If you play video games on your computer, then you definitely know aboutSteam. It’s one of the most popular distribution platforms for the artform (and, no, we’re not debating terms here). For the longest time, it’s really only been a world for Windows folk with Mac and Linux users getting access to fewer games. Those withChromebookshave lost out on the experience for years until only recently.
Steam Deck vs Asus ROG Ally: What’s the difference between the gaming handhelds?
Here’s how the two PC gaming handhelds hold up against each other.
So, how did Steam come about for ChromeOS, and how can you dive in?
Is Steam available for Chromebooks?
Yes. In 2022, during theGames Developer Summit, Google announced it would launch alpha access to Steam for ChromeOS.
It was a fairly closed program with only a select handful of models even being allowed to run the new software and a gauntlet of hurdles to get it up and running. Steam for ChromeOS advanced to the beta stage in November of that year, and it remains there as of this writing.
Since then, the initial installation process has been simplified and availability has widened out to pretty much any Chromebook that can meet some basic specification requirements. The rollout of ChromeOS version 119 has made starting up Steam the easiest it’s been to date.
Can your Chromebook run Steam?
Google maintainsan official device compatibility list, but it may be out of date as new capable Chromebooks launch from time to time. To be fair to the company, though, it does give out some loose recommendations for a minimum spec, and they are as such:
Spec requirements
If you’re in the market for a new Chromebook, it should be noted that these requirements are firmly met by any device in theChromebook Plusrange.
How to install Steam on your Chromebook
Easiest method
As we just said, the newest way is the easiest way, so let’s discuss that first.
That’s it! You’re able to open Steam right from when the installation completes and then, after a prerequisite software update (which you’ll need to be connected to the internet for), you’ll be able to log into your Steam account as on any other device.
Alternative (harder) method
If you didn’t find the Steam installer app from the get-go, no worries: you’ll still be able to run Steam if you have a compatible device, but you’ll also need to jump through a bunch of hoops to do so.
First, you’ll need to switch to a non-stable release channel for ChromeOS. You do that thusly:
Once you’ve switched channels, you’ll need to enable the Steam Installer by triggering feature flags in Chrome:
From this point on, you’re able to proceed by following the instructions we mentioned at the start of this section. Keep in mind that if you ever want or need to switch back to ChromeOS’s Stable release channel, your device will need to undergo a Powerwash.
If you’re curious, the simplified installation process is available to any compliant Chromebook running ChromeOS 119 or later.
Which games can you play on Steam for Chromebooks?
Google has issued some guidance as towhich gamesits developer team has tested and can guarantee an acceptable level of performance, but you’ll find many more games you’ll be able to install.
As a rule of thumb, most 2D titles will run fast and smooth and simpler 3D titles will do the same.
Supported games
A few notables include:
You might even be able to get away with some more intense titles if you’re able to cut down on particle effects and other advanced settings. Google has yet to embrace discrete GPUs in Chromebook designs, so you’ll need to keep that hard ceiling in mind as you manage your expectations. That said, I’ve personally been able to finagle Overwatch 2 into a somewhat playable state on an HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook, so who knows what untapped potential you might find?
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When will Steam officially release for Chromebooks?
Google has not committed to a timeline on when it will bring Steam for ChromeOS out of beta. Still, with Steam access now available from the Stable channel, we take it that we’re getting pretty close to a safe, workable, and thoroughly enjoyable product.
