Steam Deck & Linux

Official platform support

What Steam confirms

The official application data lists Windows and Linux as supported platforms. The store also lists full controller support, DualShock controller support, and Vulkan as an additional requirement. The Linux minimum names Ubuntu 12.04 LTS, an Intel Core i3, 4 GB RAM, a relatively modern graphics card, and 1 GB of storage.

Steam Deck uses SteamOS, which is Linux-based, but Deck compatibility involves more than an operating-system checkbox. Text readability, keyboard prompts, networking, suspend behavior, performance, and per-minigame input can affect the actual experience.

First launch

Use a conservative setup

1. Install the normal Steam version and allow Steam to choose the default runtime.
2. Start with the official controller layout rather than a community remap.
3. Complete one private two-player test before planning a four-person session.
4. Play several different minigames because controls and camera behavior change between trials.
5. Check audio, overlay, room ID entry, and reconnect behavior.

If the native Linux launch fails, do not immediately force a random compatibility layer or copy DLL files. First verify the installation and check current developer or Steam Deck community reports for the same build.

Room entry

Typing a long room ID

Private online rooms use long numeric IDs. Keep the Steam on-screen keyboard available when a hardware keyboard is not connected. Copying the ID through a trusted chat application may be easier than retyping it, but verify that no leading or trailing space enters the field.

Performance expectations

Test the full playlist

A smooth menu does not prove that every minigame performs the same way. Machine Party changes camera, physics, input, and visual load between trials. Run a representative set before using the Deck as the only machine for a planned group session.

There is no reason to force maximum graphics settings on a small screen if they reduce stability or battery life. Prefer a consistent frame rate and readable prompts. This page will add specific settings only after they are tested against a named build.

Couch-play limitation

Deck support is not local co-op

Running the game on a handheld does not bypass the launch absence of native local co-op. One Steam Deck still represents one local game instance until the announced local update ships and documents its controller setup.