New text strings in a recent Steam client update suggest Valve is developing a framerate estimator tool. The feature would allow users to view estimated performance charts for games based on their hardware configurations and data from other Steam users. It builds on Valve's efforts to improve game compatibility information.
Steam client files from an April 3 update contain references to a “Framerate Estimator,” as noted by Ars Technica and SteamTracking. A JSON file in the store UI includes a subheader stating users can “Select an App and a PC config to get a chart of estimated framerates, based on the framerates of other Steam users.” The estimates would draw from user-selected CPU, GPU, and system RAM levels, along with the number of matching data entries for transparency. | | In February, Valve enabled Steam client beta users to share anonymized framerate data and hardware information to aid game compatibility. This follows the 2021 Deck Verified program, which ensures playable framerates on Valve's portable device, and last year's expansion to SteamOS compatibility labels on other Linux-based devices. Valve described the SteamOS label as “just the first step” and said it is “continuing to work on ways for people to have a better understanding of how games will run on their specific devices.” | | The tool could prove useful ahead of the delayed Steam Machine release and for custom PCs, offering more detailed insights than third-party sites like System Requirements Lab. However, details remain unclear on how it would handle varied in-game settings.