In a significant upgrade for gaming enthusiasts, Nvidia has confirmed that its GeForce Now service will soon fully support Valve’s Steam Deck handheld device. Initially, Nvidia had launched a dedicated installer in beta, allowing users to connect the cloud gaming service to their device. However, this version did not provide the comprehensive gaming experience users can expect on other platforms, particularly lacking 4K resolution and HDR capabilities through the browser workaround that was previously offered.
The beta installer works by adding Google Chrome to the Steam Deck, facilitating optimal performance for cloud gaming. Once this setup is complete, users will notice a new shortcut for GeForce Now within the Gaming Mode library, enhancing accessibility. Moreover, the web app is fully navigable using the Steam Deck’s controller, which maximizes the device’s gaming potential and ease of use.
During the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Nvidia announced exciting news: a dedicated GeForce Now app update that is set to deliver HDR gaming capabilities for the Steam Deck in handheld mode. Furthermore, when connected to a television, users can look forward to an impressive 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (fps). For those who prefer an external monitor, configurations will even allow for 1440p resolution at 120 fps in HDR. These advancements represent a substantial improvement over the device’s native 800p resolution and lower graphical settings, enabling users to enjoy AAA titles with better visuals and performance, provided they are compatible.
While Nvidia has not specified an exact release date for the anticipated GeForce Now update, the enhancements will undoubtedly make the Steam Deck an even more compelling home console alternative when docked, providing users with greater frame rates and visual options to explore.
In summary, Nvidia’s steps towards fleshing out full support for the Steam Deck, particularly through the upcoming GeForce Now application update, mark an exciting development in mobile and cloud gaming. With this enhancement, gamers can expect a richer gaming experience that was previously unavailable on the platform, ensuring that the Steam Deck operates not just as a portable console, but also as a more robust home gaming system.
