Steam Deck owners with a PC Game Pass subscription can now try installing and launching Microsoft Store games directly on the handheld, without Windows and without streaming. The tool making it possible is Xodus Nexus, an open-source launcher that downloads and runs games locally using a modified version of Wine and Proton. A Microsoft account and a valid purchase or subscription are required.
The project builds on Xodus, which has spent months making Xbox PC games compatible with Linux. Xodus has already completed authentication and file decryption, the step that until recently blocked local execution. Xodus handles account login, licenses and package downloads, while its custom runtime provides compatibility with Xbox gaming services. The Nexus launcher adds a graphical interface for browsing the library, managing installations and launching supported titles.
Steam Deck and Gaming Mode support
Version 0.3.6, according to the developer, introduces experimental controller navigation and improves integration with Steam's Gaming Mode. The launcher, or individual Microsoft Store games, can be added to Steam as non-Steam shortcuts, with artwork included. Menus, search and filters work with the controller, but some system and authentication windows still require a mouse or touchscreen.
The developer reports that titles such as Gears of War: E-Day, Forza Horizon 6, Deep Rock Galactic, Minecraft Dungeons II, No Man's Sky and Palworld have been tested successfully on Linux, all playable online. These results come from Linux testing and do not guarantee the same on Steam Deck hardware. The developer also tested on a virtualized SteamOS, as they do not own a Deck.
Current limitations
Older UWP games are not supported, and some titles have authentication problems, missing online features or crashes. Steam integration requires the native Linux Steam client rather than the Flatpak version. The project is independent of Microsoft and Valve, and compatibility may change as development continues. Early reports from Deck owners describe successful launches and working Steam shortcuts, but also installation and account verification problems.
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