Can You Play Unsupported Games on Steam Deck? Exploring the Boundaries of Portable Gaming

Can You Play Unsupported Games on Steam Deck? Exploring the Boundaries of Portable Gaming

The Steam Deck, Valve’s handheld gaming device, has taken the gaming world by storm since its release. With its powerful hardware and the ability to run a vast library of PC games, it has become a favorite among gamers who want to take their favorite titles on the go. However, one question that often arises is: Can you play unsupported games on Steam Deck? This article delves into the possibilities, challenges, and workarounds for playing games that are not officially supported on the Steam Deck.

Understanding Steam Deck’s Game Compatibility

Before diving into unsupported games, it’s essential to understand how the Steam Deck handles game compatibility. Valve has implemented a system that categorizes games into four levels of compatibility:

  1. Verified: Games that are fully optimized for the Steam Deck, offering a seamless experience.
  2. Playable: Games that run well but may require some manual adjustments.
  3. Unsupported: Games that are not officially supported and may not run well or at all.
  4. Unknown: Games that have not been tested yet.

While the Verified and Playable categories are straightforward, the Unsupported category is where things get interesting. These games may not have been tested, or they may have issues that prevent them from running smoothly on the Steam Deck. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean they are unplayable.

Why Are Some Games Unsupported?

There are several reasons why a game might be labeled as unsupported on the Steam Deck:

  1. Anti-Cheat Software: Some games use anti-cheat software that is not compatible with the Steam Deck’s Linux-based operating system, Proton.
  2. Control Schemes: Certain games may rely heavily on mouse and keyboard inputs, making them difficult to play on the Steam Deck’s controller-based interface.
  3. Performance Issues: Some games may be too demanding for the Steam Deck’s hardware, leading to poor performance or crashes.
  4. Lack of Testing: Valve has not tested every game in the Steam library, so some games may be labeled as unsupported simply because they haven’t been evaluated yet.

Can You Play Unsupported Games on Steam Deck?

The short answer is: Yes, you can play unsupported games on the Steam Deck, but it may require some effort. Here are some methods to get unsupported games running on your device:

1. Using Proton GE (GloriousEggroll)

Proton is a compatibility layer that allows Windows games to run on Linux, which is the operating system used by the Steam Deck. Proton GE is a community-driven version of Proton that includes additional fixes and improvements for certain games. By installing Proton GE, you may be able to run games that are otherwise unsupported.

Steps to Install Proton GE:

  1. Open the Steam Deck’s Desktop Mode.
  2. Download and install ProtonUp-Qt from the Discover Software Center.
  3. Use ProtonUp-Qt to install the latest version of Proton GE.
  4. In Steam, go to the game’s properties and select the Proton GE version under the “Compatibility” tab.

2. Tweaking Game Settings

Some unsupported games may run better with specific settings adjustments. For example, lowering the resolution, disabling certain graphical effects, or adjusting the control scheme can sometimes make a game playable.

Tips for Tweaking Settings:

  • Lower Resolution: Reducing the resolution can significantly improve performance on the Steam Deck.
  • Disable VSync: Turning off VSync can reduce input lag and improve frame rates.
  • Adjust Control Scheme: Customizing the control scheme to better suit the Steam Deck’s controller can make a game more playable.

3. Using External Tools

There are several external tools and software that can help you run unsupported games on the Steam Deck. For example, Lutris is a game manager for Linux that can help you install and run games from various platforms, including those not available on Steam.

Steps to Use Lutris:

  1. Install Lutris from the Discover Software Center in Desktop Mode.
  2. Add your game to Lutris and configure it to use the appropriate compatibility layer (e.g., Wine, Proton).
  3. Launch the game through Lutris and adjust settings as needed.

4. Installing Windows

While the Steam Deck runs on a Linux-based operating system, it is possible to install Windows on the device. This can open up the possibility of playing games that are not compatible with Proton or Linux.

Considerations for Installing Windows:

  • Driver Support: Not all hardware components may have Windows drivers available, which could lead to issues with performance or functionality.
  • Storage Space: Windows requires a significant amount of storage space, which may limit the number of games you can install.
  • User Experience: The Steam Deck’s interface is optimized for its native OS, and using Windows may result in a less seamless experience.

Challenges of Playing Unsupported Games

While it is possible to play unsupported games on the Steam Deck, there are several challenges to keep in mind:

  1. Performance Issues: Unsupported games may not run as smoothly as verified or playable titles, leading to lower frame rates, crashes, or other performance problems.
  2. Control Scheme Limitations: Some games may not translate well to the Steam Deck’s controller, requiring additional customization or external peripherals.
  3. Compatibility Issues: Even with Proton or other compatibility layers, some games may still not work correctly or at all.
  4. Time and Effort: Getting unsupported games to run on the Steam Deck can be a time-consuming process that requires technical knowledge and troubleshooting.

Community Support and Resources

One of the strengths of the Steam Deck community is the wealth of resources and support available. Many users share their experiences, tips, and workarounds for getting unsupported games to run on the device. Websites like ProtonDB and forums like Reddit are excellent places to find information and guidance.

ProtonDB: This website allows users to share their experiences with running games on Proton, including compatibility ratings and tips for getting games to work.

Reddit: The Steam Deck subreddit is a vibrant community where users discuss everything from game compatibility to hardware modifications.

Conclusion

The Steam Deck offers an incredible amount of flexibility when it comes to playing games on the go. While not every game is officially supported, the device’s open nature and the support of the community make it possible to play a wide range of unsupported titles. Whether you’re using Proton GE, tweaking settings, or even installing Windows, there are numerous ways to expand your gaming library on the Steam Deck. However, it’s essential to be aware of the challenges and limitations that come with playing unsupported games. With a bit of effort and experimentation, you can unlock the full potential of your Steam Deck and enjoy a vast array of gaming experiences.

Q: Can I play games from other platforms like Epic Games Store or GOG on the Steam Deck?

A: Yes, you can play games from other platforms on the Steam Deck. Tools like Lutris and Heroic Games Launcher can help you install and run games from platforms like Epic Games Store and GOG.

Q: Will playing unsupported games void my Steam Deck warranty?

A: No, playing unsupported games will not void your warranty. However, modifying the hardware or installing a different operating system (like Windows) could potentially void the warranty, so proceed with caution.

Q: Are there any risks to using Proton GE or other compatibility layers?

A: Using Proton GE or other compatibility layers is generally safe, but there is always a risk of instability or performance issues. It’s a good idea to back up your data before making significant changes to your system.

Q: Can I improve the performance of unsupported games on the Steam Deck?

A: Yes, you can often improve performance by lowering graphical settings, reducing the resolution, or using performance-enhancing tools like FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution). Additionally, keeping your Steam Deck’s software and drivers up to date can help improve compatibility and performance.