Steam Deck: How To Run Sega Master System Games - News

This guide details how to install and configure emulators for Sega Master System games on your Steam Deck using EmuDeck, Decky Loader, and Power Tools. It also covers troubleshooting steps after Steam Deck updates.

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Before Installing EmuDeck
- Activate Developer Mode
Installing EmuDeck in Desktop Mode
Adding Master System Games to the Steam Library
Fix or Upload Missing Artwork
- Upload Missing Artwork
Playing Master System Games on the Steam Deck
- Improve Performance
Install Decky Loader for the Steam Deck
Install Power Tools
- Power Tools Settings for Emulated Games
Fixing Decky Loader After a Steam Deck Update

The Sega Master System, a significant 8-bit console, offered unique and exclusive titles, including impressive ports of popular games like Golden Axe, Double Dragon, and Streets of Rage. Its capabilities even extended to titles such as Mortal Kombat and Asterix & Obelix, which surprisingly rivaled some 16-bit games of the era.

While running Sega Master System games on modern hardware presents challenges, the Steam Deck, combined with EmuDeck, provides a smooth solution. This guide will walk you through the setup process.

Updated January 15, 2024: This guide has been updated to include Decky Loader and Power Tools for enhanced performance and to address issues that may arise after Steam Deck updates.

Before Installing EmuDeck

Before starting, ensure you have:

A fully charged or plugged-in Steam Deck.
A high-speed microSD card (formatted within the Steam Deck) or an external HDD (note: using an HDD reduces portability).
A keyboard and mouse (optional, but recommended for easier file transfers and installation).

Activate Developer Mode

Enabling Developer Mode is crucial for smooth emulator operation.

Access the Steam menu, then System > System Settings.
Enable Developer Mode.
Access the Developer menu (bottom of the access panel).
Under Miscellaneous, enable CEF Remote Debugging.
Restart your Steam Deck.

Remember to check CEF Remote Debugging after updates, as it can be disabled.

Installing EmuDeck in Desktop Mode

Switch to Desktop Mode (Steam button > Power > Desktop Mode).
Download EmuDeck using a browser (Chrome or Firefox).
Choose your SteamOS version and install, selecting "Custom Install."
Rename your SD card to "Primary" for easier management.
Select RetroArch (and Steam ROM Manager) for Sega Master System emulation.
Configure CRT shaders (optional).

Transferring Master System ROMs

Open Dolphin File Manager.
Navigate to Removable Devices > Primary > Emulation > ROMS > mastersystem.
Transfer your Sega Master System ROMs (.sms files).

Adding Master System Games to the Steam Library

Open EmuDeck in Desktop Mode.
Launch Steam ROM Manager.
Disable Parsers, then select Sega Master System.
Add Games, Parse, and Save to Steam.

Fix or Upload Missing Artwork

Use the "Fix" option in Steam ROM Manager to automatically find artwork.
For missing artwork, use "Upload" and select an image from your Steam Deck's Pictures folder.

Upload Missing Artwork

Locate the correct artwork online and save it to the Steam Deck's Pictures folder.
Use the "Upload" function in Steam ROM Manager to add the artwork.

Playing Master System Games on the Steam Deck

In Gaming Mode, access your Steam Library.
Navigate to your Sega Master System collection and launch your game.

Improve Performance

Open a game, access the Quick Access Menu (QAM).
In the Performance menu, enable "Use game profile," set Frame Limit to 60 FPS, and enable Half Rate Shading.