This summary of the video was created by an AI. It might contain some inaccuracies.
00:00:00 – 00:10:16
The video addresses the limitations and potential improvements for video capturing on the Steam Deck, especially compared to the Nintendo Switch. The speaker expresses frustration over the Steam Deck’s lack of built-in video capture functionality and discusses the Steam OS 3.5 update that fails to address this issue. To remedy this, they demonstrate a setup using the Decky Loader program, which enables several useful plugins for video capturing, game artwork customization, and file management.
Key plugins mentioned include Decky Recorder for instant replays, Steam Grid DB for artwork changes, Storage Cleaner for managing game data, Shoutty for screenshots, and Auto Flatpaks for desktop users. The speaker explains that despite some impact on frame rates and performance, this solution allows users to save and transfer video clips easily, though issues persist such as failure to alert users when an SD card is not recognized.
The video concludes with suggestions for Valve, highlighting the flexibility and affordability of the Steam Deck but urging implementation of better support for SD cards and integrated video capturing features. The speaker encourages viewers to share their experiences and hopes for improved Steam Deck functionality in the future.
00:00:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the limitations of the Steam Deck regarding video capture, contrasting it with the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch, which allows for simple video capturing via a capture button. The speaker expresses frustration over the Steam Deck’s lack of similar functionality despite being a PC and having sold over a million units. The upcoming Steam OS 3.5 update still does not address this issue. To resolve this, the speaker demonstrates a setup allowing instant replays and video captures on the Steam Deck. By pressing specific button combinations, users can save video clips of varying lengths directly to the Steam Deck’s internal storage or an SD card. They detail how to move these files to a computer easily, emphasizing the simplicity of the solution they have discovered and tried out.
00:03:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the limitations of using ext4-formatted drives on Windows or Mac and introduces a stable workaround involving a program called Decky Loader. This program, once installed in desktop mode and followed by a quick restart, allows access to various useful plugins through the quick access menu. Key plugins include Decky Recorder for instant replay video capture, Steam Grid DB for changing game artwork, Storage Cleaner for managing Steam Shader and compat data, Shoutty for screenshot management, and Auto Flatpaks for desktop mode users. The speaker also explains how to manage video files by connecting the Steam Deck to a computer and activating Deck MTP for file transfer. Finally, there is a brief mention of the impact on game performance and battery life when using the plugins, highlighting that while some performance testing is mentioned, thorough testing is not conducted in this segment.
00:06:00
In this part of the video, the narrator discusses the impact of using a specific recording setup on the Steam Deck’s performance and battery usage. The frame rate drops by about 10-15% when recording, which is significant for those who notice every FPS. Power usage, however, does not increase noticeably according to the Steam Deck’s wattage readings. The captured footage resolution is typically 1280 by 800 in docked mode and can handle up to 4K on an external monitor, although the gameplay quality varies. The plugin utilizes a high-quality variable bit rate preset for sharp footage but lacks options for recording microphone audio separately. Additionally, the narrator points out a significant issue with recording to an SD card; if the card is not recognized by the Steam Deck, the plugin fails to alert the user, potentially causing loss of recordings. The narrator suggests that an ideal solution would be for Valve to incorporate this feature directly into the Steam Deck.
00:09:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the limitations and potential improvements for saving replays on SD cards for the Steam Deck. They mention the issue with SD cards not automatically mounting unless EXT formatted, which could hinder Windows support. The speaker notes that a simple fix, available on a GitHub page, could resolve this issue. They commend Valve for the Steam Deck’s impressive design and affordability but suggest this improvement for better functionality. The speaker expresses a desire for a Valve employee to implement this fix after watching the video and encourages viewers to share their thoughts.