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How-to: Start using RetroDECK

Information

If you don't know what RetroDECK is, read:

What is RetroDECK?

Step-by-step Getting Started Guide

Step 0: Prerequisites

Before you start, make sure you have:

  • A device to install RetroDECK on.
  • Related BIOS & Firmware ready.
  • Game backups of various formats or purchased titles ready to play.

Step 1: Installation

Steam Deck - Installation

Most of the initial setup needs to be done in Desktop Mode.

Follow the guide: Steam Deck - Installation

Linux Desktop - Installation

Follow the guide:

Linux Desktop - Installation

Step 2: Place BIOS & Firmware

Place BIOS & Firmware files in the retrodeck/bios/ directory.

Read up on:

BIOS/Firmware

Step 3: Place ROMs and Games

RetroDECK follows ES-DE's folder structure.

Place ROM files in their corresponding system directory inside the retrodeck/roms/ folder (the location of the retrodeck/roms/ folder depends on your installation location choice).

Example:

You have an example NES game called: ExampleNESGame.nes

  • Place ExampleNESGame.nes in the retrodeck/roms/nes/ folder.
  • The result should be: retrodeck/roms/nes/ExampleNESGame.nes

Read up on:

RetroDECK Folders

Step 4: Read the ES-DE Frontend & RetroDECK Hotkey Guides

ES-DE is the main user interface for RetroDECK and RetroDECK uses Steam Input for it's hotkeys.

Read up on:

Step 5: Playing the Games

Launch RetroDECK via Steam or by itself. The systems you placed ROM files for should be shown and playable.

Example:

The NES category should now be shown in the ES-DE Frontend with ExampleNESGame.nes from Step 3.

The Optional Step: Explore & Be Part of the Community

Feel free to explore the wiki!