Valve is expanding its rating system for games running SteamOS. What previously only applied to the Steam Deck will soon also apply to other devices like the Lenovo Legion Go S. But what exactly does "SteamOS Compatibility" mean? And how does it affect your purchasing decision? Find out here.
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What is SteamOS Compatibility?
The new SteamOS Compatibility rating is an extension of the familiar "Deck Verified" system you're probably familiar with from the Steam Deck. Now, this rating is also being applied to other devices running SteamOS—at launch, the only supported device is the Lenovo Legion Go S.
In short: You can see at a glance whether a game is compatible with SteamOS – regardless of the Steam Deck.
How does the evaluation work?
Valve uses existing data from the Deck Verified system to check whether a game, including middleware (e.g., anti-cheat, launcher functionality), runs on SteamOS. Performance is not evaluated, as that depends on the device in question.
There are two ratings:
- SteamOS Compatible: The game runs without any major issues.
- SteamOS Unsupported: There are limitations or it doesn't work.
The rating will appear directly in the Steam Store and in the client if you use a compatible device such as the Legion Go S.
What does this mean for you as a gamer?
If you're using a SteamOS device, like the Legion Go S, you can now get reliable information about game compatibility before you buy.
Benefits for you:
- No tedious search for reviews
- Fewer bad purchases
- Clarity about anti-cheat issues or launcher incompatibilities
This means you can decide more quickly whether a game will run on your system – ideal if you don't play on the Steam Deck but still rely on SteamOS.
Frequently asked questions about SteamOS compatibility
Which devices does the new rating apply to?
Currently only available for the Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS. However, other devices could follow in the future, provided they ship with SteamOS.
Do I have to do anything as a developer?
No. The rating is automatically derived from the Deck Verified results. New games receive both ratings simultaneously.
Where can I see the rating?
In the Steam Store and Library – but only if you use a SteamOS device that is not a Steam Deck.
When does it start?
Valve will roll out the feature in the coming weeks. Once your device is supported, you'll automatically see the new icons and notifications.
Can a game be rated lower on SteamOS than on the Steam Deck?
No. The SteamOS Compatibility rating is always equal to or better than the Deck Verified rating.
Conclusion: A step towards more transparency
With SteamOS Compatibility, Valve is taking an important step: You get clear information about game compatibility on alternative hardware – without any trial and error. This is especially exciting for devices like the Legion Go S, which aren't the Steam Deck but run SteamOS.
What do you think? Does this new rating make SteamOS a more attractive platform for you? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
If you want to learn more about handheld gaming on Linux, check out our posts on Heroic Games Launcher or Decky Loader plugins !
Source: Further information about the official announcement can be found directly on Steam in the official news from Valve .