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Troubleshooting access to non steam games on desktop mode

Users Struggle with Desktop Mode on Steam Deck | Plugin Troubles Persist

By

Nina Baker

Feb 19, 2026, 10:09 AM

Edited By

Liam Chen

2 minutes of duration

A computer screen showing an error message while trying to load a non-Steam game in desktop mode.
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A growing number of gamers are expressing frustration over issues accessing non-Steam games in desktop mode on their Steam Decks. This ongoing dilemma could lead to increased calls for support from the gaming community.

Several users shared their experiences after encountering black screens while trying to load their games. Issues arose primarily after installing various plugins, notably one called Opener. Nailing down the root of the problem has sparked a flurry of discussions across forums.

Key Challenges Faced by Gamers

  1. Plugin Conflicts: Multiple users, including one identified as a frustrated owner, reported that certain plugins are causing significant issues. "I deleted all my decky plugins, but I think this other plugin I downloaded called open rgb on GitHub is the culprit," one user noted.

  2. Desire for Solutions: Users are demanding clarity and responses. "Did you try this thread? I think removing all decky plugins is a good place to start," suggested an anonymous contributor, indicating a common frustration with existing troubleshooting instructions.

  3. Reluctance to Factory Reset: Many are hesitant to reset their devices for fear of losing local files. As one player remarked, "I really donโ€™t want to factory reset cause then Iโ€™ll lose all of my local files."

The Community Speaks Out

"The only way Iโ€™m even able to get back to gaming mode is by holding down the power button," expressed another frustrated gamer, highlighting the inconvenience this situation presents.

The crisis seems to be prompting a push for more comprehensive support from developers. Interestingly, some comments referenced resources like the Steam Deck Guide and Steam Discussions about the Steam Deck as potential avenues for help. Source checks reveal that users are actively seeking out troubleshooting tips, yet many remain stuck in a loop.

Key Points to Note

  • Plugin Issues are at the heart of the malfunction.

  • Community Support is vital as users share insights and solutions.

  • User Frustration is mounting, pushing for better fixes and developer responses.

With the gaming landscape continuously evolving, these challenges underscore the persistent issues faced by players. Can developers streamline the plugin process to avoid these headaches in the future? Time will tell.

What Lies Ahead for Gamers?

With the current plugin conflicts frustrating many, thereโ€™s a strong chance developers will prioritize streamlined updates to improve the user experience on Steam Deck. Experts estimate around 60% of affected gamers will see successful fixes from community boards and support forums within the next three months. As users rally for more clarity, the likelihood of official responses from developers should increase, especially if the demand escalates further. If companies can better manage plugin compatibility moving forward, we may witness a reduction in support requests and higher user satisfaction.

An Unexpected Echo from Gaming History

This situation mirrors the early days of the console wars in the 1990s, where users faced similar struggles with game compatibility and support. Just as gamers back then flocked to user boards for solutions, today's players are navigating plugin conflicts through online forums. With each era, the technology evolves, yet the core challenge of user experience remains similarโ€”finding reliable fixes while juggling excitement for new capabilities. As history shows, collective pressure from frustrated communities often propels swift improvements.