This week's Steam Deck Weekly highlights several game reviews and impressions, along with newly verified and playable titles, and current sales. Missed last week's Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 review? Catch it here!
NBA 2K25 marks a significant release for PC gamers. It's the first time since the PS5 generation that the PC version mirrors the next-gen console experience. Officially optimized for Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve), it delivers a largely positive experience, albeit with some familiar 2K quirks.
Key features include ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5/Xbox Series X) and the WNBA and MyNBA modes making their PC debuts. If you've held off on recent PC 2K titles, this is the one to get. The Steam Deck port boasts 16:10 and 800p support, AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I disabled upscaling for better clarity). Extensive graphical settings allow for customization, though I recommend a 60fps cap at 60hz for optimal stability. While load times aren't as fast as on PS5/Xbox Series X, the overall portable experience is excellent. Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require online access.
The usual microtransaction issues persist, impacting certain game modes. At $69.99, it's a premium price point, but for a feature-complete, visually appealing basketball experience on the go, it's a worthwhile purchase for Steam Deck owners.
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5
(See Shaun's Switch review here.) Gimmick! 2 runs flawlessly on Steam Deck, even without official Valve testing, benefiting from recent Linux-focused patches. Capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED displays is recommended), it offers native 16:10 menu support (though gameplay remains 16:9). No graphical options are available, but its smooth performance suggests imminent Steam Deck Verification.
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, shines with its engaging combat system, captivating story, and impressive visuals. Steam Deck compatibility is excellent (Verified), running smoothly at 60fps with 16:9 support. An assist mode (beta) offers combat skipping and other conveniences.
A free demo is available.
Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5
Recently added to Steam, Skull and Bones is rated "Playable" on Steam Deck. While the Ubisoft Connect login process is somewhat clunky, gameplay is smooth at 30fps (16:10, 800p) with FSR 2 quality upscaling and low settings (textures set to high). Early impressions are positive, but further updates are needed to reach its full potential. It's an online-only experience.
A free trial is recommended before a full purchase.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA, a music-making experience, runs perfectly at 90fps on Steam Deck, utilizing touch controls (controller support is absent but planned). Minimal graphical settings are available, though menu text is small.
ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5
Star Trucker blends automobile simulation and space exploration. While not yet officially rated, it runs well on Proton Experimental. Extensive graphical settings allow for performance optimization. Controls require adjustment.
Star Trucker Steam Deck review score: 4/5
This visual novel runs flawlessly on Steam Deck, offering 720p at 16:9. Check system settings to ensure proper button configuration.
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES, a significantly enhanced version of the original, is playable on Steam Deck but lacks controller support (trackpad and touch controls are usable).
Pinball FX offers a robust PC port with extensive graphical options, including HDR support on Steam Deck. The free-to-play version allows for testing before purchasing DLC.
Notable additions include Hookah Haze, OneShot: World Machine Edition, and several others. Black Myth: Wukong is surprisingly listed as Unsupported, despite playable performance.
The Games from Croatia sale offers discounts on The Talos Principle series and more.
Check out past and future Steam Deck coverage here. Feedback is welcome!
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