I feel like it would push devs to optimize for better performance on low-end hardware and to create graphics settings for that hardware like Cyberpunk 2077 did in patch 1.52.

While a majority of handheld gaming PCs do run Linux and that has led to some devs putting more thought into Linux compatibility I’d be wary of some new device coming into the spotlight and shifting the tide back towards Windows.

The uniformity and lifespan of traditional consoles also leads to some interesting modding communities, a lot of peripherals, and the extended availability of parts for repairs which is also nice to see. The Switch and Vita being examples of this to different degrees.

I know the Steam Deck is still one of the top handheld gaming PCs but I guess what I’d want to see is a lack of competition or revisions for a couple years so that it has a chance to saturate the market.

I feel like marginal improvements like you see in SBC gaming devices (shout out to !sbcgaming@lemmy.ml) such as the RG350 to RG351 lead to a lot of buyers remorse and e-waste.

  • Shadow@lemmy.ca
    111·
    5 months ago

    If game studios can’t be assed to optimize for the steam deck, what makes you think they are for any other devices? Steam deck having competition or not, I don’t think has any influence here.

    Anecdotally I know many people with a steam deck, and nobody with any of the windows based ones.

    • Corroded@leminal.spaceOP
      21·
      5 months ago

      If game studios can’t be assed to optimize for the steam deck, what makes you think they are for any other devices? Steam deck having competition or not, I don’t think has any influence here.

      Because it would set a bar. There wouldn’t be the slow marginal improvements you frequently see with devices. There would also be a unified community that can say “X game runs poorly on the Steam Deck; don’t buy it”.

      Anecdotally I know many people with a steam deck, and nobody with any of the windows based ones.

      Yeah that’s why I said a majority of devices do run Linux but I’m be wary about a new device to the scene changing the trend. For example if Windows 11 continues to get gaming related updates and a competitor like AYENEO decides to ship their devices with Windows instead. Financially it might not make sense but there are a good chunk of people who want Windows and do things like install it on their Steam Decks.

      I feel like a lot of people simply use the OS that comes with their device whether it’s Linux, Android, or Windows.