Fans want to know the most optimal way to play Darkest Dungeon 2 on Steam Deck, as the anticipated sequel has made its way out of Early Access. Considering how the first game runs really well on the handheld computer, what are the chances of this sequel doing the same?
Like the first game, Darkest Dungeon 2 is expected to be a tough-as-nails roguelike RPG that might be too much for some. This is why fans of the series are excited to play it on Valve’s powerful handheld, as it’s easier to take breaks on a handheld than it is on a regular gaming PC. It’s the miracle of accessible buttons.
So, can players get Darkest Dungeon 2 to run on Steam Deck? What are the best settings to play the game on? Will this roguelike RPG with 2D graphics require plenty of tinkering from the player? Let’s find out ourselves.
How to play Darkest Dungeon 2 on Steam Deck
As of this writing, Darkest Dungeon 2 can run on the Steam Deck but players will need to do a lot of tinkering to get it running well. Getting the game to run might be a bit challenging for some, as it’s not simply starting the RPG and everything performing well.
Despite being removed from Early Access, Darkest Dungeon 2 doesn’t have any controller support right now (via The Escapist). This means that players will either have to play on a touchscreen or manually map out which buttons do what, which is annoying. It also doesn’t have the best frame rate and it drains the Steam Deck battery fairly quickly.
The game’s official Twitter did mention that controller support is coming but hasn’t mentioned anything about an official Darkest Dungeon 2 Steam Deck patch. Controller support should be enough to get through these hurdles, though that might not stop the aforementioned issues we mentioned above.
Best Darkest Dungeon 2 Steam Deck settings
For now, these are the best Darkest Dungeon 2 Steam Deck settings, as of this writing. Keep in mind that this won’t solve everything, as some players are reporting that the game will install but won’t start up. Others have also brought up the constant frame drops on Steam Deck, with visuals sometimes dipping.
Here are the best settings Darkest Dungeon 2 Steam Deck settings to get the most out of the game right now (via Proton DB):
- Proton: Switch to Proton Experimental
- Control Layout: Choose Darkest Dungeon 2 - Steam Deck from Community Layout
- Control Customization: Make sure to add mapping for “right mouse click” and “ctrl.”
- Battery: Reduce performance to 40 Hz, which should make the game run at 40 FPS
If players are desperate to get this game working on Steam Deck, some players have suggested using the Epic Games version via Heroic Launcher. Apparently, this has led to a smooth experience for some, though it won’t feel as official as some might have liked.
For now, that’s how players can get Darkest Dungeon 2 working on the Steam Deck. Curious players can also check out the Tears of the Kingdom performance on Steam Deck. We also have the best Breath of the Wild Steam Deck settings.