The Steam Deck: A Three-Year Retrospective

The Steam Deck has been a significant player in handheld gaming for three years, offering a portable PC experience with a strong community and continuous support. It integrates seamlessly with a Steam library and also supports emulation and other game launchers. Despite its size and weight, its ergonomic design and versatile controls make it comfortable for extended play. The device has evolved into different models, with the OLED versions providing enhanced visual and battery performance. While newer, more powerful handheld PCs have emerged, the Steam Deck remains a top contender for its value, broad game compatibility, and overall user experience. It's particularly well-suited for playing a mix of indie and older AAA titles natively, alongside extensive emulation support.

What is the Steam Deck and Its Options? #

• Definition: A handheld PC designed by Valve, similar to a laptop in a Nintendo Switch form factor.
• Purpose: Integrates with the Steam platform, allowing players to access their existing Steam game libraries.
• Versatility: Functions as a full PC, supporting emulation, various game launchers (GOG, Epic Games Store), and cloud streaming services (Nvidia GeForce Now, Xbox Game Pass).
• Models (as of current):
  • LCD Model ($400): 256GB storage, 7-inch LCD display (1280x800 resolution, 60Hz refresh rate).
  • OLED Model ($550): 512GB storage, 7.4-inch OLED display (same resolution, 90Hz refresh rate), faster Wi-Fi, 20% larger battery, more efficient CPU, HDR support.
  • 1TB OLED Model ($650): Same as the 512GB OLED but with 1TB storage and etched glass screen.
• Screen Preferences: Glossy OLED preferred for color pop; etched glass for reflection diffusion (personal preference).
• Storage Upgradability: Internal storage (NVMe SSD) can be upgraded by users, potentially saving money by opting for a lower-tier model and self-upgrading.
• Refurbished Options: Valve occasionally sells refurbished Steam Decks with a 1-year warranty at a 20% discount; eBay is also a source for used models.

Holding and Using the Steam Deck #

• Size and Weight:
  • Large device, comparable to a cutting board, with a 7.4-inch screen.
  • Relatively heavy (640-670g, up to 800g with a case), requiring arm support for long sessions.
  • Weight distribution is good, making it feel surprisingly light for its size.
• Controls:
  • Spacious layout with analog sticks, D-pad, face buttons, and two trackpads.
  • Controls are within easy reach and ergonomically designed for various game types.
  • Trackpads offer haptic feedback and can be used as mouse input or for precise aiming in games.
  • Top bumpers and triggers are easy to access.
  • Four programmable back buttons for custom inputs.
• Ergonomics:
  • Large, comfortable grips with a rounded design for all four fingers.
  • Considered one of the most comfortable large handhelds, even without a grip case.
• Accessories (Protection/Grips):
  • Comes with a bulky but protective case.
  • Dbrand Kill Switch case provides thinner, rugged protection and can be combined with a magnetic cover.
  • TomToc cases offer rugged exterior and compatibility with grip cases.
  • Mechanism adapter allows use of their accessories (e.g., improved kickstand) with the Kill Switch case.
  • Skins can be used for personalization.
• Software Experience (SteamOS - Linux-based):
  • Game Mode:
    • Intuitive interface for accessing games.
    • Steam Store and library browsing are built-in.
    • Steam Deck Verified: Games with a checkmark are optimized, though the system isn't perfect.
    • Library Organization: "Great on Steam Deck" tab filters verified games.
    • Supports external micro SD cards for additional storage.
  • Desktop Mode:
    • A full Linux desktop environment.
    • Allows installation of non-Steam game launchers (Heroic Game Launcher for GOG/Epic).
    • Enables game streaming via web apps (Nvidia GeForce Now, Xbox Game Pass Cloud Streaming).
  • Emulation:
    • Excellent for emulation, supporting older systems up to PS2, GameCube, Wii U, and Nintendo Switch.
    • Can play some PS3 and Xbox 360 games.
    • EmuDeck: Tool that installs and configures multiple emulators, integrating them into the Steam library as "non-Steam games."
    • RetroDeck: Self-contained emulation system using Emulation Station Desktop Edition for unified game browsing.
    • Batocera: Linux-based OS flashable onto a microSD card for separate emulation environment.

Accessories for the Steam Deck #

• Cases:
  • Valve's official bulky case.
  • Dbrand Kill Switch case: A grip case for protection during use, with a snap-on cover for portability.
  • TomToc case: Thinner, rugged travel case compatible with grip cases.
• Adapters/Mounts:
  • Mechanism adapter for Kill Switch case: Allows attachment of other Mechanism accessories (e.g., kickstand).
• Skins: Dbrand and other companies offer skins for personalization.
• Docks:
  • Valve's official dock ($80): Provides DisplayPort, HDMI, charging input, Ethernet, and USB ports for external monitors/TVs.
  • Third-party docks on Amazon may be cheaper.
• Controllers: Supports connecting third-party controllers (e.g., Gamesir, 8bitdo) via USB dongles for seamless setup without Bluetooth pairing.

Personal Usage and Performance #

• Game Choice: Primarily used for lightweight indie titles (e.g., Bellatro, Celeste, Hades) but also handles some AAA games (e.g., Elden Ring, Cyberpunk).
• Performance Targets for AAA Games:
  • Typically played at 800p (native resolution of the display) or lower with FSR3 (upscaling).
  • Aims for 30-40 frames per second for a smooth experience.
  • Can run demanding titles like Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart with good results on lower settings.
• Performance Targets for Lightweight Games:
  • Runs at 60 or 90 frames per second.
• Emulation Focus: Concentrates on higher-end systems like PS2, GameCube, Wii U, and Nintendo Switch.
• Decompilation Ports: Plays natively compiled PC ports of console games (e.g., Jak and Daxter) for improved performance over emulation.

Drawbacks and Considerations #

• Battery Life:
  • A common concern for handheld PCs due to lack of mobile optimization.
  • Worst-case scenario (modern AAA games): ~2-2.5 hours.
  • Best-case scenario (lightweight indie games): Up to 8-10 hours.
  • Users often pick games based on available battery life.
• Weight and Size:
  • Can be too heavy or large for some users, especially those with smaller hands.
  • Most comfortable when propped up (e.g., on a couch or airplane tray table).
  • Excellent for travel, especially on airplanes with power outlets.
• Operating System Limitations:
  • Anti-Cheat: SteamOS (Linux-based) does not natively support anti-cheat software, preventing play of games like Destiny 2, Fortnite, and Call of Duty directly.
  • Workarounds: Users can install Windows (defeats the purpose for some) or stream these games via cloud services. Cloud streaming offers longer battery life but requires an internet connection.
• Aging Hardware:
  • Released over three years ago, the hardware is showing its age with newer, more demanding games struggling (e.g., Doom: The Dark Ages).
  • Cloud streaming can mitigate this by offloading processing.
• Competition:
  • Not the only handheld PC available; competitors include Lenovo Legion Go, ASUS ROG Ally, and MSI Claw.
  • These newer devices often have more brute force power, larger screens, or better battery life.
  • Generally, competitors are significantly more expensive than the Steam Deck.
  • Some new competitors offer SteamOS configurations, blurring the lines.