Tinkerer Successfully Runs Windows 7 Natively on Steam Deck

Sure, here’s a messy rewrite for you:

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You heard right, folks. Windows 7, on Valve’s Steam Deck—this wildly popular handheld gamer—it’s real. Crazy, right? Normally, this beast is all about Linux. But why do this? That eternal question tinkers love: “Why not?”

Honestly, as someone who gets misty-eyed over Windows nostalgia, I didn’t expect anyone to bother. Windows 7 was the golden child, sure, but taking on Bob Pony’s adventurous spirit? Yeah, no, not me. Bob dropped this wild revelation on Bluesky and everywhere else (thanks, Tom’s Hardware, for keeping us in the loop).

So, yeah, first thing you notice? It’s stuck—portrait mode all the way. If you know the Steam Deck inside out, you’ll remember its “sideways” screen vibe—totally deliberate.

Screen doesn’t spin around unless you write some crazy code. These handhelds? Built for portrait stuff, but hey, digital rotations are a thing. Just not here, apparently.

And what’s with Windows 7 on Steam Deck’s custom “Van Gogh” AMD APU? Looks like Bob got to the desktop somehow. Playing games, though? Like Valve intended? Whole different story.

Seems drivers laugh at Windows 7. The CPU’s regular x86_64, but integrated graphics need Windows 10 or 11. No chance on 7. Unless someone out there rewrites the whole driver scene. Odds are…meh. Who am I to judge? I just wander here because Windows 7 catches my eye.

Ah, the internet’s been abuzz: “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” Bob’s been down this rabbit hole before with Windows 8.1 on Deck. Saw the video—wild stuff. Not my jam, though. My ASUS ROG Ally with Windows 11 keeps me happy. But watching this drama? Entertaining.

Listen, Windows 7 isn’t Microsoft-approved here, never mind Windows 8.1. Installing it? Risky. I wouldn’t even stick Windows 11 on the Deck. SteamOS has my heart. Linux fans are rallying harder than ever for a reason. Seriously, keep that Arch Linux vibe going strong.

Anyway—someone keeping those old Windows dreams alive. Fuel for the fire, especially with Windows 10’s big goodbye in October. Some folks just dig the vintage OS feel. Heck, I had a soft spot for Windows XP with that sleek Royale Noir theme. But what’s really the best modern OS? Opinions, right?

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