Playing Windows games on Android has always been a challenge, but with Proton 9.0 ARM64EC, it is now possible to experience PC gaming without needing a high-end computer. This version of Proton is specifically optimized for Adreno GPUs and runs natively on Android without requiring complex setups like Proot or Chroot.
If you want to play Windows games directly on your phone with good performance, this guide will walk you through the complete installation process.
Why Use Proton 9.0 ARM64EC?
This version of Proton is designed to run on Android while taking full advantage of Snapdragon-based devices. Unlike other methods that rely on Proot environments, this runs natively with better performance and stability.
Key Features:
- Optimized for Snapdragon + Adreno GPUs, ensuring the best performance on mobile.
- Runs Windows apps and games without requiring additional dependencies like Glibc.
- Supports various GPU drivers including Turnip and Freedreno, making it more versatile.
- No need for root access, making it easier to set up and use.
- More efficient than GameFusion Proton + FEX in terms of compatibility and performance.
This setup has been tested with high-end games like GTA V on Snapdragon 8 Elite, achieving around 60 FPS, which is impressive for an Android device. If configured correctly, you can expect great performance in many Windows-based games.
Requirements Before Installation
Before you proceed with the installation, you need to make sure that your device meets these requirements:
1. Install Termux and Termux X11
Since Proton 9.0 ARM64EC runs within Termux, you will need to install:
- Termux
- Termux X11
These applications will provide the necessary environment to run Windows applications on your Android device.
2. Download the Proton Installer and Vulkan Driver
- Download the Proton 9.0 ARM64EC Installer from the provided link.
- Extract the installer file (
proton-9.0-arm64ec-installer-fix.tar.xz
). - Move the extracted folder to your phone’s Download directory.
Additionally, you will need the Vulkan driver for Adreno GPUs:
- Download vulkan.adreno.so or vulkan.name.so.
- Place this file inside your Download folder alongside the Proton installer.
Once you have these files in the right location, you can proceed with the setup.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
1. Grant Storage Access in Termux
Before running the installation, you need to allow Termux to access your storage. Open Termux and enter :
termux-setup-storage
This command creates necessary storage directories and allows Termux to read files from your device.
2. Locate the Proton Installer Folder
To make sure the Proton installer is in the correct location, run this command in Termux:
find /storage/emulated/0 -type d -name "proton-9.0-arm64ec-installer-fix" 2>/dev/null
This will display the exact path where the Proton installer folder is located.
3. Navigate to the Installation Folder
Once you have confirmed the path, use the following command to go into the installation directory:
cd /storage/emulated/0/Download/proton-9.0-arm64ec-installer-fix/proton-arm64ec
Make sure to adjust the path if the location of the folder is different on your device.
4. Give Permission to the Installer
Before running the installer, you need to make it executable:
chmod +x installer.sh
This ensures that the script can run without any permission issues.
5. Start the Installation
Run the installer using:
sh installer.sh
This will install all necessary files and configure Proton 9.0 ARM64EC on your device.
6. Link the Vulkan Driver
To ensure the Vulkan driver is detected, create a symbolic link:
ln -s /storage/emulated/0/Download/vulkan.ad0805.so /data/data/com.termux/files/usr/drivers/vulkan.adreno.so
This links the Vulkan driver to Proton’s driver directory.
7. Launch Proton and Start Playing
Once everything is installed, you can launch Proton using:
arm64ec-wine
Now, your device is ready to run Windows games and applications on Android!
What Games Can You Play?
This setup allows you to run a variety of Windows games and applications. While performance will depend on your device specifications, it supports:
- Older PC games that are not too demanding.
- Indie titles that do not require high-end graphics.
- DirectX-based games that are compatible with Vulkan.
- Windows emulators and software that can run in the Wine environment.
One of the biggest achievements of this setup is running GTA V on Snapdragon 8 Elite at 60 FPS, demonstrating the potential of ARM64EC-based emulation.
Final Thoughts
Proton 9.0 ARM64EC is currently one of the best methods for running Windows applications and games on Android. It is designed specifically for Adreno GPUs, offering better compatibility and performance than other solutions. Unlike older methods that rely on Proot and Chroot, this build runs natively on Android, providing a smooth gaming experience.
Why Should You Try It?
- No root is required, making it easy to install and use.
- Fully optimized for Snapdragon processors with Adreno GPUs.
- Supports different GPU drivers, allowing customization for better performance.
- Runs on Termux without requiring additional dependencies like Glibc.
This setup is a great way to bring Windows gaming to mobile devices, offering a glimpse into the future of emulation on Android. While it may not be perfect for running every game, it is a major step toward making PC gaming more accessible on smartphones.
Credit
This build was created by Airidosas252 Builds, who has been actively working on improving Proton for Android.
If you are looking for a way to play Windows games on your phone, Proton 9.0 ARM64EC is a great option. With the right setup, you can achieve smooth performance even in high-end games, making it an exciting development for mobile gaming enthusiasts.