SteamOS Expanding Beyond Steam Deck: Valve Introduces New Compatibility Ratings
Valve is taking significant steps to broaden the reach of its Linux-based SteamOS, signaling a future where the Steam Deck isn't the sole device running the operating system. This week, Valve announced a new compatibility rating system to indicate the level of support for games on SteamOS, particularly on devices other than the Steam Deck.
The new "SteamOS Compatible" label, slated to roll out "in the next few weeks," will inform users "whether a game and all of its middleware is supported on SteamOS." This includes crucial elements such as "game functionality, launcher functionality, and anti-cheat support." Games failing to meet these criteria will be marked as "SteamOS Unsupported." Importantly, this label won't prevent users from attempting to run unsupported games, but it will highlight potential compatibility issues. Think of it like a warning light, and not a roadblock.
Valve expects to initially designate over 18,000 titles on Steam as SteamOS compatible. This compatibility assessment program is an extension of the Steam Deck Verified program. In essence, developers who already ensure Steam Deck compatibility won't need to undertake extra measures to earn the SteamOS Compatible label. For players, a blue checkmark in the Steam Store and Steam Client will visually identify compatible games when running SteamOS on non-Steam Deck hardware.
While the Lenovo Legion Go S is currently the primary handheld device besides the Steam Deck officially running SteamOS, Valve anticipates further growth in the SteamOS ecosystem. The new rating system is designed to provide clarity and guidance as more devices adopt the platform.
Proton, Valve's collection of app translation technologies, plays a key role in enabling Windows applications to function on SteamOS. This technology has significantly broadened SteamOS's game compatibility, but it's not a universal solution. The SteamOS Compatible label now helps ensure smoother experiences for users by clearly delineating the games that work optimally.
This move is a strategic step by Valve to position SteamOS as a viable alternative to Windows in the handheld gaming market and potentially beyond. By simplifying the process of identifying compatible games, Valve lowers the barrier to entry for both developers and users on this expanding operating system.
What does this expansion mean for the future of handheld gaming and PC gaming in general? Share your thoughts and expectations in the comments below!
