Valve is telling devs how well their games actually run on Steam Deck with real world data

Have you ever found yourself excited to play a Steam Deck Verified game, only to discover that it doesn’t quite live up to the verification promise? Valve is taking steps to address this issue with a new system designed to provide developers with clearer insights into how their games perform on the Steam Deck.

Enhanced Data Access for Developers

As of October 1, Valve has rolled out a feature that grants developers access to frame rate data collected from Steam Deck users. This innovative approach allows developers to view the frame rates at which players are engaging with their games, expressed as a percentage of total sessions. With this information, developers can determine whether their games are running smoothly—typically at the Steam Deck’s standard 60 or 90 fps—or if players are resorting to lowering the frame rate for a better experience.

For instance, if a significant number of Legion Go S users submit their performance data, or if sales of the Steam Machine surge, developers could gain invaluable insights into their games’ performance metrics. This data can illuminate trends and highlight areas needing improvement.

However, it’s important to note that this system relies on developers’ willingness to optimize their games for the Steam Deck. Currently, the frame rate data is only applicable to verified games and cannot be integrated into the verification process itself. Nevertheless, should a wave of complaints about poor performance arise for these verified titles, developers will have the opportunity to analyze real-time data and understand the average player’s experience.

With this wealth of information, developers can swiftly assess the impact of updates—whether they enhance or hinder performance. In the world of gaming, more data is always a welcome addition, paving the way for improved experiences for players and developers alike.

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Valve is telling devs how well their games actually run on Steam Deck with real world data