This week's Steam Deck Weekly highlights reviews and impressions of several games, focusing on their Steam Deck performance. If you missed the Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 review, you can find it here. This article also covers current game sales.
Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review
NBA 2K25 marks a significant release for PC gamers. For the first time since the PS5 generation, the PC version mirrors the next-gen console experience, a fact confirmed by 2K's official FAQ, which also highlighted Steam Deck optimization. My experience playing NBA 2K25 on the Steam Deck, along with PS5 and Xbox Series X, revealed a satisfying, albeit not flawless, portable basketball experience.
Key features 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 package. The Steam Deck version boasts 16:10 and 800p support, along with AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I disabled these for better clarity). Extensive graphics settings allow for customization, though I found a 60fps cap at 60hz provided the most stable and visually appealing experience. While the Steam Deck preset works, I found it too blurry.
Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require an internet connection, though quick play and eras modes function offline. Load times, while improved from older systems, are noticeably slower than on PS5 or Xbox Series X. Cross-play with consoles is absent. The persistent issue of microtransactions remains, significantly impacting certain game modes. Priced at $69.99, this is a premium basketball experience, but the microtransactions are a factor to consider.
Ultimately, NBA 2K25 on Steam Deck offers a fantastic portable basketball experience, matching the PS5 and Xbox Series X feature set. With some minor tweaking, the visuals and performance are excellent. However, be mindful of the microtransactions.
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5
Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions
(See Shaun's Switch review here for background). Gimmick! 2, while not yet Valve-tested, runs smoothly 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 supports 16:10 resolution in menus, though gameplay remains at 16:9. While a higher framerate would be welcome, the performance is excellent, suggesting a likely Steam Deck Verified rating soon.
Arco Steam Deck Mini Review
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received a significant update since its PC and Switch release, addressing prior issues. This review focuses on the updated Steam version. The game blends turn-based and real-time elements, offering a unique combat system. The story and audio are highlights. Steam Deck compatibility is excellent (Verified), running at 60fps with 16:9 support. An assist mode (beta) offers options to skip combat or enable infinite dynamite.
Arco exceeded expectations, offering dynamic gameplay, impressive visuals, music, and a compelling narrative. A free demo is available on Steam.
Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5
Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review
Newly released on Steam, Skull and Bones is rated "Playable" by Valve. The initial Ubisoft Connect login process is somewhat sluggish. Setting a 30fps frame rate limit at 16:10 and 800p, with FSR 2 quality upscaling and low settings (except high textures), provided a stable experience. While early in my playthrough, the game shows potential, and recent updates have improved it. It's an online-only experience.
Recommendation depends on price; a free trial is suggested. Cross-progression with consoles is available.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA Steam Deck Review
ODDADA, a music-making experience, runs flawlessly at 90fps on Steam Deck, offering resolution, v-sync, and anti-aliasing options. The lack of controller support is a minor drawback, though touch controls work well. Menu text is small.
Despite the lack of controller support, ODDADA is highly recommended for music and art enthusiasts. 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 rated by Valve, it runs well on Proton Experimental. The gameplay loop, visuals, writing, and radio banter are highlights. Extensive graphics settings allow for customization. Controls require some adjustment.
Despite some control issues, Star Trucker offers a unique and enjoyable experience. 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 perfectly on Steam Deck, supporting 16:9 at 720p. Check system settings to ensure correct button configuration. It's a recommended follow-up to DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation.
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, though controller support is absent. Initial impressions are positive.
Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions
Pinball FX offers a wide array of PC graphics options, including HDR support on Steam Deck. The gameplay is enjoyable. The free-to-play version allows sampling before purchasing DLC.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable Games
Notable additions include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition (Verified). Black Myth: Wukong's "Unsupported" status is surprising, given its performance.
Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials
The Games from Croatia sale features discounts on Talos Principle and other titles.
This concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly. Feedback is welcome.
