A major Steam update and the discontinuation of Valve Index VR lead this week's PC gaming news.
This week’s PC gaming news is dominated by significant updates from Valve, as they continue to push forward with alterations to Steam and make changes to their VR strategy. Alongside these events, Epic Games stirs conversation with its new Epic Games Launcher, and Rockstar deals with labor controversies as the release of GTA 6 looms.
Steam’s Major Update and Valve Index Discontinuation
Valve has rolled out a comprehensive update to the Steam client that introduces several new features and improvements. As reported by GamingOnLinux, the update adds a Big Art Mode and screensaver feature, upgrades for the Steam Controller, as well as enhancements for Linux users. These adjustments demonstrate Valve’s continued investment in making Steam as versatile and user-friendly as possible.
Additionally, GamingOnLinux noted that Valve has announced the discontinuation of their Valve Index VR kit, offering discounts on remaining stock as they sunset this product line. This suggests a potential pivot in Valve’s VR strategy, although specifics about any successor or new VR plans remain undisclosed.
Epic Games Launches New, “Vibe Coded” Launcher
Epic Games has introduced a new version of its launcher aimed at further competing with Steam, dubbed as being “vibe coded.” According to RockPaperShotgun, the launcher is designed to be faster than its main competitor. This release comes shortly after Epic’s push for an “AI-first” production model, which has raised eyebrows in the gaming community.
Rockstar Faces Union Tribunal Amid GTA 6 Release
In other notable news, Rockstar Games is currently embroiled in an employment tribunal concerning allegations of union busting with the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB). RockPaperShotgun reports that these proceedings have been extended to November 18th, just before the highly anticipated release of GTA 6. This case highlights ongoing tensions within the industry regarding labor relations and workers’ rights.
Meanwhile, PCGamesN notes that Rockstar has expressed a commitment to releasing future games more quickly following the long development period of GTA 6, which has spanned eight years.
Additional Notes
- Dressmaker Update: The cozy indie game Dressmaker continues its surprise success with a new update featuring more skirts and materials according to PCGamesN. This builds on the game’s reputation as a beloved creative outlet for players.
- Tech Alumni Ventures: Microsoft’s new Xbox Labs initiative, highlighted by RockPaperShotgun, has raised questions about the continued role of AI in game remastering and remixing projects.
