How to Set Up Xbox Cloud Gaming on Steam Deck Easily

Overview

• Steam Deck can stream Xbox Game Pass titles using Microsoft Edge.

• Setup requires Edge Beta, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and a strong Wi-Fi.

• Controller layout and launch options optimize smooth gameplay.

The Steam Deck has changed how gaming on the go feels. Thanks to Xbox Cloud Gaming, players can stream major titles such as Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, and Starfield without the need to download them. 

With this integration of Microsoft’s cloud service and Valve’s handheld, players can play console titles anywhere with an internet connection, providing sufficient performance. The process takes a few minutes but works well once everything is in place.

What’s Needed Before Starting

Setting up Xbox Cloud Gaming on the Steam Deck needs a few things:

• A Steam Deck with the latest system update

• Microsoft Edge (Beta) browser for Linux

• An Xbox Game Pass Ultimate account

• A strong Wi-Fi connection, preferably 5GHz

• Optional: a keyboard and mouse to make setup easier

After these are ready, the setup can be completed quickly.

Also Read: Xbox Series S vs Xbox Series X: Best Gaming Console for 2025

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Step 1: Change to Desktop Mode

Press the power button and select Change to Desktop. This should bring you to the Linux desktop mode, where you can install new applications.

Step 2: Install Microsoft Edge (Linux Beta)

Open the Discover Software Center and find Microsoft Edge. Install this browser; it is needed to run Xbox Cloud gaming.

Step 3: Add Edge to the Library in Steam

Open up the Application Launcher, find Edge, right-click, and select Add to Steam. That will make it appear inside the Steam Library.

Step 4: Give Access to Edge to Read Controller Input

Open Konsole (terminal) and type:

flatpak --user override --filesystem=/run/udev:ro com.microsoft.Edge

This will give Edge the ability to use the controls of the Steam Deck properly.

Step 5: Create a Shortcut for Xbox Cloud Gaming

With Steam open, go to the Edge app you just added, click Properties, and in the Launch Options box, paste:

--window-size=1024,640 --force-device-scale-factor=1.25 --kiosk "https://www.xbox.com/play"

This will allow Xbox Cloud Gaming to launch in kiosk/fullscreen.

Step 6: Set the Controller Layout

In Steam’s settings for Edge, choose Gamepad with Mouse Trackpad. This makes the buttons and touchpads work smoothly.

Go Back to Gaming Mode

After finishing, return to Gaming Mode. The new shortcut, named Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta), will appear. Open it, log in with a Microsoft account, and start playing games from the cloud library.

Also Read: How to Play Xbox One Games on PC Using Windows 11

Helpful Tips

• A fast network keeps the stream smooth and clear.

• Stay near the router to get a strong connection.

• Check controller settings if buttons stop working.

• Add custom icons to make it look neat in the Steam library.

Why This Setup Matters

Connecting Xbox Cloud Gaming with the Steam Deck brings console and PC games to one place. The Deck already runs many Steam titles, and with this setup, it can stream Xbox games too. This helps avoid installing large files and saves space for other games. The process may look complex, but once done, it feels simple to use. Portable gaming has become stronger with this mix of Steam and Xbox services, giving players more freedom to play anywhere.

FAQs

1. How can I play Xbox Cloud Gaming titles on my Steam Deck?
Install Microsoft Edge Beta in Desktop Mode, add it to Steam, set controller layout, and log in to Xbox Cloud Gaming.

2. What do I need before setting up Xbox Cloud Gaming on Steam Deck?
A Steam Deck with the latest update, Edge Beta, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, strong Wi-Fi, and an optional keyboard/mouse.

3. How do I make Steam Deck controls work with Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Use a terminal command to let Edge access the controller and select the Gamepad with Mouse Trackpad layout in Steam.

4. Can I stream big games like Halo Infinite and Starfield smoothly?
Yes, with Xbox Cloud Gaming and a strong Wi-Fi connection, games stream smoothly without needing to download them.

5. Why should I set up Xbox Cloud Gaming on Steam Deck?
It combines Steam and Xbox libraries, saves storage space, and enables portable gaming anywhere with a fast internet connection.

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