Getting started with RetroDECK

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

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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

Read up on: BIOS/Firmware

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

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

Step 4: Read the ES-DE Frontend Guide

Read up on: ES-DE Frontend: General Guide

Step 5: Playing the Games

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