Playing PS1 Games On Steam Deck: Verified Titles And How To Find Them

Kenji Nakamura

4 min read

Post on May 16, 2025

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Understanding Steam Deck Compatibility

Before diving into playing PS1 games on your Steam Deck, it's crucial to understand Steam's compatibility ratings. This helps manage expectations and ensures a smoother gaming experience. Steam categorizes games into three levels: Verified, Playable, and Unsupported.

For optimal PS1 game performance on your Steam Deck, focusing on "Verified" titles is essential. While you can play PS1 games via emulation, a "Verified" rating generally signifies the game or emulator works flawlessly with the Steam Deck's hardware and software.

• Verified: This means the game or emulator has been tested and works perfectly with the Steam Deck's controls, screen resolution, and overall performance. You can expect a smooth, bug-free experience.
• Playable: These games might work, but they might require some tweaking of settings or workarounds. You could encounter minor issues with controls, resolution, or performance.
• Unsupported: These games are unlikely to work well, if at all. Expect significant issues, and playing them might require extensive troubleshooting.

For more information on Steam Deck compatibility, check out .

Finding Verified PS1 Games on Steam

Unfortunately, there's no native PS1 support on Steam. To play your favorite PS1 classics, you'll need to use an emulator. ePSXe is a popular and well-regarded choice, known for its excellent compatibility and ease of use on the Steam Deck.

• Installing ePSXe on Steam Deck:

  1. Download the ePSXe emulator from a reputable source ([link to a safe download source]). Ensure you download the correct version compatible with the Steam Deck's operating system.
  2. Transfer the downloaded file to your Steam Deck (via USB or other method).
  3. Extract the emulator files to a convenient location on your Steam Deck.
  4. Run the emulator executable.

• Adding ROMs (Legally Obtained):

  • It's crucial to only use ROMs of games you already own. Downloading ROMs of games you don't possess is illegal.
  • Once you have your legally obtained ROMs, transfer them to your Steam Deck and configure the emulator to locate them. ePSXe usually has a simple interface for browsing and selecting your ROM files.

• Configuring ePSXe for Optimal Performance:

  • Adjust the resolution to match your Steam Deck's screen for the best visual experience.
  • Customize the controller mappings to match your preferred setup. ePSXe offers extensive controller customization options.
  • Experiment with different settings to find the optimal balance between performance and visual quality. Some games might run better with certain graphical settings disabled.

Top Verified PS1 Games to Play on Steam Deck (or those that emulate well)

While the concept of "verified" doesn't directly apply to emulated PS1 games on Steam, many titles run exceptionally well. Here are a few highly-recommended options:

• Final Fantasy VII: A landmark RPG that still holds up today. Expect excellent performance on the Steam Deck with ePSXe.
• Crash Bandicoot: This platforming classic offers a great challenge and smooth gameplay on the Deck.
• Resident Evil Director's Cut: Experience the survival horror that started it all, perfectly suited to handheld play.
• Tekken 3: This fighting game is a fantastic pick for those who love a good brawl on the go.
• Metal Gear Solid: The classic stealth-action title translates brilliantly to the Steam Deck's portability.

Remember to legally obtain these games before attempting to emulate them.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with "verified" emulators, you might encounter some problems.

• Emulator Configuration Issues: Double-check your ROM paths and ensure the emulator is configured correctly. Consult online resources or the emulator's documentation for assistance.
• Graphical Glitches or Performance Problems: Experiment with different graphic settings within the emulator. Lowering resolution or disabling certain graphical effects can improve performance.
• Need More Help? Search online forums and communities dedicated to ePSXe and Steam Deck for solutions and support.

Conclusion

Playing PS1 games on your Steam Deck offers a fantastic way to revisit classic titles or experience them for the first time. By understanding Steam Deck compatibility and utilizing emulators like ePSXe, you can unlock a library of retro gaming adventures. Remember to only use ROMs of games you already own and always download emulators from trusted sources. Start exploring the world of PS1 games on your Steam Deck today and rediscover the magic of these timeless classics! Find your favorite PS1 games and enjoy the ultimate handheld retro gaming experience.