Using Discord on Steam Machine and Steam Deck: How to Integrate It

As GameSpot reports (https://www.gamespot.com/articles/how-to-use-discord-on-your-steam-machine-and-steam-deck/), owners of Steam Machine and Steam Deck now have the option to use Discord directly on their devices. Since both systems are based on Linux and are essentially full-fledged PCs, the popular communication platform for voice and text chats can also be installed and used here.

Installing Discord on Steam Devices

The path to Discord on Steam Machine or Steam Deck is surprisingly simple. Users first switch to the desktop mode of the Steam interface by opening the Steam menu and selecting the option to switch to desktop mode. Then, they open the Discover Store (recognizable by the blue icon), search for "Discord," and install the application just like on a regular Linux PC.

After installation, Discord can be launched. To conveniently start the app from gaming mode, it is recommended to add Discord as a non-Steam game. To do this, open the "Add a Game" option in Steam and select "Add a Non-Steam Game." Here, Discord is selected and integrated into the Steam library. This way, Discord can also be easily started using the controller or Steam Deck touchscreen.

Adjusting the Controller Layout

An important point for users of Steam Machine or Steam Deck is controlling Discord via controller. By default, Discord is optimized for mouse and keyboard, so operating it with a controller is not always intuitive. GameSpot points out that it is possible to adjust the controller layout in Steam to facilitate navigation in Discord. This significantly improves the user experience, as voice channels or chat windows can be comfortably operated this way.

Why Is This Important for Gamers?

Many PC gamers use Discord as a central platform for communication during gameplay. With Discord now available on Steam Machine and Steam Deck, they can maintain their familiar communication environment without relying on external devices or complicated workarounds. Especially for the Steam Deck, designed as a mobile gaming device, this means a significant improvement in social interaction and multiplayer experience.

Furthermore, this integration strengthens Steam’s position as a versatile gaming platform that supports not only games but also important community tools directly. For users who spend a lot of time in the Steam ecosystem, this is a major advantage.

Conclusion

The ability to use Discord directly on Steam Machine and Steam Deck is a step toward greater convenience and flexibility for gamers. Installation is straightforward, and with a few adjustments, Discord can be comfortably operated via controller. This keeps communication seamless during gameplay, whether on the TV, at the desk, or on the go.

This innovation shows how open and adaptable Steam devices are, as they are essentially PCs running a Linux operating system. For players who do not want to do without Discord, this is welcome news and another reason to consider Steam Deck or Steam Machine as gaming hardware.