How to Play Zenless Zone Zero on Steam Deck (2025)

Zenless Zone Zero is an action RPG developed by HoYoverse, known for popular titles like Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail. One of the key factors driving its popularity is its support across multiple platforms. Many players wonder if it's possible to play Zenless Zone Zero on their Steam Deck.

The Steam Deck, Valve’s handheld gaming PC, runs on a custom AMD APU and uses SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system. While it’s designed primarily for Steam titles, it also supports non-Steam PC games through various installation methods.

In this article, we'll explore how to install Zenless Zone Zero on your Steam Deck with a complete step-by-step guide and everything you need to know to get started.

Also Read: Can You Play Zenless Zone Zero on PS4?

How to Install Zenless Zone Zero on Steam Deck

The process of installing Zenless Zone Zero on Steam Deck involves configuring your device, downloading the game, setting up compatibility, and creating shortcuts for easy access. While not available directly through Steam, you can run this HoYoverse title with the right setup.

Zenless Zone Zero Top Up

Also Read: Is Zenless Zone Zero on Steam? Everything to Know

1. Preparing Your Steam Deck

Before installing Zenless Zone Zero, you need to access a desktop interface and set up a web browser capable of downloading the game files.

• Switching to Desktop Mode

You'll need access to a standard computer interface to begin installation.

1. Press the Steam button to open the menu

2. Navigate to Power Options

3. Select Switch to Desktop

• Installing Google Chrome

Chrome provides the best experience for downloading the game client.

1. Open the Discover Store from your desktop

2. Search for Google Chrome

3. Select it and click Install

2. Downloading and Installing the Game

With your Steam Deck prepared, you can now download the game and configure it to run properly on your device.

• Downloading Zenless Zone Zero

Get the official game client from HoYoverse.

1. Go to the ZZZ official website in Chrome

2. Click the download link at the top

3. Select Download via HoyoPlay

4. Save the file in your Downloads folder

• Adding the Installer to Steam

Make the installer accessible through your Steam library.

1. Open your Downloads folder

2. Right-click on the installer file

3. Select Add to Steam

• Setting Compatibility to Proton Experimental

Configure Steam to run the Windows application.

1. Find the Zenless Zone Zero installer in your Steam library

2. Click the settings cog icon and select Properties

3. Under Compatibility, enable compatibility mode

4. Set it to Proton Experimental

Also Read: How Big is Zenless Zone Zero? PC, PlayStation, Mobile

3. Completing the Installation

Once you've configured the installer, you'll need to run it and download the actual game files.

• Running the Installer

Launch and complete the initial setup process.

1. Click Play on the Zenless Zone Zero installer

2. Follow the prompts through the installation wizard

3. Agree to the Visual C++ installer when prompted

• Downloading the Game Files

Get the complete game after the launcher is installed.

1. Launch the HoyoPlay launcher after installation

2. If it says you don't have enough space, click "Change" to select a valid installation location

3. The game will default to install in the compatibility folder on your internal storage

4. Click Download and wait for completion

4. Final Setup

After installing the game, there are a few more steps to optimize your experience and ensure easy access.

• Linking Your Account

Connect to your HoYoverse account to save progress.

1. Use a controller for easier navigation

2. Log in with your email and password

3. Avoid social logins for better cross-device compatibility

• Creating Direct Shortcuts

Make launching the game easier in the future.

1. Open Dolphin Explorer

2. Navigate to home > deck > .steam > steam > steamapps > compatdata

3. Find the most recently created folder (with a long number)

4. Locate the Zenless Zone Zero.exe file

5. Right-click and select Add to Steam

6. Set compatibility to Proton Experimental for this shortcut

Keep the original installer shortcut to maintain your game installation. For updates, simply re-run the installer, which refreshes the launcher while preserving your game files.

Note: While playing Zenless Zone Zero on Steam Deck is possible, be aware that the game currently lacks a native 800p resolution option, so you may have to choose between 720p (with slight letterboxing) or higher resolutions. The game runs at a smooth 60 FPS on medium settings.

Final Words

Installing Zenless Zone Zero on your Steam Deck takes several steps, but it works efficiently once set up. The game runs at 60 FPS on medium settings despite not having a native 800p resolution option. Remember to keep the original installer for future updates. With these instructions, you can enjoy this action RPG from HoYoverse anywhere, just like you would on officially supported platforms.

Zenless Zone Zero Accounts