Steam Deck Batocera Emulation Setup Guide and Written Tutorial

Batocera on the Steam Deck is amazing and supports hundreds of emulators! This guide will step you through the setup/install process of Batocera, connecting to your network, adding bios/roms, the UI/Themes and much more. Everything covered in this video is also on the written guide (and more): wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera
Written Guide
Written Guide to complement this video may be found here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera
Chapters
00:00 - Intro
01:50 - Accessory Discussion
02:25 - Batocera Install to microSD (on Steam Deck)
04:45 - Batocera Install to microSD (from Computer)
05:25 - Boot Batocera from microSD
05:53 - Buttons / Front End Music
06:34 - Freeware Games
07:10 - Connect to WiFi Network
08:24 - Update Batocera (Safely)
09:51 - BIOS & ROMs
12:05 - Check for Missing BIOS Files
12:26 - Copy ROMs (Games)
13:46 - Copy Files directly over USB
14:06 - Scraper & Aspect Ratios
16:01 - Game List View
16:24 - Download & Apply Themes
17:42 - Outro
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#batocera #batoceralinux #retrogaming #steamdeck #steamdeckgameplay #WTT #WAGNERSTECHTALK

[@BanthaToys]

I was genuinely on the verge of giving up and sending my deck back. I've watched so many videos and non explained better than you. Genuinely, if I could buy you a beer I would 👌🏻 Subbed

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I'm genuinely appreciative of your comment, happy to hear I could be of assistance. Thank you also for your support, it is very much appreciated!

[@THEUrinalCake]

I'm getting close myself. Emudeck is so close to greatness but it doesn't want to co-operate with my controllers. It fucked up so bad earlier it actually broke the default physical controls on the deck for a bit. I guess maybe I'll give Batocera a try before I rage quit. *Edit* Oh. It doesn't work right on the OLED. It's sideways with no sound which are apparently known issues. Amazing. Christ I hate Linux.

[@spencercochran5326]

I know it's been 6 months, but I've watched so many videos trying to get this going on my Steam Deck, and this is the first one I actually understand. Worth a subscribe for sure.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

That's awesome to hear, thank you for your support!

[@UltimateTechHub]

Another great Steam Deck tutorial. I still don't have a Steam Deck yet but I will soon. Cool accessories too!! Thanks Jon!

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Thank you Mike, I appreciate you watching! Love the Steam Deck, I've not bought any retro gaming devices since getting the Steam Deck. It's emulates anything I throw at it 😎

[@johntaylor4052]

fantastic and very in-depth instructions, very very helpful and so easy to follow, thankyou so much

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Very welcome John, happy it was helpful to you!

[@imrandawe7857]

Thank you so much for this tutorial, by far the best guide online!

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Very welcome, thank you so much for your kind words - much appreciated!

[@lrm_ipsm]

Great step-by-step guide. Thank you much

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Glad it was helpful!

[@firstpitstop]

Thank you thank you thank you one million thank yous... I really wanted to see this totorial I'm glad you made one. Can't wait to add it soon. Wohoooo

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Most welcome, thank you for watching!

[@Pauluz_The_Web_Gnome]

Thanks! Great info! Clear and Simple...

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Thank you, I appreciate your kind support and comment!

[@shortclips508]

Man, you helped me a lot, thanks

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Most welcome, thanks for watching the vid!

[@tommycaldwell6953]

Great guide. The only thing I would add is you must “Enable Network Sharing” on your pc or it will not connect to your Steam Deck over Wi-Fi. Keep up the great work. I would love to see a video on transferring box art and videos from Launch Box/Big box to Batocera. Launch box downloads media in minutes while Batocera took 14 to 16 hrs to scrap a 128gb build.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Thank you Tommy for your feedback and recommendations! You should be able to copy the /images /media subfolders from the /roms/[emulator name] sub folder over to Batocera then Update the Game List. I did that for a few that I already had artwork for and worked out well.

[@JerrardJDDavis-gy9hh]

The Steam Deck Is Awesome I Need That

[@todvanced7842]

Thank you! You couldn't have made it easier. I have a retro game console from China and have 600k game files. I'm going to be busy! Thanks again!

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Very welcome Tod, thank you for your kind words!

[@todvanced7842]

@@WagnersTechTalk It's really a huge thing to me. People are selling sd cards for $150 on ebay ect which is a huge ripoff. I was determined to do it myself. And your explanation was easier than quite a few I've seen.

[@todvanced7842]

Still halfway to setting up my 512 sd card. I have already found I'll need a bigger one! I'm at 86k games on my SD card. It will take about 3 days to finish the scraping process lol! At least I can still play games while it doing that. I just can't shut off the deck. So happy I found this tutorial.

[@johntaylor4052]

great guide Batocera now working on OLED version, update from deck using butterfly version rather than stable

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Great news, I appreciate the tip regarding butterfly! I don't have the OLED version here, so greatly appreciate it. I'll update the written guide soon with this information.

[@johntaylor4052]

quick addition to my comment... i had the steamdeck docking station wired through ethernet to start so i could update using the butterfly mode and now it connects wirelessl and i get sound etc

[@joelgutheil4292]

This is all well and good guys but Sega model 2 seemingly doesn’t work on butterfly 39, so had to go back to 38.

[@LilWaka]

For those trying to setup RPCS3 and want the steam deck controls to work, open the “pads” settings, change the handlers from keyboard to “Endev” switch the device to device/input/event14 and then set up your inputs!

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Man, appreciate the tips here!

[@LilWaka]

@@WagnersTechTalk man don’t mention it, you’re the whole reason I got batocera on the deck, you’re the MVP!!!

[@moukies]

Where did you buy the 2TB thumb drive from? I'd love to have one as well. :) Excellent, in-depth, thorough, and easy-to-follow video. Thanks for sharing, and keep up the exquisite content.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Unfortunately, the USB stick I bought ( www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BBBMNGZJ/ ) is no longer available. Searching Amazon, there are several that claim 2TB but nothing I can recommend atm. Many appear to be scam sticks. In all honesty, the one I have may fall in that category as I've only copied about 100GB to it but haven't had any issues -yet. Thank you for checking out the video/guides and your kind comments! I have plans for some new content centered around Batocera that I may start on this week. Waiting for one more component to arrive and we'll be ready to rock!

[@moukies]

@@WagnersTechTalk I did notice a lot of them were scam-ish when reviewing them. I didn't think a 2 TB stick existed, but thanks for confirming and replying anyways. Looking forward to more content, and I really do appreciate the written guides as well. Having both resourced is immeasurably helpful. Thanks for what you do. :)

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Most welcome, hope you enjoy the upcoming content also. Next one up (2nd to next, next one is going out this AM) is likely light-gun related, if testing goes well. One has arrived but needs one more thing for testing, and x2 more coming. I'm planning to have a dedicated guide for light gun gaming. Until someone else sees this response, only you and I know this not-so-secret plan. I appreciate you watching/reading. If you have recommendations on what you'd like to see in the future, just let me know!

[@chrisashworth3157]

Brilliantly explained set up guide, thank you One question that I can't find an answer to anywhere. Does Batocera on Steam deck support Bluetooth headphones or is it controller only. Each time I try the headphones connect but then sound reverts back to the speakers?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I have only tried controllers, I'll have to get back to you (over the weekend) about headphones. I'll need to charge mine up and give it a try. Thank you for watching and thank you for your kind comment!

[@brethbk69]

Awesome tutorial! Which star wars games was that in the opening of the video?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Thank you for your kind support! The game was Star Wars Trilogy Arcade on the Sega Model 3 (folder to copy the game is 'Model 3')

[@brethbk69]

Thank you so much :)

[@B3tanTyronne]

Now all I need is a steam deck :)

[@SirraiderxBlogspotsrx]

Klarna

[@LDWilliams]

Version 38 {latest} has compatability issues with the oled models - namely no WiFi or sound and the screen is rotated 90 degrees. Screen rotation is an easy fix in settings. Wired connection works and they working on a fix re WiFi and sound

[@derrekwilson5295]

Thank You

[@WagnersTechTalk]

You're welcome

[@ritualdelo]

Well done comprehensive and easy to follow you sir are the best … if using a Bluetooth controller do you need a Bluetooth receiver dongle plugged into a usb port in batocera to connect a Bluetooth controller

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Thank you so much for your kind words! I did test adding an 8BitDo Lite SE BT controller, it connected and was able to navigate Batocera just fine. I'll add a section to the guide in the next day to cover that in more detail. No separate dongle was needed, just used the BT radio in the Steam Deck.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Just to follow-up, Bluetooth controller setup has been documented here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Connect_a_Bluetooth_Controller

[@cwescrab]

Debating on putting one of these into an At Legends Ultimate. Could play classic games better than the ALU does, also some newer PC games like PC versions of Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat. Do you think it would be a good way to do it? I'm guessing using Bluetooth to connect for controls would be easier than a mini pc setting up with ALU controls?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I do think it's a good idea, you'll be seeing it on the channel in a few weeks-month but primarily focused on light-gun games running under Batocera but on the ALU.

[@raatma]

Great vid! One thing I'm looking for that I haven't found is how to download, activate, and use cheat codes for older systems. Any help?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Thank you! I haven't used cheats myself, but this should help: www.reddit.com/r/batocera/comments/lmgl1l/helps_with_cheats/

[@luissaints7082]

Excelente

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Thank you kindly!

[@dana6677]

Any way to adjust screen brightness while in the middle of a game? Can’t seem to do it but of a deal breaker. Thanks.

[@stefanocolpo]

What options are available in the "video mode" menu (the one above "game aspect ratio")? Is it possible to select a resolution with 50Hz refresh rate? It is very important when playing European PAL roms, which run at 50fps..

[@WagnersTechTalk]

In "video mode", there is auto, maximum 1920x1080, maximum 640x480, 800x1280 60.00 HZ, 800x600 60.00 HZ & 640x480 60.00 HZ. I'm not seeing an option there for 50hz. As the majority of Batocera developers are in Europe, I'm sure there is a way to set it. May want to reach out to them on their Discord: discord.gg/ndyUKA5 . If you find out anything interesting, please let me know.

[@Okamok]

Great video! Thank you! I've just installed Bato on my Steamdeck. Is there a way to display on a monitor or TV? I tried connectind via HDMI with a dock with no success.

[@Okamok]

Found the answer: System Settings -> Video Output -> Auto to DisplayPort. Needed to change the Sound Output as well from Auto to *****(HDMI3)

[@WagnersTechTalk]

You got it, glad you got it all sorted! Thank you for watching my friend!

[@TheLafufu]

Ive downloaded a large batocera image on my windows pc and want to flash it onto a new sd card to he used in my steam deck. What format type should i select? exfat?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

You don't need to format it, you can use this procedure with Pi Imager and select 'Use Custom' for the OS and select the image to write: wagnerstechtalk.com/common/#Burn_an_Image_with_Raspberry_Pi_Imager

[@trevorbraukman1003]

How do I set up the hot keys?! I tried pushing start and select but I can’t exit a game. Just wondering how I can set them up.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

See 5:56, the select button is typically your hotkey unless you remapped the buttons.

[@SonixMDTCK]

I have an Batocera image that I downloaded from Arcade Punks, I wrote the image to the SD but is not being read by my Steam Deck. I formatted the SD to NFTS on windows, does it have to be reformatted in a different format for the Steam deck to read it on Boot manager?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

There will typically be two partions, the boot which is fat32 and then a 2nd ext4 which is not readable under Windows (normally, though there are applications that can view that partition in Windows such as DiskGenius). So no, you shouldn't re-format the microSD unless you don't want batocera on the SD anymore. Regarding images from Arcade Punks, I don't use those so I don't know if they'll work or not. To boot into Batocera, here's the steps: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Swap_between_SteamOS_and_Batocera

[@rocco19xx]

Hello, I saw that you use the pi400 as a keyboard, there are instructions for this. Would be happy . I'm from Germany and can't find a video in German about it.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

No, that's just the Pi keyboard and mouse. While I have a Pi400, this wasn't it. They look nearly exactly the same. I used it because it's small and fits on the desk well while testing.

[@rocco19xx]

@@WagnersTechTalk ok understand thanks for the info

[@KennyBo15]

Great video. I'm having a issue hoping someone can help me with. I can get the Switch games to launch no issue but the controls are completely out of wack. Ive tried remapping an it does nothing controls stay the same. Does it with every switch game Ive tried other than that everything works perfectly

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Thank you! I don't have any information specifically written up on Switch emulation under Batocera. You may want to search the Batocera Discord : discord.gg/ndyUKA5 or leave a comment. Another location to ask would be the batocera subreddit here: www.reddit.com/r/batocera . Hope one of these helps.

[@JordanJacobson]

can i install steam games on the Sd card as well? or should i keep the Sd card direct for batocera? Will it mess it up if i install steam games to it while batocera is on the same sd?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

You'll want to keep the Batocera card with just your emulated games (bios/roms) and a separate card for your Steam games.

[@JordanJacobson]

@@WagnersTechTalk thank you!

[@shawnryc7347]

any chance you can do a controller setup quide for daphne batocera steam deck?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

After you install the BIOS and ROMs, the controls should already work for you. What issues are you having?

[@shawnryc7347]

@@WagnersTechTalk well my controls work for all the other batocera emulators just not daphne...the games load but no controls work...I tried to configure them in batocera menu but they don't hold when I open Lazer disk games.

[@shawnryc7347]

@@WagnersTechTalk thank you by the way.

[@originalclassics]

How did you get model 3 running in batocera? I’m running batocera 37 in steam deck and only some of the model 3 roms open. Star Wars trilogy doesn’t load. Thanks

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Nothing special, just dumped my bios collection and rom into the appropriate folders. Only difference was that at the time of this video, Batocera .36 was used (.37 was released a few weeks later). If it's not working for you, try a different set of roms and see if that helps.

[@justarandomstranger279]

So i need to download all the roms from whatever site I know and put it one by one? Or is there a way for me to download in packs?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Yes, they can be found arranged in packs. Check out this section of the guide for more information you may find helpful: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Transfer_BIOS_and_ROMs

[@blackdragon8361]

One question is how can you do all this yourself, with the videos and the image files, where do I get the images and the video files and where do I have to put them

[@WagnersTechTalk]

That's what is explained in this video and in the written guide here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera

[@blackdragon8361]

@@WagnersTechTalk Thanks for the answer, but I've now figured out how to do it

[@MrLloydFletcher]

everything works, but I cannot install more than one rom! say Batocera is out of space after one rom install? it 's a 500gb sd card any help would be appreciated.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Make sure after you wrote Batocera to the microSD card that you first boot off the microSD card before copying anything to it. It will then create/resize the userdata partition.

[@armandoarroyo]

Hi, I cant access to batocera share folder on my network my Pc and steam deck are connected to same network, any idea? thanks

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Sure, try \\[batocera's ip address] from within File Explorer in windows should take you to the share in Batocera. Of course, Batocera will need to be powered on from the Steam Deck and connected to the same WiFi network. Go into Network settings to see what the connected IP address is.

[@JerrardJDDavis-gy9hh]

Can You Skip Validating On BalenaEtcher

[@flyingjoed]

Followed your directions and my Batocera is in portrait mode and also my wifi won't connect. I'm on a new OLED 512. Any suggestions? Thanks!

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I don't own the OLED version, so it's not something I can currently test. There may be some updates needed, I can't honestly say. For the screen rotation, see if this helps: Go into System Settings -> Hardware, there’s a setting Screen Rotation.

[@johnw8476]

I am struggling to install windows games. Some install some wont. None will run. Yet on my mini PC version of Batocera they are working... Confusing 😔

[@clyde2801]

Batocera screen is 90 degrees off when booting from sd card. Any ideas or help?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I'm currently on vacation and can't tell you exactly what to check, but if you hit Start and go into System Settings -> Video Settings I think you can rotate the display there. I didn't need to manually adjust it, but it should be there. If not, may be under developer options.

[@JerrardJDDavis-gy9hh]

What Gadgets I Need To Add Bios And Games In The Steam Deck

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I'd say a dock would be very helpful, I used the Park Sung dock listed here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Accessories . Also, a microSD card, USB Keyboard+Mouse made it easier for me.

[@hp4020]

Botocera boots up but my select and start button dont work, any guidance approeciated

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I've had a total of two people mention this in the past 24 hours. It may be a new issue, but I just performed a clean install of Batocera (with no updates available). In Emulation Station, if you can go into SYSTEM SETTINGS -> INFORMATION are you seeing: 37 2023/06/17 16:49 for the Version? My Start and Select buttons are working fine. If you have a keyboard attached, you can use these buttons to re-map the buttons (see grey table at the bottom): wagnerstechtalk.com/retrobat/#Map_a_Controller . See if you're able to remap the Steam Deck buttons using a keyboard to get you into the configuration. If that helps, please let me know and I'll update the Batocera guide.

[@mattmc20]

New question. I have this on microSD but I can’t get the steam deck to play through the docking station to my TV. Am I missing something?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

While the Steam Deck is docked, select Start - > System Settings -> Video Output and select an option that states HDMI Output. You'll likely also need to do the same with the Audio Output.

[@user-cs6oh4go7z]

Hello there sir, I was wondering if you could help me with a small issue. When I’m in game my select and start won’t exit the game to get back to the menu. I’ve tired resetting the controls several time. Any advice would be much appreciated!!

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I've not encountered this myself, but it may be an emulator that you're using that I've personally not tried. I'd recommend posting your question to the Batocera Subreddit or Discord, link here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Resources . May want to specifically state the system/emulator you're using, perhaps the game also. If you get it resolved please let me know what the issue was. If you don't, let me know that too and I'll see if I can reproduce it.

[@user-cs6oh4go7z]

@@WagnersTechTalk Thank you kindly!!

[@demonhighwayman9403]

I recently updated it to the latest version (37 I think) using the built in updater and now none of the steamdecks controls work. Any suggestions ?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I've had a total of two people mention this in the past 24 hours. It may be a new issue, but I just performed a clean install of Batocera (with no updates available). In Emulation Station, if you can go into SYSTEM SETTINGS -> INFORMATION are you seeing: 37 2023/06/17 16:49 for the Version? My Start and Select buttons are working fine. If you have a keyboard attached, you can use these buttons to re-map the buttons (see grey table at the bottom): wagnerstechtalk.com/retrobat/#Map_a_Controller . See if you're able to remap the Steam Deck buttons using a keyboard to get you into the configuration. If that helps, please let me know and I'll update the Batocera guide.

[@demonhighwayman9403]

@@WagnersTechTalk I just tried with a raspberry pi keyboard and mouse but was still unable to navigate to anything beyond the main screen, I guess a clean install is required.

[@michaelharris8346]

I got the 1tb img from arcadepunks would I load the roms into batocera the same way

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Hard to say, is the image you downloaded made for the Steam Deck? If so, you'd just burn it to a microSD card, insert it into the deck and hold the volume down and press the power to enter the boot menu (shown in this video). If it's for some other platform, you could copy the bios/roms from the image to the microSD for the Steam Deck. Here's how to write the image to a microSD card: wagnerstechtalk.com/common/#Burn_Image_with_balenaEtcher

[@michaelharris8346]

@@WagnersTechTalk I already have it on the SD card but wanted to remove some games with multiple ports only keep 1 version and replace them with other games haha

[@nycherper3659]

How do I use cheats for the emulators like psp, ps2, ps3 and Dreamcast?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Depends on the emulator, I think you can use content downloader > cheats. I don't use them myself, so you may want to google 'batocera cheats'.

[@eschen4594]

Great guid,But I can't use it normally. I chose the BETA channel, but it prompts that there is no update, and I can't see the themes that can be downloaded.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Based on what you've explained, it seems the network connectivity may not be established. Make sure that under Network Settings you see an IP Address. If not, here's how to connect: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Connect_to_WiFi_Network

[@eschen4594]

@@WagnersTechTalk I'm sure the network is connected, but it seems like there is some problem with the connection between the SD and the server.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Perhaps the domain is being blocked by your ISP or the Batocera update server is down? Can't think of anything else, if it's connected.

[@eschen4594]

@@WagnersTechTalk thx for reply,I fixed it using a web proxy

[@JOEY-vh5kv]

Trying to add a rom to the rom file on the share using the steam deck via dolphins file explorer however it says access denied and won’t let me drop anything into the rom folder any help ?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

When you boot into Batocera, you can press F1 and use the built-in file manager to copy files.

[@JOEY-vh5kv]

@@WagnersTechTalk thankyou ! That worked a treat 👍

[@mattlumpkins]

I'm running is from SD card and booting it up. Each game asks me if I want to format the drive. Does it create a partition or does it delete everything?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Where is it asking you to format the drive, is this when you have the microSD installed in the Steam Deck? If it's within Windows, cancel those dialogs you don't want to format the card.

[@mattlumpkins]

@@WagnersTechTalk ty for your reply! I formatted and it was fine. It just saved as normal. Batocera is awesome in many ways but the graphics aren't as good as my phone on the psp games. I was very surprised.

[@odlaeilsel]

Newbie question, but can you add cheat codes into the games?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Within RetroArch you can for those cores that support it. I think it's SELECT+X to get into RetroArch (could be wrong, may be Y).

[@rstout1152]

I downloaded the full pack I seem to have found someone :) and I have Batocera running on the deck and connected to my wifi and I opened under RUN \\batocera and two folders come up, root and share so I copied the Bios, Roms, and saves folder over and then once complete I update list and nothing has changed just the same original 14 games, I know I must be missing a step or have something not turned on !!

[@WagnersTechTalk]

If you copied the games over to the \share\bios and \share oms\[game system subfolder] when you update the game list, they should appear in the list. If they aren't, from within Batocera you can press F1 (if you have a keyboard connected to it) and browse the folders to make sure the games are there. In each folder where you copied the games, you'll see an info.txt (open it) and make sure that the files you copied are recognized by the system.

[@alihassain4443]

I have a problem. Memory Card 1 of MB8 run out on Steam deck as mcd002.Ps2 Do you know how to switch ps2 memory card on steam deck with batocera emulator while playing ps2 game? Mcd001.ps2 run out of MB8. so how to switch it to mcd002. ps2? If you know how. Please tell me.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I've not encountered this and don't know. I'd recommend the Batocera subreddit and/or Discord links here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Resources . Post your question, someone there may have a solution to recommend.

[@evanmcdowell814]

When I copied the BIOS/Roms/Saves files, it wiped all the empty subfolders from my Roms folder. The only way I can get the games to function is if the root folder matches correctly (i.e. 'snes' works fine, but 'snes-roms-ultra' does not). Is there a way to determine what the root folder needs to be named?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Different rom archives may call the system sub-folders different from that used by Batocera, EmuDeck, etc. You don't want to just copy all the subfolders from your archive without making sure the folder names are a 1:1 match. In your example, Batocera's shared folder for 'snes' is what it will use to find 'snes' games. It has no knowledge of 'snes-roms-ultra'. Therefore, the contents of 'snes-roms-ultra' should be copied to 'snes'. Hope that helps.

[@evanmcdowell814]

@@WagnersTechTalk thanks, I didn’t explain very well but I solved the problem anyway. I had deleted ALL the folders by accident. Turns out when you restart Batocera, it creates those folders again based on the working bios.

[@Noumakara]

is it possible to install it on internal ssd and daul boot from there?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I've personally not done it on the Steam Deck, but it is possible, yes. Wouldn't be super easy. You'd have to split the existing SteamOS partition into two partitions. You'll lose storage capacity under SteamOS, though you could upgrade the SSD at this point also.

[@mrmigo221]

Does anybody kow how to save states while using the PCSX2 Emulator in Batocera

[@cwescrab]

I cannot get this to connect to my arcade cabinet or a TV w/dock. It connects fine when using SteamOS. Is that an issue with Batocera or am I doing something wrong?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

When connected to the dock, try unplugging the USB-C going to the deck, wait a few seconds and plug it back in. If that doesn't work, you can press Start, then go into System Settings, select Video (or Audio) output and switch the output that way.

[@cwescrab]

@@WagnersTechTalk Thank you for the reply, that helped. The only issue I'm running into now is when I connect an Xbox controller to the steamdeck and boot Batocera, everything works except the hotkey. So if I set the hotkey to select for example and press select and start to exit a game, it doesn't work. Even though I went in the settings and mapped the keys. Works on the steamdeck select and start, not on the xbox controller. Do you know if there is a way to get that working?

[@JerrardJDDavis-gy9hh]

I Flash Batocera Before With BalenaEtcher When Validating Sometimes The Flash Failed

[@WagnersTechTalk]

There have been some that have shared the same, in those cases I recommended Pi imager and it seemed to correct the issue: wagnerstechtalk.com/common/#Write_Image_with_Raspberry_Pi_Imager

[@matthewstevens4772]

Does anyone know if switch emulation works on Batocera for steam deck? Can't find a roms folder for switch when I want to copy my games

[@WagnersTechTalk]

It's not implemented, but can be added. More here: forum.batocera.org/d/9553-switch-emulation

[@Stormbringer88]

I stopped using Batocera because I had difficulty with wireless controllers. The controllers would work in the menu, but not in the game. Couldn't find an answer on google or reddit. Basically, Batocera is great only in handheld mode, up to N64 or Playstation. On Gamecube, I found that both the Trigger inputs wouldn't work, and could not find a fix. Tried to edit the config file, but it would reset once I started a game. Only in EmuDeck I wouldn't find any of these above issues. Emulation on linux is complicated and annoying. Makes me want to go back to simple old consoles.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Sorry to hear you were having trouble with wireless controllers. I tested with an Xbox One (BT) controller and an 8-Bit do controller and could play fine. EmuDeck does have better controller support through Steam, agree there.

[@mikecaudill130]

Im unsure why but when I try to copy the roms folders over to \\batocera it says there is not enough space on share. Im unsure how to edit this and even then when I pulled up the \\ i see a share and a root folder, not just share.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

What size microSD card are you using? Also, have you copied anything else to the card previously?

[@mikecaudill130]

@WagnersTechTalk thank you for the reply! It's seems in my frustration I've deleted the application software off the micro sd and reinstalled twice and now all is working as it should. Very quick though, is a ps2 emulator already in the system or do I have to add it in from an outside source?

[@wilder4612]

Im just about to start and its saying 512 GB sd card is a system drive and not SD card would i select that? It says youre about to delete your computers drive and it just looks much different from your video

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Make sure you have the correct microSD card selected. As a recommendation, disconnect any other USB drives before attempting it. Are you using a new microSD card or one that had something else installed?

[@wilder4612]

@WagnersTechTalk it was just used with the steam deck, I formatted it this morning on the console to make sure it was good to go. Says the 512 GB size but says it's a system drive

[@Nickbaldeagle02]

I've just bought a 512gb Batocera SD card from Explosion Of Fun.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Awesome! I may be getting one for review here as well once I hear back. Their images are very well-done, I think you'll enjoy it.

[@Nickbaldeagle02]

@@WagnersTechTalk it's a good card too. A Samsung Evo.

[@kipsyoutube]

I take this installation is required for any of the big Arcade Punk builds? I rather naively thought they would work straight off haha.

[@blkicemike4857]

When i try to boot it up, the Batocera joystick and version shows under it the screen go blk and freezes,. Any idea what causes and how to fix? I hav sd card 512gb with batocera and all roms loaded on it,. Idk what to do bro,. Plz hlp!!!!

[@WagnersTechTalk]

There have been reports of a black screen. I thought those were resolved in the latest build. You may want to check the Discord here for answers from the developers: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Troubleshooting

[@blkicemike4857]

I tried there,. Unfortunately,.No one answered,.

[@adamgenobles9186]

if i have 800 gb of roms/bios and a 1tb micro sd card will that be enough space for batocera and the roms/bios?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Yes, that will be plenty good.

[@adamgenobles9186]

@@WagnersTechTalk awesome sauce thank you so much sir. have a great day.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

You too!

[@daniel1929]

Balenaetcher didn't work at all for me. Tried 4 times, and failed to verify my fresh out of the box 512gb micro sd. It then split the drive into 2 partitions. I gave up

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Interesting, what brand card is it? Had someone mention something similar about a week ago (not batocera though) and it turned out to be a fake card. If you find 512GB cards for

[@daniel1929]

@@WagnersTechTalk it's a samsung 512gb Evo. I booted it from the steam deck through the BIOS method, and it doesn't show up as one of the options. Just the internal memory. I don't know what else to do

[@WagnersTechTalk]

If you don't mind, let's try one more thing from a PC/Mac. 1) Format the microSD card using Pi Imager (here's how): wagnerstechtalk.com/common/#Format_as_FAT32_Pi_Imager 2) Then use Pi Imager to write the Batocera image you downloaded (no need to unzip it, just skip over the Pi OS selection and look for "Alternative, you may wish to burn an existing image" and use your Batocera image): wagnerstechtalk.com/common/#Burn_an_Image_with_Raspberry_Pi_Imager If this works, something is up with Etcher or the Batocera image you downloaded (maybe delete it, redownload it and try again). If it doesn't work, it's either your microSD reader/microSD card. Something here "should" help, best I can think of atm.

[@daniel1929]

@Wagner's TechTalk will try it tomorrow, and will let you know either way. I appreciate it

[@daniel1929]

@Wagner's TechTalk I decided to use another computer, and start fresh, and it worked! Thank you so much

[@funnyshortsXL]

How do you copy the bios and games tho 😢

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Please see here (and the two sections following): wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Transfer_BIOS_and_ROMs

[@ibapreppie]

what I downloaded only had BIOS

[@TheJiggs666]

Any difference between batocera bios v35 vs 37?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I think there are a few additional files in 37.

[@TheJiggs666]

@@WagnersTechTalk Thank you. I am unable to find the Batocera file in my network. Steam deck is showing WI connected.

[@TheJiggs666]

I am unable to find the Batocera file in my network, I have tried your solutions, nothing works. Major bummer.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Make sure both are connected to the same wifi network. Then, open file explorer and enter \\[batocrea ip address] and it will find it.

[@etharp1980]

What is better Emudeck or Botocera in the deck?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

That's a tough question for me, I like both. I've used Batocera for a long time on a 14 year old laptop, Pi4 and other retro gaming handheld devices in the past, it is it's own operating system designed for Retro Gaming. Batocera has performed really well. EmuDeck is a bit different in that it is a tool that downloads and installs various emulators and the Emulation Station front-end (also used by Batocera) directly to Steam OS. I think it would be interesting to get more than one persons opinion on it. You might ask your question here: www.reddit.com/r/SteamDeck , guides for both can be found here: wagnerstechtalk.com/steamdeck/#Emulation and see what folks say. If you do, drop me a link I'd like to read what is said and perhaps link to the thread on both guides.

[@etharp1980]

Thanks for your input i will check on those links and get back with you

[@chrisnelson2948]

I personally prefer Batocera. I’ve had issues with some of the emulators in Emudeck that I haven’t had in Batocera.

[@JohnWayne0815]

For Gameboy Emulaton i prefer Emudeck, because on Batocera, for whatever reason, the sound through the inbuilt speakers of the Steam Deck in some Gameboy Games like Super Mario Land does not work correctly . For example if you go into one of the pipes in Level 1 you do not hear the coin collection sound, when you collect coins. On headphones connected to the 3.5mm Audio Jack the sound works fine, but not through the inbuilt speakers of the Steam Deck.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Interesting, thank you for pointing that out JohnWayne0815!

[@VinceCrim]

I got my audio working when docked, but now it’s silent undocked. Help?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Press Start, go into System Settings, select audio and set the output to the appropriate setting.

[@VinceCrim]

That and a reset did the trick! Thank you 😀

[@minoxiis3419]

how do I add consoles like 3ds and why wasnt 3ds included?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

More on that here: wiki.batocera.org/systems:3ds#:~:text=Batocera%20recommends%20working%20with%20decrypted,Batocera's%20support%20channels%2Fthis%20wiki. and here citra-emu.org/wiki/faq/

[@crimsonmido2519]

ONCE youre in batocera how do you toggle between steam and batocera?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

You will reboot to get back into Steam. Exact steps here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Swap_between_SteamOS_and_Batocera

[@crimsonmido2519]

@WagnersTechTalk oh that sucks. Yeah that's what I've been doing. Wish it was more seamless.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

@@crimsonmido2519 If you don't prefer that method, you may want to check out EmuDeck here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-emudeck/

[@Sammy10100]

Do you find botacera easier to install and use better than emudeck.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I enjoy both Batocera and Emudeck. Both are easy to install, it's really a matter of personal preference. One thing that Batocera does better than Emudeck is if you have the Steam Deck connected to a dock and you want to use a light gun with it (i.e. Sinden), Batocera makes this plug-n-play. I'll have some content on that in the future.

[@Mannyfrmdaforest]

Could i play modern day pc games on the betocera

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Batocera is intended primarily for retro game emulation. That said, you can play many games up to PS3 and Switch. But, for PC games you'll want to stick to a PC or the Steam Deck (SteamOS side). You can easily swap between the two OSes with a reboot.

[@Mannyfrmdaforest]

@@WagnersTechTalk cool

[@soupnazi81]

Mind if I grab a link to the dock? Thanks

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Sure, the link to the dock I used is the Park Sung Dock: amzn.to/3WrvSim . If you want to see a review/comparison video you'll find that here: wagnerstechtalk.com/steamdeck/#Official_Steam_Deck_Docking_Station

[@soupnazi81]

@@WagnersTechTalk thank you so much! I see your deck fits on the dock with deck case correct?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

@@soupnazi81 Correct, that's one of the reasons I prefer this dock over the official one. At the link above, I breakdown the pros/cons of each (a little further down).

[@soupnazi81]

@@WagnersTechTalk very helpful guide you have there. I love how the Park Sung actually has a straight usb c connector as the L shaped ones can get way of a case. Also the usb c cable is removable in case it gets damaged

[@WagnersTechTalk]

@@soupnazi81 Thank you, spent a lot of time trying to make it helpful to anyone who needs it. There are guides on several other topics, should you need them at any point here: wagnerstechtalk.com/guides (more always on the way)

[@cwescrab]

I can pair xbox one x controllers but it won't actually let me use them. Maybe I need a different controller?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I haven't tried an xbox one controller, but after pairing did you go into Input Settings and map the buttons or is that what isn't working for you?

[@43lk]

Can I install on USB stick and boot SD from it?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Yes, that should be fine.

[@43lk]

@@WagnersTechTalk Thank you buddy, just downloading image now (Slow connection, living deep in woods) and will flesh it on USB stick, so I can use it on laptop or SD (got a lot of roms). "Good news everyone!" ;)

[@WagnersTechTalk]

This video may be a bit more useful to you if using a USB stick: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q5fSd6CbgM-UrdU . It covers more scenarios.

[@king24764]

I’m stuck. After downloading both files. Trying to double click balenaetcher, I get a red bar that says” for security reasons, launching executables is not allowed in this context” It won’t give me any other option to open it

[@king24764]

By the way, I’m not using a pc. I’m using my deck

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Try copying the file to your Desktop and running it from there.

[@king24764]

@@WagnersTechTalk so the use of a desktop is needed for this process I assume? Because I was hoping to use just my deck since I don’t own a desktop. I see

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Steam button, Power, switch to desktop mode on the deck (see 02:30, but copy the file to the desktop and install from there).

[@king24764]

@@WagnersTechTalk I tried that and it didn’t work still. I copied it to my desktop section and opened it. Still have me that same error 😢

[@tradermatt1554]

how come my 3ds roms say that the my file is ecrypted? is there a way to fix this?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

See the "Encryption" section here: wiki.batocera.org/systems:3ds . The rom you're using is encrypted rather than decrypted.

[@tradermatt1554]

@@WagnersTechTalk do i need to use aes key? Or do you suggest that i just download another file?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

May be easier to just download a decrypted version of the game.

[@tradermatt1554]

@@WagnersTechTalk thank you!! One more question, I downloaded some gba roms, after scraping, none of the images showed up.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

While it was scraping, did you see any images appear while it was downloading them? Two things come to mind, first try restarting emulation station and see if they show up then. If not, the scraper wasn't likely able to locate the artwork for the games. Might need to try a different romset.

[@jasonmccullah9380]

do you have to run Batocera everytime you turn your steamdeck off

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I don't quite understand your question. If you're asking how to swap between SteamOS and Batocera, please see here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Swap_between_SteamOS_and_Batocera

[@jasonmccullah9380]

@@WagnersTechTalk yeah, that's what I was talking about, going from Batocera to normal steam decks use. So lets say I was playing something on Steam and then decided I want to play Nintendo in Batocera, do I have to turn off my steam deck and boot into Batocera everytime I want to play nintendo?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Yes, you'd have to restart to boot into Batocera to switch. Unless, you're using EmuDeck. Here's more on EmuDeck:wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-emudeck . It runs on SteamOS so no need to reboot.

[@nhellg6971]

Why i dint see other emulator like psx ps2 ps3 wii wiiu..only 13 emulators show in menu

[@WagnersTechTalk]

If you just copied the games, make sure you Updated the Game List here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Update_Game_List

[@nhellg6971]

@@WagnersTechTalk o i see need to put games to show the emulators...do you know how to fix i cant run the game in wii u .wux file i cant run zelda ww

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Make sure you're not missing any bios files, here's how to check: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Check_for_Missing_BIOS_Files . More info. on Bios/roms, if you need it here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Transfer_BIOS_and_ROMs

[@SagatGS]

Can we overclock batocera SD?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Not that I'm aware of at this time.

[@demonseaman666]

hey so I did the update and turned off my steam deck and when I went to go reboot it I hit the micro sd and then it says booting up batocera now its on a black screen and the program isn't. booting

[@WagnersTechTalk]

When you performed the update, did you set the update type to 'beta'? If not, that's why.

[@demonseaman666]

@@WagnersTechTalk I did indeed set it to beta.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

That was the correct option, let me try here... brb

[@demonseaman666]

@@WagnersTechTalk awesome thank you.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Ok, the update worked fine here (from 2/14). Let's try this, long-hold the power button for about 10 seconds or so to make sure it's powered off. Then: * Press+HOLD the Volume down button, press the power button and release while still holding the Volume down button until you see the Boot manager appear. * Select the microSD containing Batocera from the Boot Manager (EFI SD/MMC Card option, or similar). * That’s it, Batocera should now begin to boot. Also described here more fully: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Swap_between_SteamOS_and_Batocera

[@cljoe35]

I tried boot my botocera after I inserted the sd card and I get a black screen and it does not boot. Please help

[@fonzitheman]

Which version of steam deck are you using and which version of Batocera? V39 (latest) should be working on the LCD and OLED models. Tested v39 on my LCD model from a 256GB micro sd card and worked fine for me.

[@cljoe35]

@@fonzitheman I’m using the oled model. Not sure which version Though. How do I update batocera?? From a computer?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I've seen a few more comments than usual about the black screen with the OLED model. I don't own this device (only the non-OLED version here), I'd recommend checking out their Discord/Forums for a solution: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Troubleshooting . If you find one that works, please let me know what it was so I can update the guide with what helped you (and help the next person). At this point, I've not had any solutions in the comments.

[@fonzitheman]

@@cljoe35 Well v39 is supposed to have support for the OLED model. You can update Batocera from within its settings but since you get a black screen you can also do it another way. Download the boot tar file for v39 which you can find on their repository, I cant link here cause my comment will get auto deleted by yt. Search and you will find. Anyway, once downloaded unzip the contents and copy/replace the contents on your Batocera boot partition. So put the micro sd card in your PC, simply copy and replace the files over to the boot partition. Its the only one you can see, its the 8GB fat32 partition. Put it back in your steam deck, turn and, it will update and 'hopefully' ..start up fine. Now if you were using v39 already well this will not help you obviously.

[@cljoe35]

@@fonzitheman ok i wil try that thanks

[@majd5251]

steam os??

[@WagnersTechTalk]

More about SteamOS here en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SteamOS

[@jayarnoval2960]

Xbox controller is detected and connected but I can't use it to play games. How to fix it?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Check that you're running the latest version of Batocera. Then you should be able to re-map the buttons from the Xboox controller. I've used it with an xbox 360 and xbox one controller here.

[@jayarnoval2960]

@@WagnersTechTalk Hello, thank you. My Batocera is in latest version, but Im having a problem connecting may xbox controller. I already updated the controller and the Batocera

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Is it an Xbox 360 controller or XBox One (Bluetooth) that isn't working? Are you able to navigate the menus with the controller or is it completely unresponsive?

[@jayarnoval2960]

@@WagnersTechTalk its an Xbox one controller. I can navigate using the controller, wired mode and in bluetooth mode, but I can't play games

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Thank you for the details, I've not run into this myself. However, check the Batocera Discord for some possible answers here: discord.com/invite/JXhfRTr . If you don't find anything, post a comment and someone will likely have a suggestion that you can try.

[@jacobtinsley1]

Start and select doesn't take me out of a game

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Did you perhaps re-map the buttons, or try select+start twice? By default select is the hotkey and start along with the hotkey will exit the game. You can read more about the button layout here: wiki.batocera.org/basic_commands

[@davidhinojosa1936]

Doesn't work for me either. Turns out I have to hold R4 & R5, then press Start. Hope this helps

[@ibapreppie]

Your bios files are broken...

[@WagnersTechTalk]

I don't have any links to bios files. Not sure what you mean.

[@ibapreppie]

@@WagnersTechTalk Nevermind it was my fault actually! Great video btw. I just put my bios files in the wrong folder was all

[@WagnersTechTalk]

@@ibapreppie Good news, glad you're all set!

[@retrobrahhh]

No support for the Steam Deck dock? What a waste of time.

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Shouldn't be an issue using Batocera with the SD Dock. What kind of problem did you run into? Perhaps try making all needed connections and restart Batocera. Then go into System settings and set the video output to HDMI and Audio also. I've used it with a few docks and it was fine, but you may have to manually set the video/audio output device.

[@retrobrahhh]

Make a vide of it working with the Steam Deck dock...@@WagnersTechTalk

[@austinmason2961]

Anyone have wifi connection issues 😅

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Are you using the new OLED Steam Deck? If so, this appears to be an issue that is being worked on. I don't own that particular version of the Steam Deck to do any testing. For the latest on that, please see the Batocera Discord link here: wagnerstechtalk.com/sd-batocera/#Resources

[@thesnipersnestandmore7461]

FYI for those who already have raspberry pi imager don’t need etcher..

[@WagnersTechTalk]

You are 100% correct! In fact, I made sure of this during testing by using Pi Imager wagnerstechtalk.com/common/#Burn_an_Image_with_Raspberry_Pi_Imager and of course Batocera booted right up. I haven't added it to the guide, but since you brought it up I may. Thanks for your comment!

[@SteveT-0]

Help! I used disk image to flash the image to my sdcard but when I put it into my Steam deck and boot into the boot manager, the sdcard is not showing. how do I fix it?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

It may be an issue with your microSD card. If you have a different brand, give it a try.

[@Infamous1uc]

? instead of using a sd card for the steam deck can i use an external hardrive i have a 1tb one im not using

[@WagnersTechTalk]

Should be just fine, yes. Same process as shown here, in the boot menu you'd just select the external drive instead of the SD card.

[@vicplaza6485]

So I dont need unzip batocera image after dowloaded ?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

No need

[@vicplaza6485]

@@WagnersTechTalk When download batocera from the official web side , the filie came unzip not image file . So i can flashed unzip?

[@WagnersTechTalk]

It's a .gz file type, yes you can image it directly. It's an archive that will get extracted while being written. If you want to extract it, you can use a tool such as 7-zip and you'll see the .img file.