Run the Nostalgic Sega Master System on Steam Deck!

This guide details how to install and configure EmuDeck on your Steam Deck to play Sega Master System games. We'll cover everything from initial setup to optimizing performance and troubleshooting post-update issues.

Before You Begin:

• Power: Ensure your Steam Deck is fully charged or connected to power.
• Storage: A high-speed microSD card (recommended) or external HDD is needed. Using an external HDD will reduce portability.
• Peripherals: A keyboard and mouse are highly recommended for easier navigation. If unavailable, use the on-screen keyboard (Steam + X buttons) and trackpads.

Enable Developer Mode:

1. Access the Steam menu (Steam button).
2. Go to System > System Settings.
3. Enable Developer Mode.
4. Access the Developer menu (bottom of the Steam menu).
5. Under Miscellaneous, enable CEF Remote Debugging.
6. Restart your Steam Deck. (Note: CEF Remote Debugging may need re-enabling after updates.)

Install EmuDeck (Desktop Mode):

1. Power > Switch to Desktop Mode.
2. Download EmuDeck using a browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.). Choose the correct SteamOS version.
3. Run the installer and select Custom Install.
4. Select your SD card as the Primary drive.
5. Choose your desired emulators (at least RetroArch for Sega Master System).
6. Select Steam ROM Manager with RetroArch for Steam library integration.
7. Consider enabling "Configure CRT Shader for Classic 3D Games".
8. Finish the installation.

Transferring ROMs:

1. Open Dolphin File Manager.
2. Navigate to Removable Devices > Primary (your SD card).
3. Go to Emulation > ROMS > mastersystem.
4. Copy your Sega Master System ROMs (.sms files) into this folder.

Adding Games to Steam Library:

1. Open EmuDeck in Desktop Mode.
2. Open Steam ROM Manager.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions, disabling Parsers except for Sega Master System.
4. Add Games, then Parse.
5. Verify game and artwork display correctly.
6. Save to Steam.

Fixing/Uploading Missing Artwork:

• Fix: Use the "Fix" option in Steam ROM Manager to search for and download missing artwork.
• Upload: If artwork is still missing, manually download it and upload it via the "Upload" option, saving it to the Steam Deck's Pictures folder first.

Playing Games (Gaming Mode):

1. Switch to Gaming Mode.
2. Open Steam Library.
3. Navigate to your Sega Master System collection.
4. Select a game to play.

Performance Improvements:

1. In-game (QAM button), open the Performance menu.
2. Enable "Use game profile".
3. Set Frame Limit to 60 FPS.
4. Enable Half Rate Shading.

Install Decky Loader:

1. Switch to Desktop Mode.
2. Download Decky Loader from GitHub.
3. Run the installer and choose Recommended Install.
4. Restart your Steam Deck in Gaming Mode.

Install Power Tools:

1. Access Decky Loader via the QAM button.
2. Open the Decky Store.
3. Install the Power Tools plugin.
4. Configure Power Tools (disable SMTs, set Threads to 4, adjust GPU clock in Performance menu).

Fixing Decky Loader After Updates:

1. Switch to Desktop Mode.
2. Re-download and run the Decky Loader installer (select Execute).
3. Enter your pseudo password (or create one).
4. Restart your Steam Deck in Gaming Mode.

This comprehensive guide ensures a smooth Sega Master System emulation experience on your Steam Deck. Remember to always check for updates to both EmuDeck and Decky Loader for optimal performance and compatibility.