Steam allows gamers to add PC hardware specs to game reviews

Steam beta allows gamers to add their hardware specifications to game reviews

Valve has released a new Steam Client Beta that allows PC gamers to add their hardware specifications to game reviews. This update should increase the usefulness of user reviews, as gamers will be able to see whether reviewers use systems similar to theirs. If a review cites performance issues with specific games, readers can see whether their hardware specs closely match those of the reviewer. This is incredibly useful information for gamers.

Alongside changes to Steam reviews, Steam has added an option to share anonymised framerate data with Valve. This will allow Valve to “learn more about game compatibility and improve Steam”. Currently, this beta feature is only available to SteamOS users. This could help Valve determine if certain games continue to meet the performance requirements of “Steam Deck Verified” status as they are updated.

General

• Added the option to attach hardware specs when writing or updating a Steam User Review on a game’s store page

• Added the option to provide anonymized framerate data. When enabled Steam will collect gameplay framerate data, stored without connection to your Steam account but identified with the kind of hardware you are playing on. This data will help us learn about game compatibility and improve Steam. This feature is currently in Beta with a focus on devices running SteamOS.

– Steam Client Update – February 12th

Steam Deck users have also received an option to submit detailed feedback for the “Deck Verified” ratings of games. This will allow gamers to submit feedback to Valve when they disagree with Valve’s rating. This change should help Valve to improve its game verification system.

Steam Deck

• When submitting feedback on whether you agree with a Deck Verified rating, if you disagree we’ll now ask for the reason. Providing a reason is optional.

– Steam Client Update – February 12th

Overall, these changes to Steam are welcome. Currently, these features are in beta, though they should officially become a part of Steam’s stable version soon.

You can join the discussion on Steam allowing gamers to add PC hardware specs to game reviews on the OC3D Forums.