Steam Deck: How To Run Sega CD Games

This guide details how to play Sega CD games on your Steam Deck using EmuDeck. It covers setup, ROM transfer, and optimization for optimal performance.

Pre-Installation Steps & Recommendations

Enable Developer Mode and CEF Remote Debugging on your Steam Deck for compatibility with EmuDeck updates. This involves accessing the Steam Menu, System settings, Developer Mode, and enabling CEF Remote Debugging within the Developer menu. Finally, switch to Desktop Mode.

You'll need:

• A fast A2 microSD card.
• Your legally obtained Sega CD ROMs and BIOS files. (Formatting the SD card on the Steam Deck is recommended).
• A keyboard and mouse (optional, but recommended for easier file transfers).

Format your SD card via the Steam menu (Storage > Format SD Card).

Downloading and Installing EmuDeck

Switch to Desktop Mode. Download a browser (from the Discovery Store), then download EmuDeck. During installation, choose Custom, select your SD card as the installation location, and select RetroArch, MelonDS, Steam ROM Manager, and Emulation Station (or all emulators). Complete the installation.

Transferring Sega CD Files

Use your file browser (Dolphin File Browser) to transfer your BIOS files to /Emulation/BIOS and your Sega CD ROMs to /Emulation/ROMS/segaCD (or /Emulation/ROMS/megaCD).

Adding ROMs with Steam ROM Manager

Launch EmuDeck, then Steam ROM Manager. Follow the on-screen prompts, adding your Sega CD games and parsing them.

Fixing Missing Covers

Steam ROM Manager usually finds cover art. For missing covers, use the "Fix" function, searching for the game title. Alternatively, manually upload cover art using the "Upload" function.

Playing Sega CD Games

Access your Sega CD games through the Steam Library, Collections tab, and your Sega CD folder. Emulation Station (if installed) provides an alternative, organized library view. Use Emulation Station's scraper function for metadata and artwork.

Installing Decky Loader and Power Tools

Install Decky Loader from its GitHub page (using a browser in Desktop Mode). Then, use Decky Loader to install Power Tools. In Power Tools, disable SMTs, set Threads to 4, and adjust GPU clock speed (via the Performance menu) for enhanced performance. Use Per Game Profiles to save settings.

Fixing Decky Loader After a Steam Deck Update

If Decky Loader is removed after a Steam Deck update, reinstall it from the GitHub page, using the "Execute" option in Desktop Mode. You may need to enter your sudo password.

This comprehensive guide allows you to enjoy your Sega CD collection on your Steam Deck.