How to Add Xbox Game Pass to Your Steam Deck: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you want to bring the vast library of Xbox Game Pass to your Steam Deck? Great choice! While it’s not a straightforward installation like on a traditional PC, it’s absolutely achievable. The key is leveraging the Microsoft Edge browser and some clever configurations. Here’s the breakdown:

The direct answer is that you cannot directly install the Xbox Game Pass application onto the Steam Deck due to the Universal Windows Platform (UWP) limitations. However, you can stream games from Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) through a web browser like Microsoft Edge installed on your Steam Deck. This allows you to access a large library of games without needing to download them locally.

Step-by-Step: Xbox Game Pass Streaming on Steam Deck

1. Install Microsoft Edge on your Steam Deck:

   • Switch to Desktop Mode on your Steam Deck.
   • Open the Discover Software Center.
   • Search for “Microsoft Edge”.
   • Install Microsoft Edge.

2. Set Up Microsoft Edge in your Steam Library:

   • In Desktop Mode, open Steam.
   • Click “Add a Game” at the bottom left of the Steam window.
   • Select “Add a Non-Steam Game”.
   • Browse for Microsoft Edge (usually located in /usr/bin/microsoft-edge-stable).
   • Add Microsoft Edge to your Steam Library.

3. Apply the Controller Layout:

   • In Steam, right-click on Microsoft Edge in your Library.
   • Select “Properties”.
   • Under “Controller”, choose “Force On”. This ensures the Steam Deck’s controller is recognized by the browser.

4. Customize the Launch Options (Important for Cloud Gaming):

   • In the same “Properties” window, find the “Launch Options” field.

   • Enter the following command: --window-size=1024,640 --force-device-scale-factor=1.25 --device-scale-factor=1.25 --kiosk "https://www.xbox.com/play"

   • Explanation:

     • --window-size=1024,640: Sets the browser window size for optimal viewing on the Steam Deck’s screen.
     • --force-device-scale-factor=1.25: Forces the page scaling to be 1.25, which often improves readability.
     • --device-scale-factor=1.25: Specifies the device scale factor, similar to the previous command.
     • --kiosk "https://www.xbox.com/play": Launches Edge in kiosk mode directly to the Xbox Cloud Gaming website, creating a more seamless experience.

5. Add Custom Artwork (Optional):

   • Right-click on Microsoft Edge in your Steam Library.
   • Select “Set custom artwork” and “Set custom logo” to personalize the icon in your library. You can find appropriate images online or create your own.

6. Return to Gaming Mode and Sign In:

   • Switch back to Gaming Mode on your Steam Deck.
   • Find Microsoft Edge in your Steam Library.
   • Launch it. It should automatically open the Xbox Cloud Gaming website.
   • Sign in to your Microsoft account that has an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. Important: Cloud gaming requires Game Pass Ultimate.
   • Start playing!

Optimizing Your Cloud Gaming Experience

• Internet Connection: Cloud gaming is heavily reliant on a stable and fast internet connection. A 5 GHz Wi-Fi connection is highly recommended.
• Controller Settings: Double-check your controller settings in the Steam settings to ensure optimal performance and mapping for cloud games.
• Visual Settings: Experiment with the display settings in the Edge browser or within the cloud gaming interface to find the best balance between visual fidelity and performance.
• Consider a Stand: While the Steam Deck is portable, longer gaming sessions are often more comfortable with a stand.
• Battery Life: Cloud gaming can be demanding on the battery. Consider using a portable charger for extended playtime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I directly install Xbox Game Pass games onto the Steam Deck?

No, you cannot directly install Xbox Game Pass games onto the Steam Deck due to the limitations of Microsoft’s Universal Windows Platform (UWP). UWP is designed with security restrictions that prevent direct installation on systems like SteamOS.

2. Do I need Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to play on Steam Deck?

Yes, you need Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to access Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud), which is the method used to play Game Pass games on the Steam Deck. Game Pass Ultimate includes xCloud, allowing you to stream games.

3. Will my Xbox controller work with Steam Deck for cloud gaming?

Yes, Xbox controllers work seamlessly with the Steam Deck. You can connect them via Bluetooth or a USB-C cable. The Steam Deck automatically recognizes and configures most controllers, including Xbox controllers.

4. Is my save progress synced between my Xbox and Steam Deck?

Yes, save progress is typically synced between your Xbox console and Steam Deck when playing Xbox Cloud Gaming titles, as long as you’re using the same Microsoft account. This feature is part of the Xbox ecosystem.

5. What internet speed is recommended for Xbox Cloud Gaming on Steam Deck?

A stable internet connection with a minimum download speed of 10 Mbps is recommended for Xbox Cloud Gaming. However, for the best experience, especially at higher resolutions, a speed of 25 Mbps or higher is ideal. A 5 GHz Wi-Fi connection is also highly advisable.

6. Can I use a keyboard and mouse with Xbox Cloud Gaming on Steam Deck?

Yes, you can connect a keyboard and mouse to your Steam Deck via Bluetooth or USB-C for use with Xbox Cloud Gaming. However, game compatibility with keyboard and mouse varies. Some games may not fully support these peripherals through cloud gaming.

7. How do I optimize the performance of Xbox Cloud Gaming on my Steam Deck?

• Ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection.
• Close any unnecessary applications running in the background on your Steam Deck.
• Experiment with the display settings in the Edge browser or within the cloud gaming interface.
• Make sure your Steam Deck is updated to the latest software version.

8. Can I play all Xbox Game Pass games on my Steam Deck through cloud gaming?

Not all games in the Xbox Game Pass library are available for cloud gaming. The selection of games available for streaming may vary. Check the Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) library to confirm if a specific game is available for streaming.

9. Is there any input lag when using Xbox Cloud Gaming on the Steam Deck?

Input lag is a common concern with cloud gaming. The amount of input lag depends on several factors, including your internet connection speed, distance to the cloud server, and the game itself. Minimizing network latency is crucial for a smooth experience. Using a wired ethernet connection (via USB-C adapter) if possible may reduce lag.

10. Can I use other browsers besides Microsoft Edge for Xbox Cloud Gaming?

While Microsoft Edge is officially recommended for the best experience, other browsers like Chrome or Firefox can potentially be used. However, compatibility and performance may vary, and some features might not work as expected. Edge is generally considered the most optimized option.

11. How much data does Xbox Cloud Gaming use on Steam Deck?

Xbox Cloud Gaming can consume a significant amount of data. On average, it can use around 7-10 GB of data per hour depending on the streaming quality settings. Keep this in mind if you have a limited data plan.

12. Can I install Windows on my Steam Deck to directly install Game Pass?

Yes, you can install Windows on your Steam Deck, which would then allow you to install the Xbox app and directly install some Game Pass games. However, this replaces SteamOS and requires installing drivers for the Deck’s hardware. It’s a more involved process and may not be ideal for all users. Be aware that this may void your warranty.

13. Does installing Windows affect the Steam Deck’s performance?

Installing Windows can affect the Steam Deck’s performance. Some games may run better, while others might experience compatibility issues. Driver support is also a factor, and you’ll need to manually install drivers specific to the Steam Deck.

14. How do I connect my Xbox account to the Microsoft Edge browser on Steam Deck?

When you launch Xbox Cloud Gaming through Microsoft Edge, you will be prompted to sign in with your Microsoft account. Use the same account that is associated with your Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. This will link your account and allow you to access your games.

15. Where can I learn more about game-based learning?

You can explore the world of game-based learning at the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The GamesLearningSociety.org is a great resource for understanding how games can be used for educational purposes.

By following these steps and addressing these FAQs, you can successfully access and enjoy Xbox Game Pass on your Steam Deck, bringing a world of gaming possibilities to your portable device.