Steam Deck Weekly: Reviews Galore

This week's Steam Deck Weekly dives into recent gameplay experiences, focusing on several titles and their performance on the handheld. Missed my Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 review? Catch it here!

Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review

NBA 2K25 marks a significant release for PC gamers. It's the first time since the PS5 launch that the PC version mirrors the "Next Gen" experience, a welcome change. The official PC FAQ confirmed Steam Deck optimization, although Valve hasn't officially rated it yet. My experience on the Steam Deck, PS5, and Xbox Series X reveals a largely positive experience, though with some familiar 2K quirks.

Key improvements for PC players include ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X) and the WNBA and MyNBA modes making their PC debut. If you've held off on recent PC 2K titles, NBA 2K25 delivers the complete package. Hopefully, this success will ensure future PC releases maintain this level of parity and continued Steam Deck support.

The PC and Steam Deck versions offer 16:10 and 800p support. AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS are included, but I disabled them due to perceived blurriness. Extensive graphical settings are available, including shader detail, shadow detail, player detail, and more. I found a sweet spot with most settings on low or medium, disabling upscaling, and capping the framerate at 60fps for optimal clarity and stability. A minor note: the game performs a quick shader cache on each boot.

The Steam Deck visual preset is functional but, again, too blurry for my preference. This prompted my manual adjustments.

Offline play is partially supported. While MyCAREER and MyTEAM require an internet connection, 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 or Xbox Series X, but not excessively so. Cross-play between PC and consoles is absent.

The ever-present microtransactions remain a concern, particularly for modes heavily reliant on them. However, if you primarily focus on core gameplay, their impact is minimized. Note the increased price point of $69.99 for the PC version.

Ultimately, NBA 2K25 provides a fantastic portable basketball experience on the Steam Deck, matching the PS5 and Xbox Series X feature set. With some tweaking, visuals and performance are excellent. 2K and Visual Concepts have delivered a great port. However, be mindful of the microtransactions.

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5

Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions

Unfamiliar with Gimmick! 2? Check out Shaun's Switch review here. It runs smoothly on the Steam Deck (unverified by Valve but with recent Linux fixes). Capped at 60fps, I recommend forcing 60hz on OLED screens to avoid jitter. No graphical options are present, but 16:10 menu support is included (though gameplay remains 16:9). Despite the lack of higher framerates, it's a perfectly playable and enjoyable experience. Steam Deck verification seems likely.

Arco Steam Deck Mini Review

Arco is a dynamic turn-based RPG with pixel art visuals and a compelling narrative. The Steam version (most up-to-date) benefits from recent updates addressing previous issues. It's Steam Deck Verified, runs at 60fps (16:9 only), and includes an assist mode (beta) for skipping combat or activating cheats. The option to skip the first act on replays is a welcome addition.

Arco surpasses expectations, offering superb visuals, music, and a captivating story. It's 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 rated "Playable" by Valve. The initial Ubisoft Connect login process is somewhat clunky. For stable performance on Steam Deck, I recommend a 30fps cap, 16:10/800p resolution, FSR 2 quality upscaling, and low settings (except for textures on high).

My early impressions are positive, showing potential with continued updates. It's an online-only experience.

Recommendation: Try the free trial before committing to a full purchase.

Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA

ODDADA Steam Deck Review

ODDADA is a unique music-creation experience, functioning as an interactive toy. It runs flawlessly at 90fps on the Steam Deck, offering resolution, v-sync, and anti-aliasing options. The only drawback is the lack of controller support (touch controls are recommended). Menu text is slightly small.

A strong recommendation for music and art enthusiasts. Controller support is in development.

ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5

Star Trucker Steam Deck Mini Review

Star Trucker blends automobile simulation and space exploration. It runs well on Proton Experimental, offering extensive graphical settings. I achieved a stable 40fps with adjusted settings. The controls require some adjustment.

Despite some control issues, the gameplay loop, visuals, writing, and voice acting are highlights. Further optimization for the 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 the Steam Deck. It features 720p/16:9 support and smooth cutscenes. Check system settings to ensure correct button mapping.

A recommended follow-up to DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation for fans of the series.

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, lacks controller support on the Steam Deck but is playable using trackpad and touch controls. Initial impressions are positive.

Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions

Pinball FX offers a robust PC port with HDR support on the Steam Deck. Gameplay is enjoyable, and the free-to-play version allows for testing 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

Check out the Games from Croatia sale featuring discounts on Talos Principle and more.

That concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly. Feedback is welcome!