SteamTV Takes On Twitch!?

SteamTV is officially stepping into the live streaming arena as Valve launches steam.tv, aiming to capitalize on discontent around Twitch Prime changes. The video breaks down how Amazon’s Twitch Prime removal of ad-free viewing and a discount on pre-orders has frustrated many streamers and viewers, pushing attention toward alternative platforms. Valve’s SteamTV is introduced during Valve’s Dota 2 International broadcast, highlighting features like chat rooms for friends, markers for in-game events, and live DVR for rewinding streams, which are elements that address some of Twitch’s perceived limitations. Alongside SteamTV, Valve unveils an updated Steam Play initiative that enables easier and smoother Windows-game play on Linux via a tailored version of the Wine compatibility layer called Proton, currently in beta and tested with titles like Doom and NieR: Automata. The discussion then shifts to hardware and software performance topics, including NVIDIA’s new RTX GPUs, ray tracing capabilities, and Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS), with a cautioned note about jumping to conclusions before drivers and games are optimized. The host uses a light, humorous delivery while weaving in quick tech bits; sponsorship by Volta is noted, followed by a rapid sequence of short technology news bites ranging from fast charging accessories to VR headsets, to the ongoing discussion about streaming platforms and gamer hardware. The segment closes with a nod to Gabe Newell and a playful bit on Half-Life, before encouraging viewers to like, subscribe, and engage with the channel. Overall, the video positions SteamTV as a viable competitor to Twitch by emphasizing platform features, Linux gaming accessibility, and a broader hardware conversation, while maintaining TechLinked’s characteristic humor and quick-paced format.

Topics · technology · gaming · streaming · hardware · linux · news