Xbox Game Pass locally on Steam Deck: Video guide shows how it works

We have already reported on the Xodus Nexus launcher – a software solution that aims to finally bring PC Game Pass games to the Steam Deck without relying on cloud streaming. While Xodus Nexus remains experimental, it appears to be making progress. A new YouTube tutorial now demonstrates how to install the software – and the process doesn't look particularly complicated.

First, users switch to Desktop Mode, download the AppImage file from GitHub, launch the application and sign in with their Microsoft account. Next, they need to install the required runtime environment (Nexus Runtime) through the launcher's settings. Once that's done, supported Game Pass titles can be downloaded directly through the launcher. Using the three-dot menu, players can add these games to their Steam library and then launch them normally in Gaming Mode. Neither a Windows installation nor cloud streaming is required.

In the video, The Outer Worlds and Hollow Knight: Silksong are downloaded and launched directly through Gaming Mode. Both games appear to run without issues, which is particularly interesting in the case of Silksong, as the title isn't currently included on the compatibility list. Initial user reports are also appearing on YouTube and Reddit. One player says Neon Abyss 2 works without problems, including controller support, cloud saves and the Steam Deck's sleep functionality. Others confirm that even Xbox Play Anywhere save data can be synchronized. However, the experience doesn't seem entirely seamless just yet. At one point, login errors apparently prevented games from launching in Gaming Mode. The issue is said to have been resolved with version 0.3.10.

Meanwhile, version 0.3.11 has already been released, bringing additional fixes for login issues, licensing errors and problems launching games. The developer acknowledges, however, that many games still don't work. Titles that rely on anti-cheat systems or additional launchers may also cause problems. Some users are also concerned that using the unofficial launcher could violate Microsoft's terms of service and potentially result in account suspensions. However, no confirmed cases have been reported so far. That leaves Xodus Nexus as an experimental but increasingly promising solution. The software is available to download for free on GitHub.

As a child in the 90s, my Gameboy was my steady companion. After school, the PlayStation was fired up. When I finally got my first PC, I was completely hooked. My passion for gaming has never waned since. For me, writing for Notebookcheck means reporting on topics that are really close to my heart - in addition to gaming, I also like to write about e-mobility, photovoltaics and innovative gadgets. When I'm not sitting at my computer, I'm probably on water rescue duty on the Baltic coast or trying to counteract the downsides of my geek life - namely sitting for long periods - at the local swimming pool.