How to Install Plugins on Steam Deck Using Decky Loader

The Steam Deck has revolutionized portable gaming by bringing the power of PC gaming to a handheld device. One of the key advantages of the Steam Deck is its flexibility and customization options, including the ability to install plugins. Plugins can enhance the functionality and user experience of the Steam Deck by adding new features, improving performance, and customizing various aspects of the device. In this blog post, we will explore how to install plugins on the Steam Deck using Decky Loader, a powerful plugin management tool specifically designed for the Steam Deck.

What is Decky Loader for Steam Deck?

Decky Loader is a versatile and user-friendly plugin management tool developed for the Steam Deck. It simplifies the process of installing, updating, and managing plugins, making it accessible to both novice and experienced users. Decky Loader is a free, open-source utility that can be downloaded and installed on your Steam deck. Decky Loader allows you to install and manage Steam game plugins on your Steam deck. These plugins can be used to improve the gaming experience by introducing new features, enhancing graphics, or altering game dynamics. Decky Loader provides a seamless and secure way to expand the capabilities of the Steam Deck, ensuring a smooth and personalized gaming experience.

Preparing for Plugin Installation on Steam Deck

Before diving into the world of plugins, it is essential to take a few preparatory steps. Firstly, ensure that your Steam Deck meets the system requirements specified by the plugins you intend to install. Secondly, create a backup of your Steam Deck data to safeguard against any unforeseen issues that may arise during the installation process. Finally, download and install Decky Loader from the official website to begin managing your plugins.

Finding and Choosing Plugins to Install on Steam Deck

The next step is to explore the wide range of plugins available for the Steam Deck. You can start by browsing popular plugin repositories and forums dedicated to Steam Deck customization. When selecting plugins, pay attention to their compatibility with both Decky Loader and the current firmware of your Steam Deck. Additionally, it is helpful to read user reviews and recommendations to gauge the plugin’s reliability and usefulness.

Installing Plugins using Decky Loader

Once you have selected the desired plugins, it’s time to install them using Decky Loader. Launch Decky Loader and familiarize yourself with its user interface. To access a broader selection of plugins, add a plugin source repository within Decky Loader. This repository will serve as a centralized location to discover and download plugins. Use the search functionality to find and select the plugins you want to install, and then proceed to download and install them with a few simple clicks.

How to Install Decky Loader on Steam Deck

Installing Decky Loader on Steam Deck is a straightforward process, but first, you need to enable “Developer Mode” on your Steam Deck.

Enable Developer Mode on Steam Deck

Press the “Steam button” and scroll down to the “Settings menu” and select it.
Once you’re in the settings menu, go to “system settings“.
You’ll see an “Enable Developer Mode” option that you can turn on.
Scroll down the Settings menu to find the new “Developer Menu option“.
In the developer menu, enable the setting for “CEF Remote Debugging“.
Once you select this, Steam Deck will automatically prompt you to “restart the console” to make the changes.

After the reboot, you will need to switch to Desktop mode.

Press the “Steam” button.
Scroll to the “Power option“.
Navigate to the “Switch to Desktop” option and click on it.

Download and Install Decky Loader on Steam Deck

Now that you are in “desktop mode” open any browser like “Chrome or Firefox“.
Go to the “Decky Loader website” by following the URL: https://deckbrew.xyz/
Find the “download button” in the upper right corner of the website or just scroll down to find it. Then click on the button to “download the installation file“.
Once the file is downloaded, go to your downloads folder using “Dolphin file manager” and locate the “decky_installer.desktop” file.
Double-click or “double-tap” the file and select Run and then Continue.
Decky Loader will ask you if you want to “create a temporary password“. “Select Yes“.
On this screen, select the “release version of the application” and click OK.
When the installation is complete, you can “select OK” to close the window.
Once the installation is complete, navigate to the “desktop and tap or double-click” the Return to Game Mode icon. This will return you to the regular “Steam deck interface“.
Now go to the “quick access menu” by pressing the button with the three dots under the right trackpad. You should see a new menu icon that “looks like a plug“.

If everything goes according to the steps above, you should see the “Decky menu“. Even if it is currently empty, you have “successfully installed Decky Loader” on your Steam Deck.

How to Install Plugins Using Decky Loader on Steam Deck

When you have successfully installed “Decky Loader” on your Steam deck, installing plugins with this program is very easy. Simply follow the steps below to install plugins on your Steam deck using Decky Loader.

Access the quick access menu by pressing the “Options button“. You should see a new menu icon that looks like a plug. This is the “Decky plugin menu“.
In the Decky plugin menu, click on the icon in the “upper right corner” that looks like a store.
Once you select it, you will see a list of “plugins that you can download“.
Select the plugin you want, “click Install“, and the plugin will be downloaded and applied automatically.
All plugins that you download through “Decky will be displayed in Decky’s plugin menu“. From here, you can manage each plugin by yourself.

Configuring and Managing Installed Plugins on Steam Deck

After successfully installing plugins, you can customize their settings and preferences through Decky Loader. Access the plugin settings within the application and explore the available options for each plugin. This customization allows you to tailor the behavior and functionality of the plugins according to your preferences. Additionally, Decky Loader enables you to enable or disable specific plugins as needed, providing flexibility in managing your plugin collection. It is also crucial to keep your plugins up to date by regularly checking for updates within Decky Loader and applying them when available. If you no longer require a plugin, uninstalling it is a straightforward process.

Troubleshooting Plugin Installation Issues on Steam Deck

Sometimes, despite taking all the necessary precautions, issues may arise during plugin installation. Common issues include compatibility conflicts, installation errors, or unexpected behavior after installation. In such cases, it is essential to stay calm and follow troubleshooting techniques. Decky Loader provides helpful error messages and documentation to assist in resolving these issues. Additionally, seeking help from the Steam Deck community and support channels can provide valuable insights and solutions.

Enhancing Your Steam Deck Experience with Plugins on Steam Deck

With a wide variety of plugins available, you can enhance your Steam Deck experience in numerous ways. Plugins can offer features such as advanced performance optimization, custom UI enhancements, additional controller support, and much more. Some popular plugin examples include FPS counters, custom button mapping, system monitoring overlays, and texture mods. Exploring different types of plugins and experimenting with their functionalities can unlock new possibilities and make your Steam Deck truly unique.

Conclusion

Installing plugins on the Steam Deck using Decky Loader opens up a world of customization and enhancement possibilities. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily discover, install, and manage plugins that suit your gaming preferences and requirements. Whether you want to improve performance, customize the user interface, or add new features, plugins can take your Steam Deck experience to the next level.

Decky Loader provides a streamlined and user-friendly interface for managing plugins, making the process accessible to gamers of all skill levels. With its plugin source repository and search functionality, finding and installing plugins becomes a hassle-free experience. Furthermore, the ability to customize plugin settings, enable or disable plugins, and keep them up to date ensures that you have full control over your plugin collection.

However, it’s important to exercise caution when installing plugins and ensure they are compatible with both Decky Loader and the current firmware of your Steam Deck. Reading user reviews and recommendations can provide valuable insights into the reliability and usefulness of a plugin.

In the event of any issues during plugin installation, Decky Loader offers helpful error messages and troubleshooting resources. Additionally, reaching out to the Steam Deck community and support channels can provide further assistance in resolving any problems.

By exploring the vast array of plugins available, you can tailor your Steam Deck experience to suit your preferences. From performance optimizations to UI enhancements and everything in between, plugins offer endless possibilities for customization and personalization.

In conclusion, installing plugins on the Steam Deck using Decky Loader is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance your gaming experience. Embrace the power of customization and unlock the full potential of your Steam Deck by experimenting with different plugins. Create a gaming environment that is uniquely yours and enjoy the flexibility and versatility that the Steam Deck has to offer. Happy gaming!