How to fix Steam Deck non Steam games not launching

Running non-Steam games on the Steam Deck offers great flexibility, but can present challenges due to the particularities of this portable platform. Below is a detailed guide to diagnose and resolve the most common problems that prevent these titles from running correctly.

How to fix Steam Deck, not Steam games that do not start

Absolutely! Here is a revised version of my previous answer, with a more technical and formal approach, designed for a more professional user guide:

Proposed Detailed Structure for a Steam Deck User Guide

• Objective: To present a comprehensive guide to running non-native games on Steam Deck, maximizing their potential and resolving common issues.
• Scope: Covering everything from basic installation and configuration to advanced optimization and troubleshooting techniques.
• Target Audience: Intermediate technical Steam Deck users looking to expand their game library.

1. Fundamentals and Key Concepts

• Steam Deck Architecture: Brief explanation of the Linux-based operating system and Proton compatibility layer.
• Terminology: Clear definition of terms such as emulator, compatibility layer, ROM, and other relevant terms.
• Essential Tools: Introduction to tools like Lutris, Flatpak, and the Terminal.

2. Preparing the Game Environment

• Installing Emulators:
  • Selection and configuration of popular emulators (RetroArch, Dolphin, PCSX2, etc. ).
  • Optimized emulators for specific Steam Deck hardware.
• Game Library Management:
  • Organize games into specific folders.
  • Using library management tools.
• Proton Configuration:
  • Selection of Proton versions suitable for different games.
  • Proton Advanced Options Configuration.

3. Installing and Configuring Games

• From digital stores:
  • Integration of stores like Epic Games Store, GOG, Origin, etc. with Steam.
  • Using Lutris for unified management of multiple stores.
• From archives:
  • Manual installation of games.
  • Creating Steam entries for better integration.

4. Performance Optimization

• Graphic settings:
  • Settings for resolution, refresh rate, filters, and other graphics parameters.
• Resource management:
  • Monitoring CPU, GPU and RAM usage .
  • Adjusting FPS limits and other system resources.
• Overclocking (opcional):
  • Risks and benefits of overclocking.
  • Detailed guides for safe overclocking.

5. Troubleshooting Common Problems

• Startup errors:
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot common issues like black screens, crashes, and compatibility errors.
• Audio and video issues:
  • Setting up audio and video devices.
  • Troubleshooting drivers and codecs.
• Unresponsive controls:
  • Setting up custom controls.
  • Using control mapping tools.

6. Advanced Techniques

• Scripts and automations:
  • Creating scripts for repetitive tasks (e.g. , installing games, setting up profiles).
• Interface customization:
  • Custom themes and UI modifications.
• Game Development:
  • Tools for developing games for Steam Deck.

7. Safety and Maintenance

• Security:
  • Protection against malware and viruses.
  • Recommendations for maintaining system security.
• Updates:
  • Keep your operating system and applications up to date.
  • Game update management.

• Summary of key points.
• Additional resources: Links to communities, forums and official documentation.

Additional considerations:

• Practical examples: Include concrete examples for each section, using popular games as case studies.
• Screenshots and videos: Accompany the text with images and videos to facilitate understanding.
• Format: Use a clear and concise format, with well-defined titles and subtitles.
• Updates: Keep the guide updated with the latest news and solutions.

This framework provides a solid foundation for a comprehensive and professional guide on running non-native games on Steam Deck. We can adapt this framework and add more details based on the specific needs of your audience.

Would you like us to go deeper into any particular section?