How to Run SteamOS on Your Mac
A new free application called FX Steam Launcher allows Apple Silicon Mac users to run SteamOS, Valve's gaming operating system, through a virtual machine, expanding game compatibility.
Many Mac users face limitations when trying to play their Steam game collection, as Apple stopped supporting 32-bit games in 2019 with macOS Catalina. The situation will worsen next year when macOS drops support for Intel Mac applications, potentially rendering even more games unplayable.
A solution has emerged in the form of FX Steam Launcher, a free, open-source application that boots the ARM version of SteamOS on Macs using a combination of virtual machine technology and compatibility layers. This allows users to play games that wouldn't otherwise run on their MacBooks.
Setup Process
Getting started with FX Steam Launcher is straightforward. Users need to download the application, mount the DMG file, and drag it to their Applications folder. Upon first launch, a pop-up offers to download and install SteamOS in a virtual machine.
The setup process requires creating a new disk with options for hard drive size (default 64GB), drive location, and a password for accessing SteamOS. While the application downloads and installs SteamOS, users should pair their game controller via Bluetooth in System Settings.
Compatibility and Performance
The virtual machine operates similarly to an actual Steam Deck, organizing games into those known to work and those that might work. Many games start running immediately with full gamepad support, though some may require graphics adjustments or patches.
This isn't a drop-in solution for every game. SteamOS itself is quite fiddly, and you're now running it in a virtual machine.
Performance limitations exist, especially on MacBook Air models, as virtual machines don't have access to all hardware capabilities. A compiled list of compatible games from other users helps determine which titles will run successfully on specific devices.
Beyond Steam Games
The solution offers more than just Steam games. By booting into SteamOS's Desktop Mode (accessible through the Power sidebar), users can sideload non-Steam games. This Linux-based desktop includes a web browser, allowing users to download games and point Steam to their installation folders.
The author notes that Valve should consider updating the official Steam Mac client with similar compatibility technology to run Windows games natively, which would be popular among Mac users. Power users can access additional settings through the menu bar or Command-comma shortcut to adjust resolution, sound, and submit game statistics.
With an HDMI cable and gamepad, users can connect their MacBook to a TV for couch gaming. The FX Steam Launcher represents a significant improvement over previous methods like unsupported Wine versions for running Windows games on Macs.
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