How to Play PlayStation 5 Games on Your Steam Deck

The allure of playing your favorite PlayStation 5 titles on the go is undeniable, and the Steam Deck offers a fantastic way to make this a reality. While you can’t directly install PS5 games onto the Steam Deck due to differing ecosystems, you can leverage Remote Play to stream your PS5 games to your handheld device. This article will guide you through the process, explaining exactly how to enjoy your PS5 library on your Steam Deck.

Setting Up Remote Play

The key to playing PS5 games on your Steam Deck is using a Remote Play client called Chiaki. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get everything up and running:

Preparing Your PS5

1. Enable Remote Play: Start by powering on your PlayStation 5. Navigate to Settings, then go to System, and finally select Remote Play. Ensure that Enable Remote Play is toggled to the ‘on’ position. This will allow your PS5 to be accessed by remote clients.
2. Establish a Wired Connection: For the best possible streaming experience, connect your PS5 to your router using an Ethernet cable. This helps minimize latency and provides a stable connection for smooth gameplay.
3. Get Your PSN Account ID: You will need your PSN account ID. This can be a bit tricky to get on the console, but Chiaki has a tool built in to find it.

Installing and Configuring Chiaki on Your Steam Deck

1. Install Chiaki: Switch your Steam Deck to Desktop Mode. Open the Discover Store (the shopping bag icon in the bottom left corner) and search for Chiaki. Click Install to download and install the application.
2. Launch Chiaki for the first time: Launch the application, you’ll be presented with a screen asking for a PSN ID, click “Search” at the bottom and follow the on-screen instructions. This will populate the application with your account ID.
3. Register Your Console: With the PSN ID now in place, select “Register”. You will be prompted for a PIN code, go to your PS5 to get the code, in the Remote Play settings, there is an option to link device.
4. Enter the Pin: Enter the 8 digit pin code into Chiaki on your steam deck and click the “Register” button.
5. Add Chiaki to Steam Library: To easily access Chiaki from Game Mode, add it as a non-Steam game. Click Add a Game in the bottom left corner of the Steam client in desktop mode, then choose Add a Non-Steam Game. Select Chiaki from the list, or use Browse if it’s not listed, and click Add Selected Programs. This will allow you to launch Chiaki from Gaming mode.

Connecting Your PS5 Controller (Optional)

1. Pair Your Controller: If you prefer to use your DualSense controller rather than the Steam Deck controls, go to Settings, then Bluetooth on the Steam Deck. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled.
2. Put the Controller in Pairing Mode: On your DualSense, simultaneously press and hold the Create button and the PlayStation button until the light bar starts flashing blue.
3. Connect to Your Controller: Select DualSense Wireless Controller from the list of available devices on your Steam Deck and follow any on-screen prompts to complete the pairing process. You can now use your controller for PS5 remote play.

Launching Your PS5 Games

1. Switch back to Game Mode: Launch Chiaki from the Steam Deck’s main library.
2. Start Remote Play: Select your console from the list of registered devices and begin streaming. You should now see your PS5 home screen on your Steam Deck, and you can play any PS5 game you own.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions that often arise when trying to play PS5 games on the Steam Deck:

1. Can I directly install PS5 games onto my Steam Deck?

No, you cannot directly install PS5 games onto the Steam Deck. The Steam Deck runs on a Linux-based operating system, and PS5 games are designed for Sony’s PlayStation console ecosystem. The method described above utilizes Remote Play, allowing you to stream gameplay from your console to your device.

2. Does Chiaki work with both PS4 and PS5 consoles?

Yes, Chiaki works with both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles. It’s a versatile client that enables remote play on various platforms, including the Steam Deck.

3. Is a strong internet connection necessary for remote play?

Yes, a strong and stable internet connection is crucial for a good remote play experience. A wired connection (Ethernet) for your PS5 is highly recommended to reduce latency and ensure a consistent stream. While Wi-Fi can work, wired connections typically provide better stability and performance.

4. Can I use the Steam Deck’s controls for PS5 games?

Yes, you can use the Steam Deck’s built-in controls to play PS5 games when using Chiaki. However, some players may prefer to connect a DualSense controller for a more authentic experience.

5. Can I play PS5 games remotely while away from home?

Yes, you can play PS5 games remotely away from home if both your PS5 and Steam Deck have access to the internet. However, the quality of your connection will affect performance, so the faster your connection, the better the experience. Note: your home network must be set up to forward necessary ports for remote access.

6. What is the difference between Remote Play and local streaming?

Remote Play allows you to access your PlayStation console remotely via the internet, while local streaming typically refers to streaming within the same local network. Both involve streaming, but Remote Play allows you to do this from anywhere with an internet connection.

7. Do I need a PlayStation Plus subscription for Remote Play?

No, a PlayStation Plus subscription is not required for Remote Play. However, a PlayStation Plus subscription may be required for online play.

8. Can I transfer my PS5 game saves to my Steam Deck?

No, you cannot directly transfer game saves from your PS5 to your Steam Deck. These systems are not compatible and use separate ecosystems for game saves.

9. Can I play Steam games on my PS5?

No, you cannot play Steam games directly on a PS5. The two platforms are not cross-compatible, and the PS5 cannot run Steam software.

10. Is the Steam Deck as powerful as the PS5?

No, the Steam Deck is not as powerful as the PS5. The PS5 has more raw graphical processing power, leading to higher fidelity graphics. However, the Steam Deck is powerful enough to handle a range of games well and is ideal for portable gaming.

11. What does adding a non-Steam game do to Steam?

Adding a non-Steam game, such as Chiaki, to your Steam library creates a shortcut to that program in your Steam client. It allows you to launch Chiaki through Steam, but does not provide Steam features or integration for the added non-Steam program.

12. Can I play games I purchased on Steam on my PS5?

No, you cannot play games purchased on Steam on a PS5. Steam games are specific to the Steam platform and cannot be used on PlayStation consoles.

13. Do cross-platform play/progression exist between PS5 and Steam?

Limited cross-platform play and cross-progression may be available on some titles, typically involving PC and mobile platforms. However, most cross-play support is not currently enabled between PS5 and PC. Cross save progression may be possible, but is dependant on the title.

14. How do I install ROMs with EmuDeck on the Steam Deck?

EmuDeck helps in setting up emulators. To install ROMs, you need to first obtain the ROM files and place them into the designated folder in EmuDeck (typically under Emulation > roms). You also need to have the corresponding BIOS files (if required) in the Emulation > bios folder. Note: Be sure to only use ROMS of games you already own to ensure you follow copyright law.

15. Can I transfer files to my Steam Deck using a USB drive or SD Card?

Yes, you can transfer files to your Steam Deck using a USB drive or SD card. You will need to be in Desktop Mode to access and transfer these files. The card or drive can be used to transfer files, ROMs and more to your device.

By following these steps and considering the FAQs, you should be well-equipped to stream your favorite PS5 titles to your Steam Deck and enjoy them on the go.