Valve's SteamOS offers a console-like interface for PC gaming on the go, but its PC roots also allow for deep customization. For users looking to expand beyond the default options, the third-party tool Decky Loader provides a gateway to a vast array of plugins that can transform the Steam Deck and other SteamOS devices.
Decky Loader functions as a platform for side-loading plugins directly within SteamOS's game mode, essentially bringing a homebrew-like experience to the device. This integration means that all customizations and new features can be accessed and controlled using a gamepad, preserving the intended console-like user experience.
Installing Decky Loader
Getting Decky Loader up and running is a straightforward process. Users must first switch from game mode to desktop mode by pressing the “Steam” button, navigating to “Power,” and selecting “switch to desktop mode.” Once in the desktop environment, users will need a web browser, such as Firefox, to navigate to https://decky.xyz/ and download the installer. After downloading, locate the installer file in the downloads folder and launch it. The installer will guide users through the process, potentially setting a temporary administrator password if one hasn't been established. For a stable SteamOS installation, the default “release” branch is recommended.
Upon successful installation, users can return to game mode. Pressing the Quick Access button will now reveal a new plugin section at the bottom, granting access to the Decky Loader plugin store.
Plugin Capabilities
While Decky Loader itself is a third-party open-source project and may occasionally require reinstallation after SteamOS updates, it unlocks a wide range of customization options. These include alarm clocks, animation changers, custom sound effects, battery trackers, and keyboard modifications.
SteamGridDB
A particularly popular plugin is SteamGridDB, which allows users to easily change game artwork. This tool integrates with the SteamGridDB service, providing access to alternative cover art, key art, and other visual assets for games. Instead of manually downloading and applying these assets in desktop mode, users can select a game, choose the “Change Artwork” option from the game's menu, and select from a wealth of capsules, hero art, logos, and icons. This is especially useful for games not originally from Steam or for users who wish to personalize their library with animated artwork, though caution is advised against overusing animated images to maintain interface performance.
Tab Master
Tab Master offers another layer of library customization by enabling users to create and manage custom tabs within game mode. This allows for personalized organization of game collections, such as creating dedicated tabs for backlog games, currently playing titles, or games from third-party storefronts. Users can also reorder or hide existing tabs, like the soundtrack tab, to streamline the library interface.
ProtonDB Badges
For detailed game compatibility information on SteamOS, the ProtonDB Badges plugin is invaluable. While Steam's built-in verification system offers a basic overview, ProtonDB provides crowdsourced compatibility data for games running via Proton. This plugin adds a direct link to a game's ProtonDB page on its Steam store page. These pages often include user comments with specific details on what works, what doesn't, and suggested tweaks for optimal performance, offering a more granular view than Valve's verification system alone. Currently, these badges are tested for Steam Deck, with expectations for Steam Machine support as the latter gains wider adoption.
Deck Settings
Optimizing game settings on the Steam Deck can often be a trial-and-error process. The Deck Settings plugin addresses this by pulling data from DeckVerified.Games, a community-driven resource where users share their tested settings for various games. This includes recommended compatibility tools, performance tweaks within SteamOS, and in-game adjustments. However, the plugin's effectiveness is dependent on user contributions, and it currently only supports games available on Steam.
Junk Store
For those looking to install games from third-party storefronts like the Epic Games Store without leaving game mode, Junk Store is an option. Typically, accessing these stores requires switching to desktop mode and using alternative launchers like Heroic Game Launcher. Junk Store aims to integrate these experiences directly into game mode. The free version of the Decky Loader plugin supports the Epic Games Store. More comprehensive functionality, including support for other storefronts like GOG, is available through a paid Pro version, which the developers note is a reflection of the work involved in maintaining such a tool.
Decky Loader and its associated plugins offer a significant expansion of the Steam Deck's capabilities, allowing users to tailor their portable gaming experience with a level of customization previously unavailable on console-like devices. While users should be aware of the potential for occasional glitches inherent in third-party software, the benefits of enhanced aesthetics, information, and functionality generally outweigh these minor inconveniences.