Steam Deck guide
Turn Steam Deck into your Tesla Arcade replacement with docked and handheld play.
Updated: 2025-12-03
Why Steam Deck for portable play (and Tesla replacements)
- Runs most PC and indie hits natively or via Proton; great for portable-first libraries.
- Dock to a TV for couch play; undock for planes, trains, and hotels.
- Mature controller support with built-in trackpads for mouse-heavy games.
- Strong option for ex-Tesla owners rebuilding Arcade line-ups on a handheld PC.
How to get your games
- Steam library: Install your PC versions for native play (e.g.,
cuphead,stardew-valley). Enable Proton where needed. - Cloud: Add GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud as Non-Steam shortcuts for titles you don’t own on Steam.
- Local streaming: Use Steam Remote Play to stream from a gaming PC at home if performance is better there.
Cross-save and progression
- Check Steam Cloud status per game before travelling; toggle it on for each title.
- For cloud services, sign into the same Steam/Xbox/PSN/Epic account to keep progress synced.
- Avoid mixing regional accounts; it can break DLC and cross-save.
Performance and battery tips
- Cap TDP and refresh rate (40–45 fps) to stretch battery life on flights.
- Drop resolution to 800p and use FSR for smoother handheld play.
- Bring a 65W+ USB-C PD charger and a short cable; pack a power bank for long trips.
Best accessories for travel
- Protective case + screen protector for transit.
- USB-C hub or dock for hotel/TV play; add HDMI and Ethernet for stability.
- Compact controller (8BitDo/Xbox) for co-op; folding stand for tabletop sessions.
Quick setup checklist
- Update SteamOS and GPU drivers.
- Toggle Steam Cloud per game; download key titles offline.
- Add cloud apps (GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud) as Non-Steam shortcuts.
- Pack charger, hub, HDMI, and a controller for docked sessions.