This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for setting up and playing Sega CD games on your Steam Deck using EmuDeck. We'll cover everything from initial setup to troubleshooting post-update issues.
Pre-Installation Steps:
Enable Developer Mode and CEF Remote Debugging on your Steam Deck to ensure compatibility with EmuDeck updates. This involves accessing the Steam menu, navigating to System > Developer, enabling Developer Mode and CEF Remote Debugging, switching to Desktop Mode.
Essential Requirements:
- A high-speed A2 microSD card (for EmuDeck and games). Format this card on the Steam Deck after insertion (Steam Menu > Storage > Format SD Card).
- Legally obtained Sega CD ROMs and BIOS files.
- (Optional, but recommended) A keyboard and mouse for easier navigation.
Installing EmuDeck:
Switch to Desktop Mode. Download a browser (from the Discovery Store), then download EmuDeck, selecting the SteamOS version. Run the installer, choosing "Custom" installation. Select your SD card as the installation location, then choose RetroArch, MelonDS, Steam ROM Manager, and Emulation Station (or select all emulators). Complete the installation.
Transferring Sega CD Files:
Using your file browser in Desktop Mode, navigate to your SD card (usually labeled "Primary"). Place your BIOS files in Emulation/BIOS and your Sega CD ROMs in Emulation/ROMS/segaCD (or megaCD).
Adding ROMs to Steam ROM Manager:
Launch EmuDeck and open Steam ROM Manager. Follow the on-screen prompts, adding your Sega CD games. The manager will automatically download box art.
Handling Missing Covers:
If covers are missing, use the "Fix" function in Steam ROM Manager, searching for the game title. Manually upload missing artwork using the "Upload" function if necessary.
Playing Your Games:
Access your Sega CD games through Steam's Library > Collections > Sega CD. Alternatively, use Emulation Station (Library > Non-Steam) for a more organized experience, especially for multi-disc games. Use Emulation Station's scraper to download metadata and artwork.
Installing Decky Loader and Power Tools:
For enhanced performance, install Decky Loader (from its GitHub page) and then use it to install Power Tools from the Decky Store. Optimize settings within Power Tools (disable SMTs, set threads to 4, adjust GPU clock) for optimal emulation.
Restoring 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 your browser. You may need to enter your sudo password.
This comprehensive guide should allow you to successfully set up and enjoy your Sega CD games on your Steam Deck. Remember to always obtain your ROMs legally.
