Steam for Chromebooks: The Inevitable Shutdown
The announcement of the Steam for Chromebooks app ending in 2026 feels like a foregone conclusion. Despite its potential, the app struggled to deliver a satisfying experience due to hardware limitations inherent in most Chromebooks. "The big hurdle holding Chromebooks back from being viable gaming devices isn't the software." While the Proton compatibility layer offered some hope for running Windows games, performance was often lacking. With services like GeForce Now providing a broader game library, why bother with Steam? The limited compatibility list was a key factor in its downfall, especially for budget gamers. Ultimately, this decision underscores the ongoing struggle for Chromebooks to make a mark in the gaming world. While it's disappointing, perhaps it was simply time to move on. As Chromebooks excel in affordability, their gaming potential remains a distant dream. An end of an era, but perhaps a necessary one.