If you’re a dedicated PC gamer like me, you’re probably not limited to just amassing games on Steam. You’re likely exploring games from multiple sources, including stores like GOG (Good Old Games), Epic Games, and even through Amazon Prime’s free monthly games. For instance, I once got a free GOG key for BioShock thanks to my Amazon Prime subscription. But how do you make these games work seamlessly on your Steam Deck? This detailed guide will walk you through the steps to set up and use your GOG games on your Steam Deck.
Tools You’ll Need
Before diving in, it’s recommended to have:
- A Bluetooth mouse and keyboard (optional but speeds up the process).
- Your Steam Deck, updated and ready.
- Access to your GOG, Epic Games, or Amazon Prime accounts.
If you’re relying solely on the Steam Deck’s built-in controls, you can hold the Steam button to activate the right trackpad as a mouse and press Steam + X to open the virtual keyboard.
Two Ways to Access GOG Games
There are two main methods to get GOG games running on your Steam Deck:
- Using Heroic Games Launcher
- Using the Junk Store Plugin
We’ll cover both approaches, along with their pros and cons, to help you decide which works best for your needs.
Method 1: Heroic Games Launcher
Heroic Games Launcher is a versatile application that allows you to manage, launch, and configure your GOG games with great flexibility. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Switch to Desktop Mode
- Press the Steam button on your Steam Deck.
- Navigate to Power > Switch to Desktop Mode.
Step 2: Install Heroic Games Launcher
- Once in Desktop Mode, open the Discover Store.
- If you don’t see it on the taskbar, click the Deck logo and search for “Discover.”
- Apply any pending updates.
- Search for Heroic Games Launcher and install it.
Step 3: Add Heroic to Steam
- Open the start menu (Deck logo), search for Heroic Games Launcher, and right-click (or use the left trigger).
- Select Add to Steam.
Step 4: Launch and Log In
- Launch Heroic and click the Login button.
- Sign in to your GOG account (and optionally to Epic Games or Amazon Prime).
Step 5: Install and Launch Games
- Navigate to your library and install your chosen games (e.g., BioShock or SimCity 2000).
- During installation, choose the Proton version for compatibility.
- Once installed, launch the games from Heroic or access them through Game Mode > Non-Steam Games > Heroic Games Launcher.
Method 2: Junk Store Plugin
The Junk Store Plugin is another way to integrate GOG games into your Steam Deck. While this method involves additional steps and a small cost for the GOG extension, it seamlessly integrates your GOG games into your Steam library.
Step 1: Install Decky Loader
To begin, you’ll need to set up Decky Loader. Follow the steps below:
- Switch to Game Mode on your Steam Deck.
- Press the Quick Access Menu button and navigate to the Plugins tab.
- Open the Plugin Store (top-right icon) and search for Decky Loader.
- Install Decky Loader.
Step 2: Get the Junk Store Plugin
- In Desktop Mode, visit the Junk Store’s Patreon or Ko-fi page to purchase the GOG extension ($6 one-time payment).
- Download the latest version of the extension and extract it into the following directory:
Home > Homebrew > Data > Junk Store.
Step 3: Log In and Install Games
- Return to Game Mode and go to Quick Access Menu > Plugins > Junk Store.
- In the GOG tab, log in with your credentials.
- Once logged in, your GOG library will appear. Install your desired games from here.
Step 4: Configure Compatibility
- To manage compatibility settings, go to Non-Steam Games > [Your Game] > Properties.
- Under the Compatibility tab, select a specific Steam Play compatibility tool (Proton version).
Pros and Cons of Each Method
Heroic Games Launcher
- Pros:
- Free to use.
- Offers more control over Proton configurations.
- Supports multiple accounts (e.g., GOG, Epic Games, Amazon Prime).
- Cons:
- Does not integrate games directly into your Steam library.
- Requires manual setup for Steam Input profiles.
Junk Store Plugin
- Pros:
- Seamless integration of GOG games into your Steam library.
- Native Steam Play support simplifies Proton management.
- Allows individual Steam Input profiles for each game.
- Cons:
- Requires a one-time payment for the GOG extension.
- Setup is slightly more involved than Heroic.
Final Thoughts
Both methods allow you to access your GOG games on Steam Deck and provide unique advantages depending on your needs. Heroic is a robust, free solution for those who like having granular control, while the Junk Store Plugin offers convenience and seamless Steam integration at a small cost.
By following this guide, you can enjoy your GOG library on your Steam Deck. Explore these methods and find the one that works best for you!
Tags:
PC gaming, Steam Deck, GOG games, Heroic Games Launcher, Junk Store Plugin, Linux gaming, Steam Play compatibility, Decky Loader, Proton compatibility, gaming setup
Hashtags:
#PCGaming #SteamDeck #GOGGames #HeroicLauncher #JunkStorePlugin #LinuxGaming #GamingSetup #ProtonCompatibility #DeckyLoader