Steam Deck: How To Run Sega Master System Games

This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for setting up Sega Master System emulation on your Steam Deck using EmuDeck, Decky Loader, and Power Tools. It covers everything from initial setup to optimizing performance and troubleshooting post-update issues.

Quick Links

• Before Installing EmuDeck
  • Activate Developer Mode
• Installing EmuDeck in Desktop Mode
• Adding Master System Games to the Steam Library
• Fixing or Uploading Missing Artwork
  • Uploading Missing Artwork
• Playing Master System Games on the Steam Deck
  • Improving Performance
• Installing Decky Loader for the Steam Deck
• Installing 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 fantastic titles. The Steam Deck, with EmuDeck, makes playing these games a reality. This guide details the process.

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 impacts 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 performance:

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. Enable CEF Remote Debugging under Miscellaneous.
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.
2. Download EmuDeck using a browser (Chrome or Firefox).
3. Choose the appropriate SteamOS version.
4. Select Custom Install.
5. Rename your SD card to "Primary" for easier management.
6. Select RetroArch (and Steam ROM Manager) for Sega Master System emulation.
7. Configure CRT Shader (optional).
8. Complete the installation.

Transferring Master System ROMs

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

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, then Parse.
5. Save to Steam.

Fixing or Uploading Missing Artwork

Use Steam ROM Manager's "Fix" or "Upload" options to correct missing or incorrect artwork. For uploads, save artwork to the Steam Deck's Pictures folder.

Playing Master System Games on the Steam Deck

1. Access your Steam Library in Gaming Mode.
2. Navigate to your Sega Master System collection.
3. Select and launch your game.

Improving Performance

Adjust settings within the game's Quick Access Menu (QAM) > Performance menu:

• Enable "Use game profile."
• Set Frame Limit to 60 FPS.
• Enable Half Rate Shading.

Installing Decky Loader for the Steam Deck

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

Installing Power Tools

1. Access Decky Loader via QAM.
2. Open the Decky Store.
3. Install Power Tools.

Power Tools Settings for Emulated Games

Configure Power Tools (via QAM) for optimal performance:

• Disable SMTs.
• Set Threads to 4.
• Enable Manual GPU Clock Control and set GPU Clock Frequency to 1200.
• Save per-game profiles.

Fixing Decky Loader After a Steam Deck Update

After Steam Deck updates, reinstall Decky Loader via the GitHub page, selecting "Execute" and entering your password (or creating one). Restart your Steam Deck.