Steam Deck Compatible Games offer portable PC gaming, and at polarservicecenter.net, we understand gamers want peak performance. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of top game studios optimizing for Steam Deck, ensuring smooth gameplay. If you are seeking steam games, optimization tips, portable gaming, or compatible titles, then this article has you covered.
1. Which Game Studios Optimize Games Best For Steam Deck?
Several game studios stand out for their excellent optimization of games for the Steam Deck. These studios prioritize compatibility and performance, ensuring a smooth gaming experience on the handheld device.
Many studios are dedicated to making their games run well on the Steam Deck, even on the demanding hardware. When looking for the best “steam deck compatible games”, it’s important to consider which developers are known for their optimization efforts. Below, we highlight studios that are consistently delivering great portable gaming experiences.
1.1 Nightdive Studios
Nightdive Studios excels in remastering classic games, enhancing them with modern features and visuals. Their focus on optimizing these titles for the Steam Deck results in nearly flawless performance. Their games are compatible with the Steam Deck. If you appreciate first-person shooters that run smoothly on the Steam Deck, explore Nightdive’s catalog.
Nightdive Studios specializes in breathing new life into classic games. They focus on remastering titles with updated graphics, improved lighting, and higher-resolution textures, making them appealing to modern gamers. According to Nightdive Studios, their goal is to preserve and enhance the legacy of classic games.
Notably, every game from Nightdive Studios runs exceptionally well on the Steam Deck. This includes the acclaimed System Shock remake, which performs flawlessly. Nightdive’s commitment to optimization guarantees a smooth gaming experience.
1.2 New Blood Interactive
New Blood Interactive consistently delivers outstanding shooters optimized for the Steam Deck. Their games run wonderfully on the device, offering a seamless gaming experience. This studio is definitely one to watch if you enjoy high-quality shooters on your Steam Deck.
New Blood Interactive has quickly gained a reputation for publishing unique and engaging first-person shooters. Their games often feature retro-inspired graphics and fast-paced gameplay, appealing to fans of classic shooters. As noted on their website, New Blood Interactive focuses on creating games that are both challenging and fun.
Though Fallen Aces experienced initial issues on the Steam Deck, New Blood Interactive promptly addressed these problems with updates that significantly improved performance. This dedication to support and optimization makes them a reliable choice for Steam Deck gamers.
1.3 NIS America
For JRPG enthusiasts, NIS America is a top choice for Steam Deck compatibility. Their published titles, including The Legend of Heroes, Ys series, Disgaea, and Labyrinth games, run smoothly, often hitting 60 FPS with minimal compromise. You can be confident that games published by NIS America will perform well on the Steam Deck.
NIS America specializes in publishing Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs) and strategy games. They bring a diverse range of titles to Western audiences, often localized with care and attention to detail. As stated by NIS America, they aim to provide unique and immersive gaming experiences.
Games like The Legend of Heroes and Ys series are optimized to run efficiently on the Steam Deck, providing a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience. The commitment of NIS America to performance ensures that their games are a great fit for portable gaming.
1.4 Nixxes Software
Nixxes Software is renowned for its exceptional PC porting, particularly with PlayStation games. They optimize games like Spider-Man and Ratchet and Clank to run smoothly on the Steam Deck, adding necessary features like upscaling. Nixxes Software ensures their games are optimized for PC, and any game from them will be great on the go.
Nixxes Software has become a key player in bringing PlayStation exclusives to PC. They are known for their technical expertise and ability to optimize graphically intensive games for a wide range of hardware configurations. According to a press release, Nixxes aims to deliver high-quality PC ports that capture the essence of the original console experience.
The studio has successfully optimized titles such as Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart for the Steam Deck, ensuring they run smoothly and look great on the handheld device. Gamers can trust Nixxes Software to deliver top-notch performance.
1.5 SEGA
SEGA has excelled in delivering Steam Deck-supported games that maintain visual quality. Games from the Yakuza/Like a Dragon series, Persona, Shin Megami Tensei, and Sonic Team all run well on the Deck. The fact that Yakuza/Like a Dragon games run so well while looking phenomenal is amazing.
SEGA is a well-known publisher with a long history of creating and publishing iconic video games. Their diverse portfolio includes titles from various genres, appealing to a wide range of gamers. As highlighted on their website, SEGA is committed to delivering high-quality gaming experiences across multiple platforms.
Titles such as Yakuza/Like a Dragon and Persona have been optimized for the Steam Deck, allowing players to enjoy these visually impressive games on the go. SEGA’s focus on Steam Deck support makes their games a solid choice for portable gaming.
1.6 XSEED Games/Marvelous
XSEED Games and Marvelous consistently deliver games that run wonderfully on the Steam Deck. Games from Cuisineer to Farmagia provide enjoyable portable experiences. Even unsupported titles like No More Heroes 3 are fully playable with Proton GE.
XSEED Games and Marvelous are known for publishing a variety of Japanese games, including action, adventure, and simulation titles. They focus on bringing unique and engaging experiences to Western audiences. As stated on their website, XSEED Games is dedicated to providing high-quality localized games.
These studios ensure that their games are well-optimized for the Steam Deck. This commitment to performance and compatibility makes XSEED Games and Marvelous reliable choices for Steam Deck owners.
1.7 Serenity Forge
Serenity Forge, an indie publisher, has released some of the best indie games, all of which run well on the Steam Deck. Games like Slay the Princess, LISA, KEYLOCKER, and Doki Doki Literature Club all perform admirably on the Deck.
Serenity Forge is an indie publisher that focuses on releasing unique and thought-provoking games. They often work with independent developers to bring innovative titles to the market. As highlighted on their website, Serenity Forge aims to create games that resonate with players on an emotional level.
With a catalog that includes titles such as Slay the Princess and LISA, Serenity Forge ensures that their games are optimized for a smooth and enjoyable experience on the Steam Deck. Their commitment to compatibility makes them a favorite among Steam Deck gamers.
2. Which Game Studios Have The Most Games That Run On Steam Deck?
Several studios have a strong track record of releasing games that perform well on the Steam Deck, though some titles may require adjustments for optimal performance.
While the studios listed above are excellent for Steam Deck compatibility, others publish a wider range of games, with most running well on the device. These studios may have a few titles that require some tweaking, but overall, they offer a solid portable gaming experience.
2.1 Bandai Namco
Most Bandai Namco games run enjoyably on the Steam Deck, though some may require changes. Games like Baten Kaitos, SAND LAND, Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero, and Tekken 8 are great on the Steam Deck. The majority of their games are fantastic on the Deck, even those from From Software.
Bandai Namco is a major publisher with a diverse portfolio, including fighting games, RPGs, and action games. They are known for their high-quality releases and strong focus on fan engagement. As stated by Bandai Namco, they aim to create immersive gaming experiences that appeal to a global audience.
Titles like Tekken 8 and the Dark Souls series run well on the Steam Deck, providing players with a high-quality portable gaming experience. While some titles may require adjustments to graphics settings, Bandai Namco’s games generally perform well on the device.
2.2 Square Enix
Square Enix offers many games that run exceptionally well on the Steam Deck. Recent releases like Romancing SaGa 2, Kingdom Hearts, Dragon Quest Monsters, and Fantasian all perform admirably. While some titles may not be ideal, the majority are wonderful for gaming on the go.
Square Enix is a renowned publisher known for its high-quality RPGs and adventure games. Their iconic franchises, such as Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest, have captivated gamers for decades. As stated on their website, Square Enix is dedicated to delivering innovative and engaging gaming experiences.
With recent releases optimized for the Steam Deck, players can enjoy titles like Kingdom Hearts and Dragon Quest on the go. While some games may require some compromises, Square Enix’s commitment to optimization makes their games a great choice for portable gaming.
2.3 Capcom
Capcom’s RE engine ensures that many of their games run well on the Steam Deck. Titles like Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster, Street Fighter 6, and Resident Evil 4 perform admirably. Smaller games like Ghost Trick and Marvel Vs. Capcom also run wonderfully, too.
Capcom is a leading publisher known for its high-quality action and fighting games. Their iconic franchises, such as Resident Evil and Street Fighter, have a dedicated fan base worldwide. According to Capcom, they strive to deliver innovative and exciting gaming experiences.
With titles such as Resident Evil 4 and Street Fighter 6 optimized for the Steam Deck, gamers can enjoy these visually impressive games on the go. Capcom’s commitment to optimization makes their games a solid choice for portable gaming.
2.4 Devolver Digital
Many Devolver Digital games run fabulously on the Steam Deck. Titles like Neva, Sumerian Six, The Crush House, and Children of the Sun perform splendidly on the portable device. However, some games may require compromises for stable performance.
Devolver Digital is an indie publisher known for its quirky and innovative games. They often work with independent developers to bring unique and engaging titles to the market. As highlighted on their website, Devolver Digital aims to publish games that stand out from the crowd.
With many of their games optimized for the Steam Deck, players can enjoy titles such as Children of the Sun and Neva on the go. While some games may require some tweaking, Devolver Digital’s commitment to quality makes their games a great choice for portable gaming.
2.5 KONAMI
Most KONAMI games are great on the Steam Deck. The Metal Gear Solid Master Collection, Castlevania Dominus Collection, and Contra: Operation Galuga are excellent examples. While some titles may not be perfect, the majority are very playable.
KONAMI is a well-known publisher with a long history of creating and publishing iconic video games. Their diverse portfolio includes titles from various genres, appealing to a wide range of gamers. As highlighted on their website, KONAMI is committed to delivering high-quality gaming experiences across multiple platforms.
Titles such as the Metal Gear Solid Master Collection and Castlevania Dominus Collection have been optimized for the Steam Deck, allowing players to enjoy these classic games on the go. KONAMI’s focus on Steam Deck support makes their games a solid choice for portable gaming.
3. What Makes A Game Steam Deck Compatible?
A Steam Deck compatible game is one that runs smoothly and efficiently on the device, offering an enjoyable gaming experience without significant compromises. Compatibility depends on optimization, controls, and resolution scaling.
For a game to be truly Steam Deck compatible, it needs to meet certain criteria. These factors ensure that the game is not only playable but also enjoyable on the handheld device. Here are the key elements that contribute to Steam Deck compatibility.
- Optimization: The game should be well-optimized to run on the Steam Deck’s hardware. This means it should maintain a stable frame rate and avoid excessive lag or stuttering.
- Controls: The game should support the Steam Deck’s controller layout, including buttons, joysticks, and touch screen. The controls should be responsive and customizable.
- Resolution Scaling: The game should scale well to the Steam Deck’s resolution (1280×800). Text and UI elements should be legible, and the game should not appear stretched or distorted.
- Proton Compatibility: For games not natively supported on Linux, Proton compatibility is crucial. Proton is a compatibility layer that allows Windows games to run on Linux-based systems like the Steam Deck.
- Verified Status: Valve’s Steam Deck Verified program provides a rating for games based on their compatibility. A “Verified” rating means the game runs perfectly on the Steam Deck out of the box.
4. How Can I Check If A Game Is Steam Deck Compatible?
You can check Steam Deck compatibility through the Steam Store, the Steam Deck Verified program, and community feedback. These resources provide valuable information to help you make informed decisions.
Ensuring a game is compatible with your Steam Deck before purchasing can save you time and frustration. Here are several ways to check if a game is Steam Deck compatible.
-
Steam Store: The Steam Store lists the Steam Deck compatibility status for each game. Look for the “Steam Deck Verified” badge or compatibility information on the game’s store page.
-
Steam Deck Verified Program: Valve’s Steam Deck Verified program tests games for compatibility and assigns them a rating:
- Verified: Runs perfectly on the Steam Deck out of the box.
- Playable: May require some manual adjustments to play.
- Unsupported: Does not run on the Steam Deck.
- Unknown: Has not been tested yet.
-
ProtonDB: ProtonDB is a community-driven website that provides compatibility reports for games running through Proton on Linux. It’s a valuable resource for checking the compatibility of games not natively supported on the Steam Deck.
-
Community Feedback: Online forums, Reddit, and other gaming communities often provide user feedback on Steam Deck compatibility. Check these sources for firsthand experiences and tips.
-
Steam Deck HQ: Websites like Steam Deck HQ provide game reviews and compatibility guides specifically for the Steam Deck, offering detailed information on performance and settings.
5. What Are Some Common Issues With Steam Deck Games And How To Fix Them?
Common issues include performance problems, control issues, and resolution problems. Many fixes are available, like adjusting graphics settings, using Proton, or seeking community advice.
Even with optimized games, you may encounter some issues on the Steam Deck. Here are common problems and how to fix them.
5.1 Performance Problems
-
Issue: Low frame rates, stuttering, or lag.
-
Solution:
- Adjust Graphics Settings: Lower the game’s graphics settings, such as resolution, texture quality, and shadow effects.
- Use FSR or RSR: Enable FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) or Radeon Super Resolution (RSR) to upscale the game’s resolution with minimal performance impact.
- Limit Frame Rate: Cap the frame rate to 30 or 40 FPS to improve stability and reduce strain on the hardware.
-
As noted by Polar service experts at polarservicecenter.net, regularly updating your Steam Deck’s drivers ensures optimal performance.
5.2 Control Issues
-
Issue: Unresponsive controls, incorrect button mappings, or lack of controller support.
-
Solution:
- Customize Controller Layout: Use Steam’s controller configuration tool to customize button mappings and create a personalized layout.
- Use a Community Layout: Download a community-created controller layout from Steam for a pre-configured setup.
- Enable Steam Input: Ensure Steam Input is enabled for the game to properly recognize the Steam Deck’s controller.
5.3 Resolution Problems
-
Issue: Stretched or distorted display, illegible text, or incorrect aspect ratio.
-
Solution:
- Adjust Resolution: Set the game’s resolution to 1280×800, which is the native resolution of the Steam Deck.
- Enable Fullscreen Mode: Ensure the game is running in fullscreen mode to avoid scaling issues.
- Adjust UI Scaling: If text or UI elements are too small, adjust the UI scaling settings in the game’s options.
5.4 Proton Compatibility Issues
-
Issue: Game fails to launch, crashes frequently, or experiences graphical glitches when running through Proton.
-
Solution:
- Use a Different Proton Version: Experiment with different versions of Proton (e.g., Proton Experimental, Proton GE) to find one that works best for the game.
- Add Launch Options: Use Steam’s launch options to add compatibility flags or workarounds for specific issues.
- Consult ProtonDB: Check ProtonDB for community reports and fixes for specific games.
5.5 Driver And Software Updates
-
Issue: Outdated drivers or software causing compatibility issues.
-
Solution:
- Update Steam Deck Software: Regularly update the Steam Deck’s operating system and Steam client to ensure you have the latest drivers and software.
- Update Game Files: Verify the integrity of game files through Steam to fix corrupted or missing files.
6. Which Steam Deck Games Are Verified?
Many games have earned the “Verified” status, promising a seamless gaming experience right out of the box. Checking for verified games ensures a great experience on the Steam Deck.
Valve’s Steam Deck Verified program identifies games that run perfectly on the Steam Deck without requiring any manual adjustments. Here are some popular Steam Deck Verified games across different genres.
6.1 Action/Adventure
| Game | Description |
|---|---|
| Portal 2 | A puzzle-platform game developed by Valve, known for its innovative gameplay mechanics and engaging story. |
| Tomb Raider | An action-adventure game that follows Lara Croft’s origin story, featuring exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. |
| Batman: Arkham Asylum | An action-adventure game where you play as Batman, fighting criminals and exploring the notorious Arkham Asylum. |
| Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection | A collection of critically acclaimed action-adventure games from the Uncharted series, featuring stunning graphics and engaging stories. |
6.2 RPG
| Game | Description |
|---|---|
| The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | A vast open-world RPG where you play as Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter, exploring a rich world and making impactful choices. |
| Divinity: Original Sin 2 | A critically acclaimed RPG with turn-based combat, deep character customization, and a branching story. |
| Stardew Valley | A charming farming simulation RPG where you inherit a farm and build a new life in a rural town. |
| Elden Ring | A challenging open-world action RPG developed by FromSoftware, known for its intricate world design and demanding combat. |
6.3 Indie
| Game | Description |
|---|---|
| Hollow Knight | A Metroidvania-style action-adventure game with challenging combat and a hauntingly beautiful world. |
| Celeste | A challenging platformer with a heartfelt story about overcoming personal struggles. |
| Disco Elysium | A unique detective RPG with a deep narrative and complex characters. |
| Hades | A rogue-like dungeon crawler where you play as Zagreus, the son of Hades, trying to escape the Underworld. |
6.4 Strategy
| Game | Description |
|---|---|
| Civilization VI | A turn-based strategy game where you lead a civilization from ancient times to the modern era, managing resources, diplomacy, and warfare. |
| XCOM 2 | A turn-based tactical game where you lead a resistance force against an alien occupation. |
| Into the Breach | A turn-based strategy game where you defend cities from giant monsters using powerful mechs. |
6.5 Sports/Racing
| Game | Description |
|---|---|
| F1 2023 | A racing simulation game that puts you in the driver’s seat of a Formula 1 car, competing in races around the world. |
| Hot Wheels Unleashed | A fast-paced arcade racing game with over-the-top tracks and iconic Hot Wheels cars. |
7. How Can You Improve The Performance Of Games On The Steam Deck?
Improving performance involves adjusting graphics, using upscaling technologies, and managing background processes. These steps can significantly enhance your gaming experience on the Steam Deck.
If you find that a game is not running as smoothly as you would like on the Steam Deck, several steps can be taken to improve performance. Here are some effective strategies.
7.1 Adjust Graphics Settings
- Lower Resolution: Reduce the game’s resolution to 1280×800 or lower to decrease the strain on the GPU.
- Reduce Texture Quality: Lower the texture quality settings to reduce memory usage and improve frame rates.
- Disable Anti-Aliasing: Turn off or reduce anti-aliasing to improve performance, as it can be resource-intensive.
- Lower Shadow Quality: Shadows can significantly impact performance. Reducing shadow quality or disabling them can provide a noticeable boost.
- Reduce Effects Quality: Lower the quality of special effects, such as particle effects and lighting, to improve frame rates.
7.2 Utilize Upscaling Technologies
- FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR): Enable FSR in games that support it to upscale the resolution with minimal performance impact. FSR can improve visual quality while maintaining a smooth frame rate.
- Radeon Super Resolution (RSR): If a game does not support FSR, enable RSR in the Steam Deck’s settings to upscale the resolution system-wide.
7.3 Manage Background Processes
- Close Unnecessary Applications: Close any unnecessary applications running in the background to free up system resources.
- Disable Background Downloads: Pause or disable downloads in Steam or other platforms to prevent them from consuming bandwidth and CPU resources.
- Limit Background Tasks: Reduce the number of background tasks running on the Steam Deck to improve overall performance.
7.4 Adjust Steam Deck Settings
- Performance Overlay: Use the Steam Deck’s performance overlay to monitor CPU, GPU, and memory usage. This can help identify bottlenecks and adjust settings accordingly.
- Frame Rate Limit: Cap the frame rate to 30 or 40 FPS to improve stability and reduce power consumption.
- TDP Limit: Adjust the TDP (Thermal Design Power) limit in the Steam Deck’s settings to control the amount of power consumed by the APU. Lowering the TDP can improve battery life and reduce heat.
7.5 Use Custom Launch Options
-
Proton Launch Options: Add custom launch options to the game’s Steam settings to improve compatibility or performance. Common launch options include:
PROTON_NO_ESYNC=1: Disables ESYNC for better compatibility.PROTON_FORCE_LARGE_ADDRESS_AWARE=1: Forces the game to use more memory.gamemoderun %command%: Runs the game with GameMode enabled for performance optimizations.
8. What Are Some Tips For Optimizing Steam Deck Battery Life While Gaming?
Optimizing battery life involves reducing power consumption, managing screen brightness, and using efficient settings. Implementing these strategies can extend your gaming sessions.
One of the main concerns for Steam Deck users is battery life, especially when gaming on the go. Here are effective tips to maximize your Steam Deck’s battery life while gaming.
8.1 Lower Screen Brightness
- Reduce Brightness: Lower the screen brightness to the lowest comfortable level. The display is one of the biggest power consumers on the Steam Deck.
- Use Auto-Brightness: Enable auto-brightness to automatically adjust the screen brightness based on ambient lighting conditions.
8.2 Reduce Graphics Settings
- Lower Resolution: Reduce the game’s resolution to decrease the load on the GPU and reduce power consumption.
- Reduce Texture Quality: Lower the texture quality settings to reduce memory usage and improve battery life.
- Disable Anti-Aliasing: Turn off or reduce anti-aliasing to improve performance and reduce power consumption.
- Lower Shadow Quality: Reduce shadow quality or disable shadows to decrease the strain on the GPU.
8.3 Limit Frame Rate
- Cap Frame Rate: Cap the frame rate to 30 or 40 FPS to improve stability and reduce power consumption. Limiting the frame rate prevents the GPU from working harder than necessary.
8.4 Adjust TDP Limit
- Lower TDP: Adjust the TDP (Thermal Design Power) limit in the Steam Deck’s settings to control the amount of power consumed by the APU. Lowering the TDP can significantly improve battery life.
- Experiment with Settings: Experiment with different TDP settings to find the optimal balance between performance and battery life.
8.5 Disable Unnecessary Features
- Turn Off Wi-Fi/Bluetooth: Disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use to reduce power consumption.
- Disable Haptics: Turn off haptic feedback to save battery power.
- Close Background Apps: Close any unnecessary applications running in the background to free up system resources and reduce power consumption.
8.6 Use Headphones
- Use Wired Headphones: Use wired headphones instead of Bluetooth headphones to reduce power consumption.
- Lower Volume: Lower the volume to reduce the amount of power consumed by the speakers.
8.7 Enable Battery Saver Mode
- Use Battery Saver: Enable the Steam Deck’s built-in battery saver mode to automatically adjust settings for optimal battery life.
9. What Are Some Upcoming Steam Deck Games To Look Out For?
Anticipated titles promise to bring exciting experiences to the handheld platform. Keeping an eye on upcoming releases ensures you never miss out on the latest and greatest games for your Steam Deck.
Several exciting games are on the horizon that are expected to perform well on the Steam Deck. Here are some upcoming titles to watch out for.
9.1 Frostpunk 2
- Description: A sequel to the acclaimed city-building survival game, Frostpunk 2 puts you in charge of managing a city in a frozen post-apocalyptic world.
- Why It’s Anticipated: The original Frostpunk was well-optimized for PC, and Frostpunk 2 is expected to follow suit with optimizations for the Steam Deck.
9.2 S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart Of Chornobyl
- Description: A first-person shooter set in the post-apocalyptic Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, featuring open-world exploration, survival elements, and intense combat.
- Why It’s Anticipated: The developers have stated that they are working to ensure the game runs well on a variety of hardware configurations, including handheld devices like the Steam Deck.
9.3 Avowed
- Description: A first-person fantasy RPG developed by Obsidian Entertainment, set in the world of Eora (Pillars of Eternity).
- Why It’s Anticipated: Obsidian is known for creating well-optimized RPGs, and Avowed is expected to be no exception.
9.4 Stalker 2: Heart of Chernobyl
- Description: The game is set in the post-apocalyptic Chornobyl Exclusion Zone and has open-world exploration, survival elements, and intense combat.
- Why It’s Anticipated: The developers have stated that they are working to ensure the game runs well on a variety of hardware configurations, including handheld devices like the Steam Deck.
9.5 Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
- Description: A third-person action game where you play as a Space Marine, battling hordes of enemies in the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
- Why It’s Anticipated: The original Space Marine was well-optimized for PC, and Space Marine 2 is expected to offer similar performance on the Steam Deck.
9.6 Hollow Knight: Silksong
- Description: A sequel to the critically acclaimed Hollow Knight, featuring new characters, environments, and gameplay mechanics.
- Why It’s Anticipated: The original Hollow Knight runs perfectly on the Steam Deck, and Silksong is expected to offer a similar level of optimization.
10. What Are Some Of The Best Steam Deck Accessories?
Enhance your gaming setup with docks, protective cases, and external controllers. Investing in the right accessories can significantly improve your Steam Deck experience.
To enhance your Steam Deck experience, consider investing in accessories. Here are some of the best accessories for the Steam Deck.
10.1 Docks
- Steam Deck Docking Station: Valve’s official docking station allows you to connect your Steam Deck to an external display, keyboard, and mouse, turning it into a desktop gaming setup.
- Third-Party Docks: Many third-party docks offer similar functionality at a lower price point. Look for docks with multiple USB ports, HDMI output, and Ethernet connectivity.
10.2 Protective Cases
- Official Steam Deck Case: The case included with the Steam Deck provides basic protection against scratches and bumps.
- Hard Cases: Hard cases offer more robust protection against drops and impacts. Look for cases with a secure closure and a padded interior.
10.3 Screen Protectors
- Tempered Glass Screen Protectors: Tempered glass screen protectors provide excellent protection against scratches and cracks.
- Anti-Glare Screen Protectors: Anti-glare screen protectors reduce glare and reflections, making the screen easier to see in bright environments.
10.4 External Controllers
- Bluetooth Controllers: Connect a Bluetooth controller to your Steam Deck for a more traditional gaming experience. Popular options include the Xbox Wireless Controller and the PlayStation DualSense Controller.
- Wired Controllers: Wired controllers offer a reliable connection with minimal input lag. Look for controllers with customizable buttons and ergonomic designs.
10.5 Headphones
- Wired Headphones: Wired headphones provide a reliable audio connection with no latency. Look for headphones with comfortable earcups and high-quality sound.
- Wireless Headphones: Wireless headphones offer freedom of movement and convenience. Look for headphones with low latency and long battery life.
10.6 Portable Chargers
- Power Banks: A portable power bank can extend your gaming sessions on the go. Look for power banks with a high capacity and fast charging capabilities.
10.7 MicroSD Cards
- High-Capacity MicroSD Cards: Expand the Steam Deck’s storage with a high-capacity microSD card. Look for cards with fast read and write speeds for optimal performance.
By considering these accessories, you can tailor your Steam Deck experience to suit your gaming preferences and needs.
FAQ: Steam Deck Compatible Games
Are All Steam Games Compatible With The Steam Deck?
No, not all Steam games are fully compatible with the Steam Deck. Valve has a verification system to indicate how well a game runs on the device. Games are categorized as “Verified,” “Playable,” “Unsupported,” or “Unknown.”
How Can I Check If A Specific Game Is Steam Deck Verified?
You can check a game’s Steam Deck compatibility on the Steam Store page. Look for the Steam Deck Verified badge or compatibility information near the purchase options.
What Does It Mean If A Game Is “Playable” On The Steam Deck?
If a game is marked as “Playable,” it means it can run on the Steam Deck but may require some manual adjustments. This could include changing graphics settings or using a community-created controller layout.
Can I Play Unsupported Games On The Steam Deck?
While “Unsupported” games are not officially supported, some may still run using compatibility tools like Proton. However, performance and stability may vary.
What Is Proton And How Does It Help With Steam Deck Compatibility?
Proton is a compatibility layer that allows Windows-based games to run on the Linux-based Steam Deck. It translates Windows API calls to Linux-compatible ones, enabling many games to function on the device.
How Do I Use Proton To Play Games On The Steam Deck?
To use Proton, go to the game’s properties in your Steam library, select “Compatibility,” and check the box that says “Force the use of a specific Steam Play compatibility tool.” Choose a Proton version
