Valve replaces Steam Deck video after advertising Nintendo Switch emulator

Over the weekend, Valve uploaded a new video to its YouTube channel to showcase some recent software improvements for the Steam Deck. Viewers were quick to notice that in one portion of the video, Nintendo Switch emulator ‘Yuzu' can be seen as part of the Steam library. 

It is no secret that the Steam Deck doubles as an excellent emulation machine. People have been using Yuzu on the Deck since it launched, and titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and newer games like Metroid Dread already run very well on the Deck through the emulator. However, advertising Yuzu compatibility is a big no-no, especially for a company as litigious as Nintendo.

Update: Valve has removed the original video and re-uploaded a new one with a small differencehttps://t.co/WAmpVx4tYV pic.twitter.com/0jPYeXnXl2

— Nibel (@Nibellion) October 7, 2022

The Yuzu image shown in the video was first spotted by Nibel and quickly, this subject became a trending story over the weekend. At some point over the weekend, Valve replaced the video with a new one, removing the Yuzu icon.

Nintendo is very well versed with YouTube's copyright system, and often looks to issue takedown notices against videos showing off emulators like Yuzu. With that in mind, the video could have potentially led to unwanted attention from Nintendo's lawyers. Beyond that, Valve has connections to Nintendo and at one point, was planning a Half-Life spin-off for the Switch and PC. While that game never came to fruition, Valve likely does want to keep its relationship with Nintendo intact.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: In case you didn't know already, yes, the Steam Deck is a pretty good machine for emulators, but that isn't something Valve can really advertise. 

Become a Patron!