This week's Steam Deck Weekly dives into recent gameplay experiences and reviews, highlighting several titles and current sales. 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 consistently enjoyed 2K's NBA titles. NBA 2K25 stands out for two key reasons: it's the first PC version since the PS5 launch to feature 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 confirms its quality, though some familiar issues persist.
Key improvements for PC players include ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X) and the PC debuts of WNBA and MyNBA mode. If you've held off on recent PC versions, 2K25 delivers the complete package. I hope its success ensures continued Next-Gen PC releases and ongoing Steam Deck support.
The PC and Steam Deck versions boast 16:10 and 800p support. While AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS are available, I disabled them due to perceived blurriness. Other adjustable settings include v-sync, dynamic v-sync (targeting 90fps/45fps), HDR (Steam Deck compatible), texture detail, overall quality, and shader options. Initial shader caching is recommended. The game performs a quick shader cache on each boot, a minor but noticeable detail.
Advanced graphics options are plentiful, including shader detail, shadow detail, player detail, crowd detail, and more. I opted for low/medium settings, disabling upscaling for better clarity. Capping the framerate to 60fps at 60hz via the Steam Deck quick access menu yielded the most stable and visually appealing experience.
The default Steam Deck visual preset, while functional, appeared too blurry for my preference, prompting manual adjustment.
Offline play is partially supported. While some modes require online access (MyCAREER, MyTEAM), quick play and eras function offline, with noticeably faster load times.
Technically, the console versions surpass the Steam Deck experience, but the portability factor makes the Steam Deck my preferred platform. Load times are slower on the Steam Deck (even with an SSD) compared to PS5/Xbox Series X, but not excessively so. Note that PC lacks crossplay with consoles.
Microtransactions remain a concern, particularly impacting certain game modes. However, if your focus is solely on core gameplay, their impact is minimized. The $69.99 PC price point is also worth considering.
NBA 2K25 delivers a fantastic portable basketball experience on Steam Deck, matching the PS5/Xbox Series X feature set. With minor adjustments, visuals and performance are excellent. 2K and Visual Concepts have finally brought the full experience to PC, a welcome change. Be mindful of the microtransactions, however.
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, despite the lack of official Valve testing. The game runs smoothly out-of-the-box, even benefiting from recent Steam Deck and Linux fixes.
Gimmick! 2 is capped at 60fps on Steam Deck; forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended to avoid jitter. While lacking graphical options, it seems to support 16:10 for menus. 1080p testing confirmed proper 16:10 support in menus (gameplay remains 16:9). A potential Steam Deck Verified candidate due to its seamless performance. I concur with Shaun's positive assessment.
Arco Steam Deck Mini Review
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has undergone significant improvements since its initial release. I'm reviewing the updated Steam version, which surpasses the Switch version in terms of features.
Beyond its appealing pixel art, Arco boasts a compelling combat system, impressive audio, and a captivating story. The real-time elements within the turn-based combat create a unique experience. It's more than just a tactical RPG; the blend of gameplay is truly special.
Steam Deck compatibility is excellent, running at 60fps with 16:9 support. An assist mode (beta) offers combat skipping, infinite dynamite, and first-act skipping for replays.
Arco exceeded my expectations. Its dynamic gameplay, visuals, music, and story are superb. A highly recommended tactical RPG with a memorable narrative. 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 a playable title on Steam Deck (Valve rating: Playable). The initial Ubisoft Connect login process is somewhat sluggish. For stable performance, I recommend a 30fps frame rate limit at 16:10 and 800p, utilizing FSR 2 quality upscaling (performance mode is more stable). Low settings (except high textures) provided a good balance.
My early impressions are positive, suggesting potential with continued support. It's currently a better experience than its initial release.
While a full-price recommendation is premature, the free trial is worth exploring. Naval combat enthusiasts and fans of open-world Ubisoft games may find it appealing, but improvements are still possible. Note that it's online-only. I plan to play the console version as well, leveraging cross-progression.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA Steam Deck Review
ODDADA is a unique music-making experience reminiscent of interactive toys like Townscaper. Its beautiful aesthetic and intuitive design allow for creative expression. Interaction is via mouse or touch controls on Steam Deck. The element of randomness ensures unique creations.
The game runs flawlessly at 90fps on Steam Deck, offering resolution, v-sync, and anti-aliasing options. However, the menu text is small. Controller support is currently absent.
Despite the lack of controller support, ODDADA is highly enjoyable, especially with touch controls. The team is working towards Steam Deck Verified status.
Recommended for music and art enthusiasts.
ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5
Star Trucker Steam Deck Mini Review
Star Trucker blends automobile simulation and space exploration. While it may not fully satisfy either genre's fanbase, it offers a unique experience. Tested on Proton Experimental.
The gameplay loop involves space exploration, job completion, earning money, and map expansion. Difficulty options and customization are available. Visuals, writing, and radio banter are highlights.
Extensive graphical settings are available, including resolution (16:10 support), refresh rate, and more. My custom preset (low shadows, normal other settings, no temporal anti-aliasing) achieved around 40fps.
Controls require adjustment.
Despite its imperfections, Star Trucker's unique blend of genres and its presentation make it enjoyable. 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 addition to the series. It features a compelling narrative, multiple paths, returning characters, and excellent art. It's a lighter, more lighthearted experience compared to its predecessor.
Steam Deck performance is flawless out-of-the-box, with 16:9 support at 720p. Check system settings to ensure proper button configuration (A for confirm).
Recommended for fans of the series. Playing Rio Reincarnation beforehand is suggested.
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/re-release of the original, adding substantial content and improvements. It's a much improved game.
Steam Deck support is playable, though controller support is absent (trackpad/touch controls are usable). Initial impressions are positive.
Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions
Pinball FX offers a wide selection of tables and impressive PC port features, including HDR support on Steam Deck. Gameplay is enjoyable. The free-to-play version allows sampling before purchasing DLC.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week
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.
Past and future Steam Deck coverage can be found here. Feedback is welcome.
