Frame rate and optimization issues currently leave CS2 anything but playable on Steam Deck, but it appears that Valve is working quickly to fix things.
Anything can be suboptimal hardware, the Steam Deck is no different from any other computer and does not even have to be a handheld.
And I do not play or own a Steam Deck or alike, if that concerns you. Accept other peoples hardware and ways to play, it's a whole lot easier than whatever you're doing.
The thing could be a budget gaming PC for some people. Most people are not going to be competing super hard; they just want to play the game and have fun. Who else would be taking up the bronze and silver brackets?
Steam Deck is not limited to handheld, you can hook it up to a desk setup with USB -C. Also, I used to play CSGO handheld. I'm in the low silvers even on PC and it doesn't make a big difference to me skill wise. You can be really precise with trackpad + gyroscope.
Anyone else remember when "competitive shooter" also implied it could be run on a fucking potato with decent speeds? Or that competitive games aren't still meant to be played for fun by the vast majority of people who are gonna be playing?
It's not targeted exclusively towards professionals, is it?