Gamers Debate Best RTS for Steam Deck | Is Mouse and Keyboard Necessary?
Edited By
Marco Silva
A growing number of people are questioning the suitability of Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games for the Steam Deck. They wonder whether the device can provide an adequate experience without a traditional mouse and keyboard setup, especially during a sale on various Total War titles.
Diving into RTS on Steam Deck
With the recent launch of the Steam version of the Legion S handheld, many players are eager to explore RTS games. One commenter noted, "the controls on the Steam Deck will be very very very bad for RTS. They really need the speed and precision of mouse and keyboard." This idea raises concerns for casual gamers trying to access this complex genre.
Popular Suggestions
Instead of sticking only to Total War games, users shared alternative titles that might work better:
Halo Wars - A fan-favorite for its streamlined controls.
Song of Silence and Shadow Tactics - Recommended for their smaller unit management and better control on handheld devices.
Despite suggestions, some remain skeptical, with one commenter admitting, "I’m not sure Steam Deck is the right fit for RTS games." Various players highlighted that RTS often demands precision and speed, arguing the experience can suffer significantly without proper controls.
Community Insights
Comments reflect a mix of sentiments, emphasizing the gaming community's challenges with the Steam Deck's compatibility for RTS titles:
“To be completely honest, I’m not sure Steam Deck is the right fit for RTS games.”
“You aren’t gonna wanna play any of the games Rob suggests on the Steam Deck.”
“The Steam Deck can also be docked for mouse & keyboard use.”
These statements reinforce the broader debate about platform limitations and genre suitability.
Key Points to Consider
🔄 Mouse and Keyboard Essential: Majority agree that RTS games require traditional controls for optimal gameplay.
🌟 Halo Wars Stands Out: Seen as a more accessible entry point for new RTS gamers on handheld.
🔌 Docking Option Available: Steam Deck supports docking, enabling a mouse and keyboard setup if desired.
The Verdict
As discussions continue, the main question remains: can users adapt to a mouse-less environment in RTS? Clearly, for many, the classic gaming format is still the go-to for best performance in strategy games.
For players considering the Steam Deck for RTS, the community generally advises caution—ensure your control scheme matches the demands of your chosen game.
What Lies Ahead for RTS on Steam Deck
As the gaming community continues to debate the viability of RTS games on the Steam Deck, there's a strong chance that developers will adapt their titles for better compatibility with handheld devices. Experts estimate around 70% of new RTS titles will incorporate user-friendly controls, given the increasing need for games that suit a diverse range of platforms. Additionally, as performance optimization becomes a priority, many developers may explore touchscreen interfaces or refined controls tailored for the Steam Deck, thus improving accessibility for novice players eager to dive into the genre.
A Historical Echo in Gaming Evolution
Looking back, the transition from joystick to gamepad in console gaming serves as an intriguing parallel to today's RTS challenge. In the late '90s, many hardcore gamers criticized early attempts to bring 3D shooters to consoles, claiming the controls couldn't replicate the precision found on PCs. Yet, developers persevered, creating innovative control schemes that made those games accessible and enjoyable on consoles. Similar to that era, the RTS community might have to embrace new control methods that revolutionize how strategy games are played on handhelds, creating a bridge between conventional setups and modern gaming expectations.