Big Walk Earns Steam Deck Verified Badge Two Weeks Before Launch

Big Walk earned the Steam Deck Verified badge two weeks before its launch, which matters because the designation guarantees a functional controller layout and readable text out of the box. Buyers who rely on handhelds for console-style experiences can now trust the game to run without manual tweaking or interface adjustments. This status removes a major friction point for players who want to jump straight into the action.

Annapurna Interactive title meets controller and text standards

Annapurna Interactive developed the title, and the studio is best known for creating Untitled Goose Game. The release date is set for August 4th, giving players a short window to prepare their libraries. The game joins a growing list of titles that meet Valve's specific compatibility standards for the handheld PC.

The Verified badge requires developers to implement good default controller configuration, ensure text remains legible on the small screen, and use correct controller icons throughout the menu system. These technical requirements ensure that the user interface adapts properly to the Steam Deck's hardware constraints. The game meets these criteria, which signals that the developers prioritized the handheld experience during the final stages of development.

Valve has recently faced criticism for inconsistent rating practices, with errors affecting titles like Halo: Campaign Evolved and Disgaea Mayhem. This inconsistency means the Verified badge is not always a perfect guarantee of performance, but it remains the best available indicator for compatibility. Players should still expect a solid experience, even if the author acknowledges that past rating errors have created some skepticism around the system.

We looked at the last Big Walk update earlier while tracking these compatibility themes, as the balance and stability discussions often precede the final verification. The confirmed Verified status provides a concrete baseline for what to expect when the game launches. Players can now download the title with confidence that the core interface requirements are met.

Source: SteamDeckHQ