Tutorial: How to Play Steam Games on iPad without PC [2 Ways]

This post introduces how to play Steam games on iPad without PC. This can be accomplished using an app called Steam Link or a remote desktop solution like AnyViewer. You've found the best resource if you're looking for methods to play PC Steam games on iPad. To learn the specific steps, keep reading.

Hester

By Hester / Updated on July 2, 2024

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Can I play Steam on my iPad without a computer?

 

I've been trying to figure out how to play PC Steam games on my iPad. Can anybody tell me how to play Steam games on iPad without PC?”

-Question from Steam Forum

steam game ipad

If you're an avid gamer, you're likely familiar with Steam, the popular digital distribution platform for video games. With thousands of titles available, Steam has become a go-to destination for gamers worldwide. But what if you want to enjoy your favorite Steam games on the go, specifically on your iPad, without the need for a PC? 

How to play Steam games on iPad without PC [2 ways]

Can you play Steam games on iPad? Yes. The following introduces how to play Steam games on iPad without PC in two ways, one is to use the Steam Link developed by Valve Corporation and the other is to use the remote desktop solutions.

Way 1. Use Steam Link 

Steam Link is a software application developed by Valve Corporation that enables users to stream games from their Steam library to other devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. It essentially extends the reach of your gaming experience beyond your PC.

Features:

☛ Seamless streaming of games in high definition.
☛ Support for various controllers, including the Steam Controller and third-party options.
☛ Customizable settings for optimal performance and visual quality.

Let’s walk through the steps of how to play PC games on iPad without PC using the Steam Link:

Part 1. Enable Steam Streaming on your PC

Steam Link configuration begins on the host computer. You need to enable remote play whether you need to play Steam games on another computer or a mobile device.

Step 1. Open Steam on your remote computer. In the top left corner, click Steam > Settings.

steam settings

Step 2. Choose "Remote Play" from the menu on the left.

Remote Play

Step 3. Turn on the "Enable Remote Play" switch.

Enable

Step 4. If you turn on the "Enable Advanced Host Options" switch, you'll see many options that you can turn on or off as needed. Some of these options include playing audio as the host, changing the desktop resolution to match the streaming client, and enabling hardware encoding.

Enable Advanced Host Options

Step 5. You can set a PIN to limit the number of people who can play games on your network.

Set PIN Code

Step 6. Once you're finished adjusting the settings, you can close the menu.

Part 2. Play Steam games from iPad via Steam Link

Next, we'll walk you through operating Steam Link on an iPad. Make that both of your devices are linked to the same network before performing any actions. If you keep your iPad close to the router, the results will be better.

Step 1. Install the latest Steam Link app from the App Store to your iPad, and make sure your host PC is on and running Steam.

ipad steam link

Step 2. Open the software and click Get Started.

ipad steam link get started

Step 3. Select whether you want to pair a Controller or use touch control. You can Skip it if your controller is already paired.

ipad steam link pair controller

Step 4. Then your host computer should be visible on the interface. If it isn’t, check the PC’s firewall settings and verify that both devices are on the same network, and then tap Rescan. You can also click Other Computer and follow the on-screen instructions to manually connect to your computer.

ipad steam link connect computer

Step 5. Tap the target computer, then you will see a four-digit PIN. Enter this number in the Steam prompt on the remote computer and then click OK.

steam link enter pin

Step 6. Once successfully paired, the software will test the network connection between your devices. Tap OK when the test completes.

steam link network test

Step 7. On the main interface, tap Start Playing to get started. (The host computer will then start Steam Big Picture Mode. Your iPad will be in charge of your computer screen until you end the connection.)

ipad steam link start playing

Step 8. Then you can see a touch controls tutorial, click Continue.

ipad steam link touch controls

Step 9. Select your Library, and then you can launch the Steam games installed on your host computer and play Steam on iPad.

steam link library

Way 2. Remote desktop via AnyViewer

While Steam Link is a convenient option for streaming games to your iPad, there are alternative methods available. For example, you can use remote desktop applications like AnyViewer to access and play games from your PC on your iPad.

AnyViewer is a popular software that allows users to remotely access and control computers and mobile devices from anywhere in the world. While it's primarily used for tasks like instant remote support and remote work, it can also be leveraged for more creative purposes. It can be a game-changer for Steam gamers who want to enjoy their favorite PC games on the go via an iPad.

Features:

☛ Enjoy smooth game streaming in high definition.
☛ Have total control of the remote computer from your iPad.
☛ Customize settings for the best performance and visual quality.
☛ Use Privacy Mode to keep your privacy protected.
☛ Sync your keyboard and mouse completely.
Shut down, restart, or lock the remote computer from afar.

Follow the steps on how to play Steam games on iPad via AnyViewer:

Part 1. Set up AnyViewer on the Steam computer

Step 1. Download AnyViewer on the computer that has Steam installed. 

Download Freeware Win PCs & Server
Secure Download

Step 2. Go to Log in and click Sign up to get an AnyViewer account. 

log in anyviewer

Step 3. Then keep the computer turned on and the software running.

free editions

Part 2. Access Steam on the computer from the iPad

Step 1. Download, install, and open AnyViewer on your iPad. Log in to the same account you registered on the computer.

Step 2. Go to Device and tap the target remote computer.

My device iPad

Step 3. Tap the One-click control icon to connect to your remote PC.

Control PC from iPad

Step 4. Once connected, you'll see your PC's desktop on your iPad screen. Navigate to Steam and launch it as you would normally. You can access your library and launch any game you desire. The game will run on your PC, but you'll be able to control it remotely from your iPad.

play pc games ipad

★Tips:
Users with more demanding remote desktop needs, such as unlimited remote sessions, faster file transfer speeds, and mass deployment, are encouraged to consider upgrading to a Professional or Enterprise plan.
With an advanced AnyViewer account, you can also choose a high-quality display to enjoy the best remote gaming through AnyViewer.

High Quality Image

Wrapping up

In conclusion, this post primarily introduces how to play Steam games on iPad without PC. Whether you prefer the streamlined experience offered by Steam Link or the versatility of remote desktop solutions like AnyViewer, playing Steam games on your iPad without a PC is entirely feasible.

With these methods, you can unlock the potential of your iPad as a gaming device, accessing your favorite titles from anywhere with an internet connection. Whether you're at home or on the move, the world of PC gaming is now at your fingertips, enhancing your gaming experience and offering unprecedented flexibility. So, dive in and enjoy the immersive world of Steam gaming on your iPad like never before!