An open‑source launcher called Xodus Nexus is now allowing users to download and run Microsoft Store and PC Game Pass titles locally on Linux, including the Steam Deck. Using a modified Wine and Proton runtime, the tool operates without a Windows installation, though players still need a Microsoft account and either a valid game licence or an active subscription.
Building on the underlying Xodus project that handles Xbox services and account authentication, Nexus (via TechPowerUp) provides a dedicated graphical interface for browsing, downloading, and launching games. The recent 0.3.6 release introduces experimental controller navigation and improved Steam Gaming Mode integration. Players can now add the launcher or specific games directly as non-Steam shortcuts with artwork, though certain system dialogues and login prompts still require mouse or touchscreen input.
According to the developer, several titles have been verified as playable online under Linux, including Gears of War: E‑Day, Forza Horizon 6, Deep Rock Galactic, Minecraft Dungeons II and Palworld. Compatibility on Steam Deck hardware isn’t guaranteed, as testing was performed using virtualised SteamOS. Older UWP releases remain unsupported, and users may encounter authentication issues, crashes or missing multiplayer functionality depending on the game.
The project requires the native Linux Steam client rather than the Flatpak version, and is distributed as an AppImage, with runtime files downloaded directly through the launcher’s settings.
KitGuru says: Running PC Game Pass locally on Linux and the Steam Deck without relying on cloud streaming has long been on the wishlist for many Linux-based handheld players. Will you try Xodus Nexus?
