Whether you're on Linux or Windows, it's become impossible to ignore Valve's SteamOS in the gaming space in the last few years, but in order to make the Arch-based Linux experience work well enough for most users, Valve had to come up with a way to tell PC gamers which games could run on its hardware. Thus, the Steam Deck Verified program was born, giving users that information right on the game's Steam Store page, so they would know if they could run it before purchasing it. However, the Deck Verified program had some strict requirements. According to Lawrence Yang, a Valve designer, in a new interview with Game Developer, the Steam Machine Verified program will be less strict. Yang goes on to explain that, as a general rule of thumb, games that are already verified on the Steam Deck would also receive Steam Machine verification. Part of this comes down to the technical capabilities of the Steam Machine, which is slated to be significantly more powerful than Valve's gaming handheld.

It's unclear which of the requirements might be adjusted, but it's easy to imagine the 800p or 720p default resolution requirement might be ditched. Valve's other compatibility requirements are all related to its Proton compatibility layer and controller compatibility, so it's unlikely those will change. Correctly summoning the on-screen keyboard at the correct time will also likely remain a requirement, especially if users are expected to use the Steam Machine as a living room console. Yang also touched on VR support for the Steam Frame, where developers can expect their games to also be thoroughly tested by Valve before earning Steam Frame verification. During the same interview, Valve engineer, Steve Cardinali, said that Valve's goal with all of its current and upcoming hardware products is that it "just works," explaining that this is also the reason why Valve designed the Controller Puck, which is effectively a wireless controller extender. The goal with this the Puck was to ensure universal compatibility with the Steam Controller and to reduce wireless interference that otherwise may cause problems for users when using Bluetooth connectivity.