The issue comes down to how the device interacts with your computer. Just like the original version, the new Steam Controller has no native Windows drivers. This means the hardware relies entirely on the Steam app to function properly. If you do not have the game running via Valve’s storefront app, your shiny new gamepad turns into a useless piece of plastic.
Gamers Nexus also reported this and there are a lot of other news outlets also covering this. It is kinda the same as with the steam deck where I noticed that the inputs just don’t work until steam is launched. I really don’t like that I have to have Steam running for this controller to work. I don’t know if it is a dealbreaker for me, yet, but it really put a damper on my enthusiasm about it
Just to repeat myself:
Also: if you’re playing every game through steam this way they can track whichever game you play and how many games you’re playing that you bought from other platforms
I don’t know how much info they can get that you don’t choose to share, since you can name the executable and game whatever you want through Steam.
I don’t see it as a workaround as it’s my preferred way of playing non-Steam games anyway.
I’m pretty sure Steam doesn’t need to be connected to the internet to launch non Steam games. So your weird point about sharing game data with them is moot
Oh no… They can see what games you play?! Like they can do anyway… And every other launcher can… What a shocking development. Sarcasm
Yeah and if not from the launcher they get that info from infobrokers, unless you go the extra mile, nothing is private these days, esp not data on purchasing habits