Steam OS Archives

Winsage

December 21, 2024

Predicting the (actually very exciting) future of Xbox hardware

A game analyst predicts that the high-end console market may not support both PlayStation and Xbox, suggesting a possible exit for Xbox. However, the relevance of console exclusives is diminishing as PlayStation expands to platforms like Steam, and Valve allows manufacturers to create consoles based on its operating system. Xbox is likely to increase its device variety, with Microsoft appointing Roanne Sones to lead its hardware ecosystem. Under her leadership, Xbox is expanding beyond traditional consoles, showcasing devices like the ASUS ROG Ally handheld gaming PC and mobile controllers. The upcoming CES 2025 will feature discussions on enhancing Windows for gaming handhelds. Both Xbox and PlayStation rely on x86 AMD architecture, and the industry is exploring monetization strategies amid rising costs and stagnant user growth. Microsoft aims to align Xbox more closely with Windows for easier game deployment and potential integration of third-party stores. There is speculation about eliminating the paywall for premium multiplayer gaming in the next generation. Successful execution of this vision is uncertain, as Microsoft must navigate regional marketing and distribution complexities while ensuring a smooth gaming experience and backward compatibility.

Winsage

October 28, 2024

Tinkerer converts ThinkCentre into compact Steam OS-powered gaming console

A Linux gaming PC has been created by Eta Prime, resembling the size of a Wii and featuring a console-like interface similar to the Steam Deck. It includes an Intel i7 processor and an AMD Radeon RX 6400 graphics card, fitted into a Lenovo ThinkCentre M920q chassis. The build incorporates 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 1TB M.2 SSD, and runs on the Bazzite distro operating system, which allows direct booting into Steam Gaming Mode. Performance tests showed the system running Left 4 Dead 2 at 1440p with 120fps, Street Fighter 6 at 1080p with 60fps, Elden Ring at 1080p low settings near 60fps, Doom Eternal exceeding 100fps at 1080p, and Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p low settings averaging around 56fps.

Winsage

October 27, 2024

Bazzite delivers the SteamOS experience Windows handhelds need

Bazzite is a Linux-based operating system designed for Windows gaming handhelds, offering a user experience similar to SteamOS. It is built on Fedora and features a console-centric design, allowing for smooth controller navigation and stable performance. Bazzite includes specific enhancements for the Asus ROG Ally, such as TDP modes and lighting options. The latest version has resolved initial issues with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support, allowing for low frame-rate compensation. Game performance on Bazzite is generally positive, with some titles experiencing a performance penalty compared to Windows. Bazzite mitigates shader compilation stutters better than Windows and offers slightly improved battery life. The installation process requires partitioning internal storage and is comparable in complexity to installing Windows on the Steam Deck. Users can dual-boot between Bazzite and Windows. Overall, Bazzite enhances the gaming experience on the ROG Ally, despite some trade-offs in performance and compatibility.

Winsage

August 31, 2024

Only Microsoft Can Save Windows-Powered Handheld Game Consoles

The Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck have successfully integrated AAA gaming into portable devices, posing challenges for other companies entering the handheld market, particularly those using Microsoft’s Windows operating system. Many manufacturers, such as Asus and MSI, are opting for Windows due to a lack of resources to develop custom operating systems, despite its drawbacks. These companies face limitations when licensing Windows, as they cannot fundamentally alter its operation, leading to issues like intrusive low battery notifications. Microsoft requires certain software to be included with Windows licenses, which may not be suitable for gaming devices. In late 2023, Microsoft introduced a preview of its Xbox app with a Compact Mode for gaming handhelds, aimed at improving user experience, but it currently only supports games purchased through Microsoft. There are rumors that Microsoft may consider developing its own gaming handheld, which could impact existing manufacturers.

Winsage

August 24, 2024

3 reasons the Asus ROG Ally will be better with Steam OS than Windows

Windows 11 may not be the optimal operating system for PC gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally, leading to a demand for SteamOS adaptations. Valve is likely to extend support to the Asus ROG Ally, which could enhance user experience. SteamOS may outperform Windows on handheld devices due to better performance, as Linux-based systems often deliver superior performance compared to Windows. Windows' complexity and unnecessary components can detract from performance and efficiency, while SteamOS is expected to provide better battery life. Windows 11 has limited performance settings, whereas SteamOS offers fine-tuned controls for TDP settings and frame rate limiters, allowing for optimized power usage. Additionally, SteamOS features a user-friendly interface designed for handheld gaming, unlike the cumbersome experience of Windows. However, challenges remain, such as potential compatibility issues with games and the daunting process of installing a new operating system. Despite these hurdles, the benefits of SteamOS suggest a positive direction for handheld gaming.

AppWizard

June 28, 2024

Best Handheld Gaming PC 2024 – IGN

Handheld gaming PCs are compact and powerful devices that can run AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077. The Valve Steam Deck, Lenovo Legion Go, and Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme are some of the best handheld gaming PCs currently available. The Asus ROG Ally X is an upcoming handheld gaming PC with improved cooling and larger storage. Handheld gaming PCs offer better battery life, portability, and optimization compared to gaming laptops, but may have limitations in terms of game specifications. The Asus ROG Ally is considered the best alternative to the Steam Deck.

Winsage

June 11, 2024

You can install Windows on the Steam Deck, but I’m here to tell you that’s a bad idea

The Steam Deck is capable of running Windows, with official driver packages from Valve. However, switching to Windows may result in losing access to features like the Quick Settings menu and potentially sacrificing performance compared to Steam OS. Steam OS is still considered the best choice for the Steam Deck due to its tight integration with the Steam Library and overall usability.