Play DS 3DS Games Steam Deck: Tips for Emulation Success

Playing Nintendo DS and 3DS games on the Steam Deck offers a unique way to experience these classic titles with enhanced visuals and comfort. To achieve this, you'll need to set up the right emulators and configure your Steam Deck properly.

Setting Up EmuDeck

EmuDeck is a comprehensive tool that simplifies the process of setting up various emulators on your Steam Deck, including those for the Nintendo DS and 3DS. Here’s how to get started:

1. Install EmuDeck:

   • Download the EmuDeck installer from the official website.
   • Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to set up EmuDeck on your Steam Deck.

2. Install Necessary Emulators:

   • EmuDeck supports multiple emulators, but for DS and 3DS games, you'll need to install melonDS for DS games and Lime3DS for 3DS games. EmuDeck will handle the installation process for these emulators.

3. Transfer ROMs:

• Copy your DS and 3DS ROMs to the appropriate folders on your Steam Deck. Typically, these folders are located in ~/roms/ds and ~/roms/3ds.

Configuring Emulators and Controls

Adding Games to Steam Library

1. Open Steam ROM Manager:

   • Launch EmuDeck and open the Steam ROM Manager. This tool will help you add your DS and 3DS games to the Steam library.

2. Parse and Add Games:

   • Select the Nintendo DS or 3DS emulator in the Steam ROM Manager.
   • Click on "Add Games" and "Parse" to load your ROMs and their respective cover art.
   • Once the games are loaded, click "Save to Steam" to add them to your Steam library.

3. Adjust Game Settings:

• After adding the games, you can adjust settings such as cover art and game titles within the Steam ROM Manager.

Setting Up Controls

1. Configure Controller Layout:

   • For each game, you'll need to set up the controller layout. Press the Steam button, select "Controller Settings," and choose the EmuDeck template for DS or 3DS games.

2. Enable Gyro Features:

   • For 3DS games, you may want to enable gyro features. This can be done through the emulator settings within EmuDeck.

Optimizing Performance

Fixing Slowdown and Freezing

1. Adjust Performance Settings:

   • Some 3DS games may experience slowdown or freezing. To improve performance, press the Steam button, access the "Library" option, and select the "Collections" tab. Choose the Nintendo 3DS collection and launch a game.
   • Once the game is running, press the QAM button (the three-dotted button underneath the right trackpad), select the battery icon, and switch on "Use per-game profile." Increase the frame rate to 60 FPS and enable half-rate shading.

2. Allow Emulator Access to ROMs:

   • If you encounter issues with the emulator not finding your ROMs, ensure that the emulator has the necessary permissions. Open a terminal and run flatpak override <emulator> --filesystem=~/roms to allow the emulator to access your ROMs directory.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Missing Images and Cover Art

1. Upload Custom Cover Art:

   • If images or cover art are missing, you can upload custom cover art. Save your desired cover art to the pictures folder on the Steam Deck, open the Steam ROM Manager, and upload the image next to the game title.

2. Adjusting Screen Settings:

   • For 3DS games, you may need to adjust the screen settings to change the dual screen positions and views. Press the L4, L5, R4, and R5 buttons on the back of the Steam Deck to adjust these settings.

Saving Game Progress

1. Save State:
   • To save your game progress anywhere on the Steam Deck, press L4 to bring up the OpenGL frame, select "Emulation" from the dropdown menu, and then select "Save State".

By following these steps, you can enjoy your favorite DS and 3DS games on the Steam Deck with optimal performance and comfort.