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Valve Is Forcing Microsoft To Make Significant Improvements To Windows Gaming Performance - Report
A report indicates that Microsoft is initiating a project called 'Windows K2' to significantly improve Windows gaming performance and reclaim user trust. This initiative aims to bridge the performance gap with SteamOS within two years, addressing issues like update frequency and system stability. These improvements are expected to roll out gradually over the coming months.
Cache arrives in Counter-Strike 2 while Valve continue working on ANIMGRAPH 2
Valve has released an update for Counter-Strike 2 that reintroduces the classic Cache map across multiple game modes. The update also includes minor adjustments to the Animgraph 2 animation system and various other fixes and improvements. The return of Cache is highlighted as a key feature for both veteran and new players.
"A next-gen Steam Deck would do the same": Valve are already eyeing Steam Controller hardware upgrades to reuse in future handhelds
Valve is considering incorporating hardware improvements from the Steam Controller into future Steam Deck models, according to engineers Steve Cardinali and Lawrence Yang. Features like the TMR thumbsticks and Grip Sense sensors are potential candidates for reuse. This approach aligns with Valve's strategy of building upon previous hardware learnings for new devices.
Bazzite Linux 44 lands for desktop gamers and it's a big release
Bazzite Linux 44 has been released for desktop gamers, coinciding with Fedora 44. While desktop users can update now, handheld users will have to wait for testing builds to become available soon. This major release includes KDE Plasma 6.6, GNOME 50, updated kernels and graphics drivers, and improved security features.
Proton Hotfix updated to fix HELLDIVERS 2 on Linux / SteamOS systems
A Proton Hotfix has been deployed by Valve to address issues with HELLDIVERS 2 on Linux and SteamOS systems following a recent game update. The hotfix, developed by Pierre-Loup Griffais, ensures the game now launches correctly after an update that had previously broken compatibility for Linux players. Proton Hotfix is now the default for HELLDIVERS 2.
Steam update adds battery indicator for wireless gamepads, quick chat, remote downloads management and more
Valve has released a new Steam client update across all platforms, introducing a battery indicator for wireless gamepads in Big Picture Mode, a quick chat feature for easier in-game communication, and remote download management for other systems like the Steam Deck. The update also includes numerous general performance improvements and bug fixes for desktop and macOS clients.
Steam Controller Won’t Support Xbox Game Pass at Launch, Frustrating PC Gamers
Valve's new Steam Controller faces criticism for lacking native support for Xbox Game Pass at launch, primarily due to its reliance on Steam Input. This limitation prevents its advanced features from working seamlessly with games outside the Steam ecosystem, frustrating PC gamers who use Game Pass. While workarounds may exist, the controller's $99 price point and competition from the more universally compatible Xbox Wireless Controller raise questions about its market appeal.
Portal Fan Creates 3D Printed Companion Cube Controller Holder | HappyGamer
A Portal fan has created a 3D-printed holder for the Steam controller, designed to resemble the iconic Companion Cube. The snap-together design requires no glue and is engineered for material efficiency. The creator plans to release the STL files for free on Makerworld next week, with potential for adaptations for other controller types.
Cache Map Returns to Counter-Strike 2 After Community Demands | HappyGamer
Valve has reintroduced the classic "Cache" map to Counter-Strike 2 following extensive community requests. The map, known for its strategic depth and three-lane design, is now available in Casual, Competitive, Deathmatch, and Retakes modes. This return signifies Valve's responsiveness to player feedback regarding map rotations.
BastionOS Hits Steam With 40% Launch Discount While Steam Controller Returns At $99 | HappyGamer
Steam saw significant activity with the launch of BastionOS featuring a 40% discount, the return of the Steam Controller priced at $99 with unique features, and mixed reviews for s&box, the successor to Garry's Mod, due to AI-generated content concerns. These events highlight Steam's evolution as a platform, pushing hardware and experimenting with pricing strategies while grappling with content quality issues.
Games Inbox: Is buying a video game day one a good idea?
Readers discuss the merits of buying games on day one, weighing instant access and being part of the conversation against the potential for lower prices and sales later. The article also touches on Sony's controversial PS5 DRM policy, the impact of studio closures on franchises like XCOM, and speculation about future game releases and company strategies.
Steam Machine’s Price Has “Skyrocketed” From Valve’s Targets Due to RAM Shortage – Rumor
Valve's Steam Machine hardware is reportedly facing significantly higher prices than initially planned due to global RAM shortages, according to leaker Brad Lynch. While Valve has confirmed the Steam Controller's price and release date, details for the Steam Machine remain scarce, though the company maintains its goal to launch all devices in the first half of the year.
Evening Tech Bits
Reports indicate that the price of Steam hardware, such as the Steam Machine and Steam Frame, has significantly increased internally due to a RAM shortage. Separately, the text editor Notepad++ has been made available on macOS.
'Obviously we love the PC,' Gabe Newell told us 15 years ago, but his focus was on 'a responsibility to…
Valve boss Gabe Newell stated 15 years ago that his responsibility is to gamers and developers, rather than solely promoting PC gaming. He emphasized a customer-centric approach to improving the platform. This focus has contributed to the continued relevance of PC gaming.
New Zealand Gamers Pay Double for Steam Deck Through Importers | HappyGamer
New Zealand gamers are facing significantly inflated prices for the Steam Deck, with importers charging up to $2000 NZD compared to Valve's direct price of $400-650 USD. This issue highlights Valve's limited regional availability for its hardware, contrasting with the day-one console releases from Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo in New Zealand.
Valve chief Gabe Newell saw today's consoles coming a long time ago: "All the consoles are using PC graphics…
Valve chief Gabe Newell accurately predicted that consoles would increasingly adopt PC-like hardware and graphics, a trend evident in current-generation systems like the Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch. While Nintendo maintains a unique approach with its custom chips and handheld focus, other platforms are converging with PC architecture, blurring the lines between traditional consoles and gaming PCs.
MMO Business Roundup: Steam Controller, Star Citizen exec departure, and Crimson Desert dev bonuses
This MMO business roundup covers several industry updates, including Pearl Abyss developers receiving bonuses due to Crimson Desert's high sales. Valve has officially debuted its Steam Controller for PC at $99. Additionally, Cloud Imperium Games' vice president of game development, Brian Chambers, has stepped down after an 11-year tenure.
'This doesn't have RAM in it, and it's not as complicated to start getting out the door for us' — Valve confirms it's releasing the Steam Controller before the Steam Machine in response to RAM crisis, but originally saw 'no need' to ship them together
Valve has announced that the Steam Controller will launch on May 4, 2026, for $99, preceding the Steam Machine due to ongoing RAM and storage shortages. Hardware engineer Steve Cardinali explained that the controller's lack of RAM makes it easier to release sooner, and Valve never intended to launch all hardware simultaneously. The company aims to ship all three products within the first half of the year.
Morning Mobilization
Valve has confirmed that development on the Steam Deck 2 is ongoing, though they are also addressing current stock issues with the original Steam Deck. The company is actively working on the next iteration of their handheld PC.
Valve Confirms Steam Deck 2 Development: No Release Date Yet | HappyGamer
Valve has officially confirmed that development is underway for the Steam Deck 2, though a release date remains unannounced. The company is taking a deliberate approach to development, focusing on significant improvements over the original model. Competitors like the ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go are pushing the handheld market, making Steam Deck 2's eventual release crucial for Valve to maintain its position.
