Valve is finally replacing Big Picture mode on desktops with the Steam Deck UI
Time for a Steam-powered makeover.
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What you need to know
Valve is finally overhauling its Big Picture mode for Steam on desktops, originally designed to make interaction from your couch easier with a standard controller. Since the Steam Deck handheld console launched, efforts to simplify and improve the UI have been well received, but desktop users are craving the same treatment.
Officially in the beta testing stages, the updated UI can be accessed by anyone with a few simple steps. You can use almost any compatible controller or stick with the classic keyboard and mouse. Valve is asking its community for feedback, so if you want to try it, follow the simple steps below.
Opt into theSteam Client betaby navigating to theaccounttab in the Steam settings menu and selectingchangebeta participation. You’ll be asked to restart the app, but there’s one more thing to do before the Steam Deck UI appears, so exit Steam entirely instead.
Find your Steam launch shortcut in your Windows Start menu or create one on your desktop. You’ll need to add-gamepaduias a launch parameter, so right-click the shortcut and paste it at the end of the target field.
“C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\Steam.exe” -gamepadui
Hit OK and launch Steam from this shortcut. You’ll be greeted with a fullscreen version of the Steam Deck UI, but you can switch to windowed mode with the usualALT+Entershortcut on Windows. Now you can enjoy all the benefits of the overhauled Big Picture mode, including:
If you opt into this beta, head to theBig Picture forumsto give your honest feedback. A redesign has been long awaited for desktop users, especially those who primarily play from their couches with a controller. It should help streamline the Steam experience, whether you play with a Steam Deck using theofficial dockor from a desktop.
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Check out ourSteam Deck reviewfor a breakdown of why this UI is so popular. If you plan to use this experimental beta on desktops, share your thoughts and findings with like-minded PC gamers on our officialWindows Central Discordserver.
Ben is a Senior Editor at Windows Central, covering everything related to technology hardware and software. He regularly goes hands-on with the latest Windows laptops, components inside custom gaming desktops, and any accessory compatible with PC and Xbox. His lifelong obsession with dismantling gadgets to see how they work led him to pursue a career in tech-centric journalism after a decade of experience in electronics retail and tech support.
