Steam Deck Users Find Better Long-Term Windows APU Support with R.ID Drivers
While SteamOS remains the optimal operating system for Valve's Steam Deck, some users prefer a Windows dual-boot setup to access games with anti-cheat compatibility issues or those unavailable on Steam. However, Valve's lack of consistent Windows driver updates has been a source of frustration. Thankfully, a community-developed solution called R.ID (Radeon Indonesia) is gaining traction.
R.ID drivers offer updated support for the Steam Deck's APU, along with other hardware no longer officially supported by AMD. Although the installation process is more involved than AMD's official drivers, requiring Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) and command-line navigation, the results are promising.
Users report that R.ID drivers resolve compatibility issues with games like Alan Wake 2, Rainbow Six Siege, and For Honor, which exhibited problems or refused to run using Valve's outdated drivers. This solution provides a much-needed lifeline for Steam Deck users relying on Windows for their gaming needs.
The article highlights Valve's inconsistent track record with Windows support on Steam Deck, despite promises of native dual-boot functionality with SteamOS 3. R.ID drivers emerge as a beacon of hope, offering a way for Windows users to maintain relatively up-to-date APU drivers and enjoy a smoother gaming experience.