In a landscape where gaming preferences evolve, many players find themselves seeking new avenues to reignite their passion. For some, this has led to a resurgence of interest in retro handheld devices, providing a refreshing escape from the confines of traditional gaming setups. However, the question remains: how to access that extensive library of Steam games accumulated over the years? Enter Steam Link, an application that has undergone a significant transformation.
Steam Link gets it done
Once regarded as a mere novelty, Steam Link has recently emerged as a formidable contender in the realm of game streaming. Following a substantial update last November, the app introduced features such as HDR and AV1 streaming, along with compatibility for over 500 Android devices. This prompted a renewed exploration during the holiday season, revealing a surprisingly robust experience.
Setting up Steam Link proved to be a seamless endeavor. Testing it on devices like the Google Pixel 9, REDMAGIC 10 Pro, and AYANEO Pocket Evo handheld, the focus was primarily on local Wi-Fi gameplay—where Steam Link truly excels. However, it’s worth noting that only controller-centric titles performed optimally, leaving out genres such as RTS and strategy games. This limitation led to a nostalgic return to Horizon Zero Dawn, a title that had been collecting digital dust for three years.
The results were impressive; visuals rivaled those of a dedicated gaming rig, and input lag remained minimal. While competitive online shooters may pose challenges, the experience was more about relaxation on the sofa after a long day. The standout performer was the AYANEO Pocket Evo, which featured a built-in controller that seamlessly registered as an Xbox controller upon launching Steam Link. Although the touch-screen controls are customizable and functional, they simply cannot match the tactile satisfaction of a physical controller.
What still needs work
Despite its strengths, Steam Link is not without its shortcomings. While in-game performance is commendable, navigating menus can be somewhat cumbersome. Mouse controls occasionally falter, and closing games can lead to frustrating hangs on the desktop PC until streaming is halted. Furthermore, the user interface leaves much to be desired, with certain menus cut off and listings of uninstalled games cluttering the experience. The last thing a gamer wants while streaming is to manage installations.
Streaming performance also varies significantly based on proximity to the router. Moving to a more distant room resulted in a noticeable decline in quality, and venturing outside exacerbated the issue. This reality reinforces the value of investing in dedicated gaming handhelds like the ASUS ROG Ally and AYANEO Pocket Evo.
Moreover, Steam Link faces stiff competition from other streaming solutions. Alternatives like Moonlight deliver superior performance both locally and over the internet, while cloud gaming platforms such as NVIDIA’s GeForce Now provide access to a Steam library without the need for a desktop PC—albeit at a cost unless users opt for the limited free tier. These platforms also extend beyond Steam, encompassing titles from Game Pass PC and the Epic Game Store.
Yet, for those who own a PC, Steam Link offers unparalleled convenience. In a world filled with uncertainties as we approach 2025, simplicity becomes paramount. While it may not be the pinnacle of streaming technology, Steam Link remains a reliable tool for tackling that ever-growing backlog of games.