Wiki/wiki-rtd/docs/wiki_general/retrodeck-start.md

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

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

ES-DE is the main user interface for RetroDECK.

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.

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!

• The RetroDECK community is active and widespread. You can find our social links on the start page of the wiki.
• You can learn how to tweak certain systems from various articles.
• You can read The RetroDECK Blog to stay updated with development updates.
• You can contribute to the project: How-to: Contribute to RetroDECK