This guide details how to play Sega CD games on your Steam Deck using EmuDeck. It covers setup, ROM transfer, and optimization for optimal performance.

Pre-Installation Steps: Developer Mode & Essentials

Enable Developer Mode and CEF Remote Debugging on your Steam Deck for compatibility with EmuDeck updates. This involves accessing the Steam menu, navigating to System > Developer, enabling both options, and restarting in Desktop Mode.

You'll need:

• A fast A2 microSD card.
• A formatted microSD card (format it within the Steam Deck's Storage settings).
• Legally obtained Sega CD ROMs and BIOS files.
• (Optional but recommended) A keyboard and mouse for easier navigation.

Downloading and Installing EmuDeck

Switch to Desktop Mode. Download a browser from the Discovery Store, then download EmuDeck. During installation, choose "Custom," select your SD card, and choose RetroArch, MelonDS, Steam ROM Manager, and Emulation Station (or select all emulators). Complete the installation.

Transferring Sega CD Files

Using the Dolphin File Browser in Desktop Mode, navigate to your SD card (Primary > Emulation > BIOS) and transfer your BIOS files. Then, transfer your Sega CD ROMs to Primary > Emulation > ROMS > segaCD (or megaCD).

Adding ROMs with Steam ROM Manager

Launch EmuDeck, open Steam ROM Manager, and follow the on-screen prompts. Click "Add Games" and "Parse" to integrate your ROMs into your Steam library.

Fixing Missing Covers

If covers are missing, use Steam ROM Manager's "Fix" function to search for and download them. For manually adding covers, use the "Upload" option.

Playing Your Sega CD Games

Access your Sega CD games through Steam's Library > Collections > Sega CD. Emulation Station (if installed) provides an alternative, organized library view. Use Emulation Station's scraper to improve metadata and cover art.

Installing Decky Loader and Power Tools

Install Decky Loader from its GitHub page. Then, use Decky Loader to install Power Tools. Optimize Power Tools settings (disable SMTs, set threads to 4, adjust GPU clock) for enhanced performance.

Fixing Decky Loader After a Steam Deck Update

If Decky Loader is removed after a Steam Deck update, reinstall it from the GitHub page using the "Execute" option in your browser. You might need to enter your sudo password.

This comprehensive guide ensures a smooth Sega CD emulation experience on your Steam Deck.