Steam Deck
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Steam Deck.
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My quick test of Lumen Lite shows that it's probably good news for ray-traced gaming on handheld PCs, but I suspect that it will be used everywhere because of the pressure developers are now under
Epic Games has introduced Lumen Lite in Unreal Engine 5.8, a scalable ray-traced global illumination feature designed to improve performance on hardware like the Nintendo Switch 2 and PC handhelds. While the feature offers significant performance gains with minimal visual compromise, the author expresses concern that its ease of use might lead developers to rely on it as a quick fix rather than implementing more thorough, hardware-specific optimizations.
Valve's latest SteamOS is out with 'initial support for upcoming Steam Machine hardware'
Valve has released SteamOS 3.8, an update to its Arch-based Linux distribution for the Steam Deck and other hardware. This version introduces initial support for upcoming Steam Machine hardware and improves desktop mode performance by defaulting to Wayland over X11. The update also includes various other enhancements for display, audio, and system firmware across different Steam Deck models and compatible third-party handhelds.
'Some Analysts Believe Sony Is Considering Pushing the PS6 Back': Embracer Report Hints at Later Than 2027 Launch
Analysts suggest Sony may delay the PlayStation 6 launch from 2027 to 2028 or 2029 due to soaring component costs affecting consumer electronics. Embracer's annual report acknowledges this possibility, noting potential issues with manufacturing contracts and the risk of the console feeling outdated if delayed without re-specification. The article also touches on Microsoft's potential retooling of its next-gen Xbox hardware.
Steam Frame battery details emerge, showing hot-swappable system and AA batteries for the controllers
Details from an FCC filing reveal that the upcoming Steam Frame VR headset will feature hot-swappable batteries in an 'Enthusiast kit' and its controllers will use standard AA batteries. The filing also suggests the headset's internal battery may not be user-replaceable, though Valve's instructions are referenced for battery replacement. The Steam Frame is expected to launch this summer, potentially around the same time as the Steam Machine.
Cyberpunk 2077 in 30-Minute Sessions | TAG
This guide explains how to complete Cyberpunk 2077 and its Phantom Liberty expansion within limited 30-minute weekday gaming sessions, estimating completion times ranging from 3 to 7 months depending on weekend play. It offers strategies for session-by-session play, mission prioritization, build planning, and managing game systems like cyberware and perks to fit a busy schedule. The article also touches on PC mods for efficiency and advises on the best platform for playing in 2026.
Yes, I know you want the Banjo-Kazooie handheld, but there's a Super Pocket flavor that could save you a few…
While the new Banjo-Kazooie edition of the Super Pocket retro handheld is appealing, alternative versions like the TECHNOS edition can be purchased for less and later combined with a physical Banjo-Kazooie collection. This approach offers a cost-saving opportunity for those not prioritizing the specific Rare branding or its included back-catalog.
Dave the Diver: In the Jungle review
The "In The Jungle" DLC for Dave the Diver offers a substantial amount of new content, including spearfishing, restaurant management, and exploration in a remote village. This expansion adds over 25 hours of gameplay with new bosses, characters, and mechanics like turn-based combat and a Stardew Valley-like perspective for the surface world. The DLC is praised for its charm, surprising depth, and value at $10.
SWAPMEAT leaves Early Access and launches into 1.0 today!!
SWAPMEAT has officially launched into version 1.0, exiting Early Access today. Developed by One More Game, the third-person shooter roguelite introduces new planets, mutations, a final boss, and quality-of-life enhancements. The game is available on PC, Mac, and Steam Deck, with Austin Wintory confirmed as the composer.
Cozy Tiny Home heading to Steam — MP3s & NPCs
Cozy Tiny Home, a decorating game previously released on Nintendo Switch, is now heading to PC and will be available on Steam with an official release date to be announced soon. A demo will be available after Steam Next Fest, and publisher RedDeer.Games is also hosting a Steam Deck giveaway. The game allows players to design cozy spaces and fill them with animal friends.
Microsoft's games are bigger than Xbox. So just scrap Xbox.
This article argues that Microsoft should discontinue the Xbox as a hardware platform due to its financial unsustainability and focus instead on its game development studios. The author suggests spinning off the gaming division into an independent entity to maximize revenue from its vast portfolio of games like Call of Duty and Minecraft, decoupling them from expensive console hardware.
Preview: 2 Fights in 2 Tight Spaces Is a Start
2 Fights in 2 Tight Spaces is a strategic deckbuilder with online multiplayer that is currently in early access. The game features a unique mechanic where card abilities change based on equipped weapons. While the core gameplay shows promise, the current build suffers from bugs, including camera issues and problems with objective completion, as well as multiplayer synchronization problems.
Design, Relax, and Unwind: After a Successful Nintendo Switch Release, ‘Cozy Tiny Home’ is Coming to Steam.
RedDeer.Games has announced that their cozy interior design game, Cozy Tiny Home, will be released on PC via Steam. A free demo will be available shortly after Steam Next Fest, and players who try the demo can enter a giveaway to win a Steam Deck. The game features intuitive building, customization, adorable animal residents, a story campaign, and requests mode.
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales review
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales is a top-down action-adventure game that blends time travel with hack-and-slash combat, featuring Square Enix's HD-2D visual style. While the companion character Faie can be initially overbearing, her abilities offer unique gameplay mechanics. The game offers a fast-paced combat experience reminiscent of Ys and Quintet's Gaia series, though its puzzles are considered simplistic and dungeons lack distinct identity. Despite these flaws, the game's optimistic tone, thematic unity, and engaging sidequests contribute to a heartfelt adventure that can be completed in under 20 hours.
I just found a cheeky way to get my favorite retro controller for less, but you should also keep it on your Prime Day…
The author highlights a current discount on the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro controller, a Sega Saturn-inspired gamepad, available for $37.99 via an Amazon coupon. While not a massive saving, it's presented as a way to get a versatile retro controller before Prime Day, which is also mentioned as a potential sale period for similar items.
Ayaneo is teasing a sequel to its lavish retro handheld, and it feels like a belated GBA 25th anniversary gift
Ayaneo is teasing a successor to its retro handheld, the Pocket Micro 2, which will be 52% larger with improved ergonomics, battery life, and a Qualcomm chipset. While specific details and visuals are scarce, the company hints at a modern remake of a classic handheld, potentially resembling the Game Boy Advance. The device aims to offer enhanced performance for emulation enthusiasts, though its premium pricing may position it above cheaper alternatives.
Split Circuit Arena Unveiled With First Trailer and Steam Page
Knifing Mantis has unveiled Split Circuit Arena, a physics-driven co-op arena combat game for PC and Steam Deck. The game features two players controlling a single robot, emphasizing split-control co-op and PvE combat. A Steam Playtest and demo are planned for later this year, with the first trailer and Steam page now available.
Make Songs From 8-Second Cards: LASSEN’S LOOP Launches Free Demo at Steam Next Fest Ahead of July 1 Release
TNB Games has announced that Lassen's Loop, a music-making game, will have a free demo available during Steam Next Fest from June 15-22. The full game, which allows players to create songs using 8-second clip cards composed by real musicians, is set to launch on July 1, 2026, for PC, Mac, iOS, and Android. The game is a tribute to the late composer Justin Lassen.
Cult of PiN Is an Upcoming Pinball-Roguelike Where Space Cadet Meets Balatro
Cult of PiN, a pinball-roguelike inspired by Windows 3D Pinball: Space Cadet and Balatro, will launch on PC, Mac, Linux, and Steam Deck on August 10, 2026. Developed by KennyMakesGames, the game features over 100 Glyphs and Blessings, eight playable Balls, and four handcrafted 3D tables with an Endless mode.
Sol Mates demo joins Steam Next Fest!
Daruma Games announced that the demo for their co-op roguelike game, Sol Mates, will be available during Steam Next Fest. The update includes a second mission, new playable characters with unique abilities, and additional enemies and challenges. The game supports online and local co-op and is playable on PC and Steam Deck.
Casual Management Sim Leafy Corner Launches a Demo on Steam
Indie developer Fireline Games has released a demo for their upcoming management simulation game, Leafy Corner, on Steam, coinciding with Steam Next Fest. The full game, built with Unreal Engine 5, is set to launch on July 30th, 2026, for PC, Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and various Xbox platforms. The demo allows players to manage a plant shop, grow and sell houseplants, customize their store, and unlock new items.
