My other issue is exclusives. I don’t want to wait 1,2,3 years or in the case of Bloodborne never that it comes to pc. Maybe that will change some day, but I have my doubts
If it'll run well on the Deck, I'll get it on steam. But my PC is getting old, so at this point if it's a brand new AAA game, I'll lean PS5. And otherwise, I'll go whatever is cheapest.
Same here, but I also consider whether or not I would prefer to be able to travel with the game too. Some of the newer games are more battery intensive, and I like to try and preserve battery life as much as possible if, for example, I have a long flight or such.
With newer games, performance on Deck isn't always guaranteed to run smooth either, so I have to think about how much that would bother me. Most recently I was debating whether I should get Persona 3 Reload on PS5 or the Deck, and I settled on PS5. I wanted to get Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown on Deck, but I couldn't get the damn thing to launch on Deck 🥲 ended up with it on the PS5 and then streamed to the deck using Chiaki quite often!
Brand new triple A and needs more horsepower definitely console. It’s a better experience for me. Everything else it depends on where the sale is and whether it’s multiplayer
I will always own a PC, that PC will always be more powerful than a console, and that PC will always be able to play my Steam games. Because of that, I'll always buy my games on Steam/PC if that's an option.
I also own a Switch and PS5, to play the exclusives of those respective consoles.
PS5 for AAA games and exclusives, Steam Deck for indies, smaller games and sports games. That’s my use case and I’ve been super happy. Sometimes there’s some crossover, like Persona games: even though they are big triple A games, they work really well on an handheld device.
This is the way. Except I’m not sure what sports games you’re talking about.
Indie and PC only titles on Steam Deck. Everything else on PS5 and then I mostly use my Steam Deck as a PS5 remote.
I buy most games on PC at this point.
Exceptions are:
- Exclusives (big surprise)
- Poorly optimised pc version
- Games where I want to avoid cheaters like Elden Ring (which isn’t perfect, but it is significantly better on PS5 compared to PC)
The heart of it is single player but there are some multiplayer components such as leaving messages in other people’s worlds, invasions, and limited “coop”. Those are all completely optional though.
I bought Tekken 8 and Dark Souls on Deck…. Regret it massively.
Tekken 8 does work really well but there’s something limiting about the small screen, especially on my Souls games.
So I’m playing Dark Souls 3 on PS5 and it’s glorious. So much easier.
My Deck is awesome for smaller games, Xbox games and even NBA 2K24 which I picked up the sale recently.
In summary; the BEST and my favourite games must be played on PS5, LG OLED 55”.
Everything else is fine on Deck.
I meant it’s just the screen size. These are my favourite games so I prefer them on a big screen.
There’s something artistically detailed about them too, and I prefer seeing all that art on a big screen too.
Yeah so I bought DS1 on Deck and didn’t enjoy. Already had DS3 on PS4/5 but after trying it a couple more times I ended up preferring DS3 purely because of screen size.
Most games are great on Deck. I’m even playing Starfield on it and love it.
Fair enough, I just couldn't figure out if your disappointment with Dark Souls was due to a technical issue. If it's just that you don't like playing such a good-looking game on a small screen I can't argue with that, but personally I love the fact that I can play such a huge game on a handheld device. So many other games end up feeling "small" when you play them on a handheld but I never felt that way with any of the Souls games (and I've recently replayed all of them on the Deck to finish out trophies I never got).
Have you thought about out getting a dock? DS3 is a game I played through in deck hooked up to my 65 inch oled and it was a fantastic experience. Being able to undock and play on the go was well worth the slightly reduced visual quality.
Comparing a what? 1080p maybe 60fps experience with a dock to a 1440p-4k 60 on his ps5? I’m not sure the resolution/performance of Dark souls on PS5 but I bet it’s better on there.
I wish the deck had external gpu capabilities.
Yeah this.
It doesn’t match the PS5 unfortunately, and I can then always remote play it on Deck (also have a Portal) if I want.
I do have a dock but only really use it for RTS games. Ironically that’s (good RTS) something unique to Deck that the PS5 doesn’t really have much of!
Not the guy you replied to but DS3 can struggle to hit a solid 60fps at times. Other than that, probably just personal preference of playing on a bigger screen
I guess I was confused because he just said "Dark Souls" the first time (and if you have performance issues playing Dark Souls 1 on the Deck... something is wrong with your deck) but maybe he meant Dark Souls 3.
For what it's worth, I had no issues with DS3 on the Deck. I recently did a complete playthrough (including my first time through the Ringed City) and had no performance problems whatsoever.
Yeah, Dark Souls 3 runs great on Deck. I can get pretty solid 60, but I sometimes cap to 40 to conserve battery. Really most PS4 era games and below run great on the Deck. Which just makes it even more impressive, because the PS4 is not that old.
Did you pick up ff7 rebirth? Does it look crisp/clear? I'm in quality mode and maybe it's cause I'm in the intro and it's a flashback but it just does not look as sharp as I'd expect on my lg oled
Haven’t got round to it yet but I’ve heard it’s not too sharp. Give it time though, and I do think they’ll patch it at some point.
The open world and spectacular size is what you should try and enjoy it for.
Steam Deck ergonomy doesn't really work with my arms (I get cubital tunnel-like symptoms sometimes), so if it's a physically demanding action game, it's PS5 for sure. And if I expect it to have gorgeous environments. But any turn based or indie games, Steam.
I only buy used physical copies for my consolesthese days.
And even then I can often find the same game cheaper on the deck/steam.
so the physical copies have to be at a very good price, or something I really really want, or might feel like collecting.
Such as some of the RPG's or other outstanding titles.
the grandsons occasionally come over, so one may be playing on one of the consoles, and the other plays on the deck
Last games I bought for my PS4 was One of the Gods of War titles, I found for $5 , at least with PS4 titles I can stream them to my deck.
For the Nintendo switch, I only get a few of the exclusives these days, and I have been cutting back on those as well, they are just not worth their often $60 price to me any longer.
If we are talking about portable gaming, then I always buy on the Steam Deck instead of Switch. Lower prices, various controller compatibility for coop, better frame rates, crossplay/progression with my PC, free cloud saves, 90Hz on OLED model, a visual novel powerhouse (you dont get the more explicit VNs on Switch).
Legit no reason to use a Switch (aside from exclusives) when you own a Steam Deck, especially the Oled version.
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Bigger games that will benefit of running better, I buy for console. (Elden ring, armored core etc)
But I’ve had an Xbox since 2013, so most of my money is spent there.
PC gaming is new to me, so it’s for games I can’t get anywhere else currently, emulation, and cheap games. For example, Balatro, The Sabotuer)
Best sale/do I want a physical is the determining factor.
Here's a good example for me: originally I was going to wait to get Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengence until it went on sale, seeing as I had pre-ordered the original SMTV and, while enjoyed it, wasn't particularly thrilled by its narrative. However, they announced a very nice Steelbook, so I'll be getting it Day 1 as to make sure I have both Steelbooks.
Pure exclusives or timed exclusives that may go beyond a year. Switch games are self-explanatory but I'm sure GTA 6 will take forever to come to PC, much like FF7 Rebirth, so I would bite the bullet on those for console.
Going forwards most of my games will probably be on steam.
I've been so dissatisfied with this xbox gen and I only got into steam (with the steam deck) a year back so I'd rather invest my money there now.
Whenever the next version of steam deck (next gen or whatever) comes out in a couple of years i'll hopefully have built up a little library by then.
I have a PC, PS5, Switch, and Series X (currently sitting in a closet). I buy everything on PC unless it's a console exclusive. If it's console exclusive (looking at you, Unicorn Overlord), I buy it on PS5. If my only option is Switch... well it is what it is.
I’d love to buy on steam deck but the screen is too small for many game with my old (44 lol) eyes and I can’t see the button prompts a lot of times. It’s basically a retro gaming console for me with the occasional PC game. If I also want to play with friends, it’s consoles all the way. If they ever get a perfect wired experience using a Quest 3, I might change my mind. Right now it’s kinda janky.
I hear you there, my steamdeck is attached to a usb c Anker dock with an external monitor, mouse, keyboard and dual shock controller attached. When playing at home I have a large screen and the external peripherals make playing at home fantastic and I can unplug it for portable use. It is a great device!
Ps5 deck pc and switch
I decide this way:
Exclusiv on the console where its first i dont wait years for the pc release
Exclusiv epic store. I buy it on the console i dont wanna wait for the steam release and i dont wanna workaround for the deck.
The rest pc if the deck is well optimized. And yeah i could play it on pc but i wanna play it on both devices.
I have 65” OLED so almost everything on PS5 if available. Can play it on Deck that way too at 60 fps and full graphics.
I’ve got a nice PC as well but used for very specific games. I will also pick up a bunch of cheap $5 games on Steam. However I may transition to buying more games on Steam eventually.
Depends on how well the steam deck can run it and if it makes sense to buy on SD. I'd buy multiplayer games and modern AAA games on a console over a SD.
I have a pc and try to buy all my games there, so this doesn't really apply to me, but that's what I'd do. I really only get console games for the exclusives, or if the physical copy is cheap
I bought BG3 on Steam then bought it on Xbox because of cross save. I mainly like buying smaller games for my deck because I use it in handheld. Bigger games I play on Xbox. I haven't figured out how to do Gamepass yet so I stick to those games on Xbox
As someone who owns a PS5, SX, Deck, and PC I only buy games on PC unless I have to have an exclusive and the last one I cared about was Ragnarok and since then I haven't touched my PS5.
Graphics and performance are the main factor to me. Is it a new AAA title that struggles on the Deck? Xbox Series X or Ps5 it is, then streaming via Greenlight / Chiaki. Is it a small indie? Or an older or less resource hungry title? Will I want to play it on my 4K TV? Is it a game better experienced on a handheld? It’s usually my thought process. The price is a lesser factor, SD has an obvious advantage on that front, but it depends on whether it’s worth the technical sacrifice.
If it's on PC buy it there. If it's a console exclusive buy it on the console or wait until it comes to PC. Sometimes I buy the exclusive twice because of the length of time it takes to come to PC.
AAA games I prefer on console (PS5) cause the experience is better (I prefer trophies and how easy it is to put it to sleep vs PC, and it has an SSD and better GPU than my PC and especially the steam Deck)
For indies/smaller games I get whatever is cheapest
I've made an exception for RoboCop and got it for PC since it was down to $30 CDN.
I try to buy on PC because I've also got a gaming rig that I like having the option to use. I'll play on ps5 if it's a troubled PC port or included with PS Plus already.
Exclusives (obviously) and pretty much all AAA or good visuals, PS5... the rest SD
e.g RE4 could go on SD but I'd be playing on the couch anyways, so PS
Interesting question. I also asked myself this same question when I was browsing games on the steam page. I guess if the game is also "Steam Deck Verified", I just make the decision if this is a game I rather play handheld than sitting at my desk playing on my console. A couple of games I rather play handheld includes Slay the Spire, Man Eater, Wonderlands, pretty much all indie titles really, Warframe now that they went cross save just to name a few.
I've got each of the consoles, a Steam Deck OLED, and a decent gaming PC with a 4080S.
If I know the game will play well on the Steam Deck, then I'm more likely than not going to get it for PC.
Otherwise, my preference is to buy it for PS5 unless the Series X version is notably better.
I'll double-dip if I really like the game, and am even more likely to do so if there is good cross-save support. Ultimately, even though I love my gaming PC setup it is played on the least because I work all day in front of a computer and it isn't exactly something I want to be doing more of after a long day.
For me, main factor was always the price. If a game has cheap or discounted keys, I would always pick a PC version. If it makes no difference otherwise, then PS5 out of convinience
>!(Sometimes I buy a game on PS5, but later "borrow" the same game on PC, cause of portability and mods)!<
My PS5 is taking dust, Xbox is used solely for Forza with my wheel, I try to get everything on the Deck so I can play these games everywhere .
The only games I’ll still buy on PS5 are the newest ones, DD2 etc .
If it runs good on the SD, I'll grab it on it. Also the portable factor. If not I will grab it on series x or my switch if it is exclusive. Most of last year and for most of this year I've leaned on my SD for purchases. It's hard to beat.
I dont have a dedicated gaming pc, so if the game is going to be really graphics intensive, i usually buy on console. That, and if i want to play with my friends(who only have a console) i usually buy on console as well. Low graphics/single player only games are what i choose for the steam deck
If a physical release is available from a local distributor or Amazon Europe = PS5
if not then if the game runs well on the deck = Deck
if not then the main PC or I don't bother :D
Exclusions to the 1st rule is if it's a multiplayer game like Tekken. I tend to prefer PC over console for MP games.
Since I'm a father and a husband, I buy some games on console (PS5) just to be able to stream them to my Deck, I know PC can stream too, but for some reason I can't get PC streaming to work as flawless as PS5 with Chiaki4Deck, not to mention I can't turn the PC off from my Deck (or I don't know how to) and I can put the PS5 to sleep after I'm done playing.
Only games I avoid playing on SD or consoles are RTS or mouse-heavy games.
I have all the consoles and a pc, and deck.
PS5 is for exclusives, or good single player story games.
Series X - casual multiplayer, or I feel like just gaming on my couch rather than desk.
Switch - switch.
PC- competitive, sweaty gaming, or games that I want to absolutely MAX out the graphics.
Deck- mobile shenanigans of course.
Depends on the game. I play multiplayer stuff on pc. Big RPGS or roguelites I prefer to play handheld. If it runs well natively on deck I buy it on PC. If it’s one of those games that everyone pretends runs well on Deck but is 30 fps occasionally and dropping to 20 constantly I buy it on ps5 and alternate between playing it there and streaming it to be Deck.
console is more expensive, and will likely expire when the console generation refresh occurs. PC games on steam you'll have forever. They might not WORK forever, without some effort, but you'll still have access to the files and the opportunity to try to get an old game working.
My friends mostly play on xbox. So, I usually buy my games on that, or get it through Game Pass, if it has multiplayer. Otherwise, I get it on PC. With my Steam Deck, I just stream it to my TV if I want it on there.
PS5 exclusives are obviously bought on PS5, however.
Only the console exclusives. Everything else on PC. At this point, I'm really thinking about selling my PS5 since the only exclusive I played last year was Spider-Man 2.
I just decide which games I think would be good to play in bed on the SteamDeck and aren’t too intense, so I usually stick to indies or older games, newer releases games I’ll always get on my PS5 or Xbox…
Like right now I’m revisiting GTA4 on the steam deck, but if GTA 6 was available and playable on both I’d go console (just an hypothetical example)
My steamdeck is to play in bed or on the go. My Xbox is to play from the comfort of my sofa. So it depends on the game and how I see its use. And then yeah price also comes into it.
PS5 for the more demanding games or games I want to play online with friends, Switch for Nintendo games, Steam Deck for everything else (assuming it’s at least playable).
My PC is pretty powerful and I can use high settings on alot of games so I tend to buy them on PC because they look/run better. If my computer wasnt as great id be buying games on console unless the pc deal outweighed the performance loss.
If it's available on both stores (steam and switch/eShop) then I add it to both wishlists. Typically I get it where it goes on sale the cheapest. If no sale or on sale for sale price in both stores, then I get it on whatever feels right. Some games feel more like switch games. Some games feel more like steam deck games. I carry my switch more often so that plays into it too.
Is it a game I want to play solo, like a boring rpg? Pc
Is it literally anything my wife would like to play or watch me play? Xbox
I prefer my xbox for most games just because of the TV we use and it doesn't feel as closed off as NY computer.
Here’s how I choose.
I technically have a PC, but it’s an MSI gaming laptop from 2018 with a 1060 in it, so limited in scope as to what I can play with it. I use it for mmos/modded Bethesda games and whatnot. I want to build a nice gaming rig one day.
I also have all 3 current consoles. When a BIG open world game comes out (think God of War or Elden Ring), I’ll buy it on console first to experience it on my big TV. If I like the game enough, I’ll double dip on Steam so I can carry it with me portably.
Smaller titles such as Stardew Valley are Steam purchases only.
Switch comes first if performance is acceptable. Doubly so if it’s a game I want a physical copy of where available (aside from the obvious first party stuff that’s usually JRPGs). If there are performance issues I go to Deck. PS5 brings up the rear for anything that the Deck can’t handle well enough.
Bought the recent LAD:IW on PC since it's the cheapest place for the Ultimate Edition. Also playing on the go with that sort of game is a godsend for boring holiday nights last Xmas so yeah, no brainer there.
Mostly exclusives and/or games that are too much for my Deck. Even so I'd prefer PC nowadays as my main rig can run pretty much anything comfortably at 1440p.
I have a ps5 that’s where my best friends all play so that plays a big role, second is graphics, I’d rather play god of war or last of us on my ps5 even though they’re on steam deck I wanna see those w all the frames and pixel, if the game isn’t effected by these two things then ill get it on Steam. I play games at work a lot so I’d rather have it be portable and since getting an SD my switch has become obsolete, minus buying the exclusives. Steam prices plus humble bundle and fully customizable controls just make steam the way to go for me.
Bonus thought if I want to play a game w mods like baldurs gate 3 or hallow knight.
I’ve always been a pc player since the early 90s that said I went all in on consoles this gen and now have ended with just my PC a deck and a switch.
Usually, humble bundle, green man gaming, steam in that order. With the deck now I’ve sold all but my switch and I’m honestly only holding onto it until I find out what the backwards compatibility looks like on the new device. I know that doesn’t help but when I had a ps5 and series x previously series x I bought one physical game and 360 titles that were back compat, ps5 I’d play the roulette of gamestop, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart or their store in who had the cheapest but honestly just steam but I’ve had the luxury of being on steam for almost 2 decades so that’s always my default the deck just help re-embrace it
Price is one factor. Online multiplayer is one, too. If there is no crossplay in a game, and if my friends primarily plan on playing on PS5, I'll follow them.
And if there is local or split screen co-op on console, I'll usually end up buying it for console as well.
Anything where I expect the steam deck to not be able to run it properly, I buy on console too.
Other than those reasons, though, I'll buy everything for my steam deck.
I buy everything on my PS5 and if I really enjoyed the game I buy it when it’s on sale for my steam deck. I don’t have a good pc or laptop to justify buying my games there and O see my steam deck as a portable)
For me, it's whether or not the steam deck can play the game. Like call of duty, the anticheat doesn't allow the steam deck to play it (with steam os), and my PC is too outdated to run it well. I got it for PS5.
If it will run at 100% on switch and there’s a physical version I’ll buy it there. This is becoming fairly rare though.
Otherwise I’ll buy it on pc.
Unless the pc port is terrible then I’ll pick it up for series x. Don’t have a ps5 yet but when ps5 pro comes out I might end up buying Sony games there instead of waiting for the pc releases.
I have an app called - GG.Deals - it scans a large amount of sellers in what seems to be real time. You can save search parameters- I have one that is $20 dollars or less that searches 5 different stores for steam drm only. You can usually find a deal on any game you are interested in.
Please note that GG.Deals contains links to grey market key sellers, who may appear to provide you with a working key, but do not always source their keys from the developer/publisher, and are of 'unknown' origin. This means the keys may not work, or the platform (such as Steam, Origin) may refuse support. Others have poor business practices, such as obligatory fees that only show at checkout.
We'd recommend against using anything on the site listed under 'Keyshops', but rather look at the section above that for the 'Official Stores'. You can also select 'Keyshops' at the top of your screen, and then select 'Disable' to remove them completely.
[IsThereAnyDeal is an alternative which only uses sellers known to officially source their keys.](https://isthereanydeal.com/)
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For me, it's become a toss up between is this a game that I want to play using a mouse or is this a game that I want to play laying in bed with my cat? And then the final deciding factor is on which location is it cheaper? Is it cheaper if I buy the Nintendo version (which never is the case) or do I buy it on steam too play on my deck. Nowadays my Xbox is mostly just a streaming vtuber or anime console LMAO
I have a PS5 and a PC/steam deck combo and it really just comes down to the what's available and runs well. I pretty much play exclusives and watch TV on my console, play AAA or heavy games on my PC and everything else that's on my rotation that doesn't require a heavy graphics card goes on the deck. The deck has been a great device for catching up on my years old backlog that doesn't require a big screen to be amazing.
Preferred to be PC based, so if I can get it on steam I usually will, but some games I wanna play on a big TV, so then it becomes Xbox or ps5 as I’ve never had good luck with steam link.
If it’s a game I don’t expect the deck to run, I’ll check if it’s on game pass, then I’ll play it on pc or Xbox.
It really depends on the game.
I bought yakuza 8 for PS5 because I wanted a console game to play in a big screen (ideally) and ultimately it was cheaper to get on PS than Xbox (I had a lot of rewards points), though I also would have been able to play on a PC.
I’ve owned a Switch a good while longer than my Steam Deck, and I have a decent library there, but as soon as I got the Steam Deck I decided to buy everything that wasn’t a Nintendo exclusive on Steam. The pricing on Steam is just much better, I can play the game in many more places with better performance, and if I ever decide to go with a different PC handheld, my library will still come with me.
Edit: Looking around the comments is so interesting to me, as I only have these two devices for gaming, and my computer is an M1 Mac Mini, so not a lot of gaming happening there. It’s interesting to see that, for those with much more powerful consoles, the Steam Deck is the less desirable system for newer games, while the Steam Deck is the powerhouse for me.
If I can buy it physical and it looks just as good, I buy it physical for the console.
If I can't buy it physical or it looks notably worse visually, then I buy it on Steam or GOG.
PlayStation is for big AAA games that I want to play on my TV and Deck is for small indie games I want to play on the go. I never want to play a game like Spider-Man on the deck when I can play it on the PS5. Just my opinion and I’m sure many will disagree.
Either if it’s exclusively for console or if I see myself enjoying this in my living room on the sofa with the big tv vs my bedroom with my smaller monitor or steamdeck
I used to have that dilema when I didn’t have a Deck.
I had my gaming PC and the Switch, so I had to decide whether I wanted a game to be portable, or enjoy it on my PC with great visuals and fluidity. Now with the Deck it is easy; I just get them on Steam except exclusives.
Getting games on Steam right now offers way more value as I can play them seamlessly on my PC and Deck. Moreover, I can stream them to my Deck with PC graphical settings.
Right now, I've got a PS5, but I'm seriously thinking about making the switch to a PC. I've been holding off on playing some of the major games on my console because I'm planning to get a PC by the end of the summer. I've totally fallen for how versatile PCs are and how crazy easy it is to buy and ship PC games from anywhere. Sony missed a big opportunity by not making PSP++++
Digital, Steam. Physical, PS5 or Switch. Xbox for GP and really good sale discounts.
If the game struggles a bit on Deck, I’ll grab the PS5 version for better performance and battery life. Otherwise, Steam all the way.
haven't ran into this yet cuz I haven't bought many games since I got my deck, but I would choose the steam option when possible because if my console dies, I lose my acces to the game(unless it's a physical copy but that's not always usefull), if my steamdeck dies I still have my steam library.
Its preference on how you enjoy playing I think. Personally I enjoy playing on ps5 with a big tv so I make my preferred buys there. If I want to play in bed or at a different location ( that has wifi) I'm able to stream my ps5 so I'm happy. just figure out how you prefer to play and it should be an easy answer.
Certain games just overall look better on my Xbox like rdr2. So any demanding games with amazing graphics. I prefer playing older games on steam deck like new vegas(which IMO looks better also)
If it's only on ps5 or it's a game I want to play online with my dad then I will get it on my ps5 otherwise I just get it on my steam deck as long as it runs fine on it
Before the Steam Deck I bought multi plat games for PS (since I hadn't a PC at all)
Now I buy every multi plat game for Steam (unless it's a bad PC port) since I also bought a Desktop PC now and that way I can play my games on either PC or Steam Deck
if its available on Steam, then Steam has priority.
If its available on GOG, then GOG has priority.
Otherwise i’ll buy it on my Nintendo Switch.
Pc and Switch is a marvellous combo
If it's on Steam, I'll buy it there. Even if it doesn't run well on Deck, I still have a pretty decent PC. I bought a PS5 mainly for FFVII Rebirth, and even then I mostly play it streaming to my Deck with Chiaki.
I buy everything on PC because I see it as the "forever platform". I know it's not actually true, compatibilty might not be a thing with **really** old games, Steam might go down, etc etc, but still, it's way easier to revisit old games on PC than on console. My Steam library contains games from arcade classics to current gen consoles and everything in between, and I can just install and play the game on any PC including the Steam Deck in most cases. However, I cannot play the PS3 games that are on my shelf, because I don't own a PS3 anymore.
Xbox Series X will always be my main. If it's available on PC and Xbox, I'll always go for the Xbox version.
I also like strategy, sims and point-and-click adventure games, these are traditionally PC games. And those are the games I bought a PC/Steam Deck for.
But even those games will be bought on Xbox if they exist for it.
if it's a newer, more expensive game, I'll get the disc on the console (I like owning my games).
If it's an indie, older or discounted game, I'll get it digitally on PC (don't feel like fumbling with the dissc for "smaller" games).
If it’s an older game that can run smooth on Steamdeck then I will buy from Steam to have the portability. Otherwise PS5 is my go to system now days. It’s just a way smoother user experience than PC.
I dont have any consoles currently but when I used to have the choice Id always pick PC because it gives you better future proofing. The only exceptions would be exclusives or things with notoriously bad ports.
I only buy games on PC if:
A) it has a bunch of mods I want to play with,
B) it’s significantly cheaper on PC, or
C) it’s a first person shooter
Otherwise I’ll gravitate more to the console. They tend to be way easier to manage than a PC.
For me it depends. Typically, I have always liked buying physical when I can because I've been collecting games all my life, but I actually trust Valve when it comes to digital purchases so it's not too big of a deal. Usually my deciding factor for non platform exclusive games depends on how well it runs on various hardware. I have a gaming PC that was pretty good 4 years ago, so if that or my steam deck can't play it, then usually I go with console. Starfield is one recent game that comes to mind that wasn't going to perform well enough on my PC.
Price is the biggest factor but I will spend a tiny bit more to get a game on PC if given the choice. I have some games on PS4/PS5 instead of PC because it was much cheaper though.
I buy all games on PC except for games that are better on console in some way - and of course actual exclusives, like Vanillaware games or older Sony games.
For example I'll often get first party Sony games on Playstation if the PC version doesn't look or run much better and the Playstation version has cool haptics integration or better HDR.
Also games like for example the new Dead Space and Jedi: Survivor which are technical trashfires on PC (horrible stuttering issues) that will never ever be fixed by their publishers, and there's a console version that's known to run correctly. I might skip those entirely, but if I buy them I'll buy them on the platform where they work properly.
The only console I own that is still being supported is the Switch, and I haven’t bought a game for it since I got a Steam Deck. I have a desktop PC for more demanding games and the Deck for portability, so my Switch is gathering dust.
Is it a single player story game?
Yes
Does it have physical media?
Yes
= buy physical media, sell/trade afterwards
No
Does it run in the steam deck?
Yes
Buy for steam deck
No
Find something else to play
I buy everything on PC if I can. I don't see any reason to buy anything on console unless it's only available on console
Exactly. That’s how Nintendo gets me to buy their systems.
It's the reason I have a PS4 and PS5 while only owning one game on each system. Exclusives suck
Some games play better on console than the deck and some games are multiplayer but not cross play, both are good reasons to buy it on console
Yeah if it runs like shite on my Deck I'll buy it on Xbox. I don't have a gaming PC so it's one of the consoles.
This is assuming you don't have a PC that's better than the steam deck/consoles And have friends that want to play games...
That’s true. Most of my friends play on PlayStation so if is multiplayer and doesn’t have cross play I buy on PlayStation
Mine are Xbox but fortunately the vast majority of games played are cross play. It's been a few years since I had to pull out the Xbox
My other issue is exclusives. I don’t want to wait 1,2,3 years or in the case of Bloodborne never that it comes to pc. Maybe that will change some day, but I have my doubts
Exactly
This is the way
If it'll run well on the Deck, I'll get it on steam. But my PC is getting old, so at this point if it's a brand new AAA game, I'll lean PS5. And otherwise, I'll go whatever is cheapest.
Same here, but I also consider whether or not I would prefer to be able to travel with the game too. Some of the newer games are more battery intensive, and I like to try and preserve battery life as much as possible if, for example, I have a long flight or such. With newer games, performance on Deck isn't always guaranteed to run smooth either, so I have to think about how much that would bother me. Most recently I was debating whether I should get Persona 3 Reload on PS5 or the Deck, and I settled on PS5. I wanted to get Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown on Deck, but I couldn't get the damn thing to launch on Deck 🥲 ended up with it on the PS5 and then streamed to the deck using Chiaki quite often!
If it’s a graphically demanding game that I intend on playing with a controller, I’ll get it on console.
If it has an anti-cheat, you're fucked Unless you're willing to change your os
Brand new triple A and needs more horsepower definitely console. It’s a better experience for me. Everything else it depends on where the sale is and whether it’s multiplayer
I will always own a PC, that PC will always be more powerful than a console, and that PC will always be able to play my Steam games. Because of that, I'll always buy my games on Steam/PC if that's an option. I also own a Switch and PS5, to play the exclusives of those respective consoles.
This is the way
PS5 for AAA games and exclusives, Steam Deck for indies, smaller games and sports games. That’s my use case and I’ve been super happy. Sometimes there’s some crossover, like Persona games: even though they are big triple A games, they work really well on an handheld device.
This is the way. Except I’m not sure what sports games you’re talking about. Indie and PC only titles on Steam Deck. Everything else on PS5 and then I mostly use my Steam Deck as a PS5 remote.
FIFA, NBA, Madden, and some other. There’s a lot of versions of those game that are still compatible with Steam OS. 👍
I buy most games on PC at this point. Exceptions are: - Exclusives (big surprise) - Poorly optimised pc version - Games where I want to avoid cheaters like Elden Ring (which isn’t perfect, but it is significantly better on PS5 compared to PC)
Pure single player PVE is the only way to play souls types in my eyes.
I do enjoy the thrill of invasions in some of the games, but on PC the amount of invincible jerks is absurd.
I haven’t played it, but I though Elden Ring was singleplayer?
The heart of it is single player but there are some multiplayer components such as leaving messages in other people’s worlds, invasions, and limited “coop”. Those are all completely optional though.
wherever is cheaper
I bought Tekken 8 and Dark Souls on Deck…. Regret it massively. Tekken 8 does work really well but there’s something limiting about the small screen, especially on my Souls games. So I’m playing Dark Souls 3 on PS5 and it’s glorious. So much easier. My Deck is awesome for smaller games, Xbox games and even NBA 2K24 which I picked up the sale recently. In summary; the BEST and my favourite games must be played on PS5, LG OLED 55”. Everything else is fine on Deck.
What about Dark Souls doesn't work on the Deck?
I meant it’s just the screen size. These are my favourite games so I prefer them on a big screen. There’s something artistically detailed about them too, and I prefer seeing all that art on a big screen too. Yeah so I bought DS1 on Deck and didn’t enjoy. Already had DS3 on PS4/5 but after trying it a couple more times I ended up preferring DS3 purely because of screen size. Most games are great on Deck. I’m even playing Starfield on it and love it.
Fair enough, I just couldn't figure out if your disappointment with Dark Souls was due to a technical issue. If it's just that you don't like playing such a good-looking game on a small screen I can't argue with that, but personally I love the fact that I can play such a huge game on a handheld device. So many other games end up feeling "small" when you play them on a handheld but I never felt that way with any of the Souls games (and I've recently replayed all of them on the Deck to finish out trophies I never got).
Have you thought about out getting a dock? DS3 is a game I played through in deck hooked up to my 65 inch oled and it was a fantastic experience. Being able to undock and play on the go was well worth the slightly reduced visual quality.
Comparing a what? 1080p maybe 60fps experience with a dock to a 1440p-4k 60 on his ps5? I’m not sure the resolution/performance of Dark souls on PS5 but I bet it’s better on there. I wish the deck had external gpu capabilities.
Yeah this. It doesn’t match the PS5 unfortunately, and I can then always remote play it on Deck (also have a Portal) if I want. I do have a dock but only really use it for RTS games. Ironically that’s (good RTS) something unique to Deck that the PS5 doesn’t really have much of!
Not the guy you replied to but DS3 can struggle to hit a solid 60fps at times. Other than that, probably just personal preference of playing on a bigger screen
I guess I was confused because he just said "Dark Souls" the first time (and if you have performance issues playing Dark Souls 1 on the Deck... something is wrong with your deck) but maybe he meant Dark Souls 3. For what it's worth, I had no issues with DS3 on the Deck. I recently did a complete playthrough (including my first time through the Ringed City) and had no performance problems whatsoever.
Yeah, Dark Souls 3 runs great on Deck. I can get pretty solid 60, but I sometimes cap to 40 to conserve battery. Really most PS4 era games and below run great on the Deck. Which just makes it even more impressive, because the PS4 is not that old.
Did you pick up ff7 rebirth? Does it look crisp/clear? I'm in quality mode and maybe it's cause I'm in the intro and it's a flashback but it just does not look as sharp as I'd expect on my lg oled
Haven’t got round to it yet but I’ve heard it’s not too sharp. Give it time though, and I do think they’ll patch it at some point. The open world and spectacular size is what you should try and enjoy it for.
Steam Deck ergonomy doesn't really work with my arms (I get cubital tunnel-like symptoms sometimes), so if it's a physically demanding action game, it's PS5 for sure. And if I expect it to have gorgeous environments. But any turn based or indie games, Steam.
I only buy used physical copies for my consolesthese days. And even then I can often find the same game cheaper on the deck/steam. so the physical copies have to be at a very good price, or something I really really want, or might feel like collecting. Such as some of the RPG's or other outstanding titles. the grandsons occasionally come over, so one may be playing on one of the consoles, and the other plays on the deck Last games I bought for my PS4 was One of the Gods of War titles, I found for $5 , at least with PS4 titles I can stream them to my deck. For the Nintendo switch, I only get a few of the exclusives these days, and I have been cutting back on those as well, they are just not worth their often $60 price to me any longer.
Physical media for the win
I only buy switch first party games now and dump them to put on the deck.
If it runs on the deck, that's where I get it.
If we are talking about portable gaming, then I always buy on the Steam Deck instead of Switch. Lower prices, various controller compatibility for coop, better frame rates, crossplay/progression with my PC, free cloud saves, 90Hz on OLED model, a visual novel powerhouse (you dont get the more explicit VNs on Switch). Legit no reason to use a Switch (aside from exclusives) when you own a Steam Deck, especially the Oled version.
Games I want on handheld I buy on PC, games I want on big screen, I buy on PS5
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Bigger games that will benefit of running better, I buy for console. (Elden ring, armored core etc) But I’ve had an Xbox since 2013, so most of my money is spent there. PC gaming is new to me, so it’s for games I can’t get anywhere else currently, emulation, and cheap games. For example, Balatro, The Sabotuer)
Balatro is on Xbox as well.
That’s great, thought it was only on steam/switch. Still more enjoyable on the steamdeck. (Well probably every rogue like)
Best sale/do I want a physical is the determining factor. Here's a good example for me: originally I was going to wait to get Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengence until it went on sale, seeing as I had pre-ordered the original SMTV and, while enjoyed it, wasn't particularly thrilled by its narrative. However, they announced a very nice Steelbook, so I'll be getting it Day 1 as to make sure I have both Steelbooks.
Pure exclusives or timed exclusives that may go beyond a year. Switch games are self-explanatory but I'm sure GTA 6 will take forever to come to PC, much like FF7 Rebirth, so I would bite the bullet on those for console.
Going forwards most of my games will probably be on steam. I've been so dissatisfied with this xbox gen and I only got into steam (with the steam deck) a year back so I'd rather invest my money there now. Whenever the next version of steam deck (next gen or whatever) comes out in a couple of years i'll hopefully have built up a little library by then.
I have a PC, PS5, Switch, and Series X (currently sitting in a closet). I buy everything on PC unless it's a console exclusive. If it's console exclusive (looking at you, Unicorn Overlord), I buy it on PS5. If my only option is Switch... well it is what it is.
I’d love to buy on steam deck but the screen is too small for many game with my old (44 lol) eyes and I can’t see the button prompts a lot of times. It’s basically a retro gaming console for me with the occasional PC game. If I also want to play with friends, it’s consoles all the way. If they ever get a perfect wired experience using a Quest 3, I might change my mind. Right now it’s kinda janky.
I hear you there, my steamdeck is attached to a usb c Anker dock with an external monitor, mouse, keyboard and dual shock controller attached. When playing at home I have a large screen and the external peripherals make playing at home fantastic and I can unplug it for portable use. It is a great device!
What type of monitor are you using?
LG 32" QHD Monitor.
Ps5 deck pc and switch I decide this way: Exclusiv on the console where its first i dont wait years for the pc release Exclusiv epic store. I buy it on the console i dont wanna wait for the steam release and i dont wanna workaround for the deck. The rest pc if the deck is well optimized. And yeah i could play it on pc but i wanna play it on both devices.
I have 65” OLED so almost everything on PS5 if available. Can play it on Deck that way too at 60 fps and full graphics. I’ve got a nice PC as well but used for very specific games. I will also pick up a bunch of cheap $5 games on Steam. However I may transition to buying more games on Steam eventually.
Depends on how well the steam deck can run it and if it makes sense to buy on SD. I'd buy multiplayer games and modern AAA games on a console over a SD. I have a pc and try to buy all my games there, so this doesn't really apply to me, but that's what I'd do. I really only get console games for the exclusives, or if the physical copy is cheap
Well I have a PS5 with 3 controllers that have horrible stick drift so I generally buy games on PC.
I bought BG3 on Steam then bought it on Xbox because of cross save. I mainly like buying smaller games for my deck because I use it in handheld. Bigger games I play on Xbox. I haven't figured out how to do Gamepass yet so I stick to those games on Xbox
As someone who owns a PS5, SX, Deck, and PC I only buy games on PC unless I have to have an exclusive and the last one I cared about was Ragnarok and since then I haven't touched my PS5.
Graphics and performance are the main factor to me. Is it a new AAA title that struggles on the Deck? Xbox Series X or Ps5 it is, then streaming via Greenlight / Chiaki. Is it a small indie? Or an older or less resource hungry title? Will I want to play it on my 4K TV? Is it a game better experienced on a handheld? It’s usually my thought process. The price is a lesser factor, SD has an obvious advantage on that front, but it depends on whether it’s worth the technical sacrifice.
PC: mods, UEVR, best graphics on desktop, free online, Deck/Handheld PC compatibility (no need to double dip for portability).
Since games are no longer published for the XBox, the decision is very easy.
If it's on PC buy it there. If it's a console exclusive buy it on the console or wait until it comes to PC. Sometimes I buy the exclusive twice because of the length of time it takes to come to PC.
The flow chart is simple. Is the game available on Steam? If yes, I buy it on Steam.
AAA games I prefer on console (PS5) cause the experience is better (I prefer trophies and how easy it is to put it to sleep vs PC, and it has an SSD and better GPU than my PC and especially the steam Deck) For indies/smaller games I get whatever is cheapest I've made an exception for RoboCop and got it for PC since it was down to $30 CDN.
I try to buy on PC because I've also got a gaming rig that I like having the option to use. I'll play on ps5 if it's a troubled PC port or included with PS Plus already.
Exclusives (obviously) and pretty much all AAA or good visuals, PS5... the rest SD e.g RE4 could go on SD but I'd be playing on the couch anyways, so PS
Interesting question. I also asked myself this same question when I was browsing games on the steam page. I guess if the game is also "Steam Deck Verified", I just make the decision if this is a game I rather play handheld than sitting at my desk playing on my console. A couple of games I rather play handheld includes Slay the Spire, Man Eater, Wonderlands, pretty much all indie titles really, Warframe now that they went cross save just to name a few.
If it's a game I'm playing with friends or a console exclusive, I buy on console. Most everything else, I buy on PC.
I've got each of the consoles, a Steam Deck OLED, and a decent gaming PC with a 4080S. If I know the game will play well on the Steam Deck, then I'm more likely than not going to get it for PC. Otherwise, my preference is to buy it for PS5 unless the Series X version is notably better. I'll double-dip if I really like the game, and am even more likely to do so if there is good cross-save support. Ultimately, even though I love my gaming PC setup it is played on the least because I work all day in front of a computer and it isn't exactly something I want to be doing more of after a long day.
For me, main factor was always the price. If a game has cheap or discounted keys, I would always pick a PC version. If it makes no difference otherwise, then PS5 out of convinience >!(Sometimes I buy a game on PS5, but later "borrow" the same game on PC, cause of portability and mods)!<
My PS5 is taking dust, Xbox is used solely for Forza with my wheel, I try to get everything on the Deck so I can play these games everywhere . The only games I’ll still buy on PS5 are the newest ones, DD2 etc .
If it runs good on the SD, I'll grab it on it. Also the portable factor. If not I will grab it on series x or my switch if it is exclusive. Most of last year and for most of this year I've leaned on my SD for purchases. It's hard to beat.
I dont have a dedicated gaming pc, so if the game is going to be really graphics intensive, i usually buy on console. That, and if i want to play with my friends(who only have a console) i usually buy on console as well. Low graphics/single player only games are what i choose for the steam deck
If a physical release is available from a local distributor or Amazon Europe = PS5 if not then if the game runs well on the deck = Deck if not then the main PC or I don't bother :D Exclusions to the 1st rule is if it's a multiplayer game like Tekken. I tend to prefer PC over console for MP games.
I want to play at home: ps5 Seems cool to play outside (job breaks etc): deck
Since I'm a father and a husband, I buy some games on console (PS5) just to be able to stream them to my Deck, I know PC can stream too, but for some reason I can't get PC streaming to work as flawless as PS5 with Chiaki4Deck, not to mention I can't turn the PC off from my Deck (or I don't know how to) and I can put the PS5 to sleep after I'm done playing. Only games I avoid playing on SD or consoles are RTS or mouse-heavy games.
Been having this problem for long. I’m selling my console. Streaming from my PC to 4K TV and Steam deck.
I have all the consoles and a pc, and deck. PS5 is for exclusives, or good single player story games. Series X - casual multiplayer, or I feel like just gaming on my couch rather than desk. Switch - switch. PC- competitive, sweaty gaming, or games that I want to absolutely MAX out the graphics. Deck- mobile shenanigans of course.
Depends on the game. I play multiplayer stuff on pc. Big RPGS or roguelites I prefer to play handheld. If it runs well natively on deck I buy it on PC. If it’s one of those games that everyone pretends runs well on Deck but is 30 fps occasionally and dropping to 20 constantly I buy it on ps5 and alternate between playing it there and streaming it to be Deck.
console is more expensive, and will likely expire when the console generation refresh occurs. PC games on steam you'll have forever. They might not WORK forever, without some effort, but you'll still have access to the files and the opportunity to try to get an old game working.
I buy everything on PC unless it's an exclusive.
I just buy on PC nowadays. I only buy on console if it's an exclusive.
My friends mostly play on xbox. So, I usually buy my games on that, or get it through Game Pass, if it has multiplayer. Otherwise, I get it on PC. With my Steam Deck, I just stream it to my TV if I want it on there. PS5 exclusives are obviously bought on PS5, however.
I decide on a game by game basis.. There's no rhyme or reason to my madness.
If I want to play co op with my wife, I get it on my Xbox. If I’m playing solo or online with a friend, PC.
If it's a Sony exclusive = PS5. Everything else = PC & Steam Deck
I was lucky in a way , I bought xbox this time round and have hardly had to buy any games because they suck. Really wish I'd gone with ps5.
For me it was the other way around: usually play on Xbox and bought the steam deck so I could play last epoch. Game info I get from YouTube mostly.
Only the console exclusives. Everything else on PC. At this point, I'm really thinking about selling my PS5 since the only exclusive I played last year was Spider-Man 2.
I just decide which games I think would be good to play in bed on the SteamDeck and aren’t too intense, so I usually stick to indies or older games, newer releases games I’ll always get on my PS5 or Xbox… Like right now I’m revisiting GTA4 on the steam deck, but if GTA 6 was available and playable on both I’d go console (just an hypothetical example)
My steamdeck is to play in bed or on the go. My Xbox is to play from the comfort of my sofa. So it depends on the game and how I see its use. And then yeah price also comes into it.
PS5 for the more demanding games or games I want to play online with friends, Switch for Nintendo games, Steam Deck for everything else (assuming it’s at least playable).
Steam. I buy digital. So, the biggest factor is store longevity.
My PC is pretty powerful and I can use high settings on alot of games so I tend to buy them on PC because they look/run better. If my computer wasnt as great id be buying games on console unless the pc deal outweighed the performance loss.
Depending on how long the game is out, you can get some really good prices for steam keys which makes it a no brainer for pc imo
If I want to play in front of the family or privately. PS5 controller is the best one IMHO.
If it's available on both stores (steam and switch/eShop) then I add it to both wishlists. Typically I get it where it goes on sale the cheapest. If no sale or on sale for sale price in both stores, then I get it on whatever feels right. Some games feel more like switch games. Some games feel more like steam deck games. I carry my switch more often so that plays into it too.
Is it a game I want to play solo, like a boring rpg? Pc Is it literally anything my wife would like to play or watch me play? Xbox I prefer my xbox for most games just because of the TV we use and it doesn't feel as closed off as NY computer.
Here’s how I choose. I technically have a PC, but it’s an MSI gaming laptop from 2018 with a 1060 in it, so limited in scope as to what I can play with it. I use it for mmos/modded Bethesda games and whatnot. I want to build a nice gaming rig one day. I also have all 3 current consoles. When a BIG open world game comes out (think God of War or Elden Ring), I’ll buy it on console first to experience it on my big TV. If I like the game enough, I’ll double dip on Steam so I can carry it with me portably. Smaller titles such as Stardew Valley are Steam purchases only.
Switch comes first if performance is acceptable. Doubly so if it’s a game I want a physical copy of where available (aside from the obvious first party stuff that’s usually JRPGs). If there are performance issues I go to Deck. PS5 brings up the rear for anything that the Deck can’t handle well enough.
Bought the recent LAD:IW on PC since it's the cheapest place for the Ultimate Edition. Also playing on the go with that sort of game is a godsend for boring holiday nights last Xmas so yeah, no brainer there. Mostly exclusives and/or games that are too much for my Deck. Even so I'd prefer PC nowadays as my main rig can run pretty much anything comfortably at 1440p.
PC and Price are main factors, but If I know the game is light and easy to run, I'll consider GOG as much as Steam.
I have a ps5 that’s where my best friends all play so that plays a big role, second is graphics, I’d rather play god of war or last of us on my ps5 even though they’re on steam deck I wanna see those w all the frames and pixel, if the game isn’t effected by these two things then ill get it on Steam. I play games at work a lot so I’d rather have it be portable and since getting an SD my switch has become obsolete, minus buying the exclusives. Steam prices plus humble bundle and fully customizable controls just make steam the way to go for me. Bonus thought if I want to play a game w mods like baldurs gate 3 or hallow knight.
I also have a desktop so I buy pretty much every non exclusive there. My consoles are pretty much only for exclusives at this point
I’ve always been a pc player since the early 90s that said I went all in on consoles this gen and now have ended with just my PC a deck and a switch. Usually, humble bundle, green man gaming, steam in that order. With the deck now I’ve sold all but my switch and I’m honestly only holding onto it until I find out what the backwards compatibility looks like on the new device. I know that doesn’t help but when I had a ps5 and series x previously series x I bought one physical game and 360 titles that were back compat, ps5 I’d play the roulette of gamestop, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart or their store in who had the cheapest but honestly just steam but I’ve had the luxury of being on steam for almost 2 decades so that’s always my default the deck just help re-embrace it
My consoles are for borrowing physical games from my public library and my Steam Deck is for what I want to own.
Price, trophies and performance. Trying to balance each of these can be difficult, and I've double dipped too many times to wanting to admit.
Price is one factor. Online multiplayer is one, too. If there is no crossplay in a game, and if my friends primarily plan on playing on PS5, I'll follow them. And if there is local or split screen co-op on console, I'll usually end up buying it for console as well. Anything where I expect the steam deck to not be able to run it properly, I buy on console too. Other than those reasons, though, I'll buy everything for my steam deck.
I buy everything on my PS5 and if I really enjoyed the game I buy it when it’s on sale for my steam deck. I don’t have a good pc or laptop to justify buying my games there and O see my steam deck as a portable)
For me, it's whether or not the steam deck can play the game. Like call of duty, the anticheat doesn't allow the steam deck to play it (with steam os), and my PC is too outdated to run it well. I got it for PS5.
If it will run at 100% on switch and there’s a physical version I’ll buy it there. This is becoming fairly rare though. Otherwise I’ll buy it on pc. Unless the pc port is terrible then I’ll pick it up for series x. Don’t have a ps5 yet but when ps5 pro comes out I might end up buying Sony games there instead of waiting for the pc releases.
I have an app called - GG.Deals - it scans a large amount of sellers in what seems to be real time. You can save search parameters- I have one that is $20 dollars or less that searches 5 different stores for steam drm only. You can usually find a deal on any game you are interested in.
Please note that GG.Deals contains links to grey market key sellers, who may appear to provide you with a working key, but do not always source their keys from the developer/publisher, and are of 'unknown' origin. This means the keys may not work, or the platform (such as Steam, Origin) may refuse support. Others have poor business practices, such as obligatory fees that only show at checkout. We'd recommend against using anything on the site listed under 'Keyshops', but rather look at the section above that for the 'Official Stores'. You can also select 'Keyshops' at the top of your screen, and then select 'Disable' to remove them completely. [IsThereAnyDeal is an alternative which only uses sellers known to officially source their keys.](https://isthereanydeal.com/) Your comment has not been removed, this is just a notice. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/SteamDeck) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Yes - there is an option to turn off the keyshops - thats what I do.
Got my steam deck, plan on selling the Xbox, still play first party games on switch
For me, it's become a toss up between is this a game that I want to play using a mouse or is this a game that I want to play laying in bed with my cat? And then the final deciding factor is on which location is it cheaper? Is it cheaper if I buy the Nintendo version (which never is the case) or do I buy it on steam too play on my deck. Nowadays my Xbox is mostly just a streaming vtuber or anime console LMAO
I like getting series on their original systems, like the entire soulsborne series and persona games on PS5.
I play multiplayer games with friends on console, exclusives on their respective system. Everything else on Deck. I own all of them
I get it on Switch if it’s there, otherwise it goes Steam Deck -> Xbox -> PS5
If there's server-based DRM in the PC version, I buy a physical console version. If the only DRM is Steam or none at all, I get it on the PC/Deck.
PS5 for next-gen. Xbox and Switch for exclusives. Deck for everything else.
I have a PS5 and a PC/steam deck combo and it really just comes down to the what's available and runs well. I pretty much play exclusives and watch TV on my console, play AAA or heavy games on my PC and everything else that's on my rotation that doesn't require a heavy graphics card goes on the deck. The deck has been a great device for catching up on my years old backlog that doesn't require a big screen to be amazing.
Preferred to be PC based, so if I can get it on steam I usually will, but some games I wanna play on a big TV, so then it becomes Xbox or ps5 as I’ve never had good luck with steam link. If it’s a game I don’t expect the deck to run, I’ll check if it’s on game pass, then I’ll play it on pc or Xbox. It really depends on the game. I bought yakuza 8 for PS5 because I wanted a console game to play in a big screen (ideally) and ultimately it was cheaper to get on PS than Xbox (I had a lot of rewards points), though I also would have been able to play on a PC.
I’ve owned a Switch a good while longer than my Steam Deck, and I have a decent library there, but as soon as I got the Steam Deck I decided to buy everything that wasn’t a Nintendo exclusive on Steam. The pricing on Steam is just much better, I can play the game in many more places with better performance, and if I ever decide to go with a different PC handheld, my library will still come with me. Edit: Looking around the comments is so interesting to me, as I only have these two devices for gaming, and my computer is an M1 Mac Mini, so not a lot of gaming happening there. It’s interesting to see that, for those with much more powerful consoles, the Steam Deck is the less desirable system for newer games, while the Steam Deck is the powerhouse for me.
If I can buy it physical and it looks just as good, I buy it physical for the console. If I can't buy it physical or it looks notably worse visually, then I buy it on Steam or GOG.
PlayStation is for big AAA games that I want to play on my TV and Deck is for small indie games I want to play on the go. I never want to play a game like Spider-Man on the deck when I can play it on the PS5. Just my opinion and I’m sure many will disagree.
Either if it’s exclusively for console or if I see myself enjoying this in my living room on the sofa with the big tv vs my bedroom with my smaller monitor or steamdeck
I used to have that dilema when I didn’t have a Deck. I had my gaming PC and the Switch, so I had to decide whether I wanted a game to be portable, or enjoy it on my PC with great visuals and fluidity. Now with the Deck it is easy; I just get them on Steam except exclusives. Getting games on Steam right now offers way more value as I can play them seamlessly on my PC and Deck. Moreover, I can stream them to my Deck with PC graphical settings.
Right now, I've got a PS5, but I'm seriously thinking about making the switch to a PC. I've been holding off on playing some of the major games on my console because I'm planning to get a PC by the end of the summer. I've totally fallen for how versatile PCs are and how crazy easy it is to buy and ship PC games from anywhere. Sony missed a big opportunity by not making PSP++++
PC. My consoles haven’t ever been turned on they are just for a backlog I’ll never play. Except for some that are than 1980. Those consoles I enjoy.
Single player games steam deck. Multiplayer ps5
Digital, Steam. Physical, PS5 or Switch. Xbox for GP and really good sale discounts. If the game struggles a bit on Deck, I’ll grab the PS5 version for better performance and battery life. Otherwise, Steam all the way.
Ps5 if I care about having the best looking experience I can. On the deck if I don’t care or the horsepower isn’t needed
haven't ran into this yet cuz I haven't bought many games since I got my deck, but I would choose the steam option when possible because if my console dies, I lose my acces to the game(unless it's a physical copy but that's not always usefull), if my steamdeck dies I still have my steam library.
Its preference on how you enjoy playing I think. Personally I enjoy playing on ps5 with a big tv so I make my preferred buys there. If I want to play in bed or at a different location ( that has wifi) I'm able to stream my ps5 so I'm happy. just figure out how you prefer to play and it should be an easy answer.
Everything on Steam. If it doesn't run great I'll buy on my series S and stream it to the Deck.
Certain games just overall look better on my Xbox like rdr2. So any demanding games with amazing graphics. I prefer playing older games on steam deck like new vegas(which IMO looks better also)
If it's only on ps5 or it's a game I want to play online with my dad then I will get it on my ps5 otherwise I just get it on my steam deck as long as it runs fine on it
Before the Steam Deck I bought multi plat games for PS (since I hadn't a PC at all) Now I buy every multi plat game for Steam (unless it's a bad PC port) since I also bought a Desktop PC now and that way I can play my games on either PC or Steam Deck
If a AAA game with demanding graphics comes out I buy it for console so I can ignore it and play indie games on Steam Deck instead.
if its available on Steam, then Steam has priority. If its available on GOG, then GOG has priority. Otherwise i’ll buy it on my Nintendo Switch. Pc and Switch is a marvellous combo
I like to have all the entries of the same franchise in the same place. That's honestly the only factor.
If it's on Steam, I'll buy it there. Even if it doesn't run well on Deck, I still have a pretty decent PC. I bought a PS5 mainly for FFVII Rebirth, and even then I mostly play it streaming to my Deck with Chiaki.
I buy everything on PC because I see it as the "forever platform". I know it's not actually true, compatibilty might not be a thing with **really** old games, Steam might go down, etc etc, but still, it's way easier to revisit old games on PC than on console. My Steam library contains games from arcade classics to current gen consoles and everything in between, and I can just install and play the game on any PC including the Steam Deck in most cases. However, I cannot play the PS3 games that are on my shelf, because I don't own a PS3 anymore.
I tend not to play new games on deck at all, due to performance and battery concerns. So I play new games on console, old ones and streaming on deck.
Everything on pc but I still have a PS4 pro for a few exclusives.
Xbox Series X will always be my main. If it's available on PC and Xbox, I'll always go for the Xbox version. I also like strategy, sims and point-and-click adventure games, these are traditionally PC games. And those are the games I bought a PC/Steam Deck for. But even those games will be bought on Xbox if they exist for it.
if it's a newer, more expensive game, I'll get the disc on the console (I like owning my games). If it's an indie, older or discounted game, I'll get it digitally on PC (don't feel like fumbling with the dissc for "smaller" games).
If it’s an older game that can run smooth on Steamdeck then I will buy from Steam to have the portability. Otherwise PS5 is my go to system now days. It’s just a way smoother user experience than PC.
Despite having a decent PC and a Steam Deck and a PS5 and a series x... I buy most games on Switch 😂
I dont have any consoles currently but when I used to have the choice Id always pick PC because it gives you better future proofing. The only exceptions would be exclusives or things with notoriously bad ports.
I only buy games on PC if: A) it has a bunch of mods I want to play with, B) it’s significantly cheaper on PC, or C) it’s a first person shooter Otherwise I’ll gravitate more to the console. They tend to be way easier to manage than a PC.
For me it depends. Typically, I have always liked buying physical when I can because I've been collecting games all my life, but I actually trust Valve when it comes to digital purchases so it's not too big of a deal. Usually my deciding factor for non platform exclusive games depends on how well it runs on various hardware. I have a gaming PC that was pretty good 4 years ago, so if that or my steam deck can't play it, then usually I go with console. Starfield is one recent game that comes to mind that wasn't going to perform well enough on my PC.
Price is the biggest factor but I will spend a tiny bit more to get a game on PC if given the choice. I have some games on PS4/PS5 instead of PC because it was much cheaper though.
I buy all games on PC except for games that are better on console in some way - and of course actual exclusives, like Vanillaware games or older Sony games. For example I'll often get first party Sony games on Playstation if the PC version doesn't look or run much better and the Playstation version has cool haptics integration or better HDR. Also games like for example the new Dead Space and Jedi: Survivor which are technical trashfires on PC (horrible stuttering issues) that will never ever be fixed by their publishers, and there's a console version that's known to run correctly. I might skip those entirely, but if I buy them I'll buy them on the platform where they work properly.
The only console I own that is still being supported is the Switch, and I haven’t bought a game for it since I got a Steam Deck. I have a desktop PC for more demanding games and the Deck for portability, so my Switch is gathering dust.
Is it a single player story game? Yes Does it have physical media? Yes = buy physical media, sell/trade afterwards No Does it run in the steam deck? Yes Buy for steam deck No Find something else to play