The downfall of Windows as a gaming platform welcome? Linux/SteamOS 3.0

[BitJager]

Windows 11 has encountered several gaming performance issues, particularly following recent updates. Notable problems include:

• Performance Degradation with Updates: The 23H2 update led to reduced CPU performance and stuttering in games, with benchmarks showing regressions of 5-8%. Resetting Windows Defender has been suggested as a potential fix. citeturn0search0
• Game Compatibility Issues: The 24H2 update caused crashes in Ubisoft titles like Assassin's Creed and Star Wars Outlaws, prompting Microsoft to pause updates on affected systems.
• Anti-Cheat Software Conflicts: Incompatibilities between Windows 11 24H2 and Easy Anti-Cheat have led to system freezes and blue screens, particularly on devices with Intel Alder Lake+ processors.
• Hardware Compatibility Concerns: Users with newer hardware, such as Intel's Arrow Lake CPUs, have reported subpar gaming performance due to optimization issues, with Intel acknowledging these problems and working on fixes.

These challenges highlight the need to thoroughly test updates and drivers to ensure optimal gaming performance on Windows 11. Personally, I have the feeling that Microsoft is facing serious QA issues, and it looks like these issues are not being prioritized. I don't see any improvements in the near future regarding this.

This brings me to the idea that this is the 1st time in 35 years that momentum is building for alternatives. I have been using Microsoft as core gaming O/S for PC Gaming for almost 35 years coming from MS-Dos and moving to Windows and all its different flavors. If you look at the success Valve is having with the SteamDeck with Steam O/S 3.0 and otherwise how SteamDeck alternatives like the ROG Ally make way more sense without Windows and using distro's like Bazzite that enables you to have a likewise or even better experience than SteamDeck hardware. It's already clear that Microsoft has lost the battle for PC-Gaming handhelds.

Let's compare

Steam OS 3.0 vs Windows on a Gaming Handheld

Steam OS 3.0 (Steam Deck)​

Pros:

1. Optimized for Gaming:
   • Pre-configured for handheld gaming, providing a console-like user experience.
   • Seamless integration with Steam’s Big Picture mode and Proton for running Windows games on Linux.
2. Lightweight and Efficient:
   • Lower resource usage compared to Windows, leading to better battery life and less overhead.
3. Open-Source Flexibility:
   • Users can customize and tweak the OS freely.
   • No forced updates or telemetry concerns.
4. Built-in Game Compatibility Tools:
   • Proton and Wine allow running most Windows games, including those without native Linux support.
5. Driver Optimization for Handhelds:
   • Steam OS is tuned specifically for handheld hardware like the Steam Deck, ensuring proper controller support and performance.

Cons:

1. Game Compatibility Issues:
   • Some anti-cheat systems (e.g., Easy Anti-Cheat, BattlEye) may prevent certain multiplayer games from running properly.
2. Software Limitations:
   • Lacks native support for many non-Steam launchers, requiring workarounds to install platforms like Epic Games, GOG, or EA App.
3. Non-Gaming Application Support:
   • Productivity software and streaming services often require additional configuration.
4. Driver and Hardware Support:
   • Limited compatibility with third-party gaming handhelds unless heavily customized.

Windows (Handheld Gaming Devices)​

Pros:

1. Universal Compatibility:
   • Runs all Windows-native games, including those with complex anti-cheat systems.
   • Supports all game launchers like Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, and Origins
2. Peripheral Compatibility:
   • Supports all standard Windows drivers for peripherals, making it easy to connect controllers, VR devices, and other accessories.
3. Flexible Game Mods and Tools:
   • Fully compatible with mods, game overlays, and monitoring tools like MSI Afterburner. (The built-in tools in Steam OS makes those tools IMHO obsolete)

Cons:

1. Resource Overhead:
   • Higher CPU and RAM usage can reduce gaming performance and battery life on portable devices.
2. Frequent Updates and Bloatware:
   • Automatic updates and bundled software can disrupt gaming sessions or require frequent maintenance and even have a negative impact on the experience or break it.
3. Not Optimized for Handhelds:
   • Requires third-party software or tweaks to provide a console-like experience.
   • May lack seamless integration for touchscreen controls or joystick calibration.
4. User Interface Challenges:
   • Windows is designed for desktops, making it less intuitive to navigate on smaller screens without additional customization.

We can conclude that Steam OS 3.0 has the opportunity to surpass Windows a native gaming O/S and provide a better experience combined with the investment from Valve and the Community. The signs are getting more and more clear that Valve wants to move beyond the Steamdeck with Steam OS 3.0 and is planning to take over the PC Gaming world.

Valve is actively expanding SteamOS 3.0 beyond its proprietary Steam Deck, signaling a strategic move to establish SteamOS as a versatile platform across various gaming hardware. Key developments include:

• Third-Party Hardware Integration: Valve has introduced "Powered by SteamOS" branding guidelines, facilitating collaborations with other manufacturers to develop devices running SteamOS. This initiative aims to create a diverse ecosystem of SteamOS-powered hardware, enhancing the operating system's presence in the gaming market.
• Support for Competing Handhelds: Valve has confirmed plans to support devices like the ASUS ROG Ally with SteamOS, indicating a commitment to broadening compatibility and user choice in the handheld gaming sector.
• Collaborations with Major Manufacturers: Lenovo is reportedly developing the Legion Go S, a handheld device expected to run SteamOS. Valve's participation in Lenovo's upcoming event at CES 2025 underscores this collaboration and highlights Valve's dedication to integrating SteamOS into third-party hardware.
• Enhanced Branding and Certification: The establishment of official branding and certification processes for devices running SteamOS reflects Valve's intent to ensure a consistent and high-quality user experience across various hardware platforms.

These initiatives demonstrate Valve's commitment to positioning SteamOS 3.0 as a competitive alternative to traditional gaming operating systems, fostering a more diverse and user-centric gaming ecosystem.

Your thoughts?