Want to Get “Ultima 7” Running On Your SteamDeck?

by WtF Dragon · October 12, 2023

If you own a SteamDeck — Valve’s handheld gaming console — you may be interested in this how-to guide prepared by Reddit user NewLvlsSameDevils.

This is how I was able to successfully install and play Ultima 7 on the Steam Deck. I have not played through the entire game but it seems to work very will. Let me know if any of the steps do not work and I will do my best to respond and update the guide. ENJOY!!!

Required:

Ultima 7

Ultima 7 The Serpent Isle (I used the GOG versions which made it very easy)

Exult

PC to transfer files

Steam Deck

USB-C Cable

Install Process:

First you will need to download the Ultima 7 and Ultima 7 The Serpent Isle game files from GOG

Download the most recent version of Exult for windows.

Once you have your game files and Exult downloaded you will need to download on the files your PC, Winpinator

Go to the desktop mode of your Steam Deck and go to Dolphin, you will need to download Warpinator.

With both Winpinator (Windows) and Warpinator (Steam Deck) installed ensure they are both open on your steam deck and PC, then connect your Steam Deck via the USB-C cable.

You will then transfer both Ultima 7 and Ultima 7 The Serpent Isle folders. Then transfer the downloaded Exult installer .exe file to your Steam Deck.

After everything is transferred you will need to download WINe on your Steam Deck Via Dolphin, and this will allow you to install Windows based programs.

Once WINe has been installed, on your Steam Deck, you will need to go to HOME>DOWNLOADS. You should see the 2 Ultima folders and the Exult .exe. Right-Click the Exult installer .exe and open with WINe. Run the install process.

During the install process you will want to choose the file path of where you want Exult installed. I choose the Z:/ drive and put the files in documents because it was easier for me to find.

After this you will need to choose the file path for both games. Go to HOME>DOWNLOADS and point the installer to the respective game folders.

CONGRATS it is installed!

Setting Key bindings:

When you are on the Desktop you will need to go to Steam>Settings>Controller, scroll down to Non-Game Controller Layouts and select Edit.

Here you will be able to set your key bindings, I highly recommend referencing the Exult key bindings so that you can navigate the game easier when you are changing in game settings.

Note 1: I recommend getting your key bindings set before changing to full screen, it seems once it is in full screen you cannot access the Steam Deck short cut buttons to exit.

Note 2: Make sure you map Enter and ESC as Ultima uses these to enter options or get to the in game menu.