Wiki/wiki-rtd/docs/wiki_general/retrodeck-start.md
2025-02-09 09:29:45 +01:00

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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 & Configuration

Steam Deck - Installation

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

Follow the guide: Steam Deck - Installation and Updates

Linux Desktop - Installation

Follow the guide: Linux Desktop - Installation and Updates

Step 2: Place BIOS & Firmware

Read up on Manage your BIOS/Firmware

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

Step 3: Place ROMs and Games

RetroDECK follows the ES-DE ROM folder structure.

Place ROM files in their corresponding system directory inside the 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.

Step 4: Playing the Games

Start 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.

Step 5: Making the Games and Interface "Pretty"

You can enhance your experience by adding videos, images, manuals, and art to your games. ES-DE also offers several different themes to choose from.

Scraping and Screenscraper

  1. Read the ES-DE User Guide on scraping.
  2. Create an account on Screenscraper.
  3. Log in to your Screenscraper account inside RetroDECK ES-DE Menu -> Scraper -> Account Settings.
  4. Set up the scraping how you want it under ES-DE Menu -> Scraper -> Content Settings.
  5. Start scraping.
  6. Enjoy your nicely decorated games.

ES-DE Themes

You can download more themes for ES-DE's frontend with the built-in theme downloader:

ES-DE Configurations -> UI Settings -> Theme Downloader

Switch between themes in:

ES-DE Configurations -> UI Settings -> Theme Set