Are you a gamer who’s always on the go and wishes you could play Steam games on your Android device but found the process quite overwhelming? Well, the good news is that you can now enjoy your PC games on your Android without a PC. This article will walk you through four different methods to play Steam games on Android without a PC.
This guide will cover a range of options, from the least complex to the most complex, so you can choose the best one that suits your comfort level.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Play Steam games on Android without PC
The ability to play Steam games on an Android device without needing a PC has been a long-standing desire for many gamers. Whether it’s for convenience or flexibility, being able to play your favorite games on a portable device can be a game-changer, quite literally. Here are some reasons why you might want to play Steam games on Android without a PC:
Convenience
Playing games on an Android device gives you the convenience of playing anywhere and anytime. You don’t have to worry about carrying a bulky computer around or being tied down to one place.
Portability
The portability of Android devices makes them ideal for gaming. You can enjoy your favorite games on the go, on public transport or during long waits, without needing a power source that a desktop PC requires.
Budget-friendly
Playing Steam games on your Android device can save you money as you don’t have to invest in an expensive gaming desktop or laptop. Instead, you can use your existing device to play games that you’ve already purchased.
Method 1: Using Steam Link
Using the Steam Link app on your Android device is the easiest and most straightforward way to play Steam games on your mobile device. To get started, follow these steps:
Step 1: Download and install the Steam app on your Android device from the Google Play Store.
Step 2: On your computer, go to Steam and download the Steam Link app.
Step 3: Open the Steam Link app on your Android device and make sure it’s connected to the same network as your computer.
Step 4: The app will automatically search for nearby computers with Steam. Once it finds your computer, click on it and connect.
Step 5: You will then be able to see your Steam library on your Android device. Select the game you want to play, and it will start streaming to your mobile device.
Pros:
– Easy to set up.
– Works with any Android device.
– It’s free.
Cons:
– Requires a good internet connection.
– Image and sound quality depend on the quality of the local connection.
Method 2: Using Remotr
Remotr is another app that’s designed to let you play PC games on your mobile devices, even on less powerful machines—without experiencing any lags. To use Remotr, follow these steps:
Step 1: Download and install the Remotr Streamer app on your computer, download Remotr app on your Android device.
Step 2: Launch the Remoter Streamer app on your computer and log in.
Step 3: Launch the Remoter app on your Android and log in.
Step 4: On your mobile device, tap on ‘Add Computer’ and enter the computer’s name, IP address, and port number.
Step 5: The application lists the available games on the remote computer which you can play.
Pros:
– It’s easy to navigate.
– It’s available on all Android devices.
– Good graphics.
Cons:
– Lags may appear while playing games.
– Remote playing can drain your battery, causing it to die quickly.
Method 3: Using Parsec
Parsec is one of the newer programs that allow you to run games remotely with low-latency. Parsec allows users to connect to a computer remotely through any modern device running on either Windows, Mac, Linux, or Android. Here are the steps to use Parsec:
Step 1: Download the Parsec app on your computer and mobile device from their website.
Step 2: Install and open both applications.
Step 3: Once you’ve created an account, sign in to the Parsec Client app on your phone or tablet.
Step 4: On your PC, click the "Host" button in the Parsec app and log in using your account credentials.
Step 5: On your Android device, open Parsec and sign in.
Step 6: Select "Play" and choose the computer you want to connect.
Pros:
– Clear and sharp audio and video output.
– Can work even on low-specs pc.
– Easy to use.
Cons:
– The performance may suffer with a poor connection.
What to Do If You Can’t Play Steam games on Android without PC
If none of the above methods are working for you, here are some tips that can help you troubleshoot:
1. Check your network connection and make sure you have a strong signal.
2. Ensure that the computer is on and not asleep.
3. Use the latest version of the app for your Android device.
4. Make sure that your network is not blocking the connection to the Steam servers.
5. Try restarting your Android device and computer to refresh the connection.
Bonus Tip
Use a gamepad or a controller to play the game for a more immersive experience. Controllers such as the Xbox One controller are readily supported by some of these apps.
5 FAQs
Q1:What is the best app to play Steam games on Android?
A: The Steam Link app is the most straightforward and easiest app to stream Steam games on any Android device.
Q2:Can I play my Steam library from anywhere in the world?
A: No, you can only stream your games from a computer that’s connected to the same network as your mobile device.
Q3:Do I need an expensive gaming laptop or desktop to stream my games?
A: No, you need a computer capable of running the games, and a high-speed internet connection.
Q4:Can I use a Bluetooth controller?
A: Yes, Parsec and Remotr both support Bluetooth controllers.
Q5:Can a low-end computer still stream games to an Android device?
A: Yes, Parsec claims to be optimized for low-end hardware while streaming games.
Final Thoughts
Playing Steam games on Android devices is becoming more and more accessible. Using the above-listed methods means you can enjoy your favorite PC games on the go without being tethered to your computer. Understandably, not all the methods work for everyone, but finding the one that suits you will make all the difference in transforming your mobile device to a gaming machine. Try testing different options and find the one that works best for you; it’s worth it!