How To Install Epic Games Store On Steam Deck

TL;DR

  • Switch to Desktop Mode using the power button menu for full system access
  • Download the Windows version of Epic Games Launcher through Firefox browser
  • Add the installer as non-Steam game and enable Proton compatibility
  • Complete installation through Steam and configure for optimal performance
  • Return to Gaming Mode and enjoy your Epic Games library on the go

While the Steam Deck comes optimized for Valve’s marketplace, its true power lies in accessing multiple gaming platforms. Expanding beyond Steam transforms your handheld into a comprehensive portable gaming station capable of running titles from virtually any PC storefront.

Learning to install Epic Games Store on your Steam Deck significantly enhances its versatility. Beyond Steam’s extensive catalog, this straightforward method integrates another major digital distribution platform directly into your portable system. The process requires minimal steps to authenticate your existing Epic account or establish a new one, granting immediate entry to your growing collection of games optimized for mobile play. However, Steam represents just one option among several compatible digital storefronts for the device.

Epic Games Store has emerged as a dominant force in digital distribution through its weekly complimentary titles and platform exclusives. Linux users have historically accessed the store via Lutris, employing Wine compatibility layers for Windows applications, but Steam Deck users can bypass these additional tools. Follow this comprehensive guide for seamless Epic Games Store integration.

Your initial action involves booting the Steam Deck into its foundational Plasma KDE Linux desktop environment. Achieve this by pressing and holding the power button, then selecting “Switch to Desktop” from the displayed menu. Following a brief loading sequence, you’ll encounter a conventional desktop interface similar to Windows or macOS.

At this stage, you can persist with the built-in controller for navigation (summon the virtual keyboard with Steam+X and manipulate the cursor via touchpads), though connecting external mouse and keyboard peripherals through Bluetooth or USB-C dramatically improves usability and efficiency.

After a few steps, you'll have access to the many Epic Games Store exclusives.

Desktop Mode provides full system access for installing third-party applications like Epic Games Store.

Utilize the pre-installed Mozilla Firefox browser to visit Epic Games’ official website and obtain the Windows iteration of the Epic Games Launcher installer. After completion, launch Steam from the desktop, select “Games” from the top navigation bar, then proceed to “Add A Non-Steam Game To My Library”. You’ll encounter a catalog of compatible applications eligible for Steam integration (including Mozilla for browser launches within SteamOS), but currently click browse to locate your downloaded Epic Games Launcher installation file.

Assuming default system configurations, the installation file resides in your primary Downloads directory, accessible via this file path. Should you have modified system settings, such as your username, ensure to substitute [doorstop] with your designated username:

“/home/doorstop/Downloads/EpicInstaller-13.0.0.msi”

Once successfully linked, the Epic Games Installer will appear within your Steam library. Right-click the entry and select Properties. Navigate to the Compatibility section, then activate the “Force the use of a specific Steam Play compatibility tool” feature. This enables Proton version selection from a newly available dropdown menu. Opt for the latest available iteration before closing the configuration window.

Following successful integration, you’ll gain entry to numerous Epic Games Store exclusive titles and your complete gaming collection.

With the installer properly configured, launch it through Steam to begin the Epic Games Launcher installation process. The launcher will install within the Proton compatibility layer, creating a seamless bridge between Windows applications and SteamOS. This approach eliminates the need for additional compatibility tools like Lutris or Wine, streamlining the entire setup procedure.

During installation, you may encounter security prompts or permission requests—accept these to ensure proper functionality. The installation typically completes within 5-10 minutes depending on your internet connection speed.

To transition back to the standard SteamOS interface, locate the Return to Gaming Mode shortcut on your desktop or use the system menu. Your newly installed Epic Games Launcher will now appear in your Steam library alongside native Steam games, ready for launch.

When first running the Epic Games Launcher, allow additional time for initial setup and game library synchronization. For optimal performance, consider adjusting in-game graphics settings specifically for the Steam Deck’s hardware capabilities.

For advanced gaming optimization, explore our Complete Guide to maximize your handheld gaming experience across all platforms.

Action Checklist

  • Switch to Desktop Mode via power button menu
  • Download Windows Epic Launcher through Firefox browser
  • Add installer as non-Steam game and enable Proton compatibility
  • Run installer through Steam and complete Epic Launcher setup
  • Return to Gaming Mode and test Epic Games Launcher

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