Playing Final Fantasy 14 on Your Steam Deck: A Comprehensive Guide

Final Fantasy 14 has become a beloved MMO among gamers worldwide, even becoming on par with World of Warcraft or Guild Wars in terms of popularity. And with that immense popularity and renown is the demand to be able to play it everywhere players can. Thankfully, we got just that. Now, the game has reached a new milestone by being available on Valve’s handheld gaming console, the Steam Deck. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to playing Final Fantasy 14 on the Steam Deck.

Playing Final Fantasy 14 on the Steam Deck

Initially, playing Final Fantasy 14 on the Steam Deck presented some challenges. Players had to resort to third-party launchers to ensure smooth gameplay. However, as of May 2023, these obstacles are a thing of the past. Now, you can enjoy playing Final Fantasy 14 directly through Steam, eliminating the need for additional steps.

Today, you simply just need to purchase Final Fantasy 14 through your Steam account to play it on the Steam handheld. After that, you just have to install and that’s that. You can now enjoy the game wherever you want as long as there is a stable internet connection.

How to Install FFXIV on the Steam Deck?

If you’re wondering how to get Final Fantasy 14 on your Steam Deck, follow this simple guide. 

1. Start by pressing the Steam button on your device. 
2. From there, navigate to the store, search for Final Fantasy 14, and choose your preferred edition. 
3. After clicking ‘Add to Cart’ and completing the payment information, the game will begin downloading. 
4. Once the download is complete, you can find the game in your library and dive right into the action.

Can You Link the Original Final Fantasy 14 Client to the Steam Version?

Say that you already have a working Final Fantasy 14 game installed on your system. Now, can you link it to the Steam version to make them one? Yes, you can. In fact, it is recommended that you do. Linking Final Fantasy 14 to Steam not only consolidates your gaming library but also provides the convenience of accessing the game through the Steam interface. This seamless integration enhances your gaming experience on the Steam Deck.

Linking the Original Final Fantasy 14 Client to the Steam Version

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Install the Steam version of Final Fantasy 14: If you haven’t already, install the Steam version of Final Fantasy 14 on your Steam Deck or PC. You can purchase the game through the Steam store and download it onto your device.

2. Locate the installation directory: Once the Steam version is installed, locate the installation directory on your computer. By default, it is usually found in the following location:

• For 32-bit operating systems: C:\Program Files\Steam\SteamApps\Common\Final Fantasy 14 Online
• For 64-bit operating systems: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\SteamApps\Common\Final Fantasy 14 Online

3. Find the original Final Fantasy 14 client: Locate the installation directory of your original Final Fantasy 14 client. This will be the non-Steam version that you previously installed or downloaded. The location may vary depending on where you initially installed the game.

4. Copy the game files: Copy all the game files from the original Final Fantasy 14 client directory and paste them into the Steam version’s installation directory. Ensure that you overwrite any duplicate files or folders.

5. Run the game through Steam: Launch the Steam client on your Steam Deck or PC and navigate to your library. Find Final Fantasy 14 in your game library, and instead of downloading the game again, select the option to verify the integrity of the game files. Steam will detect the existing game files and verify their integrity.

Tips for Playing the Game on the Steam Deck

To optimize your gaming experience, consider investing in some Steam Deck accessories, especially if text input is a significant part of your gameplay. Additionally, if your Wi-Fi connection is unstable, connecting the Steam Deck directly to your router using an Ethernet cable is recommended. Keep in mind that the Steam Deck has a limited number of ports, so an external dock can be a lifesaver.

Conclusion

With the previous hurdles of playing Final Fantasy 14 on the Steam Deck now a thing of the past, there has never been a better time to join the multitude of players enjoying this epic MMO on the go. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting your journey, the Steam Deck’s portability and seamless integration with Steam make it an enticing platform for your adventures in the enchanting world of Eorzea.