In context: Valve’s Steam Deck looks like a portable game console, but it’s still a PC. As such, customization is one of its main features. Valve’s latest update for the device gives users even more control over how they customize it for each game.
This week, Valve released a new update for the Steam Deck operating system with several new features and fixes. Most notably, gamers can now create profiles that instruct the system to perform differently each game. This should help users optimize the balance between a smooth experience and acceptable battery life, which won’t be the same for all games. .
Steam Deck owners would obviously expect to manage graphics settings in games. However, the device also allows gamers to change some system-wide settings such as resolution, frame rate, brightness, CPU clock speed, and TDP (Thermal Design Power), like shown in the video above. A YouTuber made big savings on battery life by capping the screen refresh rate at 40Hz.
With the latest update, the Steam Deck remembers when players make such changes for individual games. 2D pixel art games like Rogue Legacy 2 or Stardew Valley probably don’t need to draw as many watts as AAA titles like Elden Ring or God of War. Setting limits on the system when playing low-end games could significantly reduce battery consumption without sacrificing performance. Users can find the new feature under Quick Access Menu > Performance > Advanced View.
The update also allows the Steam Deck to more easily switch between online and offline modes. It includes keyboard improvements and allows users to participate in the Steam Hardware Survey. The latter should let the results of Valve’s monthly survey give us an idea of the Deck’s popularity.