Navigating the Steam Deck Library: What Percentage of Games Actually Work?
The burning question on many gamers’ minds when considering the Steam Deck is, “Can I play my games on it?” The good news is, the Steam Deck is designed to be a versatile device, offering access to a vast library of PC games in a portable format. But how many of those games are truly compatible and provide a seamless experience? Let’s dive into the numbers.
The latest figures show that around 75% of games tested by Valve have been categorized as either “Playable” or “Verified.” This means that out of 13,306 games tested, more than 10,000 are deemed supported for the handheld. These games have either been fully tested and optimized to run smoothly on the Steam Deck (Verified), or are playable, requiring some user-tweaks or providing a slightly less optimal experience (Playable). While technically the Steam Deck can attempt to run any game, performance and compatibility can vary, hence the distinction between “Verified,” “Playable,” “Unsupported,” and “Unknown.”
It is important to note that Valve is constantly testing and evaluating the Steam Library, so these numbers are continually shifting. Games are frequently updated to better support the Steam Deck, while others may be declassified from playable if they break with new updates. This dynamic landscape makes it essential for users to always check the compatibility status of a game before diving in.
Understanding Steam Deck Compatibility Categories
Before we proceed with a detailed FAQ, it’s important to understand the categories Valve uses to designate the playability of a game on the Steam Deck:
- Verified: These games work flawlessly on the Steam Deck, providing a great user experience with no extra settings required. Valve tests and confirms that these titles run smoothly, are properly optimized for the screen, and work well with the controller layout.
- Playable: This category indicates games that can run on the Steam Deck, but they may require manual tweaking of settings, such as controller inputs or graphic settings, to get them working properly. The experience may not be as seamless as “Verified” games, but the game is, on the whole, considered playable.
- Unsupported: Games in this category do not function well on the Steam Deck for a variety of reasons, such as incompatibility with the Linux OS, the controller input, or other compatibility issues that make the game unplayable.
- Unknown: Any games that have not been tested and verified or deemed playable by Valve currently fall under this category. Compatibility is not guaranteed for these titles, and user experience may differ.
Frequently Asked Questions About Steam Deck Game Compatibility
Here’s a detailed list of frequently asked questions, providing a deeper understanding of the Steam Deck‘s game compatibility:
Can the Steam Deck run all Steam games?
Technically, yes, the Steam Deck has the potential to run any Steam game in your library. However, the crucial factor is not whether it can run, but whether it will run well. Performance will vary across titles based on optimization and individual game requirements.
What does “Playable” mean for games on the Steam Deck?
A “Playable” classification means a game can run on the Steam Deck, but it might require some adjustments. This could include modifying graphics settings, mapping controls to the Steam Deck’s buttons, or dealing with potentially less-than-ideal performance at times.
Is the Steam Deck a good alternative to a gaming PC?
The Steam Deck is a portable gaming PC, but it has limitations. It’s perfect for playing a wide range of games on the go. However, for highly intensive AAA games, a dedicated gaming PC would likely provide better visuals and performance. The Steam Deck is an awesome option for those who prioritize portability and flexibility over absolute graphical power.
What are some games that do not work on the Steam Deck?
Valve has specifically cited some titles that may not function optimally on the Steam Deck, including Dragon Age Inquisition, Marvel’s Avengers, Crysis, Terminator: Resistance, Elite Dangerous, Fall Guys, Hardspace: Shipbreaker, and Injustice 2. This list is not exhaustive, and it’s always best to check the compatibility status of individual games on the Steam Store.
How do I check if a game is compatible with the Steam Deck?
You can easily check game compatibility directly from the Steam store page. Each game’s listing will have a section that shows its compatibility with the Steam Deck, designating it as either “Verified,” “Playable,” “Unsupported,” or “Unknown.” You can also consult the Steam Library for compatibility information.
Can I play games that are not on Steam on the Steam Deck?
Yes. As a Linux based device, the Steam Deck is open to other platforms and applications. You can access other platforms using methods like installing external game clients or using cloud gaming services.
Will the Steam Deck get more games as time goes on?
Absolutely! As time passes, Valve continues to test games and provide compatibility classifications. As Steam Deck usage continues to grow, it is likely that more developers will optimize their games specifically for the console. Expect the list of Verified and Playable games to continue to grow over time.
How often does Valve update game compatibility ratings?
Valve frequently updates the game compatibility ratings as they test new and old titles. This dynamic approach ensures the information provided to users is as accurate as possible. It’s a good practice to revisit ratings periodically, especially after game or Steam Deck software updates.
Is it worth buying a Steam Deck in 2023 despite compatibility issues?
The Steam Deck is a fantastic device for those seeking to play a variety of games on the go. Despite the potential for some games to be less than perfect, the large library of Verified and Playable games makes it a compelling purchase, especially for gamers who value portability.
Will there be a Steam Deck 2 with enhanced compatibility?
While no official date is confirmed, Valve has announced that a Steam Deck 2 is in development. This would likely bring enhanced hardware that may further improve compatibility with a wider array of games and potentially remove some of the performance issues of the first generation model. Don’t expect it until 2025 at the earliest.
Does the Steam Deck have better game performance than the Nintendo Switch?
In most cases, the Steam Deck generally offers superior gaming performance compared to the Nintendo Switch. This is largely due to the more powerful custom AMD processors and RDNA2-based graphics employed in the Steam Deck, which enable smoother frame rates and better graphical fidelity.
What if my game doesn’t run well, can I get a refund?
Yes, typically, you can get a refund for games purchased on Steam if you have played them for less than two hours and it has been less than two weeks since purchase. Always check the Steam store page for up-to-date refund policies.
Are there any games that are excessively expensive on Steam?
Yes, there are some unique instances of games on Steam with exorbitant price tags. For instance, the game “The Hidden and Unknown” was briefly released for $1,999.90, a strategy used to generate media attention. Another game was priced over $500,000 as a test, showing that developers can price their games at any price they want. Usually, these are either intentional attempts at gaining media attention, or are errors on behalf of the developers.
Are there ways to optimize game performance on the Steam Deck?
Yes, there are several ways to improve game performance on the Steam Deck. Lowering graphics settings, adjusting framerate limits, and making use of external power sources can help improve the gaming experience. The Steam Deck also has settings that can control how much power the device uses in different situations, which can be managed in the device’s settings menu.
Is the Steam Deck a successful device?
Yes, by all accounts, the Steam Deck is a resounding success. Projected to sell over 3 million units by the end of 2023, it has captured the interest of gamers looking for a powerful portable PC gaming experience, solidifying its place in the gaming market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while not all Steam games are optimized perfectly for the Steam Deck, a significant portion (around 75% of games tested) are considered Playable or Verified. As Valve continues its efforts to test and classify games, the library available on the Steam Deck will only continue to grow and improve. The Steam Deck presents a compelling portable gaming solution, offering a wide range of gaming options and flexibility for gamers on the go. By understanding the compatibility categories and continually checking the ratings, users can make the most of this innovative device.