Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Yes—SteamOS can run some games and libraries from outside Steam, but there is no official one-click route that makes every store or game work. For Epic Games Store and GOG libraries, community tools such as Heroic Games Launcher are common options; Lutris supports a broader range of launcher use cases. For Xbox Game Pass, Microsoft documents streaming Xbox games through Edge, while a newer unofficial project, Xodus Nexus, reports local installation and play for some PC Game Pass titles. Each route has different support, setup, and game-by-game compatibility limits.
What does “using another launcher” mean on SteamOS?
It can mean installing a store-management app, adding a game to Steam so it appears in Gaming Mode, or streaming a game from a remote service. Those are different things. A shortcut in Steam changes how you launch an app; it does not make a game compatible with SteamOS. Likewise, streaming a game is not the same as installing its PC version on the Deck.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →SteamOS is Linux-based, and Valve’s Steam Deck booklet says users can reach the Linux desktop and install applications, including other game stores. That flexibility is the starting point, not a guarantee that every Windows game, store client, anti-cheat system, or launcher will run. Steam compatibility and the compatibility of a game installed through another route are separate questions.
Which routes can you use?
| Route | What it does | Main trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Heroic Games Launcher | Manages Epic Games Store and GOG libraries on Linux and SteamOS. | Community software; individual games may need configuration and should be checked separately. |
| Lutris | Provides a broader Linux game-management route, including Epic, GOG, and other launcher use cases. | Community software that can require additional configuration; no specific game is guaranteed to work. |
| Xbox Cloud Gaming in Edge | Streams Xbox games to the Steam Deck. | Requires network access and service access; it does not install a PC Game Pass game locally. Microsoft does not officially support Edge on SteamOS. |
| Xodus Nexus | Its project documentation describes local Microsoft Store and PC Game Pass installation and play for supported games on Linux. | Unofficial, changing, and game-specific; Steam Deck support is experimental. |
For Epic or GOG, GamingOnLinux’s guide to Heroic and Lutris describes the community-tool options. For Game Pass, the key decision is whether streaming is enough or whether you specifically need a local PC installation.
Popular on Amazon
- 【90 Degree Full Function USB C Adapter】Supports the latest USB4 standard for up to 40Gbps of bandwidth, 8K video support, and up to 240W Fast charging; Support USB PD 3.1 Extended Power Range (EPR) including 140W, 180W and 240W. Your productivity is easily doubled. *Warm Tip: For the best fit, please make sure the USB-C port is fully exposed; thick or bulky cases may affect compatibility.
- 【Reliable Quality】Made from high-quality, scratch-resistant aluminum alloy, delicate metal frame. get excellent wear resistance and heat dissipation. Non-Slip Design for easier insertion and removal.
- 【Small and portable】Ultra thin size, ultra compact design, a petite physique that matches the minimalist design of your modern laptops. Coming with a slim figure that won't block the port next to the one it's plugged into.
- 【Compatibility】Widely work with most usb c, thunderbolt 4/3 devices. Compatibilit for ROG Ally, Steam Deck, Switch, MacBook Pro, Quest 3 VR headset, Surface Book 2, iPhone 18/17/16/15, Samsung Galaxy S23/S22/S21, Note 20/10, Google Pixel, ChromeBook, etc.
- 【Excellence Customer Support】If you experience any issues or cable failure, simply reach out to our dedicated customer service team. We provide a prompt response within 18 hours, providing you with the necessary technical support to resolve any concerns.
Can you play Epic Games Store games on SteamOS?
Yes, some Epic games can be managed through a community launcher such as Heroic Games Launcher, but the store’s existence in a launcher does not mean every game will run. Check the particular game’s current Linux or Steam Deck compatibility and expect that some titles may need extra configuration.
Heroic is a third-party route, not an official Epic SteamOS client. Lutris is another community option when you need broader launcher management. The right choice depends on the game and the configuration it requires; available information does not establish a universal compatibility list or percentage.
After installing or configuring a game, you may be able to add a shortcut so it is convenient to open from Steam or Gaming Mode. Treat that as a launch convenience only: putting a game in the Steam interface does not change the underlying compatibility of the game or launcher.
Also popular on Amazon
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Can you play Xbox Game Pass games on SteamOS?
There are two distinct possibilities: stream Xbox games through Microsoft Edge, or use an unofficial tool that reports local installation for some PC Game Pass games. Microsoft’s documented route is cloud streaming. Xodus Nexus describes a local route, but its Steam Deck support is experimental and compatibility is title-specific.
Cloud streaming through Microsoft Edge
Microsoft’s Steam Deck instructions for Xbox Cloud Gaming in Edge describe setting up Edge from Desktop Mode, configuring controller support, and adding a Steam shortcut so Edge can be opened from Gaming Mode. A mouse and keyboard can make setup easier; Microsoft also identifies touch controls and trackpads as alternatives. Those are setup aids, not required gameplay accessories.
This route sends the game to the Deck as a stream; it does not install a PC Game Pass game locally. Network and service access matter because play depends on streaming. Microsoft also gives an important support qualification: “Microsoft does not actively maintain the Microsoft Edge Flatpak package and does not provide official support Microsoft Edge on SteamOS at this time.” In other words, Microsoft documents the setup, but does not officially support Edge on SteamOS.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallAlso popular on Amazon
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Local PC Game Pass through Xodus Nexus
Xodus Nexus project documentation describes local Microsoft Store and PC Game Pass installation and play for supported games on Linux, with Steam Deck support marked experimental. This is an unofficial, newly developed option—not a Microsoft-supported SteamOS client or a universal Game Pass solution.
Before relying on it for a specific game, check the project’s current compatible-games list. Compatibility is reported per title and can change as the project develops. Available information does not establish a supported-game count or compatibility percentage, so neither should be assumed. If a particular game is essential, verify its status rather than inferring support from the fact that the launcher itself runs.
What should you check before choosing a route?
Start with the game you want to play, not just the name of its store. A launcher can be installable while one of its games still has a compatibility problem. Compare the options against these practical questions:
Also popular on Amazon
- Portable and powerful USB-C HUB: BENFEI USB Type-C HUB, with super-soft and knot-free silicone woven design cable, meets most mobile office needs. Compact, lightweight, stylish, and powerful portable USB C Hub equipped with 1 x HDMI port, 1 x 100W charging, and 3 x USB ports. 18-month warranty, 24-hour response, to ensure you feel at ease when using our product.
- Design centered on comfort and reliability: Thanks to BENFEI's end-to-end in-house cable production capability, in-house PCBA and assembly capability, using the industry's most advanced silicone woven design and process, 20cm cable in length, no knots, super-soft, the HUB is easy to use in all scenarios: laptop, tablet, stand etc. Super-soft, 25000+ life cycles, to meet your daily carrying and office needs.
- 100W Charging: Support up to 90W USB C pass-through charging via Type-C port to keep your laptop powered. 10W is reserved for other interface operations. No data and video function on the Type-C port.
- 4K HDMI Display: The HDMI port supports media display at resolutions up to 4K 30Hz, keeping every incredible moment detailed and ultra vivid. Please note that the C port of the Host device needs to support video output.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Transfer files and from your laptop at speeds up to 10 Gbps with USB A 3.2 port. Extra 2 USB A 2.0 ports are perfectly for your keyboards and mouse.
- Do you need a local install? Edge’s documented Game Pass route streams Xbox games. It is not a local PC Game Pass installation. Xodus Nexus reports local play only for supported titles.
- Is the route officially supported? Microsoft documents its Edge streaming setup but says it does not officially support Edge on SteamOS. Heroic, Lutris, and Xodus Nexus are community or unofficial routes, not official SteamOS clients for those stores.
- Is your exact game compatible? Check the current game-specific information, especially for Xodus Nexus, and allow for configuration differences with community launchers.
- How much setup are you willing to do? Microsoft’s streaming instructions involve Desktop Mode, installing Edge through Discover, configuring controller support, and adding a shortcut. Other launchers can also require extra configuration.
- Do you want it in Gaming Mode? A Steam shortcut can make an app easier to open from Gaming Mode. It is an interface convenience, not a compatibility fix.
How do you set up Xbox Cloud Gaming on a Steam Deck?
You need a Steam Deck, access to Xbox Cloud Gaming, and an internet connection suitable for streaming. Microsoft’s documented setup also uses Desktop Mode and the Edge app from Discover; a mouse and keyboard can make configuration easier, though Microsoft gives touch controls and trackpads as alternatives.
Recommended Free Tools
- Switch to Desktop Mode. Microsoft’s guide starts from the Steam Deck desktop rather than Gaming Mode.
- Install Microsoft Edge from Discover. This installs the community-maintained Edge Flatpak; remember that Microsoft does not officially support Edge on SteamOS.
- Configure controller support. Follow Microsoft’s Edge and Steam Deck instructions so the controls are usable for the streaming setup.
- Add an Edge shortcut to Steam. Microsoft’s guide explains how to make the browser launchable from Steam, including when you return to Gaming Mode.
- Open the cloud-gaming service and stream a game. This plays a streamed Xbox game; it does not install the PC version on the Deck.
If the shortcut does not make the game behave like a locally installed Steam title, that is expected: it launches the streaming route. If controls or access do not work, revisit Microsoft’s setup instructions and check the service and network access rather than treating the shortcut as proof of local game compatibility.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should you do if a launcher or game does not work?
First identify the failing layer: the launcher, the individual game, the controller setup, or the network stream. Then check the current instructions or compatibility information for that exact route and title. A game failing to launch through a community tool does not by itself mean SteamOS cannot install other applications; it may mean that particular game needs configuration or is not compatible through that route.
Also popular on Amazon
- 【Read before You Buy】 Note: This adapter is USB 2.0 version and cannot transmit HDM, VGA, or other video signals. Nevertheless, they are fully capable of charging devices,duplicating files, and can be seamlessly integrated with USB-C earphones, wireless network adapters, and SD card adapters.
- 【Easy to Use and Safe】Thanks to modern manufacturing techniques, we've made these adapters sufficiently compact so that they can remain inserted in your device without noticeable protrusion or inconvenience. This means you don't have to constantly plug and unplug them, reducing the likelihood of wear and misalignment, and making them more convenient to carry around.
- 【Reliable Quality】Engineered for enhanced durability, durable aluminum alloy shell material,get excellent wear resistance and heat dissipation,the male USB C and female USB connectors & the male USB and female USB C connectors are designed to be plugged and unplugged up to 20000 times. Provides data transfer, device charging, memory space expansion, and additional computer peripherals.
- 【Think more for you】Do you need to connect a USB-C-enabled device to an odd device that only has USB-A ports? Then these USB-A male to USB-C female adapters are made for you.Simply insert the adapter into the USB-A port on the device, and you can instantly connect your USB-C device to the device that originally didn't have the correct connection port.
- 【Trusted xiwxi Quality and Service】As a responsible brand seller, you will receive xiwxi's 12-month Quality assurance and lifetime friendly customer service, you're not just buying a product,you're investing in peace of mind with all-round quality and exceptional customer service.
- Epic or GOG game fails: Check current guidance for the specific title and the Heroic or Lutris configuration. Do not assume that adding a Steam shortcut will solve the underlying issue.
- Game Pass stream fails: Confirm that you followed Microsoft’s Edge setup and that network and service access are available. Streaming is a different path from local PC installation.
- Xodus Nexus title fails: Check the project’s current compatible-games list. The project is changing, and Steam Deck support is experimental, so status can differ by title.
- You expected Gaming Mode to fix compatibility: Remove that assumption. Gaming Mode access is a convenient way to launch an app, not an alteration to the game’s compatibility.
For many players, the most reliable decision is simply to choose a route that matches the goal: a community launcher for an Epic or GOG library, Microsoft’s documented Edge route when streaming is acceptable, or Xodus Nexus only when the desired local Game Pass title is listed and its experimental status is acceptable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does adding a non-Steam game to Steam make it a Steam game?
No. A Steam shortcut is an entry point for launching an app, not a change to its store, ownership, or compatibility. The game still depends on the launcher and configuration used to install it.
Is the Edge setup for Game Pass a local installation?
No. Microsoft’s Edge instructions cover Xbox Cloud Gaming, which streams Xbox games to the Deck. That differs from installing a PC Game Pass title on SteamOS.
Does Microsoft officially support Edge on SteamOS?
No. Microsoft publishes a Steam Deck setup guide, but its support article says the Edge Flatpak is community maintained and Edge is not officially supported on SteamOS.
