This week's Steam Deck Weekly features reviews and impressions of several games recently played on the handheld, including Steam Deck Verified titles and some currently discounted games.
Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review
Despite the usual yearly sports game skepticism, NBA 2K25 stands out. It's the first PC version since the PS5 launch to feature the "Next Gen" experience, and it's officially optimized for Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve). My experience playing it on the Steam Deck, alongside consoles, was positive, though some typical 2K issues remain.
Key improvements for PC players include ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X) and the PC debut of WNBA and MyNBA mode. If you've held off on recent PC 2K titles, NBA 2K25 delivers the complete experience. Hopefully, this success will ensure future PC releases also include the Next Gen version and continued Steam Deck optimization.
The Steam Deck and PC versions support 16:10 and 800p, and include AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I disabled these for clarity). Other adjustable settings include v-sync, dynamic v-sync (targeting 90fps/45fps), HDR (functional on Steam Deck), texture detail, overall quality, and shader options. Initial shader caching is recommended, although the game performs a quick cache on each boot.
Extensive graphics options are available, allowing for granular control over shader detail, shadows, player/crowd detail, NPC density, and various effects. I found a balance of medium settings (player and shader detail) and 60fps at 60hz for optimal clarity. The default Steam Deck preset appeared too blurry.
Offline play is partially supported. While MyCAREER and MyTEAM require online access, quick play and eras modes function offline, with noticeably faster load times.
While the console versions technically offer a superior experience, the Steam Deck's portability makes it my preferred platform. Load times are slower than on PS5/Xbox Series X, but still acceptable. Note that there's no cross-play between PC and consoles.
Microtransactions remain a persistent issue, significantly impacting certain game modes. However, if you're solely focused on the core basketball experience, they're less of a concern. The $69.99 PC price point is also worth considering.
NBA 2K25 delivers a fantastic portable basketball experience on Steam Deck, matching the PS5/Xbox Series X feature set. With minor adjustments, it looks and plays great. 2K has finally brought the full experience to PC after years of waiting. Be mindful of the microtransactions, however.
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5
Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions
(See Shaun's Switch review for background information). Gimmick! 2 runs well on Steam Deck, even without official Valve testing, benefiting from recent Steam Deck and Linux fixes.
The game is capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended to avoid jitter). While lacking graphics options, it supports 16:10 for menus, although gameplay remains at 16:9. 1080p testing confirmed proper 16:10 support for menus.
The 60fps cap isn't detrimental; Steam Deck Verification is likely imminent given its smooth performance. The game itself is highly enjoyable.
Arco Steam Deck Mini Review
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received a major Steam update addressing prior issues (not yet on Switch). The Steam Deck version is reviewed here due to its updated status.
The game surpasses expectations with its engaging combat system, impressive audio, and compelling story. The blend of real-time and turn-based elements is unique.
Steam Deck compatibility is excellent, running at a capped 60fps with 16:9 support. An assist mode (beta) offers combat skipping, infinite dynamite, and first-act skipping for replays.
Arco is a highly recommended tactical RPG with superb visuals, music, and a memorable story. A free demo is available.
Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5
Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review
Recently released on Steam, Skull and Bones is playable on Steam Deck ("Playable" rating from Valve). The Ubisoft Connect login process is somewhat slow.
For stable performance, a 30fps frame rate limit is recommended at 16:10 and 800p, with FSR 2 quality upscaling (performance upscaling is more stable). Lower settings (except textures, set to high) are suggested.
The game itself shows potential, with improvements from recent updates. Further development is needed to fully realize its potential.
While not fully recommended at full price, the free trial is worth checking out. It's an online-only experience; cross-progression with console versions is available.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA Steam Deck Review
ODDADA is a music-making tool with a game-like structure. It's visually appealing and offers diverse creative options, using mouse or touch controls on Steam Deck.
It runs smoothly at 90fps with adjustable resolution, v-sync, and anti-aliasing. Menu text is small on Steam Deck. Controller support is absent but touch controls work well.
ODDADA is recommended for music and art enthusiasts. Controller support is planned.
ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5
Star Trucker Steam Deck Mini Review
Star Trucker blends automobile simulation and space exploration. It runs on Proton Experimental.
The gameplay loop involves exploration, jobs, earning money, and unlocking content. Visuals, writing, and radio banter are highlights. Controls require adjustment.
Extensive graphics settings are available, including 16:10 support. A custom preset with low shadows and normal settings (excluding temporal anti-aliasing) yielded around 40fps.
Controls are a significant drawback, requiring improvement.
Star Trucker is a unique blend of genres, enjoyable despite control issues. Further optimization for Steam Deck is hoped for.
Star Trucker Steam Deck review score: 4/5
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Mini Review
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia, a visual novel, runs flawlessly on Steam Deck. It's a recommended sequel to DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation, featuring a lighthearted story, good art, and memorable characters.
The game runs at 720p with 16:9 support. Check system settings to ensure the confirm button is set to A and the aspect ratio isn't stretched.
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES Steam Deck Review Impressions
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES, an enhanced re-release, is playable on Steam Deck using trackpad and touch controls (no controller support yet). It features expanded content, new factions, and improvements over the original.
Initial impressions are positive for fans of the original.
Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions
Pinball FX offers extensive PC graphics options, including HDR support on Steam Deck. The gameplay is enjoyable, with many tables available as paid DLC. A free-to-play version is available.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week
Notable additions include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition (Verified). Black Myth: Wukong is listed as Unsupported, despite playable performance.
Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials
The Games from Croatia sale offers discounts on Talos Principle and other titles.
This concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly. Feedback is welcome.
