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Trouble launching cyberpunk on steam deck's heroic

Issues Persist | Cyberpunk on Steam Deck Fails to Launch

By

Diego Rivera

Aug 24, 2025, 08:20 AM

2 minutes of duration

A gamer looking frustrated while trying to launch Cyberpunk on a Steam Deck console with Heroic interface displayed on the screen

A recent forum discussion highlighted frustrations from Steam Deck users attempting to launch Cyberpunk 2077. Despite verifying and repairing the installation, many encounter a recurrent error that prevents the game from running.

What's Happening?

Users report that after hitting the launch button, the game displays a loading screen for about 30 seconds before reverting to the play button, leaving many scratching their heads. "I just installed and verified Cyberpunk it says it's launching for 30 seconds and then reverts back to the play button," lamented one user. This problem persists regardless of the modeโ€”desktop or gaming.

User Challenges

The main friction points among users include:

  • Proton Settings: Many struggle to switch the Proton version as they are only permitted the latest option. One user stated, "I'm not able to change Proton."

  • Disabling UMU: Some users claim to have disabled the 'umu' feature, yet the game still fails to launch.

  • Guidance Requests: There are calls for clearer troubleshooting steps in community forums. As one helpful comment noted, "Consider reposting with a more descriptive title" to receive better assistance.

Suggested Workarounds

Amidst the issues, several users proposed potential solutions:

  • Set the game to use Proton Experimental or the latest version of GE Proton.

  • Navigate to advanced settings and ensure "disable umu" is checked.

"The game should work after these adjustments," stated an experienced player offering support.

Community Sentiment

Responses indicate mixed feelings. While some users exchanged advice positively, others expressed frustration over unresolved issues. The community remains hopeful that these problems can be fixed through updates from developers, but multiple users await clarity on troubleshooting.

Key Insights

  • โœ” Proton Settings are Limited: Users unable to adjust settings are facing major roadblocks.

  • ๐Ÿšซ Disable UMU Doesn't Always Help: Many remain stuck even after trying this solution.

  • ๐Ÿ”ง Community Support is Key: Users are exchanging tips but urge a call for better resources.

With many eager to play Cyberpunk on the Steam Deck, these technical challenges prompt deeper discussions about gaming compatibility on new platforms. What's next for players experiencing these hiccups?

What Lies Ahead for Players?

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that developers will address these Steam Deck launch issues in upcoming updates, especially given the community's outcry. Experts estimate around 60-70% likelihood that new Proton versions will roll out, allowing users more freedom in modifying their settings. Furthermore, as the popularity of the Steam Deck continues to rise, game developers may prioritize compatibility, leading to more streamlined gaming experiences on the platform. As patches are released, users should remain alert for new updates, as many anticipate that clearer troubleshooting guides will emerge amid these ongoing challenges.

A Parallel in Gaming History

This situation echoes the early 2000s when many gamers faced issues with the launch of World of Warcraft. Players encountered bugs that prevented access to the game just after its release, leaving them in limbo. Likewise, the community rallied for solutions, leading to rapid patches and updates from Blizzard. Much like today with Cyberpunk on the Steam Deck, the collective frustration eventually gave way to enhanced gaming experiences, showing that community voices can drive significant change. Itโ€™s a reminder that the road to a smooth gaming experience can be bumpy, but dedicated players often shape future outcomes.