How to Play GOG Games on Steam Deck: A Journey Through Digital Realms and Uncharted Possibilities

How to Play GOG Games on Steam Deck: A Journey Through Digital Realms and Uncharted Possibilities

The Steam Deck, Valve’s handheld gaming device, has revolutionized the way we think about portable gaming. With its powerful hardware and versatile software, it has opened up a world of possibilities for gamers who want to take their favorite titles on the go. One of the most intriguing aspects of the Steam Deck is its ability to play games from various platforms, including GOG (Good Old Games), a digital distribution platform known for its DRM-free games. In this article, we will explore how to play GOG games on the Steam Deck, delve into the nuances of this process, and discuss the broader implications of this capability.

Understanding the Basics: GOG and Steam Deck

Before diving into the technicalities, it’s essential to understand what GOG and the Steam Deck are. GOG is a digital distribution platform that offers a vast library of games, many of which are classic titles that have been updated to run on modern systems. One of the key features of GOG is its commitment to DRM-free gaming, meaning that once you purchase a game, you own it outright, without any restrictions on how or where you can play it.

The Steam Deck, on the other hand, is a handheld gaming PC developed by Valve. It runs on a custom version of Linux called SteamOS, which is optimized for gaming. The device is designed to be a portable version of a gaming PC, allowing users to play their Steam library on the go. However, the Steam Deck’s versatility extends beyond just Steam games, as it can also run games from other platforms, including GOG.

Installing GOG Games on the Steam Deck

To play GOG games on the Steam Deck, you’ll need to follow a series of steps that involve installing the necessary software and configuring the system to recognize and run GOG games. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do this:

Step 1: Install a Compatible Operating System

While the Steam Deck comes with SteamOS pre-installed, it’s possible to install other operating systems, such as Windows or a different Linux distribution. However, for the purposes of this guide, we’ll assume you’re using SteamOS.

Step 2: Install Lutris

Lutris is an open-source gaming platform that simplifies the process of installing and running games from various platforms, including GOG. To install Lutris on your Steam Deck, follow these steps:

  1. Enable Desktop Mode: On your Steam Deck, switch to Desktop Mode by holding down the power button and selecting “Switch to Desktop.”
  2. Open Discover Software Center: In Desktop Mode, open the Discover Software Center, which is the app store for SteamOS.
  3. Search for Lutris: In the Discover Software Center, search for “Lutris” and install it.

Step 3: Configure Lutris for GOG

Once Lutris is installed, you’ll need to configure it to work with your GOG account:

  1. Launch Lutris: Open Lutris from the applications menu.
  2. Add GOG as a Source: In Lutris, go to the “Sources” section and add GOG as a source. You’ll need to log in with your GOG credentials.
  3. Install GOG Games: Once GOG is added as a source, you can browse your GOG library and install games directly through Lutris.

Step 4: Add GOG Games to Steam

To make your GOG games easily accessible from the Steam Deck’s gaming mode, you can add them to your Steam library:

  1. Add Non-Steam Game: In Steam, go to “Library” and click on “Add a Game” at the bottom left, then select “Add a Non-Steam Game.”
  2. Browse for the Game: Navigate to the directory where Lutris installed your GOG game and select the game’s executable file.
  3. Launch the Game: Once added, you can launch the GOG game directly from Steam, just like any other Steam game.

Optimizing GOG Games for the Steam Deck

While the above steps will allow you to play GOG games on the Steam Deck, there are additional optimizations you can make to ensure the best possible experience:

1. Controller Configuration

The Steam Deck’s controller is highly customizable, and you can configure it to work seamlessly with your GOG games. In Steam, go to the game’s properties and select “Controller Configuration” to map the controls to your liking.

2. Performance Tweaks

Some GOG games may require performance tweaks to run smoothly on the Steam Deck. This could involve adjusting the game’s graphics settings, enabling or disabling certain features, or even using third-party tools like Proton to improve compatibility.

3. Cloud Saves

If you want to sync your game progress between your Steam Deck and other devices, you can use GOG Galaxy, GOG’s client software, to enable cloud saves. This way, you can pick up where you left off, no matter where you’re playing.

The Broader Implications: A New Era of Gaming Freedom

The ability to play GOG games on the Steam Deck is more than just a technical achievement; it represents a shift in how we think about gaming platforms and ownership. By allowing users to play DRM-free games from GOG on a device designed for Steam, the Steam Deck is breaking down the walls between different gaming ecosystems.

This has several implications:

  1. Increased Flexibility: Gamers are no longer tied to a single platform. They can choose where to buy their games and how to play them, without being locked into a specific ecosystem.
  2. Preservation of Classic Games: GOG’s focus on classic and DRM-free games means that these titles can be preserved and played on modern hardware, ensuring that they remain accessible to future generations.
  3. Empowerment of Gamers: By giving users more control over their gaming experience, the Steam Deck and GOG are empowering gamers to make choices that best suit their needs and preferences.

Conclusion

Playing GOG games on the Steam Deck is a testament to the device’s versatility and the growing trend of platform-agnostic gaming. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy your favorite GOG titles on the go, with the added convenience of the Steam Deck’s handheld design. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the ability to play games from multiple platforms on a single device will likely become the norm, offering gamers unprecedented freedom and flexibility.

Q: Can I play GOG games on the Steam Deck without installing Lutris? A: While it’s possible to manually install and configure GOG games on the Steam Deck, Lutris simplifies the process significantly by providing a user-friendly interface and automating many of the steps involved.

Q: Will all GOG games work on the Steam Deck? A: Most GOG games should work on the Steam Deck, but compatibility can vary depending on the game and its requirements. Some games may require additional tweaks or the use of compatibility layers like Proton.

Q: Can I use GOG Galaxy on the Steam Deck? A: Yes, you can install GOG Galaxy on the Steam Deck to manage your GOG library and enable features like cloud saves. However, you may need to run it through a compatibility layer like Wine or Proton.

Q: Is it legal to play GOG games on the Steam Deck? A: Yes, it is legal to play GOG games on the Steam Deck as long as you own the games and are not violating any terms of service. GOG’s DRM-free policy allows you to install and play your games on any device you own.

Q: Can I play multiplayer GOG games on the Steam Deck? A: Yes, you can play multiplayer GOG games on the Steam Deck, provided the game supports multiplayer and you have the necessary hardware (e.g., controllers, internet connection). Some games may require additional setup to enable multiplayer functionality.