This week's Steam Deck Weekly dives into recent gameplay experiences and reviews, highlighting several titles and a noteworthy sale. Missed my Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 review? Find it here!
Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review
NBA 2K25 marks a significant milestone: the PC version finally mirrors the next-gen console experience. Officially optimized for Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve), it delivers a satisfying portable basketball experience. While some familiar 2K quirks persist, the inclusion of ProPLAY technology and the WNBA debut elevates this PC iteration. The 16:10 and 800p support, along with AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS options (though I found disabling upscaling improved clarity), ensures visual flexibility. Extensive graphics settings provide granular control, allowing for optimization for a smooth 60fps experience at 60hz. While load times aren't as fast as on PS5 or Xbox Series X, the overall gameplay is excellent. Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require online access. The persistent issue of microtransactions remains, impacting certain game modes.
Despite its technical limitations compared to consoles, the portability factor makes the Steam Deck version my preferred platform.
The microtransactions are a significant drawback, especially considering the $69.99 price tag.
Steam Deck review score: 4/5
Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions
(See Shaun's Switch review here). Gimmick! 2 runs flawlessly on the Steam Deck, even boasting Steam Deck and Linux fixes in its latest patch. Capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended), it offers native 16:10 support in menus, though gameplay remains 16:9. The lack of graphics options isn't a major concern given its smooth performance. A strong contender for Steam Deck Verified status.
Arco Steam Deck Mini Review
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, shines on Steam Deck with its updated build. The blend of real-time and turn-based elements, along with its compelling story and visuals, creates a unique experience. Steam Deck Verified, it runs smoothly at 60fps (16:9 only), and includes a helpful assist mode.
Steam Deck review score: 5/5
Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review
Newly available on Steam, Skull and Bones offers a "Playable" Steam Deck experience. While the Ubisoft Connect login process could be smoother, the game runs well at 30fps (16:10, 800p) with FSR 2 upscaling. Performance is more stable with the performance upscaling preset. Early impressions are positive, showing potential with continued support. It's an online-only experience.
Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA Steam Deck Review
ODDADA, a music-making experience, runs perfectly at 90fps with touch controls. While lacking controller support (currently in development), its visuals and gameplay are captivating. Menu text is a bit small.
Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5
Star Trucker Steam Deck Mini Review
Star Trucker blends automobile simulation and space exploration. While the control scheme needs improvement, the visuals, writing, and audio are highlights. Extensive graphics options allow for customization to achieve a playable frame rate.
Steam Deck review score: 4/5
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Mini Review
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia runs flawlessly on Steam Deck, offering a great visual novel experience. Remember to check system settings for button configuration.
Steam Deck review score: 4/5
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES Steam Deck Review Impressions
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES, a significant update to the original, is playable on Steam Deck using trackpad and touch controls, though controller support is absent.
Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions
Pinball FX offers a fantastic pinball experience on Steam Deck, with extensive PC graphics options and HDR support. The free-to-play version allows for sampling before purchasing DLC.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable Games
Notable additions this week include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition (Verified). Black Myth: Wukong remains Unsupported, despite playable performance.
Steam Deck Game Sales
Check out the Games from Croatia sale featuring discounts on the Talos Principle series and more!
That concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly! Feedback is welcome!
