Steam Introduces New Game Recording Features in Beta Testing

Valve is enhancing the gaming experience on Steam with the introduction of a new background gameplay recording and sharing feature, now available in beta. This update aims to provide gamers with console-like video recording capabilities directly within the Steam platform.

The new features include two recording modes, Background Recording and On-Demand Recording.

Background Recording automatically saves gameplay footage to a designated drive, allowing users to set specific duration and storage limits. On-demand recording gives players the flexibility to start and stop recording at their discretion.

To improve usability, Valve has introduced a timeline feature and the ability to add event markers, which helps players pinpoint significant moments in their gameplay. The system supports automatic marker generation for achievements, screenshots, and specific in-game events in supported titles.

Additionally, Valve has revamped the Recordings & Screenshots interface, providing “lightweight” tools for clipping and editing videos. A simplified sharing option allows players to post videos directly into chat sessions or to broader audiences with a single click. Videos can be shared across devices—from Steam Deck to PC, for instance—or sent as temporary MP4 links via the Steam Mobile App or a QR code.

A standout feature is the new Replay mode, accessible from the Steam Overlay, which lets players review their recent gameplay to analyze mistakes or revisit important game moments.

For developers, Valve offers a new SDK and API to integrate and enhance the recording features within their games.

Steam users interested in testing the beta can enable it by navigating to Settings > Interface > Beta Participation in their Steam client and selecting the Beta option. Game recording settings are adjustable via Settings > Game Recording.

Valve anticipates a public release following the beta phase, once all potential issues are resolved. This feature set represents a significant leap forward in making advanced gameplay recording accessible to the vast community of Steam gamers.