Valve's popular handheld gaming PC, the Steam Deck, has received some welcome news that should excite owners and potential buyers alike. A pesky UI bug has been squashed, while Amazon Prime members now have access to a treasure trove of free games.
UI Bug Fix Improves Offline Experience
Valve has addressed a rare but frustrating issue in the Steam Deck's latest client update. The bug, which caused the UI to get stuck showing a loading icon (or throbber) at startup while in Offline Mode, has now been resolved. This fix is particularly important for Steam Deck users who rely on the device's offline capabilities, such as during travel or in areas with limited internet connectivity.
While loading indicators serve an important purpose in user interfaces, getting stuck on one can severely hamper the user experience. The fact that this issue occurred in Offline Mode made it especially problematic, as it affected a key feature of the portable device. Valve's prompt attention to this bug, even though it was described as a rare case, demonstrates their commitment to improving the Steam Deck's performance and reliability.
Valve's latest update for the Steam Deck improves the offline experience by fixing a UI bug that caused loading issues |
Free Games Bonanza for Amazon Prime Members
In an exciting development for Steam Deck owners who are also Amazon Prime subscribers, over 40 free games are now available to download and play on the device. This offer significantly expands the already vast library of titles accessible on the Steam Deck.
However, there's a catch - many of these games aren't directly available through Steam. Instead, users will need to acquire them through platforms like the Epic Games Store, Amazon Games Store, or GOG. Fortunately, there's a workaround: the Heroic Games Launcher allows users to link these accounts through the Steam app, streamlining the process of downloading and launching games on the Steam Deck.
It's worth noting that this offer is time-sensitive. Two games, The Invisible Hand and Maneater, have already expired as of September 18. Prime members interested in taking advantage of this offer should act quickly to ensure they don't miss out on any titles.
Over 40 free games are now accessible for Amazon Prime members, expanding the gaming library available on the Steam Deck |
Expanding the Steam Deck's Appeal
These developments further cement the Steam Deck's position as a versatile and user-friendly gaming device. The bug fix addresses a pain point for users who rely on offline functionality, while the influx of free games adds significant value for Prime subscribers.
As Valve continues to refine the Steam Deck experience and expand its game library, it's clear that the company is committed to making the device an essential tool for PC gaming on the go. Whether you're a current owner or considering a purchase, these updates make the Steam Deck an even more attractive option in the growing handheld PC gaming market.