How Do I Add GOG Games to My Steam Deck?
The best way to add GOG games to your Steam Deck is by using a third-party app called Heroic Game Launcher. Heroic neatly integrates your GOG library into the Steam Deck‘s interface so all your games are accessible in one place.
A breakdown of the Heroic method:
- Download and install Heroic Game Launcher from the Discover store in Desktop Mode
- Log into your GOG account so Heroic can automatically import your GOG library
- Browse and install any of your GOG games right from Heroic
- Added GOG games will now show up cleanly in the Steam Deck‘s main Games Mode!
It‘s an incredibly easy 5 minute process to merge your gaming libraries.
There‘s also a handy video walkthrough by The Phawx demonstrating the full Heroic method on the Steam Deck step-by-step.
Now let‘s explore why you may want your GOG collection on your Steam Deck and how to optimize the experience…
Why add GOG games to the Steam Deck?
GOG, or Good Old Games, has an exceptional library of high quality DRM-free classics, indies, and newer AAA titles.
Here are some benefits of playing GOG games on the Steam Deck:
No DRM
GOG games have no DRM restrictions for unlimited installs. You own the games.
Offline Play
No internet connection required either – GOG games work offline out of the box. Great for gaming on the go.
Enhanced Compatibility
DRM-free games play very nicely with Proton/Wine compatibility layers like those on the Steam Deck. Smoother sailing!
There‘s zero platform overhead when playing GOG games versus those tied to clunky clients like Steam, Epic, Origin or Uplay. Just purer Linux gaming.
And with cloud sync between PC and Steam Deck via GOG Galaxy, you can seamlessly switch between playing on desktop and handheld.
Optimization & Performance
So how can we get the most out of GOG games on the Steam Deck and tweak them for the best experience possible?
The Steam Deck is highly capable of running GOG‘s vast catalog, but there are few quick optimization steps for buttery smooth gameplay:
Use Proton GE
Install Proton GE for the latest and greatest compatibility tool for running Windows games flawlessly. It‘s the gold standard. Configure per game as needed.
Set Custom Launch Options
Dial in native resolutions, disable v-sync, etc based on the game‘s demands. Check ProtonDB for recommended configurations.
Install On MicroSD Card
For storage space reasons, install GOG games on a high speed microSD like the SanDisk Extreme 512GB. Be sure to format cards to EXT4 for full Steam Deck read/write filesystem support.
Use FPS Limiter
Lock frame rates to 30 or 40 FPS to reduce strain on hardware and prevent screen tearing. The Steam Deck excels here versus Switch.
Lower Resolution
If performance is still struggling, drop down to 800p rather than force 1200p on especially demanding AAA titles.
| Specs | Native | High | Medium | Low |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 1280×800 | 1280×800 | 960×600 | 800×500 |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz | 40 Hz | 30 Hz | 20 Hz |
| Graphics Detail | High | Medium | Low | Lowest |
With some quick optimizations like these, GOG games can play fantastic on the Steam Deck!
My Experience Getting Elder Scrolls Oblivion Running
After using Heroic Game Launcher to…
Additional Methods to Add GOG Games
If you wish to add GOG games manually without using Heroic or simply want to tweak ux options, you can also:
Use Lutris
The open source Lutris gaming client supports GOG integration like Heroic. Not as seamless overall but still solid option.
Add Shortcuts Manually
In Steam‘s Desktop Mode client, Add Non-Steam Game > Add GOG executables manually. Taller order at scale.
No matter which path you choose, enjoy expanding your Steam Deck‘s capabilities with DRM-free GOG goodness! Let me know if you have any other questions getting your games dialed in perfectly.
