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- Steam Machine is Valve’s latest hardware offering, a PC in a console casing.
- The hardware runs SteamOS, so it cannot run games that require anti-cheat software.
- Same as the Deck, the Steam Machine won’t be able to play Fortnite, Call of Duty, Battlefield 6, or other games.
Following Steam Deck’s success, Valve is doubling down on the hardware market and announced Steam Machine yesterday, a console-like PC designed for AAA gaming.
While the small-factor hardware looks great and is capable of running big titles, unfortunately, it won’t be able to play them all. Because it runs SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system, the PC will be unable to run games like Fortnite, Call of Duty, and Battlefield 6.
Why it matters: Everything about the Steam Machine looks perfect, from its appearance and specs to its console-like ecosystem. However, this one flaw or incapability could shape the success of this hardware.
With modern-day publishers pushing hard against cheaters in multiplayer games, most of these titles require running a kernel-level anti-cheat. Such programs can only be run on Windows and not Linux.
Hence, the Steam Deck has been unable to play games that require anti-cheat software from the beginning. Valve’s dedicated anti-hacker software isn’t any good either, so VAC isn’t a viable replacement, if the publishers even agree on it in the first place.
However, there is a workaround to run these games. Since the Steam Machine and Deck are essentially PCs at their core, users can install Windows on them, too. However, switching OS will cause performance loss, since SteamOS is much better for gaming.
Furthermore, you will also be deprived of the console-like environment. For a seamless experience, Valve really needs to create a fix for this solution since the Steam Machine will be used for a wide variety of purposes, including competitive gaming.
What are your thoughts on the Steam Machine so far? Let us know in the comments below, or at the official Tech4Gamers Forums.
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[Staff Writer]
Shaheer is currently pursuing a Business degree while also working as a part-time Content Writer. With his deep passion for both writing and video games, he has seamlessly transitioned into a role as a Journalist. Over the past two years, Shaheer has contributed as a freelancer to various websites and landed positions on acclaimed platforms like Gamerant. Currently, his role at Tech4gamers is as a Features Writer, but he also covers News occasionally. Shaheer’s favorite gaming franchises are Assassin’s Creed and the God of War series.
Get In Touch: shaheerzahid03@gmail.com
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