How to Install Emulator Steam Deck?

Installing emulators on your Steam Deck often involves switching to Desktop Mode and using a dedicated installer like EmuDeck, which simplifies the process.

Here's how to get started with installing emulators on your Steam Deck using the EmuDeck installer:

Accessing Desktop Mode

The first step to installing most emulators or emulator frontends on the Steam Deck is to leave the standard Steam Deck gaming interface and access the underlying Linux desktop environment.

1. Switch to Desktop Mode: Press the Steam Deck's power button and hold until the Power menu appears. From this menu, select Switch to Desktop. This will take you to a familiar desktop interface similar to Windows or macOS.

Downloading the EmuDeck Installer

Once you are in Desktop Mode, you can use the web browser to download the necessary software. EmuDeck is a popular script that simplifies the installation and configuration of numerous emulators and tools.

1. Open a Web Browser: Find and open a web browser (like Firefox, which is usually pre-installed) from the desktop interface.
2. Go to the EmuDeck Website: Navigate to the official EmuDeck website.
3. Download the Installer: Locate the download section on the website and download the EmuDeck installer. This is typically a file that you will then run on your Steam Deck.

Running the Installer and Setup

After downloading the installer file (usually a .sh script), you will need to run it to begin the installation process.

• Locate the Downloaded File: Open the file manager (like Dolphin) and go to your Downloads folder to find the EmuDeck installer file.
• Run the Installer: Double-click the installer file. You might need to grant execute permissions if prompted. The installer will guide you through the setup process.
• Follow On-Screen Instructions: The EmuDeck installer will allow you to choose which emulators you want to install, configure controls, set up ROMs folders, and more. Follow the prompts carefully.

Adding Your Games (ROMs)

EmuDeck typically sets up a dedicated folder structure for your game ROMs. You'll need to transfer your legally obtained game ROMs to the appropriate folders on your Steam Deck.

• Connect your Steam Deck to your computer via network or USB-C cable to transfer files, or use a USB drive.
• Place ROMs into the folders EmuDeck created (e.g., ~/Emulation/roms/nes for NES games).

Once EmuDeck is installed and configured, and your ROMs are in place, you can launch the frontend (like EmulationStation DE or RetroArch) from Desktop Mode or add them as non-Steam games back in Gaming Mode for easier access.

This process provides a comprehensive way to set up emulation for many different systems on your Steam Deck using the convenient EmuDeck package.