Can You Really Play PS5 Games on a Steam Deck Without a PS5?

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The PlayStation 5 has been one of the most sought-after consoles in recent years, but buying one isn't for everyone — especially with ongoing price increases and limited availability in some regions. For gamers who already own a Steam Deck, there's an interesting alternative worth exploring: playing select PlayStation games on Valve's handheld without ever owning a PS5.

A New Unofficial App Makes It Possible

According to recent reports, a new third-party app called Asobi: Remote Play allows Steam Deck users to enjoy select PlayStation games without owning PlayStation hardware. The app is unofficial, but it's generating plenty of attention among handheld gaming enthusiasts.

There's a catch, though. To use the app, you'll need two things:

A valid PS Plus Premium membership

An active PSN account

Once those requirements are met, you can download the app and start streaming. A public playtest began on August 7, giving users an early chance to try it out.

What Features Does the App Offer?

According to its Steam page, Asobi: Remote Play comes with a solid list of features, including:

Connecting to your own PS4 or PS5 console for remote streaming

Syncing app settings and console profiles across devices

Multiple local profiles for different users or setups

1080p / 30 fps SDR streaming

Automatic bitrate adjustment based on network conditions

Internet remote streaming support

Console registration flow for supported consoles

Optional cloud-streaming compatibility where available (requires PS Plus Premium)

There are also premium extras available through a single in-app purchase, such as:

Full controller support

HDR video support

1080p / 60 fps streaming

Upscaling up to 4K on supported displays

Up to 120 fps output on supported monitors

Low-latency modes

Manual bitrate control

Experimental FEC mode for unstable Wi-Fi

Audio delay and behavior settings

Controller haptics

Zoom & Pan for a full-screen experience

On-screen lightbar-style status indicator

On-device gyro input support

On-device haptic feedback

For Steam Deck owners who want more flexibility, these features could make a real difference — especially the low-latency modes and manual bitrate control.

Why This Matters for Steam Deck Owners

The Steam Deck is already a powerful handheld, but PlayStation exclusives have traditionally been out of reach for those who don't own a PS5. This app eliminates the need for a PlayStation Portal and opens the door to select PlayStation games on Steam Deck.

That said, there are obvious questions about the app's long-term sustainability. If people are playing PlayStation games that would normally require PS hardware, Sony may eventually take notice. For now, though, it's an option worth watching.

Expanding Your PlayStation Experience Beyond the Steam Deck

If you're interested in playing console games on other devices, z2u.com is a marketplace worth checking out. The platform offers Console Remote solutions andConsole Remote Play games on Windows, making it easier to access your favorite console titles from a PC or other supported devices.

Whether you're using a Steam Deck, a Windows PC, or another setup, services like z2u.com can help you get more out of your gaming library. The site's Console Remote offerings are particularly useful for gamers who want to stream or play console games without being tied to a single screen.

For those exploring Console Remote Play games on Windows, z2u.com provides a convenient way to browse options and find what works for your setup. It's a practical resource for anyone looking to expand how and where they play.

The Bottom Line

Playing PS5 games on a Steam Deck without owning a PS5 is now technically possible through unofficial apps like Asobi: Remote Play — provided you have a PS Plus Premium membership and a PSN account. The feature set is impressive, and for many handheld gamers, it's an exciting development.

As always, keep an eye on how these third-party solutions evolve. And if you're looking to explore more ways to play console games on other devices, platforms like z2u.com with their Console Remote and Console Remote Play games on Windows options are worth a look.