A new free application named Deck de France has emerged, allowing users to repurpose their bicycle trainers as controllers for PC games, including those on Steam Deck. This software translates pedaling input into in-game commands, providing a unique control method for certain titles.
Deck de France is compatible with any smart trainer that broadcasts Cycling Power Service over Bluetooth Low Energy. Supported devices include a range of trainers from Tacx, Elite, Wahoo, Zwift Hub, CycleOps, and Garmin, as well as various BLE power meters. The application effectively converts pedaling force into game actions.
While the primary intended use case for Deck de France appears to be cycling simulation games like the Tour de France series, where pedaling directly controls in-game speed, it also offers rudimentary functionality in other genres. In Rocket League, pedaling can activate the boost function. For the Forza Horizon games and Grand Theft Auto, pedal power is translated into acceleration or throttle control, respectively. However, users will still need a separate Bluetooth controller for other in-game actions and menu navigation.
Developed by Sukolupo and shared on GitHub, Deck de France is noted for its straightforward setup, with the creator suggesting it can be operational within five minutes. Instructions are available on the Deck de France GitHub repository. Though demonstrated with the Steam Deck, the software is technically functional on any Linux PC.
This development offers an unconventional method for cyclists to integrate their training into gaming sessions, adding a physical element to digital entertainment. It provides a novel way to control game mechanics, such as managing boost in Rocket League or acceleration in racing titles.