Valve is spearheading an initiative to enable Windows games to run on Arm devices through its SteamOS platform. Leveraging Proton and Fex, Valve's compatibility layer and emulator, the company aims to break architectural barriers.
Compatibility Layer and Translation
Valve has funded the development of Proton, a derivative of Wine, used to ensure Windows games' compatibility on Linux. Proton translates Windows DirectX calls to Vulkan through DXVK and VKD3D and integrates features like cloud saves.
Fex, originally devised as an emulator, allows x86 code translation to Arm in real-time. This technology means lower performance overhead on Arm devices such as phones, laptops, and desktops by focusing emulation strictly on game-required code.
SteamOS on Arm Devices
The company reports that the Arm iteration of SteamOS retains its x86 components and structure, based on Arch Linux, for consistency across formats. This approach opens gaming to lighter, varied hardware, like handhelds and headsets.
The same methodology applies to Steam Frame, aimed at running Android games with tailored libraries and setup, diverging from a full Android API. This versatility supports Valve's ambition to widen gaming opportunities without architecture-specific game ports.
Expansion and Potential Products
Valve envisions expanding gaming to diverse form factors while minimizing the need for developers to port games across architectures. Though Valve hints at potential Steam phones, the current priority remains on living room, handheld, and desktop gaming experiences.
