Bluepoint Games dev thinks Steam Machine led to Sony porting fewer PS5 exclusive games to PC

Bluepoint Games Technical Director Peter Dalton has a theory about Sony’s rumored change in attitude toward PCs. He believes that the Steam Machine has influenced the decision to port fewer PS5 exclusive games. While the new Xbox console also lurks, Valve’s system hopes to introduce its massive library to a larger audience.

The Steam Machine's impact on the console war

Despite Sony shutting down his studio, Dalton continues to monitor events surrounding PlayStation. On social media, he explains that consoles “provide a cheaper, simpler alternative to gaming PCs.” Even so, the Steam Machine could be a more accessible and affordable alternative.

Valve has already optimized its Big Picture Mode for easier navigation on TVs. With minimal setup, the system will also ship with a new controller for couch-friendly gameplay. Dalton expects that the mini PC will entice buyers who previously didn’t embrace the company’s hardware or marketplace.

The Steam Machine will let more gamers experience PC versions of former PS5 exclusive games in living rooms. According to the Bluepoint Games dev, that’s likely a reason why PlayStation may no longer publish as many single-player titles on Steam. The recent Bloomberg report suggested that Marvel’s Wolverine and Ghost of Yōtei are two affected projects.

Can Valve really topple Sony and Microsoft?

If successful, Dalton envisions Valve unexpectedly “winning the console war”. Yet, readers have met his prediction with a healthy dose of skepticism. One concern is retail availability, since in many countries, the Steam Machine will only be sold on the manufacturer’s storefront. The Steam Deck is more popular than most handhelds, but still can’t match the sales of the Nintendo Switch or Switch 2.

Like with the original 2015 Steam box, gamers could see OEMs produce multiple configurations. That would boost retail exposure and give buyers options at various price points. Still, analysts argue that these variations confused consumers, contributing to the system’s demise.

Another obstacle is the lack of Linux compatibility with shooters, including Battlefield 6 and Valorant. Regardless, Dalton thinks that the new console challenger is enough of a threat for Sony to keep more PS5 exclusives on its own hardware.