Can I Get Banned for Playing Genshin Impact on the Steam Deck? A Gamer‘s In-Depth Investigation

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

Greetings adventure-seekers! Your resident gaming guru here with the latest intel on whether the coveted action RPG Genshin Impact can legally be played on Valve‘s new Steam Deck handheld.

The current verdict: Yes, accounts can technically get banned but based on early data, risks appear low for now.

As an industry specialist focused on tracking the bleeding-edge gaming landscape, I‘ve done some sleuthing into this very question – analyzing official policies from miHoYo, Steam, and the Deckverification community.

Here‘s the comprehensive briefing fellow gamers need to make an informed decision – I‘ve got you covered on the essential ban risks, workarounds, and predictions!

The First Reported Steam Deck Ban Case Detailed

So far, only a single Genshin Impact ban has been reported for the Steam Deck according to Reddit user reviewsink:

"Default Proton version used and no launch commands. Ban happened about a week after I started playing on the Deck."

This suggests that running the game via Valve‘s built-in Proton compatibility software without additional mods triggered anti-cheat detection.

However, the lack of other ban reports indicates that miHoYo‘s algorithms don‘t automatically flag Linux-based devices…yet. The risk seems to arise from utilizing extra commands that modify Genshin‘s code which could appear like hacking software.

Methods to Reduce Chances of Account Bans

Given this context, I don‘t recommend reckless experimentation to get Genshin Impact running on SteamOS. But for those willing to accept some degree of risk, here are tips to minimize red flags:

1. Use Default Proton Settings

Stick to the standard Proton 7.0 compatibility tool bundled with SteamOS without enabling extra launch parameters. This mimics running a Windows environment without heavily tampering under the hood.

2. Avoid Additional Launch Commands

Commands that modify graphics, FPS, controls etc. could trigger cheating alerts. Tread carefully and opt for default configurations.

3. Dual Boot Windows For Native Play

Installing Windows 10 or 11 via the Deck‘s SSD allows Genshin to run natively, avoiding anticheats designed for the mobile, PS4 and PC clients only. This is the most "legit" method.

Why Genshin Impact Flags Anticheat Systems

To understand ban triggers, we need to examine why Genshin Impact crashes on the Steam Deck in the first place:

1. Lack of Linux and SteamOS Support

Genshin Impact is built for Windows, PlayStation 4/5, Android and iOS. So Proton forces incompatible software to run in an emulator-like environment. Cracks in this virtualization can appear like code injection or botting.

2. Anti-Cheat Detection When Disabled

You need to disable Genshin Impact‘s anti-cheat to even launch the game via Proton. This bypass itself can seem suspicious and gets flagged as tampering.

Essentially, unless Steam Deck usage becomes mainstream, anti-cheat systems will remain calibrated to block Linux-based workarounds.

Native Steam Integration Could Resolve Bans

The root of ban risks lies in Genshin Impact not having native Steam Deck support.

Steam has a clearly defined verification program where titles with anticheat undergo extensive testing to earn "Steam Deck Verified" status, indicating seamless compatibility.

For example, apex legends and Dead By Daylight passed these benchmarks and run smoothly without bans.

Thus, the definitive fix would be miHoYo adding Genshin Impact to Steam itself. This would incentivize proper Steam Deck optimization. No more cat-and-mouse with unauthorized mobile workarounds!

The Gamer‘s Verdict

Until then, I expect ban reports to gradually increase over 2023 as more Deck users test their luck running Genshin Impact via Proton. However current precautions like default settings could maintain low detection rates.

For super fans who consider any ban risk unacceptable, dual booting Windows is the best option and worth the SSD space. Personally as an adventure-hungry gamer, I believe those comfortable tinkering within guardrails will enjoy an acceptable level of security.

Of course I‘ll be actively investigating any new developments in this story! Please subscribe below for the freshest tips, rumors and strategies about maximizing our favorite games on this revolutionary handheld PC.

This is your intrepid gaming journalist Sara signing off for now. Happy questing adventurers!

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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