Steam link is one of the best features to come to PC gaming. It’s convenient, easy, and delivers a pretty good performance depending on the game. I use it most often when I am relaxing on the couch or visiting family. The best part is, depending on the controller being used, you can play pretty much any game depending on your phone and connection.
Great Features
Steam link is very customizable, depending on the game and controls. While some games require a controller, others without controller support can still be played with the Steam Link controls. The options menu gives you multiple selections on what controller type you want to use and a pull-down keyboard option. You can change up the buttons and directional pad to suit your preference. In addition, you can also place them wherever you want on your phone screen.
Optimization and Performance
Steam Link still needs to work on the game selection. While some games work great, like Sekiro and Ender Lillies, it is clear that other games were not meant to be played on the app. I ran into many issues with streaming Final Fantasy V as an example, where it required the built-in controls, but none of them worked, and it would often freeze up.
The performance also varies depending on the game, phone, and connection. To use Steam link, you will need 25mbps. Users will want their pc hardwired and to use the 5GHz band. Luckily, we can also adjust the settings via the app to prioritize performance between fast, beautiful, and balanced. The connection requirements, though, can be very touchy depending on your speeds and router.
Conclusion
Overall, this application is amazing. I love the convenience of being able to play almost anything from my library right on my couch from my phone. Laptops are great, but they overheat, and sometimes, I just want a small handheld device. It features so much customization and is compatible with many 3rd party controllers, such as the Razer Kishi. I highly recommend it for any steam addicts that find themselves on the go a lot, or just want to kick back on the couch.
Veteran gamer, tech nerd, comic addict, anime lover, and just your average introverted weeb.
