Short answer: not on SteamOS. Valorant’s anti-cheat, Riot Vanguard, only runs on Windows, so the game won’t start on the Steam Deck’s Linux-based system. The practical way to play on a Deck is to stream it from your own Windows PC.
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Why Valorant doesn’t work on Steam Deck
Valorant uses Riot Vanguard, an anti-cheat that runs at the deepest level of Windows. It doesn’t support Linux, and it doesn’t work through Proton, the tool the Deck uses to run Windows games. Riot’s requirements call for Windows, so there’s no SteamOS workaround. Valorant also isn’t sold on Steam; it comes through the Riot Client.
This isn’t likely to change. Riot has shown no sign of supporting Linux with Vanguard.
Option 1: Stream it from your own PC (recommended)
If you have a Windows gaming PC, Valorant runs there as normal, and you stream it to the Deck over your home network with Moonlight or Steam Remote Play. The anti-cheat runs on the PC, so it isn’t affected. Our guide to streaming PC games to the Steam Deck covers the setup.
For a competitive shooter, a wired PC and strong 5 GHz Wi-Fi on the Deck matter a lot, because streaming adds a little delay.
Option 2: Install Windows on the Deck (not recommended)
The Steam Deck can run Windows, and Valve publishes Windows drivers for it. Some owners install Windows to play Valorant. It’s a big job, though:
- You either replace SteamOS or set up dual booting, which takes time and care.
- Riot hasn’t approved it, and Vanguard’s security requirements and updates can stop it working at any time.
- You lose SteamOS features such as quick suspend and Valve’s tuned performance menu while you’re in Windows.
If Valorant is the main game you play, a Windows handheld makes more sense than converting a Deck. Our Steam Deck alternatives guide covers the options.
What about cloud gaming?
Valorant hasn’t been widely available on PC cloud gaming services, so check before you pay for one. GeForce NOW and Xbox Cloud Gaming both work on the Deck, but only with the games they support.
Shooters that do work on the Deck
If you just want a competitive shooter on your Deck, Counter-Strike 2 has a native Linux version and runs on the Deck, and Overwatch 2 runs through Steam. ARC Raiders is Steam Deck Verified. Others, such as Battlefield 6, are blocked by their anti-cheat, just like Valorant.
Frequently asked questions
Will Valorant ever come to Steam Deck?
It’s unlikely while Vanguard only supports Windows. Riot hasn’t announced any plans for Linux.
Can Valorant get me banned on Steam Deck?
On SteamOS, the game won’t start, so there’s nothing to ban. On Windows installed on a Deck, you’re playing an unapproved setup, so check Riot’s rules first.
Does Valorant work on the Steam Deck OLED?
No. The OLED model runs the same SteamOS, so the same anti-cheat block applies.
Is streaming Valorant good enough for ranked?
On a good home network, it’s playable, but streaming adds some delay. For serious ranked play, a PC is still better.
Follow the NP Handhelds YouTube channel for Steam Deck game tests.
