Updating Emulators

Since the EmuDeck handles the update process automatically, it is pretty simple. When you launch the app from the Steam Deck desktop, the EmuDeck starts checking, downloading, and installing the updates automatically.

It will reset some configurations, but the entire process will not involve a manual check for updates.

How to Use the Steam Deck as a Game Emulator

Emulation in gaming has been a fairly easy method to enjoy your classic favorites on contemporary devices. Valve’s Steam Deck proves to be the perfect example as it converts into an economical handheld PC decked out with multiple control options while you are on the move. Furthermore, Valve’s Steam Deck stands out as a perfect confluence of handheld gaming devices, with a sterling price-to-performance ratio, smooth integration with the huge Steam game library, and upgraded accessibility. However, the process of emulating games on the Steam Deck is not as concise as on Windows. We will help you overcome the challenges to ensure you can enjoy your favorites on SteamOS.

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How To Use Steam Deck Emulation Properly

Before we present the steps of using the Steam Deck properly, we recommend you connect an external mouse and keyboard. While the Deck comes with a built-in mouse and keyboard, it can create a hassle....

Choosing an Emulation Stack: EmuDeck vs RetroDeck vs Batocera vs Emulation Station

There are a lot of viable options available when you are considering game emulation on SteamDeck. However, this depends on factors like the console it supports, or if you prefer to manually install ROMs or ISO files, etc. You may opt for any packaged options and choose to install emulators individually on the desktop if you want as each emulator has different characteristics....

EmuDeck

The EmuDeck offers a higher level of integration with the Steam Deck handheld mode compared to the other available options. However, a noteworthy point is that installing this on the Steam Deck will need certain security permissions for it to work properly....

RetroDeck

The RetroDeck uses Linux utilities to make the installation and management process simpler, thus making it specifically for the Steam Deck. Furthermore, it takes into consideration a selection of built-in standalone emulators, which leaves no need for an extensive configuration....

Batocera

Demanding a distinct boot process, Bactocera is an independent Linux OS specially made for emulation. It ensures that your SteamOS is preserved and free from emulation clutters. Batocera was originally made for dedicated platforms such as the Raspberry Pi, serving as a strong choice for people looking for a self-contained emulation boot for their Steam Deck....

Performance tweaks with CryoUtilities and PowerTools

While the Steam Deck’s performance is really good, it still has certain flaws. However, the users have found plenty of solutions. Among these solutions, the ones that work the best are third-party options named CryoUtilities and PowerTools applications. Furthermore, the EmuDeck installer also facilitates the installation of these tools....

CryoUtilities

An amazing performance-enhancing tool to improve storage issues and system performance. As its primary function, it modifies the “Swap File” on Linux which is a space on Steam Deck only for RAM overload. Although a few games might not utilize the hardware properly, CryoUtilities addresses this concern to provide a better performance....

PowerTools

If you need an enriched control over the power consumption and GPU settings of your Steam Deck, the PowerTools plugin is for you. If you engage in game emulation or playing Steam titles that are not officially supported on the Steam Deck, you will find this pretty useful....

Where to Buy a Steam Deck?

Steam Deck – Direct from Valve’s website (best price)....

Emulation in Gaming Mode

You will find an option to include Steam ROM Manager in the EmuDeck installer. After installation, follow these steps to get emulated games in your SteamOS Handheld mode:...

Updating Emulators

Since the EmuDeck handles the update process automatically, it is pretty simple. When you launch the app from the Steam Deck desktop, the EmuDeck starts checking, downloading, and installing the updates automatically....

Configuring Touch Controls

Steam Deck controls touch controls can vary depending on the emulator and how the games are run, and so does the process. Please note that these steps need to be completed in this exact order for it to work....

Configuring Gyro and Touch Controls

These steps are meant for Nintendo consoles including the #3DS, Switch, and Wii U games. The Steam Deck will let you maintain the gyro and touch controls preferred by Switch owners. Also you will need to install SteamDeckGyruDSU in EmuDeck as well as your sudo admin password....

Configure Gyro on Steam Deck

Step 1: Find the game you want to configure gyro controls for...

How to Install ROMS

If you installed on MicroSD, this is the directory:...

Finding and Installing BIOS Files

You will not need to install the BIOS in all game systems due to inbuilt emulators. But, BIOS are copyrighted, and some of the emulators might not contain them. On the other hand, some of them come with a modified BIOS that does not have a copyrighted code....

Finding BIOS

The missing BIOS files contain copyrighted code which makes it tough to find a safe copy as sharing them will be illegal. But, you can find BIOS lists online in emulator communities of Reddit/Discord and take help of the users....

Installing BIOS

If you installed EmuDeck on a microSD card, the bios directory is:...

How to Install EmuDeck

All you need to install the EmuDeck in your Steam Deck is a stable internet connection....

Setting up EmuDeck

You will find a wide range of built-in emulators in your EmuDeck, hence, there is no need to install anymore, unless you need specific emulators. Here’s a full list of all the emulators available on EmuDeck:...

Points to Consider

Windows Game Play...