Technology

Steam shown running on Nintendo Switch thanks to latest Proton Beta — FEX 2604 translates x86 to ARM-friendly instructions on Linux

Source

Tom's Hardware

Published

Apr 17, 2026

TL;DR

AI Generated

Valve's Proton 11.0-Beta1 release includes support for Arm Linux devices, enabling Steam to run on platforms like the Nintendo Switch. The new FEX 2604 translation technology allows for x86 Windows games to be compatible with Arm Linux devices. This move is seen as preparation for the Arm-powered Steam Frame gaming headset, which features high-end Arm mobile hardware. The update also brings new certified playable titles and bug fixes for existing Steam OS gamers, making Proton 11 accessible for users with devices like the Steam Deck.

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