The Steam Deck is one of the most versatile gaming machines available. Whether one is a fan of big-budget AAA releases, classic games, or games geared more toward PC, Valve's powerful handheld system has something for everybody.

Even fans of the Nintendo Switch can retain their comfort zone with the Steam Deck as a gaming handheld device. This is thanks to the system's ability to play games with a control system and layout that works like a Nintendo Switch. Even though Nintendo's exclusives like The Legend of Zelda and Mario are unlikely to land on the Steam service, titles like Octopath Traveler and Triangle Strategy first launched on the Switch and are now available on the Steam Deck. Using a Nintendo-style setup may feel more comfortable for some players of these ports.

Updated January 11, 2024, by Michael Llewellyn: Visually, the Steam Deck and the Nintendo Switch are comparable as gaming devices. Of course, the portable PC has more power and versatility than the Switch, but players love the feel of the Switch and the layout of the Nintendo control system. It is excellent for emulation and playing ports of Nintendo titles. This guide has been updated to include useful Steam Deck links and adjustments to the writing for clarity.

close up of the steam deck's face buttons and right analog stick
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How To Set Up Nintendo Controls On The Steam Deck

Metroid Dread on the Steam Deck

In addition to playing games that originated on the Switch, some users may want to implement the Steam Deck's versatility with emulators like Yuzu. Whatever the reason, the following steps will get the Steam Deck switched to a Nintendo-like setup.

  • Press the Steam button on the console.
Steam Deck - the Steam button
  • Scroll down and select the Settings option.
  • Click on the Controller option from the list.
Steam Deck Nintendo layout
  • Select Use Nintendo Button Layout. This will activate the slider for the Nintendo control system by swapping the A and B buttons with the X and Y buttons.
  • Turn the slider off to revert the Steam Deck to its official settings.

Of course, the Nintendo layout can be taken further by connecting a Nintendo controller.

Connecting A Nintendo Controller With The Steam Deck

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Using an official Nintendo controller is the best way to get the most out of the Nintendo layout settings on the Steam Deck. Use the instructions to get a Nintendo controller working on the Steam Deck to play Nintendo-based titles and all controller-compatible games.

  • Press the Steam button.
  • Scroll down to the Bluetooth option.
Steam Deck Bluetooth to Nintendo Pro Controller
  • Now, hold the small button at the top of the Nintendo controller.
Bluetooth button for the Nintendo Pro Controller
  • The Pro Controller will appear on the Steam Deck's Bluetooth menu.
  • Click on the Pro Controller icon to connect.
  • The home button on the Nintendo controller will indicate that it's connected with a blue light.

That's everything a player needs to set players up with Nintendo controllers and connect a Pro controller. The Steam Deck connects to any controller with Bluetooth functionality.

The Steam Deck is available now from the official Steam store.

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Steam Deck Console
Steam Deck
Display card main info widget
Screen
7" diagonal 1280 x 800px (16:10 aspect ratio) 60Hz
CPU
AMD APU Zen 2 4c/8t, 2.4-3.5GHz
Display card main info widget end

Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info
Battery
40Whr battery. 2 - 8 hours of gameplay
Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.0 and Dual-band Wi-Fi radio, 2.4GHz and 5GHz
Ports
1x USB-C with DisplayPort 1.4 Alt-mode support; up to 8K @60Hz or 4K @120Hz, 1x USB 3.2,1x Micro SD slot, 1x 3.5 audio jack
Dimensions
298mm x 117mm x 49mm
Weight
Approx. 669 grams
Audio
Stereo with embedded DSP for an immersive listening experience and Dual Microphone Array