Setup & servers
Viewpoint on Steam Deck, Mac and controllers: what to check
Project Zomboid's Steam Deck verification is for a recorded base-game test, not certification of Viewpoint and its Java add-ons. Mac/Linux use the documented Java-agent setup. Check each add-on's input limits; Advanced Movement documents gamepad crouch/prone while other actions need an integration.
On this page
A base-game badge is not a mod-stack test
SteamDB records Deck verification tested April 2, 2022 on build 8368918. That test predates this guide's Build 42.21 and current Viewpoint add-ons. It is useful context, not evidence of today's handheld FPS, battery life or full mod controls.
There is no complete handheld test on this site. Start with the base game working, then confirm the loader and camera before adding graphics or movement modules. Do not copy Windows DLL instructions to Linux or macOS.
Use the correct loader branch
The pinned ZombieBuddy guide uses a Java agent on macOS and Linux. Follow the platform-specific installation steps for the game Java directory and launch argument; it differs from Windows normal and alternate launch.
A successful desktop installation does not prove every Steam Deck launch configuration uses the same path. If your launch mode or game directory differs, inspect it before editing. Stop at a missing file or inaccessible approval prompt rather than downloading a repack.
Plan controls before playing your main save
Movement's author documents first-local-player scope, gamepad crouch/prone, and an API route for other controller actions. This is partial support. Base Viewpoint's O, Shift+O, Delete and cursor control also need reachable inputs.
- List the controls actually required by your enabled add-ons.
- Make camera switch, cursor access and menus reachable.
- Confirm shove, interact and pause/exit in a separate world.
- Test approval and recovery after an update before relying on the setup away from a keyboard.
We do not provide a verified community controller layout or claim split-screen compatibility. For new movement defaults see the key map.
Sources & version
Based on author documentation and community instructions, not our own gameplay test. Later updates may change defaults.