Valve has added a framerate-distribution chart to Steamworks for games marked Steam Deck Verified. The chart summarizes anonymized frame-rate data from Steam Deck players who opted in, giving developers another view alongside average-framerate and player-feedback data. FPS means frames per second.
What the new chart adds
An average condenses performance into one number; a distribution shows how frame-rate observations fall across different levels. The new view complements Steamworks’ average-framerate and player-feedback charts, giving developers more context about how players experience a game.
Who can access the data
Developers of Steam Deck Verified games can find the chart in the Steamworks partner dashboard under Technical Tools > Steam Hardware Compatibility Review.
How to interpret low frame rates
Valve says the readings can reflect player-set frame limits, including lower limits chosen to save battery, as well as play on an external display. The sampled time also includes loading screens, where frame rates can fall sharply.
Valve points to substantial readings below 30 FPS alongside player reports of performance or stability problems as a possible reason to investigate a game’s optimization or default graphics settings. The Steam Deck LCD’s built-in display has a 60 FPS limit, while the OLED model’s limit is 90 FPS; an external display may have a higher refresh rate.
What the data could mean for players
Developers can use the chart to consider whether to investigate optimization or adjust default graphics settings. That gives them another source of information for decisions that may affect players.
Valve says it started with Steam Deck because its devices share the same hardware configuration, making the data easier to interpret and providing a starting point for further iteration.
