If you’re an avid PC gamer, there is absolutely no doubt that you currently use Steam, or have done so in the past. Valve frequently releases relatively minor updates to their client that usually optimize a variety of unseen factors. These modifications may seem minor when taken at face value, but they stack, accumulating over time. However, the most recent update to Steam brings in a slew of more noticeable changes to the status quo, introducing a major facelift and browsing optimizations, among others. We will explore the changes in detail below.
User Interface
One of the most apparent changes is the upgraded user interface. Steam users that are tiring of Steam’s all too familiar design may find solace in Valve’s decision to overhaul the layout to be more in line with the client’s web pages and Big Picture mode (whose UI has also been refined to align with Valve’s overall aesthetic). Additionally, navigation and commonly used controls have been streamlined to provide better accessibility to users.
Web Browser
Long-time Steam users will be familiar with the service’s embedded web browser. Valve states that it has received a number of improvements. In general, web browsing within Steam will be noticeably more reliable, stable, and secure. Good news for users that prefer to consolidate browsing and playing into a single window.
Hiding Games In Steam Library
As requested by both users and developers, the long-awaited feature to hide games that are in “My Library” is now available. The option can be found in the “Set Categories” menu, and all games that user hides can only be found in the library’s “hidden” filter. In regards to the public’s reception of the feature, I’m sure gamers that have 50 hours logged into Day One: Garry’s Incident will be highly appreciative of it.
Miscellaneous
In Steam’s official changelog (which can be found here) describing the details of the update, there are a multitude of smaller, but certainly welcome, changes and additions. Here’s a sampling:
- In-game progress indicators for Steam Workship downloads now show the correct percentages
- Games can be assigned to more than one category at a time
- Mods and shortcuts display correctly in the server browser/friends interface
- The Linux version of the client has received a runtime update
As you can see, Valve has implemented a host of changes to their Steam client, focusing on appearance, stability, and accessibility to provide users with an enjoyable experience. Users are sure to appreciate most of the various additions, while potentially disliking some. The only way to truly tell is to open up Steam on your computer, let it update, and see for yourself!
Note: To receive the latest update, simply open up Steam on your computer and it will be automatically downloaded.
If you use Steam, what do you think of the update? Love it? Hate it? Don’t care? Let us know in the comments section below. As always, stay tuned to GamerHeadlines.com for the latest and greatest in gaming and technology news.
