In the realm of handheld gaming, a recent innovation has emerged, addressing a common woe among Steam Deck users. A Redditor, known as Destrike, has designed and 3D printed a holder for the Steam Deck, providing a solution for extended gaming sessions during long-haul flights.
Facing the challenge of maneuvering the not-so-light Steam Deck, especially in confined spaces like airplanes, users often grapple with hand cramps. Destrike’s solution involves a 3D printed accessory that seamlessly attaches to the tray table of an airplane. The holder allows users to slot in their Steam Deck securely, enabling hands-free gaming without the need to hold the device for prolonged periods.
Destrike showcased their creation on the Steam Deck subreddit, emphasizing its practicality during actual use on a flight. The design, marked as “version 3,” indicates an iterative process aimed at refinement. Destrike hinted at another forthcoming version incorporating a hinge/tilt system for improved viewing angles, showcasing a commitment to continuous enhancement.
While the design isn’t yet available for public download, the modular nature of the holder, comprising four pieces, hints at potential accessibility for users in the future. The use of PETG plastic in the design ensures compatibility with “most” economy plane tray tables, although extensive testing has been limited to Air Canada’s economy seats.
As users await the public release of Destrike’s design, the prospect of alleviating hand cramps during lengthy flights is tantalizing. The ingenious 3D printed solution presents a practical and user-friendly answer to the challenges posed by the Steam Deck’s weight and ergonomics in diverse environments.
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