Steam's Next Move: Dominating the Handheld Gaming Scene
The gaming world has been buzzing since the launch of the Steam Deck in February 2022. This handheld device revolutionized portable gaming PCs by offering a simple and effective way to play PC games on the go. Unlike traditional gaming PCs, the Steam Deck runs on SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system designed for gaming. This makes it incredibly easy to buy, install, and play almost any PC game on this portable device. Valve's focus on a gaming-centric OS has been a key factor in the Steam Deck's success.
The Rise of Steam Deck
Before the Steam Deck, attempts to create handheld gaming PCs often resulted in clunky and slow devices. The Steam Deck changed this narrative by being user-friendly and allowing nearly any Steam game to run with minimal setup. This attracted a wide audience, including those who didn't consider themselves PC gamers.
Microsoft's Missed Opportunity
While Valve has taken the lead, Microsoft had a chance to offer a lightweight version of Windows 11 for portable PCs but did not seize it. Fast forward to 2025, Valve is making it easier to install SteamOS on more devices, with Lenovo announcing the first third-party device to ship with SteamOS. By 2026, it's expected that all handheld makers will offer SteamOS versions of their devices.
Future of Handheld Gaming
Microsoft is now discussing a portable Xbox-like device and changes to Windows 11 for a more handheld-friendly experience. However, it seems too late for Microsoft to catch up. Valve is allowing any company to use SteamOS, potentially making it the default way to play games on portable PCs.
- Steam Deck launched in February 2022
- Runs on SteamOS, a Linux-based OS
- Lenovo to release third-party device with SteamOS
- Microsoft considering portable Xbox-like device
Valve's Dominance
If SteamOS expands to TV-based consoles or desktops, it could find success there as well. Microsoft missed its chance to compete effectively in the handheld gaming space. It seems unlikely that it will dethrone SteamOS as the most popular way to play PC games on the go.
While Microsoft won't go bankrupt, it had an opportunity to dominate a segment of the gaming market that has now slipped away, leaving Valve as the clear winner. Join Streamers Visuals to stay updated on game news and explore designs like emotes, sub badges, and overlays.
