Steam Gamers Can Now Access Valve’s Latest Game Recording Feature
Announced earlier this year, Valve’s latest addition to Steam, called Steam Game Recording, is now accessible for all games available on the platform. This innovative feature operates discreetly in the background, ensuring players capture every exciting moment without interruption. Users can find this functionality easily through a newly integrated button within the Steam Overlay.
Steam Game Recording comes with an array of customization options, allowing users to select their preferred recording duration and quality. Players can choose a background recording mode that automatically captures gameplay over a predetermined period, subsequently deleting the footage unless it is saved. Additionally, recordings can be manually controlled, with hotkeys available to start and stop when desired.
The recordings are conveniently saved in the cloud, enabling users to access them on any device where they’re logged into Steam. Furthermore, players can export their gameplay clips in MP4 format, send these recordings to different devices, or share them effortlessly through a QR code or a temporary link that can be viewed directly on Steam.
According to a blog post by Valve, this feature is presently exclusive to Windows users, with plans for macOS and Linux compatibility underway. To utilize Steam Game Recording without sacrificing performance, users will need an NVIDIA or AMD GPU. If these specifications aren’t met, the PC’s CPU will be utilized instead, possibly leading to a performance decline.
Beyond the core Steam Game Recording function, Valve has launched additional editing tools within the Steam client for users to enhance their captured footage. Players can crop and trim their clips, insert text or timestamps, and more when capturing screenshots or recording gameplay. The feature also includes tools for drawing and painting directly on images and video footage.
These editing tools can be found in the newly established “Recordings and Screenshots” section of the Steam library, where users are able to manage both their screenshots and recorded videos.
For games that support it, there’s an option for users to navigate through events, such as kills, and view a detailed timeline that indicates time spent in lobbies and menus. Valve has mentioned that many popular titles will support this feature.
Game developers have the opportunity to incorporate these tools using a newly created Steamworks SDK and API. Valve has stated that the SDK will be made available “soon,” but in the meantime, developers interested in this feature can apply for a beta program.
Since June, Valve has been running a beta test for Steam Game Recording, and the comprehensive features are now officially live on the Steam client.
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