[2022-09-10] DO NOT BUY Elden Ring on the STEAM DECK [R2I7v1zJZ3Q]

Daniel tested Elden Ring on a newly received Steam Deck and found the experience disappointing compared to playing on a gaming laptop.

The Steam Deck's wide form factor and controller layout present major ergonomic difficulties, making concurrent D-pad access and thumbstick movement hard while causing accidental inputs.

Gameplay performance suffers from frame rates hovering between 25 and 28 FPS at maximum settings, limited gains on lower settings, rapid battery consumption, hot exhaust air, and loud fan noise, leading Daniel to advise against playing Elden Ring on the device.

Purchase motivations and comparisons between playing Elden Ring portably versus on a high-end laptop with an Xbox controller.

Ergonomics, grip, and button layout drawbacks of the Steam Deck during active gameplay.

Drawbacks of connecting external peripherals and monitors to resolve Steam Deck control issues while maintaining portability.

In-game frame rate performance across maximum and low graphical settings.

Rapid battery drain and device ventilation heat.

Steam Deck thermal output and fan noise levels.

Recommendation regarding playing Elden Ring on the Steam Deck versus a console or PC.

Daniel acquired a new Steam Deck after waiting seven months and installed Elden Ring on it.

Daniel paused speaking to demonstrate the noise produced by the Steam Deck fan.

Whether the Steam Deck battery would last longer than 40 minutes under continued gameplay at the observed discharge rate.