Can You Play Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam Deck?, How to Play Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam Deck?

Can You Play Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam Deck? Discover if you can play Baldur's Gate 3 on the Steam Deck, learn how to optimize your experience, and find out why the game runs remarkably well on this portable gaming device.

by Swetha P

Updated Aug 13, 2023

Can You Play Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam Deck?, How to Play Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam Deck?
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Baldur's Gate 3 

Baldur's Gate 3, the latest masterpiece crafted by Larian Studios, envelops players within the enchanting universe of Dungeons & Dragons. Set against the captivating backdrop of The Forgotten Realms, this game beckons adventurers to partake in an epic odyssey, wielding potent spells, forging alliances with mythical creatures, and delving into the enigmatic depths of the Underdark.

The extensive development undertaken during the game's early access phase has resulted in a truly enthralling experience, replete with intricate details and compelling narratives. However, one question looms: Can this magnificent RPG be seamlessly played on Valve's revolutionary Steam Deck, granting enthusiasts the ability to carry their epic quests wherever they go?

Can You Play Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam Deck?

The answer to the question that has intrigued many fans of Baldur's Gate 3 and portable gaming aficionados is a resounding yes! Thanks to a recent and pivotal update to Proton Experimental, the dream of playing Baldur's Gate 3 on the Steam Deck has become a reality. With the game capable of maintaining a commendable frame rate of approximately 30-40 FPS, a minor tweak in your screen's refresh rate to 40Hz is advised for an optimized experience.

However, it's important to acknowledge a slight caveat concerning controller support, which, while confirmed by Larian Studios for launch, may require a few additional adjustments to attain perfection. The initial tests, notably, exhibit promising compatibility with the Steam Deck's integrated controller, ensuring a smooth entry into the immersive world of Baldur's Gate 3 without any cumbersome setup hurdles.

How to Play Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam Deck?

To play Baldur's Gate 3 on your Steam Deck, follow these steps:

  • Ensure sufficient storage: The game has a sizable installation size, around 80.46 GB, so opt for the 256 GB or 512 GB Steam Deck variant or use a microSD card to expand storage.
  • Resolve Vulkan issues: Run the game with DirectX 11 enabled instead of Vulkan to prevent potential crashes.
  • Skip the launcher: After running the game once with DX11, set the launch options to "--skip-launcher" to bypass the Larian Launcher, eliminating cursor-related hassles.
  • Optimize settings: Adjust in-game settings for improved battery life, considering options like resolution (1280x800), VSync, frame rate cap (30 fps), and preset quality.
  • Controller considerations: While default controls work, a Bluetooth mouse and keyboard setup can enhance the experience, making it more reminiscent of the PC version.

How Does Baldur's Gate 3 Run This Well on Steam Deck?

The extraordinary performance optimization achieved in Baldur's Gate 3 for the Steam Deck is a testament to the remarkable skills and unwavering commitment of Larian Studios. In spite of the inherent hardware limitations of a portable device, the game effortlessly unfurls its breathtaking graphics and offers a deeply engaging gameplay experience.

While discerning eyes may detect slight disparities in frame rates and graphical finesse when juxtaposed with high-end systems, these nuances are scarcely noticeable due to the Steam Deck's more compact screen. The game's extensive repertoire of solutions to various challenges, meticulous attention to detail, and an enthralling narrative all coalesce into a truly awe-inspiring adventure on this portable platform.

Exploring the Steam Deck Potential

The successful adaptation of Baldur's Gate 3 to the Steam Deck serves as a splendid illustration of the immense potential harbored by this handheld gaming marvel. Larian Studios has masterfully transported a sprawling and intricate creation like Baldur's Gate 3 to a portable realm, signifying the bright horizons for future gaming escapades on the go.

The Steam Deck's proud "Deck Verified" status for the game underscores its promising capability, although one should judiciously consider individual preferences, including factors such as battery life. As the game industry continues to harness the capabilities of this innovative hardware, an exciting world of unparalleled gaming experiences beckons, transcending the boundaries of traditional platforms and enabling exhilarating adventures wherever the road may lead.

The Intriguing Lore of The Forgotten Realms

The Baldur's Gate series has always been renowned for its captivating lore, and Baldur's Gate 3 continues this tradition by immersing players in the vast and intricate world of The Forgotten Realms. This H2 section explores the rich history, diverse cultures, and iconic characters that populate this beloved fantasy setting. From the majestic city of Baldur's Gate itself to the mysterious depths of the Underdark, the Forgotten Realms offer a plethora of intriguing locations and narratives that contribute to the game's immersive experience.

Throughout the narrative, impacting your interactions with NPCs, alliances, and the ultimate fate of the story. Whether you're forging friendships, making enemies, or exploring the consequences of your actions, Baldur's Gate 3 offers a dynamic and player-driven journey, making each playthrough a unique adventure.

Disclaimer: The above information is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information on the Site.

Can You Play Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam Deck? - FAQs

1. Can I play Baldur's Gate 3 on the Steam Deck?  

Yes, you can play Baldur's Gate 3 on the Steam Deck by using Proton Experimental and following specific setup steps.

2. What should I consider before playing on the Steam Deck?  

Ensure you have enough storage (256 GB or 512 GB recommended) for the game's sizable installation, and consider using a microSD card for additional space.

3. How can I optimize performance on the Steam Deck?  

Run the game with DirectX 11 enabled, use the "--skip-launcher" command to bypass the launcher, and adjust in-game settings like resolution and frame rate for improved battery life.

4. Are there controller issues when playing Baldur's Gate 3?  

While controller support is available, some minor quirks might be present. Using a Bluetooth mouse and keyboard setup can provide a smoother control experience.

5. How well does Baldur's Gate 3 run on the Steam Deck?  

Baldur's Gate 3 runs surprisingly well on the Steam Deck, showcasing impressive optimization by Larian Studios, making the game enjoyable even on a portable device.