I connected both devices to my home network (200Mbps download over Wi-Fi). Steam Link's minimum requirements include a fast, reliable Wi-Fi connection, an Android device (at least until Steam Link hits the App Store), a mobile device-compatible controller, and, of course, a gaming system running Steam.įor testing the service, I used a Nexus 5X running Android 8.1, a Nvidia Shield Controller, and my Dell Inspiron 5675 desktop PC running the latest version of Windows 10.

(Opens in a new window) Read Our GameFly Review Keep in mind that Steam already offers its In-Home Streaming (Opens in a new window) solution for mirroring games from a gaming rig to less powerful devices in your home. The Steam Link app, on the other hand, is purely a software solution (though it does require an external controller and, of course, a mobile device) that casts Steam's Big Picture mode to your phone. Valve's Steam Link (still sold and supported by Valve) earned a 4-star rating and an Editors' Choice in our review. Back in 2015, Valve launched a set-top box with the same name that allows users to stream games to a TV. The name, Steam Link, should sound familiar.

That said, the app requires a separate controller, and the mobile form-factor does not accommodate games meant to be played on larger screens very well. In testing, Steam Link performed well, streaming Steam games to my phone without any issues. Valve is the latest company to take a shot at the concept, with its new Steam Link app. The dream of streaming graphically intensive video games to handheld devices has long existed in the gaming world, with projects such as OnLive, Nvidia's GameStream and GeForce Now, and more recently, the cross-platform Moonlight (based on Nvidia's technology) having varying levels of success.

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