A new addition has made its way to the Steam Store that’s turning heads among gamers: Junk Store. This plugin allows you to integrate third-party game stores such as Epic Games and GOG directly with the Steam Deck’s Gaming Mode. Big shoutout to GamingOnLinux for spotting this one! Junk Store functions in a manner similar to Decky Loader, an open-source plugin launcher designed for Steam Deck, facilitating the introduction of additional software features by other developers. However, SDK Innovation, the masterminds behind Junk Store, seem keen on having it recognized as an official Steam Deck app, eliminating the need for users to meddle with internal settings.
The details on the Steam listing highlight that “Junk Store is now on Steam. It’s been completely rewritten to stand on its own without requiring the Decky loader. Now, you can play your favorite games from Epic and GOG stores right from Gaming Mode.” Sounds pretty revolutionary, right?
Continuing on, an official update on r/JunkStore indicates that the developers are testing the waters by tracking how many people click ‘Add to Wishlist’ to gauge the project’s popularity. But hold your horses – it’s not set in stone yet whether Junk Store will find a permanent home in the Steam library, as the software still needs the green light from Valve for official release. However, the developers are taking the initial page approval as a positive sign or as they put it, Valve’s “subtle nod.”
There’s a bit of a catch, though. Unlike some projects, Junk Store won’t be a completely free or open-source addition on Steam. The developers rebuilt it from the ground up, which means it won’t rely on functionalities provided by Decky Loader. They haven’t nailed down a price point just yet; the cost will depend on development expenses and community interest. As for when you’ll see it ready to download, there’s no set timeline—understandable when the team comprises only two developers.
Regardless, they’re aware of the significance of this move: being the first Steam Deck plugin to potentially hit the app store could pave the way for future endeavors. The team emphasizes that the Junk Store should offer a top-notch experience for gamers, developers, and the wider Steam community.
For those who enjoy tweaking their Steam Deck’s inner workings, you might not need the Steam version of Junk Store since Decky Loader lets you access it for free. But for everyday users who prefer a hassle-free gaming experience, Junk Store could be the perfect solution for accessing games purchased from other platforms without any technical fuss.
