Steam Deck Tips and Advice for Newcomers

Some of these Steam Deck tips are for people who haven't purchased the system yet to hopefully answer some questions, while others are for new owners who might be concerned about some of their findings exploring the Steam Deck Interface. It's hardly comprehensive, but just like any other video I put out if you have any questions or feedback on any. of these tips please let me know in the comments and I'll do my best to follow-up.
0:00 - Intro
1:00 - Steam Deck Hardware
4:50 - Ports and Storage
7:13 - OS and Interface
9:49 - Diving into Games
13:36 - Outro
If you like any of the Steam Deck accessories featured in this video you can grab them on Amazon below through my affiliate links if you'd like:
Stand Base - amzn.to/3F8NeZr
Anker USB C Hub - amzn.to/3LrakwD
Wireless RGB Mouse -amzn.to/3ki0z7M
Logitech K380 Keyboard - amzn.to/3MBsI61
SanDisk Ultra 256GB Micro SD - amzn.to/3LraUuj
Anker 737 Power Bank with 87W Delivery - amzn.to/3khpJUa
** AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER**
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Other links may also be affiliate links for which I earn a small commission through purchases made. So all links should be treated as affiliate links which might result in my earning a commission. Thanks!

[@UNjusticeleague]

8:50 Instead of using the steam key you can hold the … button on the other side and use the same shortcuts

[@YourPlayer2]

LoL I bet it explained that at some point and I must've just glossed right over it after being instructed to use the Steam button to take a screenshot in Desk Job! Pinning this so others aren't fumbling awkwardly with adjusting screen brightness like I was :p

[@Moskeeto]

@@YourPlayer2 That's actually not explained anywhere in the interface for some reason. It's something I discovered after someone else mentioned it off-hand too.

[@DarkEnigma91]

Thanks for this tip! Will definitely use it to increase/decrease brightness now! I've just been relying on the "..." menu and changing it manually.

[@YourPlayer2]

Ah ok so I'm not THAT crazy then :p

[@ericdavis1421]

@@YourPlayer2 this SteamDeck is getting updated/improved more frequently than I expected. Perhaps that functionality was added? Good YT/Rumble posters may need to tag updated videos to anything 3 months old for the foreseeable future 😀 🤓🤔

[@nicholas_black]

I just have to say, I've watched about 100 videos on the Steam Deck over the past week while waiting for mine to arrive (tomorrow!), and this video has given more more useful information than any of them. The fact that you warned about the bottom charging/data port having some play in it by design probably saved me from some serious anxiety as an electronics repair technician. Really appreciate the info!

[@YourPlayer2]

Congrats on the forthcoming deck, man! I appreciate the kind words and glad you enjoyed the video :) Definitely more en route and speaking as someone who just suffers from regular anxiety, super glad to hear I could help put some fear to rest in advance :p

[@LordAteag]

I got my email yesterday and paid for it before I even got home. I'm joining you in Valhalla, brother! How long did you have to wait after your invite?

[@nicholas_black]

@@LordAteag Strange, I could swear I replied to you yesterday, but I don't see it today. I checked the dates for you, and looks like I got my email Monday July 18th, placed the order within about 30 seconds of getting it, and received the Steam Deck on Sunday, July 24th, so 6 days total! And let me tell you brother this thing is every bit as amazing as people are hyping it up to be. Once you get settled into it being able to switch from game to game on the fly, suspend them any time, pick it up and resume whenever you have some time, it's amazing!

[@LordAteag]

@@nicholas_black I am so excited, dude. I got my shipping process email today. Thanks for bracing my hopes!

[@SgtKickAzzYT]

I just ordered mine this money it was my last day too order it I was waiting for my paycheck too hit haha. I AM SOOOOOOOOOOOOO EXCITED FML!!

[@bluepill8077]

Top tip: NEVER update steam in desktop mode! Also when doing emulation, use FIX GPU clock speed in advanced battery quick menu. It will go to 1600 mhz instead of 900 I believe, and it makes roms run a lot better.

[@YourPlayer2]

I literally read about this right AFTER I'd done my first update within the regular gaming interface. There was definitely a sigh of relief and thanks for the tip on adjusting the mhz! I thought I saw something similar about this specifically making Wii games run better.

[@bluepill8077]

@Pancakes Supreme INFINITE boot loop and reimage of SteamOS 😐

[@slizer452]

@@bluepill8077 You're talking about a desktop OS update, I'm guessing? I've updated apps within it a few times now and it's been fine.

[@bluepill8077]

@@slizer452 yes Perhaps it's been patched by now

[@David_Quinn_Photography]

thank god this issue seems to have been fixed, I updated steam while using the deck in desktop mode and didn't have that issue. I have ran into an issue where the keyboard does not come up though.

[@CyberDiver91]

I just got the email saying my Deck is ready and I'm eagerly awaiting the shipment email and getting my hands on my 256 gig model. All the info in this video is good to know, I'm glad it popped up in my feed!

[@YourPlayer2]

Score! Shouldn't take too long to get to you hopefully and good choice on the middle option- If I could go back in time I'd have gone for that one myself! Glad to hear the video was helpful and appreciate your taking the time to watch, Cyber :)

[@daylate7]

I’ve watched tons of Steam Deck videos and you’re the only one who mentions the usb c port wiggle. I was so worried!! Thanks man! You have another sub 🤟

[@YourPlayer2]

Glad I could put your mind at ease! That or we both just have messed up Steam Decks 😂 Hope you find some other videos you dig here and appreciate the support, Daylate :)

[@amidnightstroll376]

Fantastic video, very helpful. Thanks for this

[@YourPlayer2]

I'm really glad you enjoyed it and appreciate the kind words :)

[@JoelLandin]

More steam deck content, always nice to see :)

[@YourPlayer2]

Trust me there will be MANY more Steam Deck videos on here! They seem to do well when I put them out and I love making them so that's a real peanut butter/chocolate situation :p

[@simber71]

Just received my Steam Deck and was so confused by different videos until I came across yours. I am still confused about this frame rate thing, power and some games slowing down and speeding up. I guess I need to do more research on it. Keep the videos coming and hopefully I will get this device sorted.

[@YourPlayer2]

Congrats on the new Deck, Simon! One of the things you can do to improve performance is hit the ... button on the right and then if you tap on the battery icon you should be able to cap the frame rate to something like 30 to see if that helps with games that are more taxing :) Appreciate the encouragement, man!

[@khaivu6118]

hello, I've owned steam deck since 05.2022 as a hobbyist. Long break b/c of work but diving back in now to refresh my memory of how everything works and came across your video. Plus: - your content is all meat, no filler. - truly helpful, not clickbait mentality - good vibes. honest Negative (only 1) - present a little more slowly to let the viewer time to absorb the information you are sharing Overall: - time well spent watching this video

[@YourPlayer2]

I really, REALLY appreciate the kind words, dude- been a bit off my game but ramping back up this week and I will try to slow down a bit :)

[@frozengamer3030]

I am finally getting one. This video was helpful

[@YourPlayer2]

I saw and congrats again dude! :)

[@paulbowler5345]

Great vidro and info about the Steam Deck and your experiences with it Josh

[@YourPlayer2]

Thanks a bunch man! More on the way :)

[@akfreed6949]

Thanks for the info-show . Makes me wish I got one even more .

[@YourPlayer2]

You're most welcome and thanks for taking the time to check it out, Bruce :) Hopefully you can grab one too sometime!

[@sock2070]

Really useful video, thanks for sharing :)

[@YourPlayer2]

Glad to hear it and thanks for checking it out, sock :)

[@sc76399]

I can’t wait to get mine

[@KBL1974]

Glad I subscribed to your channel. Great videos.

[@YourPlayer2]

I'm glad you did too and appreciate the kind words, dude :)

[@DanofWar101]

Some good tips right there, especially on the saving money part! If it's cheaper to get a bigger SD card then the bigger deck model, of course I would go with the less expensive model, who doesn't like saving money! Great video and keep up the good work!

[@YourPlayer2]

So far as I can tell it definitely is! I mean I don't HATE that I got the biggest model but if I were in the same position again I'd have gone for the 256 for sure. Thanks a bunch dude :)

[@Aereto]

Though wiser not to excessively sacrifice I/O speed for capacity in micro SD cards unless used to store games that don't need high volume read and write.

[@Jim2theCamel36]

great video man. learned a many things watching along. i got me 512gb Steam Deck During the anniversary sale , along with the Steam DOCK, Dbrand Travel kit Armour case/screen protector/Dock Adapter/thumbgaurds/Digital Camo skin. slapped a 256gb Micro Sd Card in and all have been Smooth sailing since i got it. i got like 80- games in my steam Library, and play my Old School Roms on emulation. This Device is The best Hand HEld ive ever owned in my life. and ive been around the block. been using a Acer nitro 5 with GTX 1650 8gb Ram for the past 3 years and usually play between the 2 daily.

[@YourPlayer2]

Appreciate it, Jim! Sounds like you're geared up and hope you have fun with it! If you have any recommendations I'm all ears :)

[@PlayfulDead22]

I went for the 512GB and have been second guessing it as my ship date gets closer, but I have seen the differences between them and prefer having more internal space for peace of mind. Thank you for the heads up on the charging port! I would have been worried too!

[@YourPlayer2]

I’m sure you’ll love it! And no problem at all! :)

[@danheckman8265]

Hard drive is upgradable and has micro SD so don't stress

[@Toni_De_Arcadia]

Awesome tips thanks bro 😎

[@YourPlayer2]

You're most welcome, dude! Appreciate your watching :)

[@TheBrickSeparator2020]

Very helpful video! Learned a lot I didn't know. I watch a lot of Steam Deck videos too!

[@YourPlayer2]

Thanks dude! More on the way as this has become pretty much my daily driver for gaming and now that I have Elden Ring on it too REALLY hard to pull myself away from the Deck and in turn more Deck videos :p

[@TheBrickSeparator2020]

@@YourPlayer2 Awesome! Hopefully it will become my main gaming device too.

[@YourPlayer2]

That's what it's becoming for me! :p

[@c3r3alkillr]

I saw you contorting your fingers to do the button combo to adjust your screen brightness (“Steam” + left analog), pro tip: you can hold the “QAM” button instead and use the left controls. Also makes it a lot easier for the Tab, Enter, and Alt button combos.

[@YourPlayer2]

LoL yup, someone else pointed this out to me and now it's MUCH more comfortable to adjust the brightness mid-game! Appreciate the feedback, cereal!

[@zerioification]

What is QAM button?

[@thesliquester]

@@zerioification Quick Access Menu

[@Principalofthething889]

Thanks for the video man! You're preparing me. I don't have a steam deck yet but I'm currently saving up for one. And I should be able to charge it on the go. I have a power bank from ZeroLemon that has two 22.5 w charging ports, and it also has 30,000 milliamp hours so if I take my steam deck on a walk or something I should definitely be able to play for quite a while

[@YourPlayer2]

You're most welcome and thanks for taking the time to watch and leave some feedback, dude :) Having a beefy backup battery is a HUGE help and sounds like that'll keep you going for a while!

[@Inktoo]

I was honestly really surprised to see that Steam allows community controller configs for non-steam games. I spent about an hour trying to make a precise controller setup for Minecraft, only to realize that there was a massive list of community configs...

[@YourPlayer2]

Well it sure comes in handy! How did you get Minecraft working just out of curiosity? I haven't attempted that yet but would love to play!

[@808Slush]

I personally love the anti glare screen. I figured if im gonna make a big purchase i might as well go all out. Gonna be broke for a while...🤣 thats okay this thing is absolutely amazing

[@YourPlayer2]

It's certainly made my life easier when filming it! Hope you enjoy it, Slush :D

[@anthonywilliams379]

I want a glass screen Protector so I decided the frosting was better on that than the screen

[@chrismurff1815]

5:00 valve said a while back that the sd card is going to be very close to the SSD speed. But when you play games like witcher 3 or skyrim you can tell. there have been side by sides done and, while not seem like a lot, there were about 5-8 seconds of load time differences on games that require a large chunk of info to be loaded at once.

[@YourPlayer2]

I didn't know that! I was just really surprised initially since I was expecting there to be some MASSIVE difference in load times but was happy to see it was hardly noticeable in what I've played so far.

[@chrismurff1815]

@@YourPlayer2 its pretty sweet TBH. it means we can side load win10/11 with very little performance hits. I cant wait to get mine in july/august

[@miciso666]

@@YourPlayer2 yeah my friend has one already. ordered day 2. and i did a week later so i have to wait. but what he tested for me seems sd card reader is pretty damn good. but games that constantly save/load you are gonna see a little bit of issues. like indeed red dead gta witcher but im not regretting getting 2 good sd cards a big one for my main games. and 1 for just fighting games when my friends pop over.

[@YourPlayer2]

Right? I couldn't get over that. I've got another (very short) video coming out tomorrow about how you can copy files from one card to another if you're looking to upgrade like I did. Short story is with a USB C dock with SD Card reader you can mount both cards at once and move files over but that didn't even occur to meat first.

[@YourPlayer2]

Good to know! Not sure if I'll load up Windows to dual boot or anything like that but it's cool knowing that I COULD if there was some experience I HAD to have that I couldn't get working natively.

[@heatherperkins9737]

New subscriber here - great video! I found out about Steam Deck a good bit after reservations opened, so won’t get mine any time soon. I am learning all I can while I wait for that email!

[@YourPlayer2]

Appreciate it, Heather, and hope you find some other stuff you dig here :) Any particular games you're looking forward to most when it arrives?

[@ezekielgskeen8607]

Awesome info video!

[@YourPlayer2]

Thanks a bunch, dude, and glad you enjoyed it :)

[@jamielishbrook2384]

I'm currently saving up for the high end model for either next year's Christmas or my birthday. I appreciate the added space plus where I'm living at the moment has a lot of windows and that anti reflective screen is a bit of a bonus for brighter days.

[@YourPlayer2]

Can't go wrong with extra room for games! And the anti reflective screen does work pretty well :)

[@jamielishbrook2384]

@@YourPlayer2 I've heard nothing but good reviews on it so far. And the more I dig into steam the more I'm excited to be playing portable versions of games I wanted to play for awhile but for whatever just refuse to come to the switch despite how good it could turn out on the little handheld. Gon be great

[@YourPlayer2]

It can DEFINITELY take a bit of tinkering depending on what you want to do with it but for the most part it's been a wonderful system! I used it to Remote Play Bloodborne from my PS5 and that was pretty cool :p And I can't blame you on the Switch- Like it's impressive they could port something like Witcher 3 to it, but I wouldn't call that the IDEAL way to play it, particularly in a world where the Deck now exists ya know?

[@jamielishbrook2384]

@@YourPlayer2 for sure man. I love the switch but I do wish they would have at least.tried to port more games to it. I mean seriously? A cloud only version of kingdom hearts 1? That was just lazy.

[@YourPlayer2]

Yeah that was a real bummer- for something so iconic it deserved a true physical treatment for the Switch imho

[@Kbreaux10]

Great info. And you don't waste any time telling it either!! Thank you. Nothing more frustrating than someone talking real slow in a video. You definitely don't have that issue!!

[@YourPlayer2]

LoL thanks a bunch and while I DEFINITELY don't have a problem with speaking quickly, I could probably stand to slow it down aTINY bit or at least stop drinking Red Bull prior to filming 😂 Thanks for taking the time to watch, Kbreaux :)

[@TerryRed]

Lots of great tips being thrown around... and all I saw was a Silent Hill games's map pop up for 2 seconds :)

[@YourPlayer2]

Hehehe good eye! I am definitely a fan of the series and really hope rumors of a revival are true!!

[@TerryRed]

@@YourPlayer2 Huge fan here, and hope to see a revival as well. Unitl then, I'm just making my own Silent Hill game. :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/l37OnamNnrqknrs

[@KillSwitch80]

I ordered a bunch of the USB C magnetic adapters to decrease wear and tear on devices. I’ll probably use one of those when my Deck comes in

[@YourPlayer2]

I hadn't considered those but I'll look into them- And congrats on your forthcoming Steam Deck!

[@stuartleckie]

Just dropped in as I got my email today, but then I saw you have Enslaved in your library, so that alone gets me to subscribe 👍🏻

[@YourPlayer2]

LoL well hopefully I won't LOSE your subscription for this but I haven't actually played it yet! I just kept hearing good things about it being underrated and figured I'd give it a go so it's nice to see another endorsement for it :)

[@stuartleckie]

@@YourPlayer2 ha ha. Well, I appreciate the honesty. So. As a kid I loved the TV show Monkey. Sometimes known as Monkey Magic. So, being into that story helped. But my favourite modern games are Uncharted, Mafia2, etc, where it’s a big game, but really linear. Enslaved fits that description.

[@YourPlayer2]

I do what I can XD Added to the list for a future video!

[@revmaillet]

I got the magnetic usb c adapters for my steam deck charging... the best thing ever... easy to pop on and pop off without worrying about having to shove the cord in

[@YourPlayer2]

I don't think I've seen those used yet! Makes me wanna do a follow-up video with more accessories :p

[@miciso666]

@@YourPlayer2 i use them for my phone. really reduces wear and tear. and nasty shit from getting into the ports :D but the ones i use arent high powered i use them mostly for overnight ''trickle'' charge

[@YourPlayer2]

That makes sense and I know well enough from (some) apple stuff how convenient magnetic cables/charging can be.

[@Omega_419]

Do you have a link for that by chance? That sounds like a great idea

[@GMC79]

Had my deck since last week of April and can say there is no play in my port mine is quite tight and solid, Love it tho it's fantastic bit of kit. 👍

[@YourPlayer2]

Curious? Well as long as it's working for you and YES I absolutely love this thing!

[@Elvis77]

Can’t believe I’m watching all these steam deck videos and I’m still after Q3 having ordered last August…

[@YourPlayer2]

Hey, nothing wrong with keeping the hype going right? Hopefully you don't have to wait too long though!

[@Elvis77]

@@YourPlayer2 Hopefully no later than October. Desperate to get my hands on it. Just spending time increasing my steam library with verified games. Could be an expensive few months….😂 Enjoying your videos though.

[@YourPlayer2]

Can't say I blame you and I'm sure it will be what with summer sales looming :p I appreciate it man and I'll try to keep 'em coming :)

[@grey1k]

I ordered in December 2021 and it said After Q3, the funny part is I was okay with that and okay with waiting but then I got on reddit today and someone said exactly what you just said about reserving earlier like august and is still Q3. I immediately canceled my reservation and bought one off reddit from someone, 256gb model 530$, I paid 650$. But well worth not waiting

[@Elvis77]

@@grey1k Completely understand that. Not sure if I'm confident enough to buy elsewhere though. May just have to try and be patient......

[@DavidRambles94]

According to Gardner you should use an A2 micro sd card, because it has a faster random data reader. Which is good for AAA games, an A1 is good for most indie games and old roms

[@YourPlayer2]

Good to know! The classifications for micro SD cards always seemed really cryptic.

[@joegardner851]

Hey I have the same last name 😂

[@Qhimadi]

Debunked by steam themselves as they sent a1 cat sd cards to reviewers

[@TurkeyFaceX]

I ended up reserving the 512 model for the extra space rather than the non-reflective screen. I also bought a 1 TB card to expand the storage further. See, I don't know how to change out the NVME drive and don't want to watch a tutorial on how to do it in fear that I would ruin the Deck itself. Its worth the extra money to skip this tedious and potentially dangerous process and have the most space for my Steam games as possible right out of the box. Can't wait till I get my Deck sometime in Q3. Thanks for the vid, these are great tips for a newcomer to this platform.

[@YourPlayer2]

Congrats! I also upgraded to a 1TB card from a 128 and I've got a short video coming out next week showing how I pretty much just copied all of the existing folders/files to the new card using a USB-C hub and everything still worked perfectly :) You're most welcome and appreciate the kind words! Believe me, TONS more of these videos coming since people seem to dig them!

[@TurkeyFaceX]

@@YourPlayer2 Perfect, I was curious about moving files. I hear its not as easy as putting it on a flash drive and plugging it in, so this is great content. You just got a like, a sub and a satisfied new viewer.

[@YourPlayer2]

Well I'm glad to hear it and I'll try not to disappoint! Yeah I couldn't get the files to be readable (on a Mac anyways) but after going into Desktop mode and plugging both cards in (one through the USB-C SD card reader) I was able to access both cards from that interface and just copy the files to the new card :)

[@miciso666]

fun fact if u get the expensive one DONT use a screen protector. it removes the benefits. i seen people do this and then facepalming. also u barely notice a difference imho. maybe some people see better results. also usually they are faster to scratch and break.

[@TurkeyFaceX]

@@miciso666 Thanks for the heads up. I won't use the one I bought if the screen it comes with is that superior without the "protection". Makes sense too, I honestly wondered if this was the case seeing how the screen itself was a highlight getting the high tier model.

[@BrannanVR]

just during into steam deck videos I'll be waiting for the day steam deck 2 comes out!

[@YourPlayer2]

You and me both! Really can't wait to see what they do with the next iteration :)

[@nomad090]

I just got my Deck today. Thank you for this.

[@YourPlayer2]

Congratulations! Which model did you go for? And you're most welcome!

[@nomad090]

@@YourPlayer2 I got the 250gb version!

[@YourPlayer2]

@@nomad090 Very nice! If I could go back in time I'd have gone for that version as well!

[@nomad090]

@@YourPlayer2 You probably got your a lot sooner because you the smaller one. I ordered the day of release later in the day and just got mine. If I knew I could have gotten it months sooner I would have gotten the 64gb one and upgraded the storage or lived with it.

[@YourPlayer2]

Well I went for the 512 and got mine...about 6 weeks ago at this point I think? I think they even said they were surprised at how many people went for that version which bodes well for future incarnations!

[@TheEcrus]

I think at minimum for micro sd cards I would go with a 512gb one. I am waiting on my q3 256gb model and I have already bought my micro sd card. Also if you can get a screen protector, I don't know about the 512gb model, but there are anti-glare screen protectors for the steam deck out there you can get online. Since this is my first gaming pc, I been slowly buying games that should work with the steam deck, I only have one unverified game in my gaming library, but I'm gonna take a gamble this September with Evil West and see if it works on the Steam Deck. I also planned for what my day one installs are, since I like to plan ahead of getting a new piece of hardware which it doesn't hurt to plan ahead if your are waiting. Also there are protective cases out there for the steam deck that will fit in the case your deck arrives in, which I would recommend looking up and seeing if there is one that you like and the good ones have grips on them. They are also not to expensive online, but if you want to spend big definitely wait for dbrands protective case which should be good and a bit more expensive than the ones currently available on the market. And at minimum a standard dock that can hold the steam deck while charging and downloading so it can get air in the back of the system. Obviously you can save up for Valves official dock that also has the usb ports and hdmi port, but if you are only planning on using this as a handheld device a standard plain jane dock that can a steam deck can fit in will work.

[@YourPlayer2]

Oh yeah I agree- You can chew through space quickly ESPECIALLY if you have a massive library. I've heard good things about Evil West but haven't played it myself unfortunately. As for cases, I just use the one it came with so far but I know waterfield make some cool looking ones!

[@Jorvalt]

Also, if you got the 512gb model you have to worry about getting the right kind of screen protector, if you're getting one. Most of the cheaper stuff will essentially just undo the effect of having an anti-glare screen. Dbrand is one that I know won't interfere with the anti-glare effect.

[@AlienYogurtPot123]

You don't need to buy one big SD card for the steam deck. You can always buy multiply SD cards, and use them like you would physical games for the Switch.

[@YourPlayer2]

Good point! I don't do this personally but at some point I may have to :p

[@anthonywilliams379]

Found sd card holders but not micro sd holder cases

[@tuckeredout2887]

I got an SD card ready specifically so i can install rdr2 onto it LOL

[@TylerEdlin84]

do you have any videos on how to install various emulators?

[@YourPlayer2]

I do indeed! Here's a look at my setup and how I used Emudeck/Steam ROM Manager to make sure the games looked nice in the interface: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJDPiWirhNCSbLM

[@TylerEdlin84]

@@YourPlayer2 thanks I’ll be checking em out. Just got the steam deck today and I’m not a heavy pc gamer so I am over my head.

[@tuckeredout2887]

Mine is on its way as we speak!

[@YourPlayer2]

Congrats, dude! Anything in particular you're most looking forward to on it? :)

[@tuckeredout2887]

@@YourPlayer2 RDR2, Witcher 3, Pizza Tower, and Batman Arkham Knight are what im most excited to play 😁 I've played all these games before aside from Witcher 3, but im really excited to experience them portably

[@BrianJones-wk8cx]

Great tips! Another random tip that may be showing up elsewhere-one of the most engaging ways to play is with a good pair of over the ear headphones. While this may seem like a “duh” tip for immersion, it enables the Deck to really reinvigorate and reinvent all of your favorite older games, especially retro emulation titles. If you’ve never played some of your favorites with headphones, the Steam Deck makes it super easy and super fun. And if you emulate NES titles, play with audio settings in RetroArch. I have found that games sounds even better with the faux-stereo output turned on.

[@YourPlayer2]

Thanks man! And no doubt- I have some aging Bose QC35's that are always paired with it which is great (and terrifying) for horror games :p Yup, retro games really come alive, particularly if you're playing Genesis titles which sound fantastic!

[@christopherfilding4158]

I'm thinking about getting a steam deck, I think it's a good option for my personal needs as I basically just want to play some games and sometimes watch a movie on the internet. Do you have to worry about viruses while browsing with this or because it is Linux based it's all safe?

[@YourPlayer2]

Well, I don't know that any PC is 100% safe, though Linux is less targeted than Windows as far as viruses and malware goes. I haven't had any issues yet :)

[@IcoKirov]

anyone been able to make the GoG version of Dragon Age Origin run on the deck? i tired with Heroic, downloading the install files and adding them as non-steam game... but the most i can get is starting the launcher, and when i hit play it fails. tried proton 7.0.2, experimental, GE 7.17 (or was it 7.16) and Proton 6.3 I also tried installing GoG Galaxy as a non steam game, it installs, but then cant launch it when i add the exe as a non steam game.

[@ClintStryzerGaming]

I managed to get one and it’s on the way. What would you recommend for a good dock?

[@YourPlayer2]

Congrats, Clint! I have an affiliate link for the Anker one that I use linked in the description of the video :)

[@ClintStryzerGaming]

@@YourPlayer2 thanks dude

[@Peepsuk1234]

I went for 256 gig model. I’ve got full fibre broadband so can delete and download most games fairly quickly. Will get a micro SD when needed.

[@YourPlayer2]

In retrospect I likely would've done the same!

[@johnschwalb]

The gold fish myth comes from the fact that gold fish get huge and require large tanks. The only get as big as the tank allows them too. Meaning they die when outgrowing a tank or their growth get stunted.

[@YourPlayer2]

Ahhhh good to know!

[@avaviel]

I had a goldfish in college I rescued from some stupid girls who bought them for a bathtub prank. The goldfish, I kept on getting bigger and bigger tanks for him. Finally he was around 1 ft long. The tank was huge, but it was still too small for him. I gave him to someone who had a koi pond, and he lived for around 10 years with them. Very beautiful fish! And he started out as a feeder fish. That's the potential of goldfish.

[@bikelifepov9617]

Q3! Cant wait till I get mines

[@YourPlayer2]

Nice! Some of my friends are in Q3 as well and they're pretty stoked!

[@anthonywilliams379]

Is the charger one that the cable detaches by usb and if not can you plug it into the dock to charge it?

[@YourPlayer2]

Yes you can charge via the dock :)

[@Djjustb]

Can you add mods on the Steam Deck? Also, does the workbench work on it?

[@YourPlayer2]

I believe so, though I haven't experimented with them yet so I won't be much use here unfortunately

[@taranagnew436]

Does it have amd advantage? I think valve should make it whenever you hold the "steam" button it pops-up the shortcuts (users can turn on/off this function)

[@levitaylor3781]

Steam deck has this feature now

[@YourPlayer2]

Thanks for the heads-up, Levi!

[@josezeroninja]

I just ordered mine. Got the big one since I just wanna support valve and get myself a deck anyways.

[@YourPlayer2]

Score! Hope it gets there quick :)

[@1nine8two39]

I ordered the top tier for the ssd because I don’t have the passion to tinker anymore, with they would have different options for screens

[@YourPlayer2]

Nice! In retrospect I might've gone for the 256 but I'm not complaining :p And agreed on the screens- Still hoping for an OLED in its successor so I can get those vivid colors and inky blacks ya know?

[@rocknflip66]

6:32 this would get me worried! I’m getting my steam deck in less than a week 😅

[@YourPlayer2]

LoL yup, you should be good, Rock, and congrats on your new Steam Deck dude!! :D

[@nixxxgaming]

Has anyone encountered the issue with the power manager settings where all changes returns to default after clicking apply? Also, in desktop mode, is it normal that the power button will not function as "sleep" button when quickly pressed?

[@YourPlayer2]

I don't think I've encountered this myself, but as for the sleep button yes, it SHOULD put the system to sleep after you press it (not hold it).

[@sirbxnny]

i forgot the video but someone compared the base model to the 512 model and the anti reflective screen actually makes the screen look softer and not as sharp/clear as the regular one and plus you can swap the ssd for less that $150 that alone is definitely worth $400

[@YourPlayer2]

Oh wow! I didn't know that about the screen!

[@yousifdelvalle4162]

as way to stop myself from maxing out storage- I'm using a small card- that way I will download games i'll play instead of just loading it up with games that I won't play immediately

[@YourPlayer2]

That's a good strategy! Not sure if I'd do it myself since I have to play so many different games for videos but I see the appeal :)

[@kda4636]

The official docking station is like $89, which is hella expensive. I'm looking for a cheap and good dock/usbc hub that connects to an HDMI so I can play on the monitor. Any good recommendations?

[@YourPlayer2]

It DEFINITELY is! Mine should be here soon, but prior to the official I've been using the USB-C Anker dock- Affiliate link is in the description if you're curious :)

[@UnvarnishedTarnished]

Would it be okay to use a 65w charger? Would that be too much?

[@YourPlayer2]

Yup, a 65w should be fine :)

[@bryanswaggbeast4594]

I cant wait to be able to play DBD, FT13, realm royale, rainbow six, and other EAC games

[@YourPlayer2]

Solid picks! I haven't played DBD in a MINUTE but I'm sure the Deck is an improvement over when I played it on Switch :)

[@johnowens8974]

My screen is dead, I get no image at all from my screen. The only way it works is as if I have it on my dock. I can hear it boot up but I get no screen image. Any help is welcome if you can.

[@YourPlayer2]

Hmmm you could try a factory reset and see if it helps? Beyond that I'd definitely be hitting up Valve's support!

[@josephchildress8062]

I am getting one for Christmas

[@YourPlayer2]

Well that sounds like an awfully merry Christmas! How ya liking it? :)

[@ChloeASMR91]

can you do a tutorial on how to get the ps1 emulation working on the steam deck

[@YourPlayer2]

I'll add it to the list of ideas! I did talk about how I got set up for emulation briefly here if it's helpful :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJDPiWirhNCSbLM

[@ChloeASMR91]

@@YourPlayer2 I watched that video just now it was very educational but it did not help me so I think a full video dedicated on how to do it step by step would be great 😊👍

[@IPman77]

I have the 64 GB model and 512GB SD card and it's been Excellent. Unless you're downloading the 100 GB plus size games then it's plenty big enough.

[@YourPlayer2]

Glad it's been working for you! Whatcha playing just out of curiosity?

[@IPman77]

@@YourPlayer2 ..I picked up Mafia 3 which I got on sale the other day. I overlooked it because the reviews weren't amazing at launch but I'm having great fun and despite not being verified for deck it runs great.

[@YourPlayer2]

I haven't grabbed the remastered ones but I did grab the original for free the other day when it was available :p Glad to hear it works well if I can ever get through the first 2!

[@IPman77]

@@YourPlayer2 Ha!...yes there is never enough time to play everything.

[@k_dotnet3197]

Same here✊

[@DingoOnMy40]

I tried the Nintendo switch ac adapter and it works perfectly.

[@YourPlayer2]

LoL I can't believe it didn't even occur to me to try that. Glad to know I've got some other options laying around though in case I lose the original or just don't wanna fish it out from behind my desk or entertainment or something when docked/charging.

[@aglouallen]

What is the game at 54 seconds in to the video?

[@YourPlayer2]

That would be Dynamite Cop! A Dreamcast original I'm running via emulation :)

[@burrgurrman2433]

Would a Wii U game pad stand work as a steam deck stand?

[@YourPlayer2]

LoL I had to check reddit to find out for sure but it looks like will indeed!

[@alex1o1o1]

What's that game shown at 1:00?

[@YourPlayer2]

That would be Dynamite Cop! From the Dreamcast :)

[@robertdaniel330]

Mine arrived todayyyyyyy

[@YourPlayer2]

Dude congratulations! Whatcha gonna play first?

[@bew]

Hello! What's the game at 4:38 ?

[@YourPlayer2]

Hello, Benoit! That would be Fast RMX :)

[@Dreadnoughty]

Can I use a USB-C to Ethernet adapter to download games?

[@YourPlayer2]

You should be able to!

[@icxydragon]

Hey bro. If I install Windows on a steam deck, will I be capable of running retro games like Tekken 3 on it? ;-; And does Steam Deck support Tekken 7? And also, once it is in the dock, how do I play it? Is there some special controller or do I have to use a keyboard? And also, is Steam Deck better than most PCs with the same specs?

[@anordinarycat1285]

Installing Windows would make for a terrible user experience, about 30 minutes and you'll realise Windows wasn't designed for hand-held devices. Yes, you can play retro games through Linux, there are tons of emulators that work well on Linux. I don't believe the Steam Deck supports Tekken 7. You can connect a controller via Bluetooth, USB connection or use a mouse and keyboard. No, any Playstation, Xbox or Switch Pro controller should work fine. If you buy a dongle you can also use any keyboard and mouse. No, it is a hand-held device, compromises had to have been made to fit in the form factor it's in, most desktop PC's don't require compromises. It is however one of the best HANDHELD PC's for it's value.

[@icxydragon]

@@anordinarycat1285 Alright thanks :) Wait, will my PS3 controller connect to it? :0 I mean, I use a PS3 and I am planning to upgrade by switching to Steam Deck. First, I was thinking of a PC but the repeated price hikes and the fact that most good GPUs are old, my brother recommends me to get a Deck. It’s good to know emulation will work great. However, will it be able to run PS2 games using an Emulator as PS2 games are just too tough to run even on high end PCs?

[@anordinarycat1285]

@@icxydragon it is possible to use a PS3 controller in Linux but I'm that's something you'll have to figure out yourself. Some guides say you just need to plug it in via USB and list it as a trusted device but I'm uncertain if there's more steps. A dongle will be required to connect a PS3 controller to your Steam Deck. PS2 games can run on most devices nowadays, a Steam Deck could definitely run a PS2 game. PS3 games likely won't be possible. Those would require a high end PC.

[@icxydragon]

@@anordinarycat1285 Alright, thanks once again :) I asked just because I want to play Tekken 5 and NFS Underground 2. Those were my jam 4 years ago.

[@bluepill8077]

It runs everything except Ps3 and up. Even new switch games. I have pretty much every system running great and hooked up to a TV with wireless xbox controller.

[@WhyplayGaming]

Quick question guys for anyone got there steam deck. When you get the email how do you make the, for example do you go too steam click on the steam deck and the button that's currently saying cancle will a order button appear there, I'm asking because I'm concerned i may miss the email and I quickly check the steam deck page too see if it still says expected q3.

[@YourPlayer2]

I'm not sure? But I know if you miss your email they've said to contact support and they can help you out if it's quick as they provide a grace period for a few days :)

[@margotross5477]

I logged in to steam today and got a big pop up saying my steam deck was ready and I have 2 days to purchase I. But I didn't wait! 😁

[@YourPlayer2]

@@margotross5477 LoL I don't blame you! Which one did you go for? And congrats on your forthcoming deck, Margot!

[@shortiey4842]

What dock do you have for it?

[@YourPlayer2]

Right now I'm using this one from Anker but looking into others! amzn.to/3LrakwD

[@JoelLandin]

517 (328 youtube videos) searches in my history since the reveal, I Can't imagine how many hours I have spent speculating and watching videos, Cant wait to get mine :)

[@YourPlayer2]

LoL that's cool though! I'm the same way and seek out content pretty ravenously when I'm pumped for a new piece of hardware/kit :p When's yours coming in?

[@JoelLandin]

@@YourPlayer2 Im in q2 I ordered on the 18th of july 02:04 CEST. I checked the estimated arrival using data from other people filling in their order times and when they got the email. Im expected to get my e-mail next week on monday but it might also be the weekend after that.

[@davidblais4050]

Mine is “supposed” to arrive tomorrow; It finally shipped yesterday after confirming 5 days ago. I’m so excited I can’t stand it!! XD Thanks again for the great content, btw.

[@JoelLandin]

@@davidblais4050 That's really exciting I hope you enjoy it :)

[@YourPlayer2]

Just around the corner then! Sure you'll love it :D

[@paulcliff8514]

How do you find the Mystical Ninja/Goemon game and Snowboard Kids from the N64 run on the Steam Deck?

[@YourPlayer2]

I can't link you to ROMs unfortunately but there are ways out there to rip your own :)

[@paulcliff8514]

Sorry, I meant, how have you found they play, if you’ve tried them?

[@YourPlayer2]

LoL I TOTALLY misunderstood you- sorry about that! I haven't tried Mystical Ninja BUT I did try Snowboard Kids briefly and it seemed to run well :) Also I hadn't fired it up in years and it blew my mind when I saw the Atlus logo!

[@paulcliff8514]

Amazing. I love Snowboard Kids. I’ve heard Mystical Ninja is tough to emulate but I really want to play it on a handheld 😭

[@iqmalanderson176]

hey later on when i received my steam deck, firstly should i power on? and plug in the charger? also for the first time to avoid battery issues, how long should i charge up before starting or dowloading anything , can anyone help pls

[@YourPlayer2]

Yup, it's ok to turn it on when it arrives :) Personally I plugged mine in, turned it on, and then applied the updates and started downloading!

[@SwellRhymes]

When i recieved mine today I tried to power it straight out of the box but nothing seemed to happen. Plugged in the charger and the screen almost instantly popped up with the logo and started the first time set up, so i think you have to plug it in when you get it (:

[@YourPlayer2]

Good to know!

[@metalliholic]

Lol, I’m also paranoid with it charging on a table. I also don’t want to set it in the case as it charges cause it gets hot.

[@YourPlayer2]

Right?! It's just so slippery I'm mortified of dropping it, especially since I have hardwood floors in my living room o_0

[@loviatar666]

Idk if the same goes with charging and subwoofers but if it is Subwoofers are better to overpower then underpower.

[@YourPlayer2]

No idea but I didn't know that!

[@sock2070]

How did you get Dragon Quest 8 on the Steam Deck?

[@YourPlayer2]

That was from emulating the PS2 on the deck! I talk about the process a bit more in this video if you wanna see more games running on it :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYOZpXavnL2UZpY

[@sock2070]

@@YourPlayer2 OK brill, thank you :)

[@chemeister]

My tip for old new-comers like me is to buy a pair of blue light filter gaming glasses with magnification. 😎

[@YourPlayer2]

I've never used them before but I DID notice they have a night mode that warms up the screen which might be helpful too!

[@David_Quinn_Photography]

great information, was RDR2 streamed from another PC, or is that ran directly on the deck?

[@YourPlayer2]

Thanks a bunch, Dave! Yes it was played directly on the Deck :)

[@ricardofranco4114]

I have a bunch of nintendo switch chargers, I just hook it up to my stand, which has a switch charger. Then my living room dock also has a switch hmcharger 🤣. It's never been a problem.

[@YourPlayer2]

LoL not a bad strategy!

[@DaileyDoseOfJoseph]

How is your desktop steam behind you only the tile of games and not display the list on the left? I want that :(

[@YourPlayer2]

Oh I was just running the Deck in desktop mode and launching Steam from there :)

[@DaileyDoseOfJoseph]

@@YourPlayer2 Riiiip I'm crushed. I love that menu. I have always had an insane desire to experience my PC closer to a console experience, but I never liked Big Picture Mode. Lmao Thank you though!

[@YourPlayer2]

Gah, sorry about that but if it's any consolation I never liked Big Picture Mode eitheR!

[@DaileyDoseOfJoseph]

@@YourPlayer2 Lol yeah, it's just... not the aesthetic I was hoping for. Lol I'm in line for a Steam Deck though so I guess here I go lol

[@IowaRetroGamerDad]

Just won a Steam Deck on a giveaway and its showing up in a few days! Great video to help me get ready for it! Im hoping to snag a 250ish GB Micro Card and mainly using this thing for emulation of my favorite retro games!

[@YourPlayer2]

Dude CONGRATULATIONS! What a win! Glad you enjoyed the video and hope you have some good stuff lined up for it :D

[@IowaRetroGamerDad]

@@YourPlayer2 Been playing some Cuphead on it! Super comfortable to hold and love the graphics. Definitely glad I have it!

[@YourPlayer2]

@@IowaRetroGamerDad LoL not a bad choice at ALL!

[@ImperfectionistGaming]

2:40 i used my Xiaomi black shark 120w charger on my Nintendo switch once. damn near gave me a heart attack when i saw the screen immediately go black. thankfully the system was only incapacitated for like 10 minutes and then was able to turn on.....never doing that again, especially since that my V1 hacked switch ...

[@YourPlayer2]

Sounds like a cautionary tale for sure! Glad it didn't brick!

[@malinsofie8335]

I'm still waiting to be able to order it here in Norway 😭👍

[@YourPlayer2]

Well hopefully it gets there soon, Malin!!

[@malinsofie8335]

@@YourPlayer2 yeah🥰

[@k_dotnet3197]

Why does payday2 on my steam deck close out even when Im online?I wonder what app do I need to download😣😶😭

[@YourPlayer2]

Anticheat maybe? I know some multiplayer games have issues.

[@SirRivers]

Cool. What game is that @ :58

[@YourPlayer2]

That would be Dynamite Cop! Emulated on the Dreamcast :)

[@miciso666]

5 volts. then 87 watts. wait so how much? i got a xiaomi 20.000 mah quickcharge. and it says 12v 18w im guessing thats enough or? my friend came over once with his deck but i forgot to check the powerbank with it. all we tested where games and sd cards.

[@YourPlayer2]

It should be! Honestly I need to learn a bit more about the relationship between battery specs and viability for charging the Deck in an efficient way. Apparently even the weakest charge will still charge the Deck if you're leaving it be, but absent something beefier with a higher power delivery you might not be able to keep the battery from draining when playing more taxing games.

[@edisondlr813]

Bough the cheapest SD then bought a 1TB SSD and a matte screen protector since i plan on using this outside a lot. Basically the $650 SD for $100sh less. First thing im doing is cracking tht bad boy open and replacing the SSD

[@YourPlayer2]

I know a lot of people do EXACTLY that right off the bat!

[@The_AuraEngine]

How do we put a keyboard and nose? Computer

[@YourPlayer2]

If it's bluetooth you can connect it via the settings on the Deck and pair it as a normal device. For USB you'd want to get a USB-C hub to connect everything :)

[@notoriousdkl1415]

How do I get into desktop mode?

[@YourPlayer2]

From the steam button or if you hold the power button a menu will pop up that will allow you to enter desktop mode :)

[@markcarpenter6020]

I don't know if the problem is just my deck or others as well but I wanted to warn people. With mine sometimes when I'm playing a game stored on the SD card it will randomly crash out of the game or the game won't start up. When that happens taking out the SD and then putting it back in seems to solve the problem.

[@YourPlayer2]

That's odd? Have you tried a different SD card? Someone pointed out that mine didn't have the best speed rating from another video so I wonder if that might be a component.

[@markcarpenter6020]

@@YourPlayer2 not yet. It's the only 500gig card o have at the moment.

[@calebfoley5872]

@@markcarpenter6020 if its not in a multiple like 256 or 512 you already got a jank card, either way though the problem is definitely something physical. Either your card is jank or the port on your deck is jank.

[@markcarpenter6020]

@@calebfoley5872 it's the best 512 I could find local.(all local stores were out of there 1 tb cards) So it might be a defect but personally I think the end of the card gets bumped and it shifts since there is no cover over it on a steam deck. But that's just my theory.

[@YourPlayer2]

Ahh I gotcha- You could always go buy a new card from Best Buy and test it and then return it if you have the same issue to isolate it? I think they give you like 15 days or something.

[@iphonepunker]

If the Steam Deck had a Thunderbolt port I would be reserving it in the beginning, because if I could just Dock this with an eGPU I would have a great desktop and mobile replacement.

[@davidblais4050]

That was one of the biggest missed opportunities for sure. Just making it an ‘option’ would have been enough. I still bought one, though. 😎

[@YourPlayer2]

Right? I don't know that I'd have occasion to use an external GPU but having the option would've been really nice.

[@itsthesola10]

Thunderbolt was a closed Apple+Intel standard for the longest time, AMD will start supporting Thunderbolt as part of their USB4 chipsets some time soon Blame Intel I guess

[@MrJB8383]

That’ll probably be on Deck 2.0. For a first edition of the Deck it’s got a lot going for it already.

[@Aereto]

There's no point AMD getting Thunderbolt, a Apple and Intel collaboration port. If you are using Thunderbolt, you can't find them in AMD processor devices.

[@oscopin74]

Thanks for the video! Just got my email from Valve Thursday. Checks in the mail.

[@YourPlayer2]

Thanks so much for watching, Gregory! Congrats on your forthcoming Deck and hope you have some rad games lined up in your library :)

[@tedged]

i just got mine last week. after many videos i went with 64gb model and 512 gb card. it works great. I'm glad i didn't dole out the extra money. i ordered another 256 gb card to keep some bigger games on like warhammer 1 & 2. i got a little case for my sd cards. it's fun. it's a great machine. I'm 51 and my clock is ticking so i used credit and said gimme. it's an experience.

[@YourPlayer2]

Congratulations, Lucien! Glad you're having fun with it and PSH, 51 is YOUNG and you've got a great many wonders still left to see I'm sure :p Take care and keep me posted on what else you end up playing!

[@pcmasterwraith7676]

try photodon for custom made screenprotector

[@YourPlayer2]

I'll check it out!

[@pcmasterwraith7676]

@@YourPlayer2 I helped them make the sizing just right should see it soon under pre made device list. not sure how long it takes them to add it.