Can I play non Steam games on Steam Deck?

Can I Play Non-Steam Games on Steam Deck?

The Steam Deck, a revolutionary handheld gaming device, has taken the gaming world by storm. With its impressive specs and user-friendly interface, many gamers are eager to dive in and experience the magic of Steam gaming on-the-go. But, the question remains: can you play non-Steam games on the Steam Deck? In this article, we’ll delve into the answers and explore the possibilities of playing non-Steam games on the Steam Deck.

Short Answer:

Yes, you can play non-Steam games on the Steam Deck, but there are some limitations and additional steps required. The good news is that the Steam Deck is capable of handling a wide range of games, including those not listed on the Steam store. However, this requires installing the games manually, and compatibility issues may arise.

Installing Games Manually:

To play non-Steam games on the Steam Deck, you’ll need to install them manually. This can be done by downloading the game installer from the game’s official website or through a cloud gaming service like Google Stadia or Microsoft xCloud. Once you’ve downloaded the installer, you’ll need to navigate to the Steam Deck’s file system and extract the game files to the correct directory. This process may require some technical expertise, so be prepared to get your hands dirty.

Limitations:

While the Steam Deck can handle non-Steam games, there are some limitations to be aware of:

  • Compatibility: Not all non-Steam games are compatible with the Steam Deck. Some games may not work at all, while others may run with glitches or performance issues.
  • Controller Support: Non-Steam games may not support the Steam Deck’s controller, requiring you to use a keyboard and mouse instead.
  • Game Saves: Be aware that non-Steam games may not save to the Steam Cloud, which means you’ll need to manage your saves manually.
  • Updates: The Steam Deck’s operating system may not support updates for non-Steam games, which could leave you without access to the latest features and patches.

Ways to Play Non-Steam Games:

While installing games manually can be a bit of a challenge, there are other ways to play non-Steam games on the Steam Deck:

  • Cloud Gaming Services: Services like Google Stadia and Microsoft xCloud allow you to stream games from the cloud, eliminating the need for downloads and installations.
  • Emulators: Emulators can run classic games or games from other platforms on the Steam Deck, allowing you to play a wider range of games.
  • Wine: Wine is a compatibility layer that allows you to run Windows games on the Steam Deck, although performance may vary.

Table:

MethodProsCons
Manual InstallationTotal control over game installationRequires technical expertise, potential compatibility issues
Cloud Gaming ServicesEasy to use, no downloads or installations requiredRequires stable internet connection, limited game selection
EmulatorsCan run classic games or games from other platformsPotential performance issues, compatibility concerns
WineAllows running Windows games on Steam DeckPotential performance issues, compatibility concerns

Conclusion:

While playing non-Steam games on the Steam Deck requires some extra effort and technical know-how, it’s possible to do so. Whether you’re a gamer looking to play classic games, try out cloud gaming services, or run Windows games, the Steam Deck offers a range of options. Keep in mind the limitations and potential compatibility issues, but with a little patience and practice, you can enjoy your favorite non-Steam games on the go.

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