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submitted 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

This will probably be the biggest competition the Steam Deck has within the handheld PC space.

Most noteworthy is that windows is finally focusing on providing a decent handheld experience, including booting straight to a controller friendly interface, and reducing background processes for better fps and battery.

Edit: The handheld Xbox UI will.come to all windows PCs, but it's not clear if the reduced performance bloat version will be available. It sounds like only Xbox branded devices may get the full benefit of optimized windows.

It's also the ugliest handheld PC yet (imo), but I can appreciate that they're pushing for comfort over looks.

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[-] [email protected] 6 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago)

I understand the trackpads somewhat since they take up space, but the lack of back buttons is inexcusable.

Personally though, I'd buy a trackpad only deck (maybe with a real d-pad) but I know I'm in the minority on that one.

[-] [email protected] 3 points 1 week ago

Personally though, I’d buy a trackpad only deck (maybe with a real d-pad) but I know I’m in the minority on that one.

I can't understand this. There are a few fans of the original Steam Controller (I have one too from launch of it) and they seem to be okay for the missing d-pad. Maybe if you play games where d-pad is never needed, I can see it. But games like Fighting Games, classic Platformer or anything that requires precise single clicks (even menus, like RPGs) are better with d-pad in my opinion. And if you are a fan of emulation like me, then there is no discussion, a d-pad is a must.

Do you really never use the d-pad?

[-] [email protected] 3 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago)

Well, I did say "maybe with a real d-pad", it's just the thumbsticks that aren't necessary.

I actually did play with the Steam Controller for years using the trackpad as d-pad. It was more of a comfort thing that made it less than ideal which was due to the shape/texture of the original SC, but I could live without it personally if it's done right.

I've even played shmups with it, with the right settings, but I get there is a learning curve and its easier to use a physical d-pad.

[-] [email protected] 2 points 1 week ago

Oh, I'm sorry, I completely misread that part about "with a real d-pad". Not sure what happened there.

this post was submitted on 09 Jun 2025
101 points (93.9% liked)

Steam Deck

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