NVIDIA has officially launched a native GeForce Now application for the Steam Deck, significantly enhancing the cloud gaming experience for users. This new app replaces the previous browser-based workaround, offering improved performance, better battery life, and seamless integration with the handheld’s controls, making high-fidelity PC gaming more accessible on the go.
A Seamless Cloud Gaming Experience
The release of the native GeForce Now app for Steam Deck marks a significant upgrade from the prior browser-based method. Users can now enjoy a more integrated and responsive experience, with full support for the Steam Deck’s controller, including its touchpads. This eliminates the need for on-screen keyboards and ensures that the interface functions seamlessly within the Steam Deck’s Game Mode.
- Enhanced Performance: The native app delivers near-flawless gameplay with crisp visuals, even for demanding AAA titles. Premium GeForce Now members can stream at up to 4K resolution and 60 FPS when docked to a TV, or 1440p at 120 FPS when connected to a monitor. Support for 90 FPS on the Steam Deck itself is also in the works.
- Improved Battery Life: One of the most notable benefits is the significant increase in battery life. Nvidia claims up to a 50% improvement compared to running games natively, with some users reporting up to eight hours of playtime on a Steam Deck OLED for demanding titles, effectively matching the battery life of playing less intensive games.
- RTX Features and HDR10: Ultimate and Performance tier members can leverage RTX features like ray tracing, path tracing, NVIDIA DLSS 4, and Reflex on supported games. HDR10 support is also available for premium members, both in handheld mode (on Steam Deck OLED) and when connected to an external display.
Expanding the Game Library and Accessibility
GeForce Now continues to expand its extensive library, adding new titles weekly. The service allows users to stream games they already own from various digital storefronts, including Steam, Epic Games Store, and Ubisoft Connect. Notably, Nvidia has also been steadily integrating Xbox Game Pass titles into the GeForce Now library, further broadening the available content.
This week’s additions to the GeForce Now library include:
- Nice Day for Fishing (New release on Steam, May 29)
- Cash Cleaner Simulator (Steam)
- Tokyo Xtreme Racer (Steam)
- The Last Spell (Steam)
- Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon (Steam)
- Torque Drift 2 (Epic Games Store)
Installation and Current Promotions
Installing the native GeForce Now app is straightforward:
- Switch to Desktop Mode on your Steam Deck.
- Navigate to the GeForce Now website and locate the Steam Deck download page.
- Download the application.
- Follow the on-screen installation instructions.
Nvidia is also running a GeForce Now summer sale until July 6th, offering 40% off six-month Performance tier memberships, providing an excellent opportunity for new users to experience the enhanced cloud gaming capabilities on their Steam Deck.
Via NVIDIA Blog
