Valve expands Steam Deck Verified to Steam Machine as cross‑device certification gains momentum
Breaking news: Valve is signaling a broader certification path for its Steam ecosystem by linking Steam Deck Verified status to its forthcoming Linux-based Steam Machine. The move prioritizes a seamless experiance for games across both portable and PC-style hardware.
Officials indicate that Steam Deck Verified will serve as the gatekeeper for titles on the Steam Machine,with the testing framework adjusted to reflect the machine’s higher performance and peripheral options. In practical terms, players could enjoy automatic compatibility on the Steam Machine for any game already carrying Steam Deck Verified certification.
Industry designer Lawrence Yang outlined that the Steam Machine’s verification requirements will come with fewer restrictions than those imposed on the handheld Deck. The rationale, he said, is simple: the Steam Machine offers substantially more power and a broader set of inputs, including larger displays and ready-made keyboards.
How the two devices compare at a glance
| device / Focus | Power | Display & input | Verification Rules | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steam Deck Verified (handheld) | Mobile, lower power | Small screen UI; on‑screen keyboard | Per‑game certification for performance and usability | Foundation for portable play on SteamOS |
| Steam Machine | Equates to six Steam Decks in capability | Larger displays; external keyboards possible | compatible with Deck‑Verified titles; fewer restrictions | PC‑level Linux rig with steamos heritage |
What this means for developers and players
The strategy centers on unifying the verification process so games that pass Deck verification can transition more easily to Steam Machine hardware. Valve aims to reduce friction for developers by using a common testing workflow, even as hardware environments differ in power and input modality.
For players, the approach signals a smoother journey from portable to living‑room setups. Titles that are Deck‑verified are positioned to run on Steam Machines with fewer re‑tests, while Valve will continue to discuss frame requirements with developers through the same testing channels.
evergreen insights
This development reflects a broader trend in gaming toward cross‑device ecosystems. By aligning certification across form factors, Valve reinforces SteamOS’s relevance in both mobile‑friendly and PC‑like environments. The move also underscores the ongoing importance of Proton and Linux compatibility in expanding the catalog to diverse hardware.
As PC gaming hardware evolves, the line between portable and desktop experiences may blur further. If the Steam Machine proves popular, expect studios to optimize more titles for a spectrum of screens and control schemes, rather than a single device profile.
Reader questions
What are your expectations for cross‑device compatibility in the coming year?
Would you consider adopting a Steam Machine for your living room if it delivers PC‑like performance with SteamOS and broader input options?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and tell us how you plan to use Valve’s cross‑device certification in your gaming setup.
