Play PC games on a Steam Deck console
(Picture: Steam Deck)The Steam Deck portable console is a great way to play PC games for less on a Nintendo Switch-style handheld.
Currently, the relatively new gaming device comes in three varieties, with different levels of storage and power, that cost £349, £459, and £569 each. But Steam customers could soon win one as part of a new giveaway taking place next week.
As part of the promo, Steam Deck maker Valve is partnering with the Game Awards to give viewers the chance to snag the handheld every minute during the live show, which airs on December 8 at 1am GMT. Last year’s ceremony ran for more than three hours, so you’ll have plenty of chances to win. Of course, it sounds like you will need to be a night owl in order to take part. Or you could just leave the stream running while you nip off to bed and dream of waking up the owner of a shiny new Steam Deck.
To enter, you’ll need to watch the Game Awards live on the Steam website or Steam.tv in the UK, US, Canada or EU. You’ll also need a Steam account that has been used to make a purchase between November 14, 2021 and November 14, 2022. Winners will be notified via email and mentioned during the livestream in the public chat and on the prize giveaway page.
Valve’s rules state that “limited accounts” can’t participate, meaning you’ll need to have spent at least $5 (£4)on a Steam purchase in the past, granting you access to an unrestricted account.
The Steam Deck arrived in late February following a troubled launch that saw it delayed due to global chip shortages. Valve’s console can handle most PC games from the Steam store and game-streaming services, like Xbox Cloud Gaming. You can even hook it up to a TV or monitor using the right cables or with the separately sold dock.
Still, most people will probably be content playing powerful titles like Elden Ring or Halo Infinite in portable mode at home or on the go.
