This week's Steam Deck Weekly features reviews and impressions of several games recently played on the handheld, including both Steam Deck Verified titles and some notable current discounts.
Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review
Despite the usual yearly sports game skepticism, NBA 2K25 stands out. It's the first time since the PS5 launch that the PC version mirrors the "Next Gen" console experience, and 2K officially confirmed Steam Deck optimization. My experience on the Steam Deck, alongside console versions, was largely positive, though some familiar issues remain.
Key improvements for PC players include ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X) and the debut of WNBA and MyNBA modes on PC. If you've avoided recent PC versions hoping for a complete experience, NBA 2K25 delivers. Here's hoping this success encourages continued Next Gen PC releases and ongoing Steam Deck support.
The PC and Steam Deck versions boast 16:10 and 800p support, along with AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I disabled these for better clarity). Extensive graphics settings are available, including shader detail, shadow detail, and more. I found a 60fps cap at 60hz via the Steam Deck quick access menu provided the best balance of performance and visual fidelity. The game performs a quick shader cache on each boot, a minor but noticeable quirk.
The default Steam Deck preset felt overly blurry, prompting my manual adjustments. Offline play is partially supported; quick play and eras work offline, but MyCAREER and MyTEAM require an internet connection. Load times are noticeably slower than on PS5 or Xbox Series X, even on an SSD. Cross-play with consoles is absent.
Technically, the console versions are superior, but the portability factor makes the Steam Deck my preferred platform. The persistent issue of microtransactions remains, significantly impacting certain game modes. At a $69.99 price point, this is a crucial consideration.
Ultimately, NBA 2K25 delivers a fantastic portable basketball experience on the Steam Deck, matching PS5/Xbox Series X features. With some tweaking, it looks and runs great. 2K and Visual Concepts have delivered a solid port, but be mindful of the microtransactions.
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5
Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions
(See Shaun's Switch review [link]). Gimmick! 2 runs smoothly on the Steam Deck, even without official Valve testing; a recent patch notes Steam Deck and Linux improvements. The game is capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended). While lacking graphics options, it supports 16:10 for menus (gameplay remains 16:9). It's a strong contender for Steam Deck Verified status.
The 60fps cap isn't detrimental. The game's performance and overall quality align with Shaun's positive review.
Arco Steam Deck Mini Review
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received a significant update on Steam (not yet on Switch) addressing previous issues. It's Steam Deck Verified and runs flawlessly at 60fps (16:9 only). An assist mode (beta) offers combat skipping, infinite dynamite, and first-act skipping for replays.
Arco surpasses initial expectations, offering compelling combat, engaging audio, and a captivating story. Its blend of turn-based and real-time elements is unique.
A highly recommended tactical RPG with superb visuals, music, and story. A free demo is available.
Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5
Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review
Recently released on Steam, Skull and Bones is rated "Playable" by Valve. The Ubisoft Connect login process is slow. Setting a 30fps frame rate limit, 16:10 resolution at 800p, and FSR 2 quality upscaling provides stable performance. Lowering settings to low (except for high textures) delivers a good experience.
Early impressions are positive, showing potential for improvement with continued support. It's an online-only experience.
Hard to recommend at full price, but the free trial is worth checking out.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA Steam Deck Review
ODDADA is a music-making tool with a game-like structure. It runs perfectly at 90fps with touch controls, though controller support is absent (currently in development). Simple graphics settings are available, but menu text is small.
Despite the lack of controller support, touch controls work well. It's 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. It runs on Proton Experimental. Extensive graphics settings are available, allowing for customization to balance visuals and performance (I targeted ~40fps). Controls are a significant issue, needing improvement.
Despite its flaws, the gameplay loop, visuals, writing, and radio banter are enjoyable.
Star Trucker Steam Deck review score: 4/5
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Mini Review
A visual novel released on Steam, it runs perfectly on the Steam Deck at 720p (16:9). Check system settings to ensure correct button mapping (A for confirm).
Recommended for fans of the series.
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES Steam Deck Review Impressions
A relaunched and significantly improved version of Total War: Pharaoh. It's playable on Steam Deck using trackpad and touch controls, but lacks controller support.
Early impressions are positive.
Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions
Pinball FX offers a wide array of PC graphics options, including HDR support on Steam Deck. Gameplay is enjoyable across multiple tables. The free-to-play version is recommended to test compatibility and sample the game.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week
Notable additions include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition. Black Myth: Wukong, despite being marked Unsupported, performs well.
Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials
The Games from Croatia sale features discounts on The Talos Principle series and other titles.
This concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly. Feedback is welcome.
