Can I play Steam on my iPad without a computer?

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

Step 2. Open the software and click 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.

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.

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.

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

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.)

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

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

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.

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. 

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

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

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.

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

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.

★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.

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!