Steam Deck: How To Run Sega Master System Games

Unleash Retro Gaming on Your Steam Deck: A Comprehensive Guide to EmuDeck and Sega Master System

The Sega Master System, a celebrated 8-bit console, boasted a library of fantastic titles, including unique versions and exclusives. Games like Golden Axe, Double Dragon, and Streets of Rage shone on the system, while titles such as Mortal Kombat and Asterix & Obelix pushed the console's boundaries, delivering near-16-bit experiences.

While playing Sega Master System games on modern hardware presents challenges, the Steam Deck, combined with EmuDeck, offers a seamless solution. This guide details how to install and optimize Sega Master System emulators on your Steam Deck.

Updated January 15, 2024: This guide has been updated to include Decky Loader and Power Tools, recommended by EmuDeck developers for enhanced retro gaming performance and to address potential issues after Steam Deck updates.

Before You Begin:

• Ensure your Steam Deck is fully charged or connected to power.
• A high-speed microSD card (formatted within the Steam Deck) is recommended for optimal performance. An external HDD is an alternative, but it reduces portability.
• A keyboard and mouse are highly recommended for easier file transfers and installations. Alternatively, use the on-screen keyboard (Steam + X) and trackpads.

1. Activate Developer Mode:

Enable Developer Mode for smooth emulator operation:

• Press the Steam button, open System > System Settings.
• Enable Developer Mode.
• Access the Developer menu (bottom of the left panel).
• Enable CEF Remote Debugging under Miscellaneous.
• Restart your Steam Deck. (Note: CEF Remote Debugging may need re-enabling after updates.)

2. Install EmuDeck in Desktop Mode:

• Power > Desktop Mode.
• Download EmuDeck using a browser (Chrome or Firefox). Choose the correct SteamOS version.
• Run the installer and select Custom Install.
• Select the SD card (rename it "Primary" for easier access).
• Choose RetroArch (for Sega Master System emulation). Optionally, install all emulators.
• Select Steam ROM Manager for library integration.
• Enable "Configure CRT Shader for Classic 3D Games" (optional).
• Finish the installation.

3. Transferring Master System ROMs:

• Open Dolphin File Manager.
• Navigate to Removable Devices > Primary > Emulation > ROMS > mastersystem.
• Copy your Sega Master System ROMs (.sms files).

4. Adding Games to the Steam Library:

• Open EmuDeck in Desktop Mode.
• Launch Steam ROM Manager.
• Disable Parsers.
• Select Sega Master System.
• Add Games > Parse.
• Verify game and cover art display.
• Save to Steam.

5. Fixing or Uploading Missing Artwork:

• Use "Fix" to automatically find artwork.
• Use "Upload" to manually add artwork from the Steam Deck's Pictures folder.

6. Playing Master System Games:

• In Gaming Mode, open your Steam Library.
• Navigate to your Sega Master System collection.
• Launch your chosen game.

7. Performance Optimization:

• In-game (QAM button), open the Performance menu.
• Enable "Use game profile."
• Set Frame Limit to 60 FPS.
• Enable Half Rate Shading.

8. Install Decky Loader:

• Switch to Desktop Mode.
• Download Decky Loader from its GitHub page.
• Run the installer and choose Recommended Install.
• Restart in Gaming Mode.

9. Install Power Tools:

• (QAM) > Decky Loader > Decky Store.
• Install the Power Tools plugin.
• Configure Power Tools (disable SMTs, set Threads to 4, adjust GPU clock in Performance menu).

10. Fixing Decky Loader After Updates:

• Switch to Desktop Mode.
• Re-download and run the Decky Loader installer (select "Execute").
• Enter your pseudo password (create one if needed).
• Restart in Gaming Mode.

Enjoy your enhanced Sega Master System gaming experience on your Steam Deck!