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Finding lost storage: troubleshooting non steam files

Gamer's Storage Struggles | 30GB of Mystery Content

By

Emma Turner

May 2, 2025, 12:20 AM

Edited By

Omar El-Sayed

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A person checking their computer storage settings to find hidden files
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A rising concern among Steam Deck users is the significant storage space consumed by non-Steam applications. As highlighted recently, a player reported struggling to locate approximately 30GB of unknown content stored on their device.

The Storage Dilemma

Many gamers have faced confusion over storage usage, especially after installing multiple applications in desktop mode. Some users suspect the issue stems from Proton prefixes and cache files rather than actual games, hinting at a common pain point.

"Once discovered, Filelight can show disk usage effectively," a user noted, emphasizing the importance of analyzing what takes up space.

Key Insights from Player Comments

  1. File Management Tools: Gamers recommend using tools like Filelight and Disk Usage Analyzer, aiding users in identifying storage hogs easily.

  2. Clean-Up Methods: Cleanup tips include removing old swap files, clearing download caches, and managing shader files.

  3. Regular Maintenance Needed: Keeping only essential applications can free up space and enhance performance, as many rogue files accumulate over time.

"Check the flatpak apps and uninstall the ones you donโ€™t need!" another player advised, sharing practical strategies.

While some users express frustration over the issues, others remain optimistic, believing that regular maintenance fixes the problem. The consensus is clear: tackling storage effectively is crucial for a seamless gaming experience.

Quick Tips for Cleaning Storage

  • ๐Ÿ—‘๏ธ Use Disk Usage Analyzer for a detailed breakdown.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Clear download cache in Steam settings regularly.

  • ๐Ÿงน Uninstall unused flatpak apps to save space.

  • โš™๏ธ Delete old Proton versions that are not in use.

As the debate surrounding storage issues continues, players agree on one thing: efficient storage management is essential for enjoying the gaming experience. How much space could you save by following these tips?