Comprehensive Guide to Playing Starfield on Steam Deck with PC Game Pass

In recent times, there have been concerns regarding the experience of playing the highly anticipated Starfield on Steam Deck, primarily owing to its lackluster performance and compatibility issues. Nevertheless, there is a viable solution to bypass these challenges. Here, we present an in-depth guide to playing Starfield on Steam Deck, particularly for PC Game Pass users.

The Current Challenges with Playing Starfield on Steam Deck

For those eager to play Starfield on Steam Deck, there seems to be a setback. Initially, the game encounters significant performance issues, functioning at an unsatisfactory pace even at the minimum settings. Furthermore, individuals hoping to access it through PC Game Pass are faced with compatibility problems due to the restrictions imposed by the Universal Windows Platform system, making it incompatible with the Steam Deck.

Moreover, if you are considering utilizing the Xbox Cloud Gaming option for a more steady gameplay experience, it is crucial to note that this method has its limitations. Firstly, a consistent high-speed internet connection is required, limiting the possibility of enjoying the game in transit or areas with poor connectivity. Furthermore, customization of in-game graphics settings is not an option, which means the performance you initially receive is the one you are stuck with.

Additionally, access to Xbox Cloud Gaming is only available to Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, costing £13/$17 monthly, a rise from the standard subscription price. Despite these limitations, if you are willing to proceed, this guide will walk you through the necessary steps, emphasizing the use of additional peripherals for an optimal setup.

Detailed Steps to Play Starfield on Steam Deck Using PC Game Pass

To navigate through the current challenges and enjoy Starfield on Steam Deck via the PC Game Pass, follow this comprehensive step-by-step guide:

Step 1

Initiate the process by holding down the power button on the Steam Deck to reveal the power menu, and then select the option “Switch to Desktop”.

Step 2

Once the desktop mode is activated, locate and click on the blue shopping bag icon labeled “Discover Software Center” present in the taskbar.

Step 3

In the Software Center, search for the Microsoft Edge browser and proceed to install it. Note that this setup only works with Microsoft Edge and no other browsers.

Step 4

Following the installation of Microsoft Edge, click on the Steam Deck icon situated at the bottom left of your screen to access the Application Launcher. Navigate to the internet tab, right-click on Microsoft Edge and select “Add to Steam”. Verify the addition by checking your library in the Steam app, still in desktop mode.

Step 5

Reopen the Application Launcher, and this time select the system tab. Find and open the application named Konsole.

Step 6

In the Konsole window, input the following command:

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flatpak --user override --filesystem=/run/udev:ro com.microsoft.Edge

Press Enter to execute the command and then close the Konsole.

Step 7

Find Microsoft Edge in your Steam library, right-click on it, and select “Properties”.

Step 8

In the properties window, navigate to the end of the existing text in the Launch Options field. Add a space before inputting the following string, without removing any existing text:

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--window-size=1024,640 --force-device-scale-factor=1.25 --device-scale-factor=1.25 --kiosk https://www.xbox.com/play

Step 9

Close the properties window, return to Microsoft Edge in the Steam library, right-click and select “Controller layout”. Change the top window option to “Web Browser”.

Step 10

Select “Gamepad with mouse trackpad” and click “Apply layout”.

Step 11

Before launching, consider renaming the Edge app for easy identification, perhaps to “Xbox Cloud Gaming”.

Step 12

Restart your Steam Deck into Gaming mode. Locate the renamed app in the non-Steam games section of your library. Launch it, log in to your Game Pass Ultimate account, and you can now enjoy Starfield or any other available Game Pass games via the cloud service.

Conclusion

Though faced with initial challenges, this guide provides a structured pathway to still enjoy Starfield on the Steam Deck using PC Game Pass. While it may require some setup, following these detailed steps will lead you to a satisfactory gaming experience. Please note that a good internet connection is a prerequisite for a seamless gaming session. Happy gaming!

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