The Early Access version of Baldur's Gate 3 didn't quite get fully verified on the Steam Deck tag but was listed as playable with a few caveats. Namely, users needed to enter their details via the built-in keyboard to access the game's launcher or using non-Steam Deck icons designed for a keyboard and mouse. Otherwise, Baldur's Gate 3 ran nicely on the Steam Deck out of the box for the Early Access version. Unfortunately, some Steam Deck users have run into crashing and launching issues with the full release. It's disappointing for new players that can only play the massive RPG via the handheld. This guide will offer solutions to launch Baldur's Gate 3 on Steam Deck and prevent it from crashing.
How To Launch Baldur's Gate On Steam Deck
The full version of Baldur's Gate 3 isn't launching for many Steam Deck users, but there is a workaround using Proton Experimental to get it up and running. Use the following steps to activate the correct Proton:
- Before installing the correct Protons, users should shut down and restart their Steam Deck. If the system was already running in standby mode or if players try and launch after a gameplay session, it could cause some problems.
- After Baldur's Gate 3 has been fully installed on the Steam Deck, open the game's page, but don't click the play button yet.
- Select the Settings cogwheel next to the controller icon.
- Highlight and select Properties.
- Select Compatibility.
- Put a checkmark next to Force the use of a specific Steam Play compatibility tool.
- Click the dropdown list and select Proton Experimental.
- Select the Play button, and the Steam Deck will install Proton Experimental before launching.
- If the game doesn't launch, restart the system again, and Baldur's Gate 3 will launch.
Preventing Baldur's Gate 3 From Crashing On The Steam Deck
Until Larian Studios release a patch to address the launching and crashing problems on Steam Deck, players should change the settings with the following steps:
- On the title screen, select Options.
- Highlight Video.
- Highlight to VSync and change it to Double Buffering to reduce the memory needed to run Baldur's Gate 3.
- Select Frame Rate Cap and switch it on.
- Move down to Maximum Frame Rate and reduce it to 30.
- Under Overall Quality, select Medium.
- Finally, ensure that AMD FSR 1.0 is set to Balanced.
That's everything needed to launch Baldur's Gate 3 and keep it running for a smooth gameplay experience - until it's verified on Steam Deck.
Baldur's Gate 3 is available now for the PC. The PlayStation 5 version is scheduled to launch on September 6th, 2023.