The Steam Deck, a portable gaming device, has garnered attention not only for its gaming capabilities but also for its controller functionalities. This post will delve into two detailed methods that allow you to use your Steam Deck as a controller for your PC.

Utilizing Steam Remote Play

Introduction

Steam Remote Play is a feature that initially aims to stream games from one PC to another. However, it can also be utilized to use your Steam Deck as a PC controller. This approach is generally easier and more accessible for the average user.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Game Installation: Ensure the game you wish to play is installed on your main PC. For non-Steam games, add them manually to your Steam library.
  2. Network Connection: Connect both your Steam Deck and your PC to the same network. Using an Ethernet connection for your PC may improve performance.
  3. Steam Settings: On your PC, click the Steam icon in the top-right corner and navigate to ‘Settings’.
  4. Enable Remote Play: Within the ‘Settings’ window, find and click on the ‘Remote Play’ tab. Make sure the Remote Play feature is enabled.
  5. Advanced Options: Enable ‘Advanced Host Options’ and subsequently activate ‘Play audio on host’.
  6. Game Streaming: On your Steam Deck, go to your game library and choose the ‘Stream’ option for the game you want to play. If ‘Play’ appears instead of ‘Stream’, click the arrow next to ‘Play’ and choose to stream from your PC.

Limitations

This method has its downsides: it requires a stable Wi-Fi connection for optimal latency and imposes certain restrictions like not being able to access the Steam overlay on your PC.

Employing VirtualHere to Transform Your Deck into a Controller

Introduction

VirtualHere is a more complex yet rewarding method. Originally not intended for this purpose, a clever workaround has enabled Steam Deck to function as a genuine PC controller.

Setting Up Your Steam Deck

  1. Enter Desktop Mode: Press the Steam button on your Steam Deck and go to ‘Power’. Select ‘Desktop Mode’.
  2. Download VirtualHere: Visit VirtualHere’s official website and download the VirtualHere USB Server for Linux (x86_64).
  3. Password Configuration: Navigate to ‘System Settings’ and then to the ‘Users’ tab to set a password, as none exists by default.
  4. File Management: Open the file manager and create a new folder named ‘virtualhere’. Move the downloaded VirtualHere file into this folder and mark it as executable in its properties.
  5. Non-Steam Game Addition: In Steam, click ‘Add a Game’, then ‘Add a Non-Steam Game’, and browse to your ‘virtualhere’ folder to add the file.
  6. Shortcut Configuration: Right-click on the newly added game and adjust the ‘Shortcut’ tab and ‘Launch Options’ as specified in the original guide.

Setting Up Your PC

  1. IP Address: Note down the IP address of your Steam Deck from its Wi-Fi settings.
  2. Controller App: Open the Controller app you’ve set up on your Steam Deck and enter your password.
  3. Download VirtualHere Client: Download and open the VirtualHere client for your PC.
  4. Specify Hubs: Right-click on ‘USB Hubs’ within VirtualHere Client and click ‘Specify Hubs’. Add your Steam Deck’s IP address.

User Experience

While this method does involve a few additional steps, it offers an arguably better experience for off-Steam games. However, you may need to restart your Steam Deck occasionally and deal with password prompts.

Conclusion

Both Steam Remote Play and VirtualHere have their pros and cons, but they offer viable ways to use your Steam Deck as a PC controller. While neither method provides a flawless experience, they do expand the functionalities of your Steam Deck, making it a more versatile gadget in your gaming arsenal.

Also Read: