How to Get Xbox Game Pass on Steam Deck (3 Methods)
Xbox Game Pass works on Steam Deck, but it requires more setup than a native app. There is no official Game Pass client for Linux. The two working methods are cloud gaming via a browser, and running the Windows Xbox app through a compatibility layer.
Method 1: Game Pass Cloud Gaming (Easiest)
Xbox Cloud Gaming runs in a browser and requires no installation beyond a Game Pass Ultimate subscription. Open Firefox or Chrome in Desktop Mode on your Steam Deck, go to xbox.com/play, and log in with your Microsoft account. Games stream from Microsoft’s servers over your internet connection.
To make this accessible from Gaming Mode, add the browser shortcut to Steam as a non-Steam game, or use Decky Loader with the CSS Loader plugin to pin a Cloud Gaming shortcut. The experience works well on a fast connection (25Mbps+) for most games. Fast-action competitive games will show latency. Turn-based, RPG, and slower-paced games are fine.
This method requires Game Pass Ultimate ($15/month). Standard Game Pass does not include cloud gaming.
Method 2: Xbox App via Heroic or Bottles (Local Game Downloads)
To download and play Game Pass games locally on Steam Deck without streaming, you need to run the Windows Xbox app through a compatibility layer. The two options are:
- Heroic Games Launcher supports the Xbox/Microsoft Store and can download some Game Pass titles. Install it from the Discover store in Desktop Mode. Support for Game Pass titles is improving but not complete as of 2026.
- Bottles is a Windows compatibility tool available in Discover. You can install the Windows Xbox app inside a Bottles container and download Game Pass games. This is more complex to set up but enables local downloads for titles that support it.
Neither method is as clean as a native app. Cloud gaming via browser is the more reliable option for most players.
Is Game Pass Worth It on Steam Deck?
Cloud gaming via browser works well enough for casual use. If you already pay for Game Pass Ultimate and want occasional access to its library on your Deck, it is a usable option. If Game Pass is a primary reason you are considering a handheld, the ROG Ally X running Windows is a significantly cleaner experience, the Xbox app installs natively on Windows and downloads work without workarounds.
For a full comparison of how the Steam Deck and ROG Ally X handle Game Pass and other Windows features, see our Steam Deck vs ROG Ally X guide.
Game Pass titles can eat storage fast on the Deck’s internal drive. Check our best microSD card picks for extra space, and our handheld gaming PC rankings if you’re deciding which device to run Game Pass on.