How to Run Steam on Raspberry Pi

Ben
Ben
@benjislab

The Raspberry Pi, a versatile single-board computer, has captivated hobbyists, educators, and professionals with its myriad of applications—from educational projects to home automation, and now, gaming. While the Raspberry Pi might not replace your gaming PC or console, it can certainly augment your gaming experience by enabling you to stream and play games through Steam. This guide will walk you through how to access your Steam library on a Raspberry Pi, focusing on Steam Link and alternative methods for enjoying Steam games.

Steam Link on Raspberry Pi: A Seamless Streaming Solution

Steam Link is an application that allows you to stream games from your Steam library on a PC to another device on the same network. With the Steam Link app available for Raspberry Pi OS, you can easily turn your Raspberry Pi into a remote gaming station.

Preparing Your Raspberry Pi

Ensure your Raspberry Pi is updated and running Raspberry Pi OS. Connect your Raspberry Pi to the same network as your gaming PC, preferably via Ethernet for the best performance.

  1. Update Your Raspberry Pi:
sudo apt update && sudo apt full-upgrade -y
  1. Install Steam Link:
sudo apt install steamlink -y
Setting Up Steam Link

  1. Launch Steam Link: You can find Steam Link in the Raspberry Pi's application menu under "Games."

  2. Pair Your Devices: Follow the on-screen instructions to connect Steam Link to your PC running Steam. You'll need to ensure that Steam is open on your PC and that both devices are on the same network.

  3. Start Streaming: Once paired, you can stream games from your PC to your Raspberry Pi. The performance and quality of your gaming experience will depend on your network's speed and the capabilities of your Raspberry Pi.

Alternatives for Running Steam Directly on Raspberry Pi

While Steam Link is the most straightforward method to play Steam games on your Raspberry Pi, there are alternative approaches for those looking to experiment further:

  • Box86 and Wine: For advanced users, tools like Box86, a Linux Userspace x86 Emulator, in conjunction with Wine, can run some Windows applications (including certain Steam games) directly on the Raspberry Pi. This method requires significant setup and may not support all games.

  • PiKISS: PiKISS, a simple script that automates the installation of software on Raspberry Pi, includes options for installing Wine and setting up some games. However, compatibility and performance may vary.

  • Cloud Gaming Services: Cloud gaming platforms that offer browser-based streaming or have Linux-compatible clients can also be accessed from the Raspberry Pi, extending the range of playable games beyond what Steam offers.

Enhancing Your Gaming Experience

To improve your gaming experience on the Raspberry Pi, consider the following tips:

  • Use a Wired Connection: For the best performance, especially when using Steam Link, connect your Raspberry Pi to your network via Ethernet.
  • Optimize Steam Link Settings: Experiment with Steam Link's streaming settings, such as resolution and bandwidth, to find the best balance between quality and performance for your setup.
  • Peripheral Support: Ensure your controllers or other gaming peripherals are compatible with the Raspberry Pi for the best gameplay experience.

Conclusion

The Raspberry Pi offers a unique and cost-effective solution for accessing your Steam library in a new way, whether through streaming via Steam Link or exploring direct play alternatives. While it might not replace dedicated gaming hardware, the Raspberry Pi can significantly enhance your gaming setup by providing flexibility and convenience. By following this guide, you're well on your way to enjoying Steam games on your Raspberry Pi, pushing the boundaries of this compact computer's capabilities.