SCUM plans Steam Deck multiplayer and controller support in its next PC update
SCUM players on Linux and Steam Deck are set to gain official multiplayer support through Proton when the survival game’s next update arrives on November 9. The patch is also planned to bring the first release of controller support.
Developer Gamepires announced the changes in its November update preview. Some players have already found ways to run the game through Proton, the studio says, but it is now confirming multiplayer support for the compatibility layer.
The features are upcoming, not available as part of the current update. Full patch notes are due when the update launches, and the developer has not supplied a complete controller layout or performance figures for Steam Deck.
Image: Gamepires
What Proton support means for Steam Deck players
Proton is the compatibility layer Steam uses to run many Windows games on Linux. Gamepires says Linux and Steam Deck users will be able to join multiplayer servers through it once the update lands.
Image: Gamepires
That is not the same as a promise that the game will run perfectly on every handheld or a confirmation of a new Steam Deck Verified badge. Valve’s store listing currently labels SCUM unsupported on Steam Deck. The developer has not published benchmark results in the announcement.
The studio describes the controller implementation as a first release and says it will watch feedback and address issues. Players should expect it to develop over subsequent updates rather than assume every menu and action already has a polished controller binding.
Image: Gamepires
Photo mode opens up to all players
The November update also plans to make photo mode available to everyone. Gamepires says the feature was previously part of the Supporter Pack. A revamped tattoo system is set to return as well.
The studio lists additional balance changes, fixes and quality-of-life improvements but has not yet detailed the full list. It also plans to focus more heavily on stability and bug fixes in the weeks after the update, with more frequent hotfixes.
If you intend to try multiplayer on Steam Deck, wait for the November 9 release notes and check the game’s current compatibility information. Installation and performance can depend on the Proton version and other settings.
