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How to Change Proton Version in Junk Store

Check and change which Proton version a game uses directly in Game Mode

Fix black screens and compatibility issues by switching to a different Proton version.

Prerequisites: You need Junk Store installed, plus a way to install different Proton versions (Wine Cellar, ProtonUp-Qt, etc.) and some Proton versions already installed.

When Do You Need to Change Proton Versions?

If you experience any of these issues, try a different Proton version:

  • Game shows a black screen then closes
  • Game won't launch at all
  • Game crashes immediately

Recommended Proton Versions

  • GE-Proton versions are generally recommended over standard Steam Proton
  • Don't always update to the latest release - we find a stable version and stick with it
  • Test before upgrading - newer isn't always better for game compatibility
  • Keep 2-3 versions installed so you can switch if one doesn't work
Pro Tip: Check ProtonDB.com or our Games Tested page to see what works best for your specific game.

Prerequisites: Install a Proton Manager

You'll need a tool to download and manage different Proton versions. You have two good options:

Option 1: Wine Cellar (Our Preferred for Game Mode)

  • Decky plugin - works directly in Game Mode
  • No Desktop Mode needed for downloads and management
  • Requires restart after installing new Proton versions
  • Installation: Search "Wine Cellar" in Decky Plugin Store

Option 2: ProtonUp-Qt (Desktop Mode)

  • Desktop application - download from Discover Store
  • Must use Desktop Mode to install new versions
  • No restart required - updates apply when returning to Game Mode
  • Search "ProtonUp-Qt" in Discover Store

Quick Links: How to Install Junk Store

Method 1: Change Proton Version in Junk Store

  1. Open Your Game in Junk Store

    Start from the game screen inside Junk Store (not Steam library).

    Game page in Junk Store
  2. Access Steam Game Properties

    Press Y to go to Steam's game page, then navigate to the gear/cog icon and press A to select.

    Steam app page with cog icon
  3. Open Properties Menu

    Select Properties from the menu and press A to confirm.

    Properties option in menu
  4. Navigate to Compatibility

    Go to the Compatibility tab. This is where you'll find Proton settings.

    Compatibility tab with Proton settings
  5. Select Proton Version

    Navigate to the Proton dropdown menu and press A to open the list of available versions.

    Current Proton version dropdown
  6. Choose Your Version

    Select the Proton version you want to try and press A to confirm. The setting is automatically saved per game.

    Changing Proton version
    Saved Settings: Your Proton choice is remembered for this specific game, even after rebooting.

Method 2: Change via Steam Library

You can also change Proton versions directly from Steam's library:

  1. Find Your Game in Steam Library

    Locate your game in the Steam Library.

    Game in Steam Library
  2. Open Properties

    Press the Start/Options button (hamburger menu) and select Properties.

    Properties menu from Steam Library
  3. Follow Method 1 Steps

    Follow Steps 4-6 from Method 1 above to change the Proton version.

Ready to Play!

Once you've selected your Proton version:

  • Back out to the game screen
  • Press Play to launch with the new settings

Game loading screen

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Game still won't work? Try a different GE-Proton version
  • Need more versions? Use Wine Cellar to download additional options
  • Unsure which version to use? Check our compatibility database

Stuck or need help?

Need setup help? We're here for you! Most issues are quick fixes.

Quick fixes for common issues:

Still stuck? Join us on Discord for community support.