Steam Deck In 2023! (Still Worth Buying?) (Review) | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

The Steam Deck provides great gaming potential but has setup challenges.

Key Insights

• 👤 The Steam Deck supports multiple configurations, providing options like HDD and SSD models, enhancing user choice.
• ❤️‍🩹 With its powerful AMD APU and 16GB of RAM, the Steam Deck performs comparably to higher-end portable and laptop systems for gaming.
• 👾 Users have reported the Steam Deck's ability to handle various Steam games efficiently, establishing it as a solid gaming platform.
• 👤 While the design is visually appealing, the size may affect portability for some users who are used to more compact gaming devices.
• 👤 Initial setup frustrations may detract from the user experience, indicating a need for improved software at launch.
• 😚 Its ability to operate as a customizable PC with alternative OS options appeals to tech-savvy users.
• 🤩 The presence of a micro SD card slot allows for expanded storage, a key feature for users looking to maximize game storage capacity.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: What initial issues did the reviewer face with the Steam Deck?

The reviewer encountered significant difficulties during the initial setup phase, getting stuck in a looping screen while the software updated. Despite being experienced with similar setups, they had to restart the device multiple times to successfully complete the process. This issue, although not universally experienced, highlighted some common glitches many have encountered.

Q: How does the Steam Deck compare in size to other handheld consoles?

The reviewer noted that while the Steam Deck may be larger than other portable devices like the Nintendo Switch, its size is justified by the powerful hardware it contains. The larger size may be a minor annoyance, but it contributes to the device's ability to run demanding games and functions effectively as a gaming PC.

Q: What kind of games can users expect to play on the Steam Deck?

Users can enjoy a vast library of games available on Steam, thanks to the device being developed by Valve, the same company behind the Steam platform. The ability to play various titles, including emulated games, positions the Steam Deck as a versatile gaming device suitable for both casual and dedicated gamers.

Q: Can the Steam Deck run operating systems other than Steam OS?

Yes, one of the standout features of the Steam Deck is its customizability. Users can install multiple operating systems, including Windows, allowing the device to function as a main PC, not just for gaming. This flexibility opens up a wide range of applications beyond gaming, making it a versatile technological asset.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Steam Deck is a powerful gaming console with multiple model options that cater to different storage preferences, making it an attractive choice for gamers.

• Despite strong performance and a decent touchscreen, users may face a frustrating setup process, which includes initial software downloads that can lead to looping issues.

• The device's versatility allows it to play a vast library of Steam games and even functions as a customizable PC, appealing to a wide range of users beyond just gaming enthusiasts.