"How to Play Sega Master System Games on Steam Deck"

The Sega Master System, an iconic 8-bit console that rivaled the NES, brought fans a collection of fantastic games, many of which were either exclusive to the platform or featured unique versions. Among the notable titles were exceptional ports like Golden Axe, Double Dragon, and Streets of Rage, alongside ambitious games like Mortal Kombat and Asterix & Obelix, which pushed the console's capabilities close to those of 16-bit systems like the Megadrive/Genesis.

Retro gaming enthusiasts looking to play Sega Master System games on modern hardware can turn to the Steam Deck, enhanced by the powerful EmuDeck software. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to set up emulators for Sega Master System games on the Steam Deck.

Updated January 15, 2024, by Michael Llewellyn: The Steam Deck's power allows it to run Sega Master System games effortlessly, but optimizing the performance of these 8-bit classics can be challenging. The EmuDeck team recommends installing Decky Loader and the Power Tools plugin to maximize the experience with retro games. This guide has been updated to include detailed steps for their installation and how to restore functionality after a Steam Deck update.

Before Installing EmuDeck

Before installing EmuDeck on your Steam Deck for Sega Master System games, ensure you have the necessary tools and settings for a smooth setup:

• Make sure your Steam Deck is fully charged or plugged into a power source.
• Use a high-speed micro SD card, which you'll insert into the bottom of the Steam Deck and format directly on the device.
• Alternatively, an external HDD can be used, though this will compromise the device's portability.
• A keyboard and mouse can simplify file transfers and installation processes, mimicking a traditional computer setup.
• Without a keyboard and mouse, you can access the built-in keyboard by pressing the Steam and X buttons simultaneously and use the trackpads as a mouse substitute.

Activate Developer Mode

To ensure your games run smoothly, activate Developer Mode before installing any emulators:

• Press the Steam button to open the left access panel.
• Navigate to System, then System Settings.
• Enable Developer Mode.

• Find the Developer menu at the bottom of the access panel.
• Open it and enable CEF Remote Debugging under Miscellaneous.
• Press the Steam Button, select Power, and restart the Steam Deck.

Remember, CEF Remote Debugging may be disabled after a system update, which can affect plugins and emulators. Always check the Developer Menu post-update to ensure it's enabled.

Installing EmuDeck in Desktop Mode

To install EmuDeck, switch to Desktop Mode:

• Press the Steam button, select Power, and choose Desktop Mode.
• Open a browser like Chrome or Firefox to download EmuDeck.
• Select your SteamOS version and start the download. Once downloaded, double-click the installer and choose the recommended install.
• Opt for a Custom Install.
• After installation, open the menu and select the SD card image labeled Primary to rename it for easier access under Removable Devices in the Dolphin file manager.
• Choose to install all emulators or focus solely on the Sega Master System using Retroarch.

RetroArch is a versatile application that can run emulators for various classic systems. Access these under the 'Emulators' tab in your Steam library.

• Ensure the Steam Rom Manager is selected alongside Retroarch to integrate the games into your Steam library.
• If desired, enable the 'Configure CRT Shader for Classic 3D Games' option for an authentic retro look.
• Click Finish to complete the installation.

Transferring Master System ROMs

With Retroarch and EmuDeck installed, you can now transfer your Sega Master System ROMs:

• Open the Dolphin File Manager.

• Navigate to Removable Devices on the left panel and open the SD card labeled Primary.
• Go to the Emulation folder, then ROMS.
• Find the 'mastersystem' folder and transfer your Sega Master System files here. Look for files with the '.sms' extension, such as 'Pro Wrestling.sms.' Ignore the 'media' file.

Adding Master System Games to the Steam Library

To play Sega Master System games in Gaming Mode, add them to your Steam Library:

• Open EmuDeck in Desktop Mode.
• Access the Steam Rom Manager and click Next on the welcome page.
• Toggle off Parsers, then select Sega Master System.
• Click Add Games, then Parse.
• Verify that the games and cover arts are displayed correctly, and select Save to Steam.

Fix or Upload Missing Artwork

Given the age of the Sega Master System, you might encounter missing or incorrect artwork. Here's how to fix it:

• Click Fix on the cover frame.
• The Steam ROM Manager should display cover art automatically. If it doesn't, enter the game's title in the Search for game field.
• Browse the available covers, select the best one, and save and close.

Upload Missing Artwork

If the Steam Rom Manager can't find the artwork:

• Use a browser to find the correct artwork and save it to the Steam Deck's Pictures folder.
• Click Upload on the cover frame.
• Select the new artwork from the Pictures folder, save, and close.
• If the image isn't displaying, use the left and right arrows to locate it.
• Click Save to Steam.
• After processing, switch back to the Steam Deck's Gaming Mode.

Playing Master System Games on the Steam Deck

Once the Steam Rom Manager has uploaded the covers and game artwork, access your emulated games from the Steam library:

• In Gaming Mode, press the Steam button and select Library from the side menu.
• Press R1 to access the new Collections tabs.
• Click on the Sega Master System window and select your game to play.

Improve Performance

To enhance the performance of your classic games:

• Open your Sega Master System game and press the QAM button beneath the right trackpad.
• Navigate to the Performance menu.
• Toggle 'Use game profile' on.
• Set the Frame Limit to 60 FPS.
• Enable Half Rate Shading.

Install Decky Loader for the Steam Deck

For optimal performance with emulated games, install Decky Loader and the Power Tools plugin as recommended by the EmuDeck developers:

• Connect a keyboard and mouse for easier navigation, or use the trackpads and the on-screen keyboard (accessed by pressing Steam and X).
• Switch to Desktop Mode if in Gaming Mode.
• Open a web browser (available from the Discovery Store).
• Go to the GitHub Decky Loader page and download the software.
• Double-click the launcher and select Recommended Install.
• After installation, restart the Steam Deck in Gaming Mode.

Install Power Tools

With Decky Loader installed, add the Power Tools plugin:

• In Gaming Mode, press the QAM button, then select the new plugin icon.
• Choose the store icon at the top of the Decky Loader menu.
• Find and install the Power Tools plugin from the Decky Store.

Power Tools Settings for Emulated Games

• From the Steam button, open your Library and launch a Master System game.
• Press the QAM button, then select Decky Loader and navigate to the Power Tools menu.
• Disable SMTs.
• Set the number of Threads to 4.
• Open the Performance menu via the QAM button and the battery icon.
• Enable Advanced View.
• Turn on Manual GPU Clock Control.
• Increase GPU Clock Frequency to 1200.
• Save these settings for each game using the Per Game Profile option.

Fixing Decky Loader After a Steam Deck Update

Steam Deck updates can alter menus and settings, potentially removing third-party apps from the Quick Access menu. Here’s how to restore Decky Loader and its plugins:

• Switch to Desktop Mode from Gaming Mode.
• Open a browser and visit the Decky Loader GitHub page.
• Download the software and select Execute this time.
• Enter your pseudo password when prompted. If you don't have one, set it up following the on-screen instructions.
• After installation, restart the Steam Deck in Gaming Mode.
• The QAM button should now bring back Decky Loader, along with your settings and plugins.

Rate NowYour comment has not been saved