This week's Steam Deck Weekly dives into recent gameplay experiences, reviews, and noteworthy sales. 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. It's the first time the PC version mirrors the "Next Gen" console experience, and it's officially optimized for the Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve). My experience across PC, Steam Deck, and consoles reveals a satisfying game, despite some familiar 2K quirks.
Key improvements for PC players include ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X) and the WNBA debut alongside MyNBA mode. If you've held off on recent PC 2K titles, this is the one to get. Let's hope its success ensures future PC releases maintain this level of quality and Steam Deck optimization.
The PC and Steam Deck versions boast 16:10 and 800p support. AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS are included (though I disabled them due to blurriness). Extensive graphical settings are available, allowing for fine-tuning of texture detail, quality, shaders, and more. I found capping the framerate at 60fps at 60hz yielded the best clarity and stability. The game performs a quick shader cache on each boot, a minor inconvenience.
A Steam Deck visual preset is available, but I found it overly blurry. Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require an internet connection, though quick play and eras function offline. Load times are noticeably slower than on PS5 or Xbox Series X, but still acceptable. Cross-play with consoles is absent. Microtransactions remain a concern, especially for certain modes. At $69.99, it's a premium price point.
Despite the technical advantages of console versions, the portability of the Steam Deck makes it my preferred platform for NBA 2K25.
NBA 2K25 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 without official Valve testing. Recent patches include Steam Deck and Linux fixes. The game is capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended). While lacking graphical options, it correctly supports 16:10 in menus (gameplay remains 16:9).
The 60fps cap isn't a drawback; it's a smooth, polished experience. Steam Deck verification seems imminent.
Arco Steam Deck Mini Review
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, is already Steam Deck Verified. It runs smoothly at 60fps (16:9 only), and includes an assist mode (beta) for skipping combat, infinite dynamite, and more. The ability to skip the first act on replays is a welcome addition.
Arco surpasses expectations with its engaging combat, captivating story, superb visuals, and music. A free demo is available.
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 Ubisoft Connect login process is clunky. Setting a 30fps limit with FSR 2 quality upscaling at 16:10 and 800p provides stable performance. Early impressions are positive, with potential for improvement through continued updates.
It's an online-only experience. A free trial is recommended before purchasing.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA Steam Deck Review
ODDADA, a music-making experience, runs perfectly at 90fps with touch controls. It lacks controller support (currently in development). Graphical options are minimal, but menu text is small.
Despite the lack of controller support, it's a delightful creative tool.
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. Extensive graphical settings are available. I achieved around 40fps with a custom low-shadow preset. Controls need improvement.
Despite some control issues, the gameplay loop, visuals, writing, and voice acting are strong points.
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 the Steam Deck at 720p (16:9). Check system settings to ensure button configuration is correct.
A great addition to the DATE A LIVE series, but best enjoyed after playing 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 is a significant update to the original, adding content and features. It's playable on Steam Deck, though controller support is absent. Trackpad and touch controls are usable.
Initial impressions are positive.
Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions
Pinball FX offers a robust PC port with HDR support on Steam Deck. Gameplay is excellent across multiple tables. 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 remains Unsupported, despite playable performance.
Steam Deck Game Sales
Check out the Games from Croatia sale for discounts on Talos Principle and more.
That's this week's Steam Deck Weekly! Feedback is welcome. Thanks for reading!
