Valve's Steam Deck is a portable gaming PC that seamlessly connects to the Steam library, sort of like a Nintendo Switch for PC gaming, but unlike Nintendo's handheld gaming console, the Steam Deck does not force users into a closed system with little control over the operating system or installed It does not force users into a closed system where they have little control over the operating system or installed software.

In an interview with IGN, Valve developer Pierre-Loup Griffais said, "Steam Deck can run almost anything you can run on a PC," and despite being handheld, you can go from gaming to a web browser with an alt tab,

"Steam Deck can run almost anything you can run on a PC," said Griffais.

IGN also claims that hands-on use of the device will completely erase the pre-installed SteamOS and replace it with Windows (due to a new version of SteamOS optimized for the Steam Deck hardware). performance will be reduced, but you will be able to install the apps you normally use on your PC and, fascinatingly, other game/store fronts. Yes, Steam Deck could also become a de facto Xbox Game Pass or Epic Games Store portable gaming system.

"We don't think people should be tied to a particular direction or a particular set of software they can install," said Valve designer Lawrence Yang. 'If you buy a Steam Deck, it's a PC. You can install whatever you want, and you can install whatever peripherals you want. You might want to think of it as a small PC with a controller attached, as opposed to a gaming console."

With an optional dock (sold separately), it can also be connected to a TV or gaming monitor for higher resolutions and frame rates (assuming Steam Deck's hardware can keep up with the game).

This is in stark contrast to the Nintendo Switch, which can be infuriating at times, as the Nintendo Switch is a very restrictive system. There is no official browser, no app for streaming services like Netflix, and no way to use it as a media player without hacking. So having a handheld device that gives the user complete control over the experience is very exciting.

The Steam Deck will be available this December, with prices starting at $399. It can be pre-ordered starting tomorrow.