Ever since the Deadlock playtest invite became public, there have been plenty of questions about it. One of the major questions was if you could play Deadlock on a Steam Deck. While in early development it’s stated as unsupported, there are always workarounds. So with that, let’s begin answering if and how to play Deadlock on Steam Deck right here.
Can You Play Deadlock on Steam Deck?
Yes, you can play Deadlock on the Steam Deck! The game comes with Steam Deck controls support by default, although it might not appear optimized for the device. Many players have successfully used Steam input to navigate the game, despite facing some issues due to its early development status.
One common issue that players may encounter is an error message stating, “Matchmaking unsupported for Steam Deck.” This can be frustrating, but don't worry! There are methods to overcome these hurdles and enjoy the game seamlessly.
How to Play Deadlock on Steam Deck
There are two main methods to play Deadlock on the Steam Deck. One method is straightforward but requires some initial tweaks, while the other is more technical, requiring you to enter a command in the launch settings. Here’s how to get started:
Launch Method
This method allows you to permanently adjust the launch settings for Deadlock, eliminating matchmaking issues. Follow these steps:
- Open the Steam menu and navigate to Deadlock.
- Select the gear icon for settings.
- Go to Properties and click on the General tab.
- In the Launch Options field, type SteamDeck=0 %command% and start the game.
Spectate Method
Note: It's advisable to choose a game with a lower viewer count to avoid timeouts.
To utilize the Spectate method, follow these steps:
- From the main screen of the game, go to the Watch menu.
- Select a game that has a low viewer count.
- Open the menu and click on the first Play button you see.
Optimized Controller Layout for Deadlock
Thanks to user contributions on Reddit, we have a recommended controller layout that enhances your gameplay experience. This layout aligns with common third-person shooter mechanics, making it easier to maneuver.
The left joystick is designated for movement, while the right joystick is for your view. Additionally, enabling gyro controls can provide more precise aiming, which is especially beneficial in intense gaming scenarios.
Final Thoughts on Playing Deadlock on Steam Deck
In summary, playing Deadlock on the Steam Deck is possible with the right methods and settings. Whether you choose the launch method or the spectate method, you can enjoy the game despite its current limitations. Make sure to optimize your controller layout for the best experience.
Have more questions or need further assistance? Feel free to reach out in the comments below!
