[Resource] Call of Duty: Black Ops 6: Is Black Ops 6 Steam Deck Compatible?

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Is Black Ops 6 Steam Deck Compatible?

Unfortunately, the newest installment in the Call of Duty series, Black Ops 6, is not directly compatible with Steam Deck due to its Ricochet anti-cheat system. The Linux-based operating system of Valve's handheld device conflicts with this proprietary anti-cheat software. The solution to this compatibility obstacle involves dual booting with Windows – a setup that switches between the native SteamOS and a Windows operating system.

The Intricacies of Compatibility and Anti-cheat Systems

Despite the esteemed reputation of Steam Deck as a top-tier portable gaming device, it faces limitations in the sphere of competitive multiplayer games that heavily rely on anti-cheat technology. The problem ensues from the stringent requirement of certain anti-cheat systems like Call of Duty's Ricochet to exclusively operate on Windows platforms. Yet, all is not lost. Engaging in a dual boot system with SteamOS and Windows 11 provides a workaround to the compatibility barrier. However, be mindful that Windows isn't always the top choice for mobile gaming due to various factors, a phenomenon evidenced by devices like the Asus ROG Ally X.

Embracing Dual-booting: Performance of Black Ops 6 on the Steam Deck

If a user ventures into the territory of dual-booting, Black Ops 6 can indeed run on the Steam Deck. The performance level of the game is quite decent, with promising frame rates when coupled with AMD FSR 3.0. At comparatively low graphic settings and the Performance preset for FSR upscaling, expect a steady 60fps, which can dip slightly to around 50fps when FSR is adjusted to Quality.

In addition, Black Ops 6 boosts its performance by supporting AMD FSR 3.0 frame production. Upon enabling this setting with Performance preset for FSR upscaling, the frame rate leaps to a high, nearly hitting 100fps.

Other Performance Boosting Options: Intel's XeSS

Another alternative for gamers is activating the software application of Intel's XeSS technology in Black Ops 6. With its Performance setting in place, XeSS provides a frame rate of approximately 50fps on the Steam Deck. Although some gamers might encounter increased stuttering during intense in-game combat scenes, this performance level isn't too disappointing. That said, if you're pursuing optimal performance, switching to FSR 3.0 is the better choice.

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