I only noticed how often online DRM is needed until I used a SteamDeck.
I only noticed how often online DRM is needed until I used a SteamDeck.
Fair observation, and it can be addressed by leveraging hotspot tethering from the phone. This approach might lead to increased battery consumption on hotter devices, but it’s sensible to carry a power bank for road trips. The Steam Deck is still emerging technology, offering portable gaming without an internet connection—though this brings its own challenges. It would be wise to explore options with the game developer, especially for portable clients, while keeping in mind that the main goal of a road trip is often socializing. (Road trips are typically group activities.) Sorry if this feels like it veers off topic; personal downtime is important too.
The idea of a road trip might not be the best one. Travel works better. The train takes me from point A to B. And popular places require payment. Why must I pay extra just to enjoy a game I’ve already bought?
Interesting fact is that older pirate crews only improved significantly. Also, the main reason they used pirated files was that those versions could be easily adapted for modern systems since the original ones had issues that pirates and community fixes removed. In short, it shows a lot of laziness and creates problems when something goes wrong because they can't update or understand the code.
It requires more information. If you're from a developing country, data limits are common. Plus, it's about the inconvenience of needing to stay online just to play a single-player offline game I purchased. The idea of using a portable console means relying on internet from my phone and charging it constantly. That sounds frustrating—especially when signal isn't always available.
Makes sense, likely more trouble than ease As someone from a developing nation, I won’t use the Steam Deck on trains, any public transit, or even walk in crowded areas while people watch, because it’s like shouting “Look at me, I’m wealthy—please take my money!”
I'm also from a third-world country. But honestly, even though I don't play on a steam deck in public transport because I can't concentrate on the game, it's not as if every location offers free good internet or strong phone signals. My phone battery is more than enough for a full day of normal use. As for this, what makes things different now?
Well, I don't own a Steam Deck, but it's a bit larger and makes more noise than the iPhone 14 Pro Max, so it should stand out more and grab attention on public transport. Depending on the situation, people might have trained eyes to spot real iPhone Pro designs among Android alternatives like XiaoMi. A handheld gaming device is likely something they already know and won't cost under $100, making it a good target for mugging in public places.
In my opinion, it's essentially the same when it comes to people who have money. The handheld console seems more unusual right now, but for reselling or parts, phones are clearly more popular. Exotic items often take longer to sell. Plus, a Steam Deck would probably need both hands to use properly. A phone is usually held with one hand, which can make it difficult to grip due to its size.