Valve is currently conducting a test that allows Steam reviewers to include their hardware specifications in their reviews. This feature, which is presently accessible only to participants in Steam’s Client Beta, enables users to attach relevant hardware details when writing or updating a review on a game’s store page.
Enhanced User Experience
If this feature is rolled out to all users, it could significantly aid players in diagnosing performance issues, allowing them to determine whether specific problems are linked to particular hardware configurations. Furthermore, it would enable users with similar setups to share their experiences, fostering a more informed community.
The latest beta patch also addresses a notable issue where streaming could inadvertently throttle downloads even after the streaming session has concluded. Additionally, it introduces an option for users to provide anonymized framerate data. According to Valve’s beta client patch notes, “When enabled, Steam will collect gameplay framerate data, stored without connection to your Steam account but identified with the kind of hardware you are playing on.” This initiative aims to enhance game compatibility and improve the overall Steam experience, with a current focus on devices running SteamOS.
Here’s a summary of the full patch notes:
- Added the option to attach hardware specs when writing or updating a Steam User Review on a game’s store page.
- Added the option to provide anonymized framerate data. When enabled, Steam will collect gameplay framerate data, stored without connection to your Steam account but identified with the kind of hardware you are playing on. This data will help us learn about game compatibility and improve Steam. This feature is currently in Beta with a focus on devices running SteamOS.
Additional Improvements
- Improved setting layout and navigation on desktop, deck, and mobile devices.
- Fixed a case where streaming could leave downloads throttled even after the stream stopped.
- Fixed a bug that could result in Proton games showing up as “Not valid on current platform” for users with very large libraries when using offline mode.
- When submitting feedback on whether you agree with a Deck Verified rating, if you disagree, we’ll now ask for the reason. Providing a reason is optional.
In related news, the Competition Appeal Tribunal recently ruled that a £656 million market rigging lawsuit against Valve, initiated by digital rights campaigners, can proceed. This ruling means that approximately 14 million Steam users in the UK may be eligible for compensation. The lawsuit, filed by digital rights activist Vicki Shotbolt in June 2024, accuses Valve of manipulating the PC games market and intentionally stifling competition through Steam. Shotbolt claims that Valve imposed price parity clauses on publishers and developers, which prevented them from offering titles at lower prices on competing platforms, thereby limiting consumer choice and harming competition.
