Mobile gaming is something that has been around for decades. From classic handheld consoles like the Nintendo Game Boy, to smartphone technology enabling pretty advanced visuals, people have seemingly always liked the idea of gaming on the go. With the recent release of the Steam Deck, a new handheld system makes itself known and has the potential to usher in a new era of mobile technology, especially when it comes to video games. However, Valve's CEO, Gabe Newell, has said that a transportable PC is something that has been on people's minds since way back when.
In an interview with IGN recently, Newell, when asked how long the Steam Deck had been in production for, said that the idea of being able to play PC games on the move is not new, adding that playing a mobile version of something goes back "all the way to the 1990s." The only difference, as far as he's concerned, is that the industry finally has the capability to make it come to fruition. He looks at the iPhone as an example of how "input and software challenges" had to be solved in order for such technologies to progress.
In short, the ideas behind these jumps forward in tech and gaming are always on people's minds. It's just a case of the industry being in an advanced state that allows them to be made. With talks of a possible follow-up to the Steam Deck, it seems that Valve is in a position whereby it can start to look forward with the capabilities that exist today. Given Newell's words about how PC gaming on the go is something that has been dreamed of for decades, it calls to mind the possibilities that lie ahead. In essence, many may be wondering exactly where mobile gaming will go from here, and how long it will be until left-of-field ideas can finally be actualized.
Unsurprisingly, Valve has been in the limelight these past few months, as the bearded boss, as well as others from the company, have been pushing the Steam Deck and drumming up hype for the device. Gabe Newell himself has also been seen delivering Steam Decks in person, as some residents near Valve's headquarters have spotted the famous businessman bringing one to their doorstep.
As for the system itself, it seems to be making waves in the industry. Given that the Steam Deck exceeded even Valve's expectations, the thought of some additional models, plus whether it will inspire other developers to put out similar products, is inevitable. In any case, gamers now have the chance to own a portable fully-functional PC, which is something many have dreamed about for a long time.
Source: IGN
