This guide details how to install EmuDeck and play Game Boy games on your Steam Deck, optimizing performance with Decky Loader and Power Tools. The Steam Deck, a powerful handheld, is highly customizable, making it ideal for retro gaming.

Before you begin, ensure you have: a fully charged Steam Deck, an A2 microSD card for games and emulators, legally obtained Game Boy ROMs, and a keyboard/mouse (wired or Bluetooth).

Pre-EmuDeck Setup:

Enable Developer Mode and CEF Debugging in the Steam Deck's system settings, then switch to Desktop Mode.

EmuDeck Installation:

Connect your keyboard/mouse. Download EmuDeck via a browser (e.g., DuckDuckGo, Firefox), choosing SteamOS and a free download. Select Custom Install, specify your SD card as the primary installation location, choose your desired emulators (RetroArch, Emulation Station, Steam ROM Manager recommended), enable Auto Save, and complete the installation.

Quick Settings:

Within EmuDeck, enable AutoSave, Controller Layout Match, Bezels, Nintendo Classic AR, and LCD Handhelds.

Adding Game Boy Games:

Use Dolphin File Manager to navigate to Primary > Emulation > ROMS > gb on your SD card. Ensure ROM files have the .gb extension and transfer your games to this folder.

Steam ROM Manager Integration:

Use Steam ROM Manager within EmuDeck to add your Game Boy games to your Steam library. Disable Toggle Parsers, add the games, and save to Steam.

Playing Game Boy Games:

Access your Game Boy games through your Steam Library's Collections tab. Launch games and use the Select + Y button combination to access RetroArch's menu for color customization (where applicable).

Emulation Station:

Alternatively, launch games through Emulation Station in your Steam Library.

Decky Loader Installation:

For optimal performance, install Decky Loader from its GitHub page. Choose the recommended install and restart your Steam Deck.

Power Tools Plugin:

Install the Power Tools plugin via the Decky Store. Disable SMTs, set threads to 4, enable advanced view in the Performance menu, set the GPU clock frequency to 1200, and utilize per-game profiles for customized settings.

Restoring Decky Loader After Updates:

After Steam Deck updates, reinstall Decky Loader from its GitHub page to restore functionality.

Enjoy your Game Boy games on the larger Steam Deck screen!