This week's Steam Deck Weekly dives into recent gameplay experiences and reviews, highlighting several titles and a noteworthy sale. If you missed my Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Steam Deck review, you can find it here.
Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review
Despite the usual yearly sports game skepticism, I've always enjoyed 2K's NBA titles. NBA 2K25 stands out for two key reasons: it's the first PC version since the PS5 launch to offer the "Next Gen" experience, and it's officially optimized for Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve). My experience across PC, Steam Deck, and consoles (via review codes and purchase) has been positive, although some familiar 2K issues persist.
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 releases, NBA 2K25 delivers the complete package. I hope its success encourages continued Next Gen PC releases and further Steam Deck optimization from 2K.
The PC and Steam Deck versions boast 16:10 and 800p support, along with AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I disabled these for clarity reasons – more on that later). Adjustable settings include v-sync, dynamic v-sync (targeting 90fps/45fps), HDR (Steam Deck compatible!), texture detail, overall quality, and shader options. I recommend letting the game cache shaders on initial boot for optimal gameplay. Note that NBA 2K25 on Steam Deck performs a brief shader cache on each boot.
Extensive graphics options are available, including shader detail, shadow detail, and various other visual settings. I found a balance using low or medium settings, disabling upscaling, and keeping player and shader detail at medium. Capping the framerate to 60fps at 60hz via the Steam Deck quick access menu provided the best stability and clarity.
The default Steam Deck preset, while functional, appeared too blurry for my preference, prompting my settings adjustments.
Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require an internet connection, though quick play and eras modes work offline. Interestingly, load times were faster offline.
While technically inferior to console versions, the Steam Deck offers a superior portable experience. Load times are slower than on PS5/Xbox Series X, but still acceptable. Crossplay with consoles isn't supported.
Microtransactions remain a concern, particularly impacting certain game modes. However, if you prioritize gameplay and visuals, their impact is minimized. Note the $69.99 PC price point, higher than previous years.
NBA 2K25 delivers a fantastic portable basketball experience on Steam Deck, matching PS5/Xbox Series X features. With some tweaking, visuals and performance are excellent. 2K has finally brought the full feature set to PC, a welcome change. Just be mindful of the microtransactions.
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5
Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions
For those unfamiliar, Shaun's Switch review of Gimmick! 2 is available here. My Steam Deck experience was positive; it runs smoothly without needing Valve verification. Recent patches even include Steam Deck and Linux fixes.
The game is capped at 60fps on Steam Deck; forcing your Steam Deck screen to 60hz (especially on OLED) is recommended to avoid jitter. No graphics options are present, but 16:10 menu support is included (gameplay remains 16:9). 1080p testing confirmed proper 16:10 support in menus.
While a higher framerate would be nice, it's not a major drawback. I expect Steam Deck verification soon given its flawless performance. My experience aligns with Shaun's positive review.
Arco Steam Deck Mini Review
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received a major update on Steam, addressing my previous concerns (the Switch version lags behind). This review focuses on the updated Steam Deck version.
The game is more than just a visually appealing tactical game; its combat system, audio, and story are surprisingly engaging. The blend of real-time and turn-based elements is unique.
Steam Deck compatibility is excellent (Verified); 60fps is the apparent cap, with 16:9 support. An assist mode (beta) allows combat skipping, infinite dynamite, and more, including first-act skipping for replays.
Arco exceeded expectations; its dynamic gameplay, visuals, music, and story are exceptional. A highly recommended tactical RPG. A free demo is available on Steam.
Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5
Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review
Skull and Bones, recently added to Steam, is playable on Steam Deck (Valve rating: Playable). The initial Ubisoft Connect login process is somewhat sluggish. The tutorial runs well, but for better performance, I recommend a 30fps frame rate limit, 16:10/800p resolution, FSR 2 quality upscaling (performance mode is more stable), and low settings (except for high textures).
My early impressions are positive, though the game's full potential remains to be seen with continued Ubisoft support.
A full-price recommendation is difficult, but the free trial is worthwhile. Naval combat and open-world Ubisoft games are my usual fare, and Skull and Bones shows promise. Note that it's online-only; I plan to play the console version for cross-progression.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA Steam Deck Review
ODDADA is a music-making tool with a game-like structure. Visually appealing, it offers a variety of creative tools. Interaction is via mouse or touch controls on Steam Deck. Random elements ensure unique creations.
The game runs perfectly at 90fps, with adjustable resolution, v-sync, and anti-aliasing. Menu text is somewhat small on Steam Deck. Lack of controller support is the only significant drawback, though touch or mouse controls are arguably superior.
Highly recommended for music or art enthusiasts. Controller support is in development; Steam Deck verification is pending.
ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5
Star Trucker Steam Deck Mini Review
Star Trucker blends automobile simulation and space exploration. While not deeply exploring either genre, it offers a unique gameplay loop with strong visuals, writing, and voiced radio banter. No official Valve rating, but playable on Proton Experimental.
Extensive PC and Steam Deck graphics options are available, allowing for performance adjustments. I achieved around 40fps with a custom preset. Controls require some adjustment.
Despite some control issues, Star Trucker's blend of genres and its presentation are appealing. 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, is a great sequel to DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation. The narrative, art, and characters are engaging. The game runs flawlessly on Steam Deck, with 16:9 support at 720p.
Highly recommended for fans of the series; playing Rio Reincarnation first is advisable.
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES Steam Deck Review Impressions
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES is an enhanced re-release of Total War: PHARAOH, significantly expanding the content. It's a great game on PC, though Steam Deck support has limitations.
Controller support is absent on Steam Deck, but playable using trackpad and touch controls. Early impressions are positive.
Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions
Pinball FX offers a wide array of PC graphics options, including HDR support on Steam Deck. Gameplay is enjoyable, with many tables available (some free, some paid DLC).
Highly recommended; the free version is a great way to sample the game.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable Games
Notable additions include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition (Verified). Black Myth: Wukong's "Unsupported" rating is surprising given its performance.
Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials
The Games from Croatia sale includes discounts on the Talos Principle series and more, running until Monday.
This concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly. Feedback is welcome. Enjoy!
