Tag: Steam Deck

  • Valve Replaces Steam Deck LCD with OLED, Impacting Budget Handhelds

    Valve Replaces Steam Deck LCD with OLED, Impacting Budget Handhelds

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve has discontinued the Steam Deck LCD 256GB model, stating it will no longer be produced once sold out.
    2. Currently, only the 512GB and 1TB OLED versions of the Steam Deck are available, starting at $549, compared to the original LCD price of $399.
    3. Despite the discontinuation of the LCD model, other portable gaming PCs like the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Lenovo Legion Go S offer alternatives.
    4. The OLED models feature a praised 7.4-inch display with high contrast, a 90Hz refresh rate, and HDR capabilities, although performance remains similar to the LCD version.
    5. The discontinuation may be influenced by memory shortages and rising DRAM costs, with potential impacts on future product launches.

    Despite the emergence of new options such as the ROG Xbox Ally, a lot of gamers still view the Steam Deck LCD as a better value. Sadly, for those who haven’t purchased the budget gaming device, they might be in trouble. In the U.S. at least, Valve’s online store shows that only the enhanced OLED version is available.

    Ominous Signs for Buyers

    When potential buyers visit the site, they’ll notice a concerning note beneath the cheaper model. Valve states that “We are no longer producing the Steam Deck LCD 256GB model. Once sold out, it will no longer be available.” To make matters worse, a sold-out tag is already displayed next to the LCD model.

    Limited Options Available

    Currently, customers can only select from the 512GB and 1TB versions of the Steam Deck OLED. The price difference is quite noticeable, with the base model now starting at $549. In contrast, the often-discounted LCD gaming device originally had a price of $399.

    Even with the discontinuation of Valve’s budget-friendly option, there remains a good variety in the portable gaming PC market. Alongside the Asus ROG Xbox Ally, the Lenovo Legion Go S falls within a similar price bracket. For those who don’t mind a little work, SteamOS can be installed on Windows 11 devices. However, fans have always enjoyed distinct Steam Deck features like its dual trackpads.

    Praise for the OLED Screen

    A number of current owners are praising the slightly larger 7.4-inch OLED display on the remaining Valve models. This screen not only has high contrast but also boasts a 90Hz refresh rate and HDR capabilities. However, players shouldn’t expect a huge increase in performance since the processor remains similar.

    Regarding why Valve chose to stop the Steam Deck LCD now, one popular theory is gaining traction. A shortage of memory and increasing DRAM costs are creating difficulties for manufacturers. There have already been whispers that the company might postpone the launch of the new Steam Machine as a result.

    Valve might have concluded that after almost four years, it was time to retire the device. Nevertheless, the second-hand market is likely to keep the budget gaming handheld alive for a while longer.

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  • New Action-Adventure Sports RPG Gets 1000+ Positive Reviews on Steam

    New Action-Adventure Sports RPG Gets 1000+ Positive Reviews on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    Skate Story is a fresh role-playing game centered on skating that launched on Steam on December 8, 2025. This premium indie title comes from solo developer Sam Eng and is published by Devolver Digital. It is available for a price of around US$19.99, making it a mid-range PC release, unlike many free-to-play games.

    Unique Gameplay Concept

    At first glance, Skate Story may appear to be just another sports game. However, it actually resembles a surreal action adventure, built around precise skating mechanics and an engaging narrative. You take on the role of a delicate demon made of glass and pain, tasked by the Devil to skate through the ash-filled Emptylands, reach the Moon, and consume it to earn your freedom. Although this premise may seem bizarre, the gameplay revolves around mastering weight transfer, speed control, ollies, kickflips, and grinds, all while navigating a neon-lit underworld that feels more like an art piece than a real city.

    Positive Reception

    The initial response from PC gamers has been quite favorable. Skate Story holds an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam, with about 96% of user reviews recommending it. This is an impressive score for a new skate game that demands skill. Top reviews highlight the fluid, immersive controls, “magical” worldbuilding, and the way the sound and music enhance the skating experience. While there’s limited criticism, it often focuses on concerns about long-term replayability and the game’s linear format, rather than any significant technical flaws. Many players have expressed a desire for a chapter selection feature to replay specific areas independently.

    A New Era of Skating Games

    Players are embracing Skate Story as part of the latest wave of innovative skate titles, distancing it from classic Tony Hawk games. The Verge’s review describes it as “one of the most unique skateboarding games of the decade,” praising its striking, dreamlike visuals and solid trick mechanics. In terms of comparisons, it balances somewhere between the meditative flow and soundtrack-focused style of Sayonara Wild Hearts and the indie approach to skating found in titles like OlliOlli World and Skate City.

    For those who appreciate this type of aesthetic, Skate Story is rapidly emerging as a noteworthy game to keep an eye on. Additionally, the game supports full controller use on PC and has been verified for Steam Deck (currently priced at $850 on Amazon for the 1TB/OLED model) as well.

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  • How Arc Raiders Plans to Survive for the Long Haul

    How Arc Raiders Plans to Survive for the Long Haul

    Key Takeaways

    1. Arc Raiders launched in late October 2025, attracting over 700,000 simultaneous players and winning “Best Multiplayer Game” at the Game Awards.
    2. The game features a mix of PvE and PvP gameplay, with some parts of the community noted for being toxic, yet many players appreciate the experience.
    3. Embark Studios aims for a long-term vision of supporting Arc Raiders for up to 10 years or more, depending on player engagement and feedback.
    4. The game’s development will be adaptable and shaped by community responses, rather than following a conventional live-service content schedule.
    5. The recent Cold Snap update improved gameplay by addressing issues like slow progression, adding new challenges, and introducing dynamic weather effects.

    Arc Raiders made its entrance in late October 2025 and had an impressive start. As reported by SteamDB, the extraction adventure game reached over 700,000 players at the same time and won the title of “Best Multiplayer Game” at the Game Awards. Although some parts of the player community have gained a reputation for being toxic, the mix of PvE and PvP gameplay has clearly struck a chord with many players. Embark Studios has expressed its dedication to keeping this momentum going in the future.

    Looking Ahead

    Robert Sammelin, the Art Director at Embark Studios, shared his thoughts on the future of Arc Raiders during a chat with Tim Clark and Evan Lahti from PC Gamer at the Game Awards. While Embark is not planning to unveil a standard content roadmap, the team is aiming for a long-term “10-year vision” – a goal that has been known for some time. However, as Sammelin pointed out, the studio is ready to support the game even longer if the community stays active and engaged. “Our ambition is to keep this game alive for the longest time […] as long as players engage with it, have fun, and see that it is evolving in a good way,” he mentioned. Ultimately, the future of the game remains uncertain, heavily influenced by player interest and feedback.

    Community Influence

    I think that games like this will change based on how the community acts, their feedback, and how we identify the aspects that players really connect with […] There are many different paths we could take with this, and only time will tell how we explore it.

    In practical terms, this implies that Arc Raiders will not adhere to a conventional live-service model with a set content schedule. Instead, the development is designed to be adaptable and shaped by player responses. Embark’s dedication to this method is already evident in the recent Cold Snap update. This update was generally well-received by the community, addressing significant issues like slow progression and unbalanced loot. It also brought in two new challenges and implemented dynamic weather effects – most notably snowstorms, which add a fresh feel to the game both literally and figuratively.

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  • New Terminator Retro-Action Game Launches on Steam with Discounts

    New Terminator Retro-Action Game Launches on Steam with Discounts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Details: Terminator 2D: No Fate launched on Steam on December 12, 2025, after three delays from its initial September release.

    2. Gameplay Style: The game features side-scrolling run-and-gun mechanics, allowing players to switch between characters like Sarah Connor and the T-800, with levels inspired by iconic scenes from the movie.

    3. Visual and Audio Elements: It boasts 16-bit graphics and a synth-heavy soundtrack, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.

    4. Pricing and Discounts: The game is priced at $30, with a 10% launch discount bringing the price down to $27.

    5. Reception: Early reviews highlight smooth controls and nostalgic gameplay, though some players note the game’s short length and higher price as potential downsides.

    Terminator 2D: No Fate has at last arrived on Steam as of December 12, 2025, after facing a rocky path highlighted by three delays from its planned September release. Bitmap Bureau’s pixel-art homage to Terminator 2: Judgment Day offers arcade-style excitement across various platforms, with publishing handled by Reef Entertainment. The game is priced at $30, but players can snag it for $27 with a 10% launch discount, as it brings several memorable scenes from the movie to life in quick, thrilling levels.

    Delays and Development

    Originally announced in early 2025, the game aimed for a September 5 launch on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox, Switch, and Steam. The developers soon opted to delay it to October 31 to allow for additional polishing, a day-one patch, and the production of physical copies amid supply chain issues. A further delay to November 26 was then implemented due to global trade disruptions impacting manufacturing. The last push to December 12 was made to ensure a synchronized release of both digital and physical versions, as Bitmap Bureau mentioned they were “almost there,” despite growing impatience from fans.

    Gameplay Features

    The core gameplay closely mirrors the style of Contra and Metal Slug, utilizing a side-scrolling run-and-gun mechanic. Players can switch between characters like Sarah Connor, John Connor, and the T-800 while navigating through linear stages inspired by the films, including the nightclub shootout and the steel mill chase. Each level lasts around three minutes, providing a fast-paced experience. Players can utilize 8-directional shooting, dodging slides, grenades, melee attacks, and even vehicles. The 16-bit graphics are complemented by a synth-heavy score, and there are also hidden collectibles and traps throughout.

    Reception and Feedback

    According to recent reviews on Steam, the controls are smooth and responsive. Additionally, the game is verified for the Steam Deck, which currently retails for $840 for the 1TB/OLED model. Critics from Eurogamer have described it as “brief but beautiful,” praising the game’s tight action, even though the easy mode can be completed in about an hour. While many appreciate its nostalgia, some complaints focus on its short length and relatively high price. Reviews for the Switch and other consoles are quite similar, indicating that Terminator 2D: No Fate is a nostalgic pick priced between $20-30 for fans of the franchise. For more information, you can visit the Steam store page for the game.

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  • Elden Ring Tarnished Edition on Switch 2 Outperforms Steam Deck

    Elden Ring Tarnished Edition on Switch 2 Outperforms Steam Deck

    Key Takeaways

    1. FromSoftware has delayed the Elden Ring Tarnished Edition release to improve visuals.
    2. Performance in handheld mode on the Switch 2 is reportedly better than on the Steam Deck.
    3. Initial mobile format issues included low frame rates and choppy battle animations.
    4. Docked mode shows improved exploration and fluid combat, despite some lingering slowdowns.
    5. Future updates could enhance performance, with expectations for better ports as developers optimize the Switch 2’s capabilities.

    FromSoftware has pushed back the release date for the Elden Ring Tarnished Edition to enhance its visuals. A recent demo from Milan Games Week suggests that this choice might be fruitful. Spanish YouTuber Ray Bacon discovered that the handheld mode of the game offers better performance. He even claims that playing on the Switch 2 now surpasses the experience on the Steam Deck.

    Performance Issues at Launch

    First shown at Gamescom 2025, the FromSoftware game had significant challenges in its mobile format. Frame rates frequently fell below 30 fps, especially in larger areas like Limgrave, which heightened the stuttering. Most concerning was the choppiness of battle animations, making it hard to perform precise attacks.

    Gameplay in Docked Mode

    Ray Bacon didn’t get to try the game on the Switch 2 in docked mode during the event. While there is some glare in the video, players can still enjoy the detailed buildings and lush vegetation. Exploring the open-world sections now runs smoother, with fewer major hiccups than before. Although combat still feels a little slow, the YouTuber found the encounters to be fluid enough to have fun.

    Future Improvements Expected

    There’s still plenty of room for FromSoftware to improve the Elden Ring version for the Switch 2. Sometimes, foliage in front of characters loads just in the nick of time, which can be distracting. Still, the tester believes that portable mode has met all of his expectations. He’s also excited to see how the extra power while docked will enhance performance.

    Ray Bacon also mentions that the Switch 2 is the better choice for playing the Souls-like game on the go. While Elden Ring is verified for the Steam Deck, it requires significant setting adjustments to reach over 30 fps. With its 1080p screen, Nintendo’s device seems to hold a clear advantage in visual quality.

    Looking Ahead to Future Ports

    When developers have the time to fully utilize the specs of the Switch 2, it can lead to better ports for the console. Although Star Wars Outlaws appeared rough in early demos, the final version proved to be much more polished. Fans are hopeful that by the time the Elden Ring Tarnished Edition is released, they too will witness similar improvements.

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  • Hogwarts Legacy Sequel Reported: What We Know So Far

    Hogwarts Legacy Sequel Reported: What We Know So Far

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hogwarts Legacy became a best-selling game in 2023, captivating fans with its expansive world and engaging gameplay.
    2. A sequel has been officially announced, but its format and features are still unclear, with some speculation about a potential free-to-play model.
    3. New job listings suggest a focus on a single-player experience for the sequel, similar to the original game.
    4. The sequel will be developed in collaboration with the new HBO Harry Potter series, aiming for a more interconnected Wizarding World.
    5. Hogwarts Legacy is currently available at a significant discount on Steam, making it more accessible for players.

    It has been nearly a year and a half since Hogwarts Legacy enchanted gamers, lighting up their hearts like a perfectly cast Lumos spell. With its expansive world, accurate representation of Hogwarts, engaging combat, and undeniable magical allure, the game provided a fantasy come to life for every Harry Potter enthusiast and rightly earned the title of the best-selling game of 2023. Due to its immense popularity, it’s no wonder fans are eagerly anticipating a follow-up.

    Sequel Details

    The sequel to Hogwarts Legacy has been officially announced, but it remains uncertain how much it will mirror the first game. Recent speculation suggested a shift to a free-to-play format with multiplayer elements, which didn’t please many fans. However, fresh insights have emerged, offering a glimmer of hope for those who prefer the original experience.

    Promising Insights

    New job listings on the Warner Bros. careers website indicate a strong emphasis on a single-player approach for the Hogwarts Legacy sequel. Like its predecessor, the upcoming game is expected to be an action-adventure RPG. Among the job ads are openings for gameplay programmers experienced in narrative-focused single-player games. Additionally, there’s a position for brand management specifically linked to PC and console games within the Harry Potter universe. Another listing mentions creature animation, with requirements that are quite similar to those used when developing the first Hogwarts Legacy.

    Collaboration with HBO

    In an interview with Warner Bros. Games, it was revealed that Hogwarts Legacy 2 will be developed in close collaboration with the new HBO Harry Potter series. The teams are working to harmonize key storytelling aspects, potentially crafting a more interconnected and immersive Wizarding World experience across both platforms. Not all fans are excited about this direction, though. If you have any opinions on this topic, feel free to leave a comment below.

    By the way, Hogwarts Legacy is currently available on Steam at its largest discount ever – 85% off. The game also performs well on the Steam Deck, which you can find on Amazon for about $750.

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  • Steam Launches First Black Friday Game Sale Featuring Battlefield 6

    Steam Launches First Black Friday Game Sale Featuring Battlefield 6

    Key Takeaways

    1. Steam is hosting its first-ever Black Friday sale for games and hardware.
    2. The sale features a “Discounts & Events” promotion with deals available all week long.
    3. Significant discounts include popular titles and new releases, like the Steam Deck and Battlefield 6.
    4. Classic games, such as EA Sports FC 26, are discounted by 50% during the sale.
    5. The Black Friday sale ends on Cyber Monday, December 1, with prices likely returning to normal afterward.

    Steam is hosting its very first Black Friday sale on both games and hardware. Typically, the platform has various game sales throughout the year, but it has never officially recognized a Black Friday event until now.

    Exciting Discounts on Games

    This year, Steam has launched a “Discounts & Events” promotion specifically for Black Friday, allowing shoppers to enjoy deals all week long. We’ve taken a sneak peek at some of the most attractive offers, like the significant discount on the Steam Deck. However, there are thousands of games available at reduced prices during this special week, including both brand-new releases and fan favorites like Battlefield 6.

    Popular Titles on Sale

    This is just a glimpse of the hot titles included in Steam’s Black Friday sale. Classic holiday games, such as the EA Sports FC 26 sports simulator, are also seeing a 50% discount, alongside a variety of RPGs and casual games that are perfect for some lighthearted fun.

    Mark Your Calendars

    Steam’s inaugural Black Friday game sale features thousands of games with discounts available all week long. The sale will conclude on Cyber Monday, December 1, at which point game prices will either return to normal or may remain discounted, but likely not at the same rates.

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  • Steam Deck Maker Earns $50M Per Employee with $16.2B Revenue

    Steam Deck Maker Earns $50M Per Employee with $16.2B Revenue

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve is a well-known name in gaming, recognized for both hardware (Steam Deck) and software (Steam platform).
    2. The Steam Deck has revitalized the Linux gaming scene and Steam is the primary platform for purchasing video games.
    3. Valve operates with a small team of around 336 employees, generating over $50 million in revenue per employee.
    4. Analysts estimate Valve’s earnings from Steam at approximately $16.2 billion, projected to reach $17 billion by year’s end.
    5. Since 2015, Valve’s revenue has nearly quadrupled, showing strong profitability without signs of slowing down.

    Valve is a name that is well-known among gamers, whether they’re into hardware or software. The Steam Deck stands out as one of the top gaming handhelds, having revitalized the Linux gaming scene. Meanwhile, Steam has established itself as the go-to platform for purchasing video games, much like iTunes does for music.

    Valve generates a significant amount of revenue from its highly regarded products. Remarkably, it operates with a comparatively small team when you consider the vastness of its business. Unlike major technology firms like Google and Meta, Valve remains a private entity, meaning it doesn’t have to disclose its financial details.

    Financial Insights

    Despite being a private company, analysts have become quite skilled at estimating Valve’s earnings. Alinea Analytics reports that Valve has generated approximately $16.2 billion from Steam alone, with projections suggesting it could reach $17 billion by year’s end.

    In 2021, estimates indicated that Valve employed around 336 people, which translates to more than $50 million in revenue per employee. This is a stark contrast to Microsoft, where the revenue per employee is about $1.1 million. Clearly, Valve can boast about its impressive profitability on a per-employee basis. Since 2015, the company’s revenue has nearly quadrupled, and there are currently no signs of it slowing down.

    Conclusion

    Alinea Analytics, through Rhys Eliott, was identified by Tom’s Hardware as the source of these insights.

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    Steam Deck Maker Earns $50M Per Employee with $16.2B Revenue

     

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  • Developer Thanks Duck Jump ‘n’ Run for Wedding and Bathroom Funds

    Developer Thanks Duck Jump ‘n’ Run for Wedding and Bathroom Funds

    Key Takeaways

    1. Character Selection and Gameplay: Players can choose between Dame the duck and Murmel the turtle, utilizing their unique skills in beautifully designed 2D environments.

    2. Launch and Pricing: Windswept was launched on November 11, priced around $19, but is currently available for $17 with a 15% discount.

    3. Positive Reception: The game has received over 180 reviews with a 96% positive feedback rate, indicating strong approval among players.

    4. Developer’s Personal Connection: The developer shared that the game’s sales have significantly impacted his life, covering personal expenses and expressing heartfelt gratitude to fans.

    5. Steam Deck Compatibility: Windswept is tagged as “Playable” on the Steam Deck, enhancing its accessibility for players using that platform.

    With Windswept, the developer WeatherFell seems to have resonated well with gamers. This platforming adventure invites you to leap through beautifully designed 2D environments as either Dame the duck or Murmel the turtle. You can pick your character and switch between them while playing, taking advantage of their special skills. In both visuals and mechanics, Windswept draws comparisons to classic platformers like Super Mario, with many players noting similarities to Donkey Kong Country.

    Pricing and Launch Details

    Launched on November 11, Windswept is typically priced at roughly $19, but it’s currently available for around $17 due to a 15% introductory discount. With over 180 reviews and a notable 96% positive feedback rate, the game has clearly proven to be a hit for its solo developer. It also appears to have been a financial success – something he is openly celebrating with fans on X.

    Developer’s Heartfelt Message

    In his message, the developer expresses genuine gratitude: within just a week, Windswept’s sales have covered expenses like his wedding, repairs for a bathroom that flooded in October 2024, a new dryer, and even future allergy meds for his pet “Nugget.” He shares, “This is the impact you have had on my life. From the bottom of my heart – thank you so much!” His post has been met with a flood of congratulations and admiration, not only for the game’s achievements but also for his heartfelt openness. Windswept is also tagged as “Playable” on the Steam Deck, which is currently priced at about $460 on Amazon.

     

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  • Valve Updates on Steam Deck 2 Plans After Steam Machine Launch

    Valve Updates on Steam Deck 2 Plans After Steam Machine Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve has launched new hardware, including the Steam Machine, but there is no news on the Steam Deck 2.
    2. Valve plans to release an enhanced version of the Steam Deck, but it will take time due to the need for significant technological advancements.
    3. The company is not interested in minor yearly upgrades, focusing instead on substantial improvements in performance and efficiency.
    4. Valve aims for a more significant performance increase rather than just incremental gains at the same battery life.
    5. The current handheld market has seen devices with high performance, but these often rely on external batteries, which Valve is not keen on.

    Valve has recently unveiled a fresh batch of hardware, and among them is the Steam Machine. This product represents Valve’s attempt to penetrate the home console market, yet there’s still no news about the anticipated Steam Deck 2. Despite this, the company did give some updates regarding their next-gen gaming handheld.

    Future Plans for Steam Deck

    In a chat with IGN, Pierre-Loup Griffais, a software engineer at Valve, mentioned that the firm intends to introduce an enhanced version of the Steam Deck in the future. Nevertheless, the timeline for this release appears to be more in the distant future, primarily due to the current technological landscape.

    Griffais echoed sentiments shared by Lawrence Yang from Valve, who pointed out that the company is waiting for a significant leap in both performance and efficiency. Reflecting on past comments, Yang had also mentioned to Reviews.org in 2024 that Valve is not keen on making minor upgrades every year, a principle that the company continues to uphold.

    Performance Expectations

    During the IGN discussion, Griffais emphasized that the team isn’t aiming for just a “20 or 30 or even 50% more performance at the same battery life.” Instead, Valve is looking for a change that is “a little bit more demarcated than that.” He indicated they have a “pretty good idea” about what the next Steam Deck could entail, but he also highlighted that there’s currently no System on Chip (SoC) option that meets Valve’s high standards.

    The Current Handheld Market

    Examining the current market, it’s clear that gaming handhelds have made significant strides in performance. Devices such as the OneXFly Apex and GPD Win 5 provide RTX 4070 Laptop-level GPU performance in a compact form. However, both of these options depend on external batteries (like the 100 W Anker 25K power bank, currently priced at $91.99 on Amazon), which is likely not something Valve is enthusiastic about.

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