Baldur’s Gate 3 now has a native Steam Deck version
HotFix 34 gives Steam Deck users a native build of the game
Baldur’s Gate 3 has been Steam Deck Verified since 2023, but with HotFix 34, Larain wanted to take things to the next level with a native Steam Deck version of the game. This new version has optimised Steam Deck settings enabled by default, and runs without needing to use Proton, the Steam Deck’s compatibility layer.
Simply put, this new version of Baldur’s Gate 3 runs more efficiently. Instead of using a compatibility layer, it now runs directly on Valve’s Steam Deck hardware. This frees up CPU and memory performance, allowing the game to run faster. This gives the game a more stable framerate, faster loading times, and smoother gameplay.
Other changes to HotFix 34 include improvements to game model streaming on all platforms. This improves game performance, particularly in areas like Act 3’s Lower City, which are especially demanding. This reduces frametime spikes and makes the game run smoother for all players.
We are back with another hotfix offering up several bug fixes and addressing some rather annoying instances of crashing on Xbox.
What’s more, Hotfix #34 brings a special update to those of you playing on Steam Deck: Baldur’s Gate 3 now features a native Steam Deck build! This means the game can now be run natively on the platform, resulting in a more stable framerate, lower loading times, and smoother gameplay.
This is not just good news for Steam Deck users either, the work the team has put into this build also means that everyone will get to enjoy overall improvements to the way game models are streamed on all platforms, which should reduce framerate spikes in busy areas, such as the Lower City in Act 3.
– Larain
Steam Deck users should note that Baldur’s Gate 3’s new Steam Deck version will move game save files to a new location. If you have Steam Cloud Saves enabled, these files will be synced. If not, you may need to move your save files manually. More information about this is available here.
Thanks to Larain’s latest update, Baldur’s Gate 3 should not run better on all platforms. This is especially true for Steam Deck users, though all platforms benefit from Hotfix 34.
You can join the discussion on Baldur’s Gate 3’s native Steam Deck build on the OC3D Forums.
