The Steam client has received a significant update, with the Big Picture Mode being the primary focus. A screensaver feature, previously in beta, is now available to the general public. By default, it displays artwork from recently played games and screenshots, with the option for users to add their own custom screensavers.
Valve has also introduced a "retro inspired bouncing logo screensaver." This feature, selectable from a new dropdown menu under Settings/Customization, causes the Steam logo to bounce around a black screen, changing color with each edge collision. This screensaver is not the default, a decision the author describes as fortunate, likening its potential to induce despair.
The design explicitly references the DVD Video logo screensaver popular in the late '90s and early '00s. This screensaver became a minor internet phenomenon, with its perceived psychological impact leading to viral discussions and even a Google logo animation that mimicked its bouncing behavior. The enduring fascination with this screensaver stems from a widespread desire for the logo to perfectly hit a corner of the screen, an event that rarely occurs.
The author strongly advises against using the new Steam logo screensaver, suggesting it could be psychologically damaging and warning that users may find it difficult to stop once engaged with, comparing it to the obsession previously generated by the DVD logo.
Beyond the screensaver, the update includes improvements to startup performance and the addition of Pyrowave, an experimental video codec for Remote Play aimed at enabling high bandwidth, low latency streaming. Linux users will also benefit from various tweaks and fixes. However, the emphasis remains on enhancing Big Picture Mode, a move that could benefit Steam Deck and Steam Machine users.
Detailed update notes can be found on the Steam store page.