This week's Steam Deck Weekly highlights recent gaming experiences and reviews, focusing on Steam Deck Verified titles and current sales. If you missed the Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 review, you can find it here.
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 PC version since the PS5 launch to offer the "Next Gen" experience, and it's officially optimized for Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve). My experience on Steam Deck, PS5, and Xbox Series X shows a highly enjoyable, albeit not perfect, game.
Key features include ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X) and the PC debut of WNBA and MyNBA mode. If you've avoided recent PC versions hoping for a complete experience, NBA 2K25 delivers. The 16:10 and 800p support, along with AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I disabled these for clarity), are welcome additions. Extensive graphics options allow for customization. I recommend a 60fps cap at 60hz for optimal stability and clarity. The game's quick shader cache on each boot is a minor inconvenience.
The Steam Deck visual preset is functional but a bit blurry; tweaking settings significantly improves the visual experience. Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require online connection, but quick play and eras function offline. Load times are noticeably slower than on PS5 or Xbox Series X, but still acceptable. Cross-play isn't available between PC and consoles.
Microtransactions remain a concern, primarily affecting specific game modes. Despite this, the $69.99 price point delivers a feature-rich basketball experience. NBA 2K25 provides a fantastic portable basketball experience on Steam Deck, matching PS5 and Xbox Series X in features. With some adjustments, it looks and plays great.
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5
Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions
(See Shaun's Switch review here). Gimmick! 2 runs smoothly on Steam Deck, even without Valve's official testing. A recent patch included Steam Deck and Linux fixes. The game is capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED is recommended). It supports 16:10 for menus, but gameplay remains 16:9. While a higher framerate would be nice, it's not a significant drawback. It's likely to receive Steam Deck Verified status soon.
Arco Steam Deck Mini Review
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received a major update on Steam, addressing previous issues. This review covers the updated Steam Deck version. The combat system is unique, blending real-time elements into the turn-based structure. The audio and story are surprisingly strong.
Steam Deck compatibility is excellent (Verified). It's capped at 60fps and uses a 16:9 aspect ratio. An assist mode (beta) allows for combat skipping and other adjustments. The ability to skip the first act on replays is a welcome addition.
Arco is a highly recommended tactical RPG with superb visuals, music, and a compelling story. 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 playable on Steam Deck (rated Playable by Valve). The Ubisoft Connect login process is somewhat clunky. For stable performance, a 30fps frame rate limit is recommended at 16:10 and 800p with FSR 2 quality upscaling. Lowering settings (except textures) further improves stability.
Initial impressions of the game itself are positive, showing improvement from previous iterations. However, it's an online-only experience. A full recommendation awaits further playtime and updates.
A free trial is recommended before purchasing.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA Steam Deck Review
ODDADA, a music-making experience, is a delightful interactive toy. Its aesthetic is captivating. Interaction is via mouse or touch controls (no controller support yet). It runs flawlessly at 90fps, with adjustable settings. Menu text is slightly small.
Despite the lack of controller support, it's highly enjoyable with touch controls. The team is working towards Steam Deck Verified status.
Highly 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 well on Proton Experimental. The gameplay loop is engaging, with strong visuals, writing, and voiced dialogue. Extensive graphics settings allow for performance optimization. Controls could use improvement.
A unique and enjoyable experience, though potentially not for everyone. 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, runs perfectly on Steam Deck. It features 16:9 support at 720p and smooth cutscenes. Check system settings to ensure correct button configuration.
Highly recommended for fans of the series. Playing DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation beforehand is recommended.
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES Steam Deck Review Impressions
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES, an updated version of Total War: PHARAOH, is a significant improvement. It lacks controller support on Steam Deck, but is playable using trackpad and touch controls. Initial impressions are very positive.
Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions
Pinball FX offers a strong PC port with HDR support on Steam Deck. The free-to-play version allows for testing before purchasing DLC tables. The gameplay is highly enjoyable.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week
(List of games)
Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials
(Games from Croatia sale)
That concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly. Feedback is welcome.
