If you're always on the move and wish your Steam games could come with you wherever you go, there are a few options to make that happen. Like millions of other PC gamers, chances are you use Steam to purchase and play computer games. With a selection of thousands of video games from developers, big and small, it's no wonder the PC gaming platform and store are as popular as they are.
And yet, the only thing that really holds the app back is that it's tethered to a computer or laptop. The Steam Deck is a worthy portable solution to this conundrum, offering gaming in the form of a handheld PC, but it's pretty pricey at $399. Instead of buying a whole new PC for my travels, it would be so much more convenient to play my vast library of Steam games on my phone. Luckily, thanks to Steam Link and cloud gaming, it's possible to turn your phone into a mobile gaming rig.
Quick Links
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How To Use Steam Link To Steam Games On A Local Network
- Play Your PC Games On Nearly Any Device With A Local Connection
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How To Play Steam Games On Your Phone From Anywhere
- A Third Party Service Is Required To Stream PC Games On Mobile Devices
How To Use Steam Link To Steam Games On A Local Network
Play Your PC Games On Nearly Any Device With A Local Connection
Let's say you want to relax with a game in bed but probably don't want to drag your PC across the room. For occasions when you're trying to play a Steam game on your phone while located near a computer that can run the game, Steam Link is the answer. Steam Link is a free app you can download on your phone, Steam Deck, and many other devices that link to your computer with Steam running. This is a similar method used for streaming games from your PlayStation console to a PlayStation Portal seamlessly.
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If your device is connected to the internet through the same network, you can play Steam games on your phone, TV, VR headset, or even a laptop or a different PC. The catch is that you must remain on the same network to play since this process mirrors what's happening on your computer and phone (or wherever you're playing).
You'll need a good connection to use Steam Link, or the device screaming the game will lag.
In addition to local play, Steam Link also supports Remote Play Together. This service allows you to join a friend's game remotely (or vice versa), even if you don't own a copy. This service is available on many games that support local co-op, allowing friends to play the multiplayer games even when they're not physically near each other. Some popular games that support this feature are Baldur's Gate 3, Ark: Survival Evolved, and the immensely popular 2025 hit release Split Fiction.
How To Play Steam Games On Your Phone From Anywhere
A Third Party Service Is Required To Stream PC Games On Mobile Devices
If you're like me and spend half your life in transit, then the Steam Link option might not be right for you. Steam Link only works if you're on the same connection as your PC, which might not be the case if you're commuting or on vacation. Luckily, some services allow you to stream games through cloud gaming on your phone.
There are several services that specialize in cloud gaming at varying prices and stream limits. Here's a list of a few of the most popular options if you're trying to stream Steam games on your phone:
| Service Name | Price |
| GeForce NOW | Free with limits, or starting at $9.99 per month |
| Shadow PC | Starting at $29.99 per month |
| Maximum Settings | Starting at $9.95 per month for specific time slots |
| AirGPU | Starting at $0.65 per hour |
The option I personally use is GeForce NOW, but all the services listed above are from reputable sources. Once you choose a service, you can typically link your Steam account (as well as any other PC platform account you use). This, in turn, will allow you to play games from your Steam library on your phone when you're not near your computer.
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There are a few things to keep in mind if you're planning to use these services to stream Steam games:
- Running the streaming service requires a stable and strong internet connection.
- Many of the services have time limits. For example, GeForce NOW lets me play 100 hours per month and limits my streaming to one hour at a time.
- A subscription is usually available, and higher tiers can get expensive.
Every cloud gaming service has its pros and cons. For instance, GeForce NOW only supports roughly 2,000 games, so many of the titles I own on Steam can't be streamed onto my phone.
Still, a service like this is currently the only way to play Steam games and other PC games on your phone. Even though the options are limited, it's still noteworthy that these services exist for anyone who's on the go, doesn't have their computer on them, and just wants to play a quick round of their favorite Steam game.
Steam
Developed by Valve and released in 2003, Steam is a popular video game distribution service originally used by the company to provide updates for Valve games. In 2005, Steam expanded to distribute third-party titles. Steam users can not only browse games for purchase, but they can also post reviews and upload self-made content.
