This guide details setting up Sega CD emulation on your Steam Deck using EmuDeck. We'll cover everything from initial setup to troubleshooting post-update issues.
Pre-Installation: Developer Mode & Essentials
Enable Developer Mode and CEF Remote Debugging on your Steam Deck for compatibility with EmuDeck updates. This involves accessing the Steam menu, navigating to System > Developer, and enabling both options. Reboot into Desktop Mode afterward.
You'll need:
- A fast A2 microSD card.
- Your legally-obtained Sega CD ROMs and BIOS files.
- (Recommended) A keyboard and mouse for easier navigation.
Format your microSD card via Steam Menu > Storage > Format SD Card.
Downloading and Installing EmuDeck
Switch to Desktop Mode. Download a browser (from the Discovery Store), then download EmuDeck, selecting the SteamOS version. During the custom installation, choose your microSD card as the target location and select RetroArch, MelonDS, Steam ROM Manager, and Emulation Station (or all emulators). Complete the installation.
Transferring Sega CD Files
Use your file browser (e.g., Dolphin) to transfer your BIOS files to SD Card/Emulation/BIOS and your Sega CD ROMs to SD Card/Emulation/ROMS/segaCD (or megaCD).
Adding ROMs with Steam ROM Manager
Launch EmuDeck and Steam ROM Manager. Follow the on-screen prompts, adding your Sega CD games and allowing the program to parse and retrieve cover art.
Fixing Missing Covers
If covers are missing, use the "Fix" function in Steam ROM Manager to search for and download them. Manually upload missing covers using the "Upload" function if necessary.
Playing Your Games
Access your Sega CD games via Steam Library > Collections > Sega CD. Alternatively, use Emulation Station (Steam Library > Non-Steam) for a more organized experience, especially for multi-disc games. Use Emulation Station's scraper to improve metadata and cover art.
Installing Decky Loader and Power Tools
Install Decky Loader from its GitHub page. After installation and a restart, use Decky Loader to install Power Tools. Optimize Power Tools settings (disable SMTs, set threads to 4, adjust GPU clock as needed) for improved emulation performance.
Post-Steam Deck Update: Restoring Decky Loader
If a Steam Deck update removes Decky Loader, download it again from GitHub in Desktop Mode, using the "Execute" option and providing your sudo password. Restart your Steam Deck.
Enjoy your Sega CD games on your Steam Deck!
