Quick Links
TheSteam Deckis a phenomenal device that raises the bar with handheld gaming. This is true for visuals, customization, and sheer quality of the gaming library, and the verified list of games on the machine is growing continuously. However, some games are playable but run into issues with controller compatibility and even performance.
The playable games on Steam Deck with problems are usually highlighted with a yellow exclamation mark. There is a way to get the best out of a game using theProton compatibility layer.Proton is a tool that allows Windows games to run Linux operating systems by improving their compatibility. It is a game changer for titles that struggle to run on the hardware with the default settings.
Updated July 06, 2025 by Michael Llewellyn:This guide uses Decky Loader and its plugins to provide useful information on Proton Compatibility. Unfortunately, the latest Steam Deck update broke the program making it accessible from the Quick Access Menu. This guide has been updated to include restoring the Decky Loader app and your Proton Compatibility on the Steam Deck.
How To Use Proton Compatibility On Steam Deck
Proton Compatibility helps most games work without issues and controller problems. In this example, theMedieval open-world RPGKingdom Come: Deliverancewas used because it struggles to run without compatibility tools. Moreover, it underperforms on the consoles with strange particle effects, low vegetation, and shadows. On the Steam Deck with Proton Compatibility,Kingdom Come Deliverancecan run with high settings and near-locked 40 FPS. To activate Proton Compatibility, use the following steps:
The Proton Compatibility tools will help games bypass several out-of-the-box compatibility problems. Moreover, it can help get the best out ofgraphically demanding games. The only issue where Proton won’t help is the readability of text issue.
Some games are developed with larger screens in mind. As a result, the text can appear too small on the Steam Deck screen. To rectify this issue, press theSteam and the L1 buttonsto activate theMagnifier Tool.
Enable Developer Mode
To get more Proton compatibility features using Decky Loader, you should enable Developer Mode in the Steam Deck’s settings to maintain compatibility with Decky’s updates and patches. Use the following steps to enable Developer Mode.
If your Decky Loader plugins vanish from the Quick Access menu recheck your Developer Mode settings. Follow the above settings, re-enable the above settings, and restart the Steam Deck. The plugins should return with your settings intact. Some major software updates for the Steam Deck can clash with the Decky Loader program.
Install Decky Loader For Steam Deck
To get the most out of the Steam Deck, players should make use of the side program known as Decky Loader. Decky Loader has several useful plugins for users to utilize and improve their gaming experience. Decky Loader has a plugin called ProtonDB Badges, which provides players with information on versions of Proton to use and other helpful settings. To install Decky Loader, use the following steps:
Install ProtonDB Badges For The Steam Deck
Now, it is time to download ProtonDB Badges so players can access the recommended tools from the game pages.
Install DeckSettings On The Steam Deck
In addition to ProtonDB Badges, Steam Deck users can utilize another Decky Loader plugin that offers more tips to get games running as smoothly as possible. Use the following steps to installDeckSettingson the Steam Deck:
How To Restore Decky Loader On The Steam Deck
Even with the above steps for Developer Mode, a major Steam Deck update can remove the Decky Loader app, your settings, and plugins from the Quick Access Menu. Use the following steps to restore the Decky Loader program for your Steam Deck.
When setting up a sudo password, it’s crucial to choose one that’s easy to remember. Forgetting your sudo password means you’ll have to reset your Steam Deck to its factory settings if you need to run programs that require it in Desktop Mode.
