yet clear what the default settings for Assassin’s Creed Mirage will be on the Steam Deck. Overkill discovered that a balanced combination of medium and low settings—occasionally high settings—at the Deck’s native resolution could maintain a steady 30 FPS, but Ubisoft might be aiming for a higher frame rate. There is also uncertainty about how this will impact other Linux users with more robust hardware; backing up in-game settings before the update could be prudent.
This announcement follows Ubisoft’s commitment to releasing games on Steam on the same day they launch, starting with Assassin’s Creed Shadows. This means that future Assassin‘s Creed titles are likely to have similar support for the Steam Deck.
Ubisoft via Discord, Steam, Overkill
Tags: Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Steam Deck, Ubisoft