The Steam Deck already gives users plenty of freedom when it comes to customization, especially through Decky Loader and its growing collection of plugins. Themes can change colors, artwork, fonts, and other parts of SteamOS. Valve even published a new Steam Client yesterday with home screen and screensaver customization. Either way, some modders are taking things much further.

Instead of simply changing how SteamOS looks, they are creating plugins designed to make the handheld feel like some of the most popular consoles from the past. One of these projects is benderthemes, a Decky Loader plugin that can completely change the Steam Deck’s Game Mode interface to resemble different PlayStation and Xbox consoles. It includes designs inspired by systems ranging from the PS2 to the PS5, as well as the original Xbox, Xbox 360, PSP, and several others.

The changes go beyond adding a new background or changing a few icons. Different parts of the Steam Deck interface can be reorganized to better match the console being replicated, including how games, collections, and the Steam Store are presented. Users can also switch between the different designs in real time, making it possible to quickly give the same Steam Deck a completely different look.

However, there is one important thing to keep in mind. The creator has acknowledged that AI was used to create the plugin, something that isn’t currently mentioned on its project page. That may make some users cautious about installing it, especially when it comes to the quality and reliability of the code.

You may also be able to go with a Nintendo-style look

benderthemes isn’t the only project attempting something like this. Another Decky Loader plugin is currently being developed to bring Nintendo 3DS and Wii U-inspired interfaces to SteamOS.

This project appears to be even more ambitious. Along with redesigning the home screen, library, store, and settings pages, the developer plans to include features such as folders, badges, and even a Mii manager and creator. There are also plans for a coin system that can be used to win badges, as well as Luigi’s Casino from Super Mario 64 DS.

This second plugin isn’t publicly available yet. Its creator has said they don’t have coding experience and that the project is being created with AI. It also currently contains Nintendo assets taken from the creator’s own consoles, so those assets will need to be removed before the plugin can be released publicly on GitHub.

About the Author

Abdul Haddi

Abdul is a tech writer and Editor for PC Guide, specializing in all things tech, gaming, and hardware.