Valve has taken a significant step to improve the user experience for Steam Deck owners by introducing a new feature that clearly identifies reviews written by Steam Deck users. This update addresses a long-standing request from the community and provides valuable insight for potential buyers considering games for the handheld device.
A New Icon for Steam Deck Reviews
The latest update to Steam's review system introduces a small but impactful change. Reviews written by users who have primarily played a game on the Steam Deck will now display a distinctive Steam Deck icon. This visual indicator appears in the top-right corner of the review, making it easy for readers to identify experiences specific to the portable gaming PC.
How It Works
Valve's system appears to track the proportion of time a user spends playing a game on the Steam Deck versus other platforms. When the majority of playtime comes from the Steam Deck, the review automatically receives the new icon. Additionally, hovering over the icon reveals more details, including the exact amount of time the reviewer spent playing on the Steam Deck.
Community Response
The Steam community has reacted positively to this change, with many users expressing surprise at how quickly Valve implemented the feature after recent discussions. This responsiveness demonstrates Valve's commitment to improving the Steam ecosystem based on user feedback.
Implications for Gamers
This new feature serves multiple purposes:
- It helps potential buyers make more informed decisions about a game's performance on the Steam Deck.
- It allows developers to receive more targeted feedback about their games' Steam Deck compatibility.
- It enhances the overall usefulness of Steam's review system for the growing number of Steam Deck users.
Looking Ahead
While this update has been well-received, some users are hoping for even more detailed information in the future, such as the ability to see the exact specs used while playing. However, the current implementation is seen as a significant step in the right direction.
As Valve continues to refine the Steam Deck experience, this latest update showcases their dedication to creating a more transparent and user-friendly ecosystem for both developers and gamers alike.
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