Steam Deck: How To Run Sega Master System Games

This guide details how to install and configure emulators for Sega Master System games on your Steam Deck using EmuDeck, Decky Loader, and Power Tools. It also covers troubleshooting steps for post-update issues.

Quick Links

• Before Installing EmuDeck
  • Activate Developer Mode
• Installing EmuDeck in Desktop Mode
• Adding Master System Games to the Steam Library
• Fix or Upload Missing Artwork
  • Upload Missing Artwork
• Playing Master System Games on the Steam Deck
  • Improve Performance
• Install Decky Loader for the Steam Deck
• Install Power Tools
  • Power Tools Settings for Emulated Games
• Fixing Decky Loader After a Steam Deck Update

The Sega Master System, a classic 8-bit console, boasts a library of excellent titles. The Steam Deck, with EmuDeck, provides a powerful platform to enjoy these retro games.

Updated January 15, 2024, to include Decky Loader and Power Tools for enhanced performance and post-update troubleshooting.

Before Installing EmuDeck

Prior to installation, ensure:

• Your Steam Deck is charged or plugged in.
• You have a high-speed microSD card (or external HDD, though this reduces portability).
• A keyboard and mouse are recommended for easier navigation (though the on-screen keyboard and trackpads are usable).

Activate Developer Mode

Enable Developer Mode for optimal emulator functionality:

1. Access the Steam menu.
2. Go to System > System Settings.
3. Enable Developer Mode.
4. Access the Developer menu (bottom of the access panel).
5. Under Miscellaneous, enable CEF Remote Debugging.
6. Restart your Steam Deck. (Note: CEF Remote Debugging may need re-enabling after updates.)

Installing EmuDeck in Desktop Mode

1. Switch to Desktop Mode (Steam button > Power > Desktop Mode).
2. Download EmuDeck using a browser (Chrome or Firefox).
3. Choose the correct SteamOS version.
4. Select Custom Install.
5. Rename your SD card to "Primary" for easier identification.
6. Select RetroArch (and Steam ROM Manager) for Sega Master System emulation.
7. Configure CRT Shader (optional).
8. Finish the installation.

Transferring Master System ROMs

1. Open Dolphin File Manager.
2. Navigate to Removable Devices > Primary > Emulation > ROMS > mastersystem.
3. Transfer your .sms ROM files (excluding the 'media' file).

Adding Master System Games to the Steam Library

1. Open EmuDeck in Desktop Mode.
2. Open Steam ROM Manager.
3. Disable Parsers, except for Sega Master System.
4. Add Games and Parse.
5. Save to Steam.

Fix or Upload Missing Artwork

For missing artwork:

1. Click "Fix" on the cover frame.
2. Search for the game title.
3. Select and save the correct artwork.

For uploading artwork:

1. Save artwork to the Steam Deck's Pictures folder.
2. Click "Upload" on the cover frame.
3. Select the artwork and save.
4. Save to Steam.

Playing Master System Games on the Steam Deck

1. In Gaming Mode, open your Steam Library.
2. Navigate to your Sega Master System collection.
3. Select and launch your game.

Improve Performance

1. Open a game and access the QAM (Quick Access Menu).
2. Open the Performance menu.
3. Enable "Use game profile".
4. Set Frame Limit to 60 FPS.
5. Enable Half Rate Shading.

Install Decky Loader for the Steam Deck

1. Switch to Desktop Mode.
2. Download Decky Loader from its GitHub page.
3. Choose Recommended Install.
4. Restart in Gaming Mode.

Install Power Tools

1. Access the QAM.
2. Open Decky Loader.
3. Go to the Decky Store.
4. Install Power Tools.

Power Tools Settings for Emulated Games

1. Launch a Master System game.
2. Access the QAM > Decky Loader > Power Tools.
3. Disable SMTs.
4. Set Threads to 4.
5. Access the Performance menu (battery icon).
6. Enable Advanced View.
7. Enable Manual GPU Clock Control.
8. Set GPU Clock Frequency to 1200.
9. Save per-game profiles.

Fixing Decky Loader After a Steam Deck Update

1. Switch to Desktop Mode.
2. Re-download Decky Loader from GitHub.
3. Select "Execute".
4. Enter your pseudo password (or create one).
5. Restart in Gaming Mode.