App turns Steam Deck into PS Portal, cloud streaming owned PS5 games without console

Now available for testing, Asobi: Remote Play replicates most features of the PS Portal handheld. Although a Windows version is in the works, the Linux app is compatible with the Steam Deck and the Steam Machine. While PS Plus Premium cloud streaming is an option, it also allows users to enjoy purchased PS5 games console-free.

What makes Asobi different

Steam Deck alternatives like Chiaki4Deck focus on PS Remote Play and boot owned games directly from PlayStation consoles. Yet, they don’t support the cloud gaming capabilities offered by Sony’s subscription service.

Following an update, PS Plus Premium members can stream other purchased titles on the PS Portal. These PS5 games are not normally eligible for streaming without relying on Remote Play. Asobi is one of the few third-party apps that provides more unrestricted access to digital libraries. Even Sony’s Windows software is missing this perk specific to its handheld.

By default, visuals are limited to 1080p/30 fps and SDR quality. However, an additional purchase unlocks 1080p/60fps gameplay. Upscaling on 4K-capable hardware, such as the Linux-based Steam Machine, is possible. The upgrade also enhances connectivity for DualSense and other controllers.

An encouraging start

The developers claim that performance benefits from bitrates up to 100 Mbps. So far, impressions of the play test have been largely positive. Steam Deck owners report that image clarity is a step up from competing solutions, and that latency is minimal. That said, some players have been unable to cloud stream their entire PS5 library.

Whether or not PlayStation will take issue with Asobi is debatable. A similar program previously appeared on Valve’s marketplace before vanishing without an explanation. Gamers may worry about the security issues introduced by logging into PS Plus accounts on unofficial software.

For Sony, another concern may be the exclusive PS Portal feature Asobi imitates. Buyers still need an active subscription, but it’s possible for gamers lacking consoles to buy and then play select titles. That has become a more appealing workaround as the prices of the systems skyrocket.