The Steam Deck OLED has been making waves with its upgraded features and improved performance. However, Valve has made it clear that this new release is not a complete replacement for the original handheld PC. According to Valve designer Jay Shaw and software engineer Jeremy Selan, players eager for a true Steam Deck 2 will have to wait a while longer. In a recent interview with Rock, Paper, Shotgun, the developers shed light on why the next generation of Steam Deck will take time to develop and why they decided against enhancing the Steam Deck OLED’s processor for greater power.
Shaw stated, “We’re looking for a generational leap in terms of performance before we start talking about the next generation of Steam Deck, and we’re not there yet.” This proclamation indicates that Valve is not satisfied with simply making incremental upgrades. They are aiming for a significant jump in performance that will warrant the introduction of a new Steam Deck.
Selan emphasized the challenges of product design, particularly the need to balance cost, performance, and battery life. While they could have focused on maximizing performance, they made a conscious decision to prioritize battery life for the Steam Deck OLED. This decision was made with their customers in mind, considering the portability and longevity of the device. By tuning the hardware specifically for battery efficiency, Valve was able to extend the gameplay time significantly compared to the original Steam Deck.
The Steam Deck OLED boasts impressive efficiency improvements, allowing for up to 59% more uptime before the battery runs out compared to its predecessor. While it may not match the graphics power of devices like the Asus ROG Ally, the Steam Deck OLED’s focus on power efficiency makes it a compelling option for gamers on the go. However, achieving a significant boost in performance for a next-generation Steam Deck requires advancements in processor and GPU technology that do not currently exist. Selan emphasized that it would take years before the technology reaches a stage where it is suitable for a new performance target.
Despite the focus on developing a next-generation Steam Deck, Valve does not plan to put the range on hold after the release of the Steam Deck OLED. They express a strong interest in exploring alternative design options and colorways. The limited edition translucent Steam Deck OLED with orange highlights is just one example of their ideas. While these design changes may not constitute a new generation of the Steam Deck, Valve hopes that the unique aesthetics will excite and engage their customers.
The future of the Steam Deck looks promising, as Valve aspires to deliver a true generational leap in performance and capabilities. While the Steam Deck OLED represents a significant upgrade, it is not a complete replacement for the original handheld PC. Valve recognizes the need for advancements in processor and GPU technology to create a next-generation Steam Deck that meets their performance standards. In the meantime, they will continue exploring alternative designs and color options to keep their customers engaged and enthusiastic. The Steam Deck’s evolution is an exciting journey that promises even greater experiences in the years to come. Stay tuned for more updates and innovations from Valve.
Leave a Reply