Steam Deck: How To Run Game Boy Games
- By Michael
- Feb 28,2025
This guide details how to transform your Steam Deck into a retro gaming powerhouse using EmuDeck, focusing on playing Game Boy games. We'll cover installation, ROM management, performance optimization, and troubleshooting.
Before You Begin:
Ensure you have:
- A fully charged Steam Deck.
- An A2 microSD card for games and emulators.
- Legally obtained Game Boy ROMs.
- A keyboard and mouse (wired or wireless) for easier navigation (recommended).
Enable Developer Mode: Access the Steam menu, navigate to System > Developer, and enable Developer Mode and CEF Debugging. Switch to Desktop Mode.
Installing EmuDeck:
In Desktop Mode, download EmuDeck from its official website. Choose the SteamOS option and select a custom installation, specifying your microSD card as the primary installation location. Select desired emulators (RetroArch, Emulation Station, Steam ROM Manager recommended). Enable Auto Save.
Quick Settings:
Within EmuDeck, access Quick Settings and enable AutoSave, Controller Layout Match, Bezels, Nintendo Classic AR, and LCD Handhelds.
Adding Game Boy Games:
Use Dolphin File Manager to navigate to Primary > Emulation > ROMs > gb. Place your .gb ROM files here, ensuring correct filenames.
Steam ROM Manager Integration:
Launch Steam ROM Manager within EmuDeck. Disable Toggle Parsers. Add your Game Boy games and save them to your Steam library.
Playing Game Boy Games:
Access your Game Boy games through your Steam Library's Collections tab.
Customizing Game Colors (RetroArch):
Launch a game, open the RetroArch menu (Select + Y), navigate to Core Options > GB Colorization, and adjust settings to your preference.
Using Emulation Station:
Alternatively, launch games through Emulation Station found in your Steam Library's Collections tab.
Optimizing Performance with Decky Loader and Power Tools:
Install Decky Loader from its GitHub page. Then, install the Power Tools plugin through the Decky Store. Within Power Tools, disable SMTs, set Threads to 4, and adjust GPU clock frequency (e.g., 1200 MHz) for enhanced performance. Use Per Game Profiles to save settings for individual titles.
Restoring Decky Loader After a Steam Deck Update:
After a Steam Deck update, reinstall Decky Loader from its GitHub page, using the execute option only. Re-enter your pseudo password if prompted.
Enjoy your enhanced Game Boy experience on your Steam Deck! Remember to always use legally obtained ROMs.
