This week's Steam Deck Weekly features reviews and impressions of several games, alongside news on verified titles and current sales. If you missed my 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, I've always enjoyed 2K's NBA titles. NBA 2K25 stands out: 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 on Steam Deck, PS5, and Xbox Series X confirms its quality, though some familiar issues persist.
Key improvements for PC players include ProPLAY technology (previously PS5/Xbox Series X exclusive), the WNBA debut, and MyNBA mode. If you've avoided recent PC versions hoping for a complete experience, NBA 2K25 delivers. I hope its success ensures continued Next-Gen PC releases and further Steam Deck optimization.
The Steam Deck and PC versions boast 16:10 and 800p support. AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS are included (though I disabled them – more on that later). Settings include v-sync, dynamic v-sync (targeting 90/45fps), HDR (Steam Deck compatible), texture detail, overall quality, and shader options. Initial shader caching is recommended. The game performs a quick cache on each boot, a minor inconvenience.
Advanced graphics options include shader detail, shadow detail, player detail, crowd detail, NPC density, and more. I used mostly low/medium settings, disabling upscaling for better clarity. Capping the framerate at 60fps at 60hz via the Steam Deck quick access menu provided the best stability and visual clarity.
The default Steam Deck preset is functional but appeared too blurry for my preference, prompting manual adjustment.
Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require an online connection. Quick play and eras function offline, with faster load times observed.
While technically superior on consoles, I find myself playing NBA 2K25 more on the Steam Deck. Load times are slower than on PS5/Xbox Series X, but still acceptable. Note the lack of crossplay between PC and consoles.
Microtransactions remain an issue, significantly impacting certain modes. However, if focusing solely on gameplay, their impact is minimal. The $69.99 PC price is higher than in previous years.
NBA 2K25 provides a fantastic portable basketball experience, matching PS5/Xbox Series X features. With minor adjustments, it runs and looks great. 2K finally brought all features to PC, and the Steam Deck experience is excellent. Be mindful of the microtransactions.
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5
Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions
(For those unfamiliar with Gimmick! 2, see Shaun's Switch review here.) It runs well on Steam Deck, even without official Valve testing, and benefits from recent Steam Deck and Linux fixes.
The game is capped at 60fps on Steam Deck (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended). No graphics options are present, but 16:10 menu support is included (gameplay remains 16:9). 1080p testing confirmed proper 16:10 support in menus.
While higher framerates would be welcome, it's not a significant drawback. Steam Deck verification seems likely given its smooth out-of-the-box performance. My experience aligns with Shaun's positive review.
Arco Steam Deck Mini Review
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received a major Steam update addressing prior issues (not yet on Switch). The Steam Deck version is reviewed here due to its updated status.
The game blends tactical combat with real-time elements, exceeding expectations with its audio and story. Unique character stories and gameplay styles add depth.
Steam Deck compatibility is excellent, with a 60fps cap and 16:9 support. An assist mode (beta) offers combat skipping, infinite dynamite, and first-act skipping on replays.
Arco surpasses initial expectations, offering superb visuals, music, and a compelling narrative. It's a highly recommended tactical RPG. 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 playable but has some quirks. My focus is on the Steam Deck port.
It's officially rated "Playable" by Valve. Ubisoft Connect login is initially cumbersome. The tutorial runs fine, but for better performance, I used a 30fps cap, 16:10 at 800p, FSR 2 quality upscaling, and low settings (except high textures).
Early impressions of the game itself are positive, with potential for further improvement through updates.
A full-price recommendation is premature, but the free trial is worthwhile. Naval combat fans and those who enjoy open-world Ubisoft titles might find it appealing, though improvements are still possible. It's online-only; cross-progression with consoles is planned.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA Steam Deck Review
ODDADA is a music-creation tool resembling a game. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of Windosill. It uses mouse or touch controls on Steam Deck, progressing through levels and instruments. Randomness ensures unique creations.
It runs smoothly at 90fps, with options for resolution, v-sync, and anti-aliasing. Menu text is small on Steam Deck. Controller support is absent but touch controls work well.
ODDADA is recommended for music and art enthusiasts. While lacking controller support, touch controls are effective. Steam Deck verification is in progress.
ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5
Star Trucker Steam Deck Mini Review
Star Trucker blends automobile simulation and space exploration. It's unrated by Valve but playable on Proton Experimental.
The gameplay involves space exploration, jobs, earning money, and unlocking content. Visuals, writing, and radio banter are highlights.
Extensive graphics options are available, including 16:10 support. I used a custom preset (low shadows, other settings normal, TAA off) targeting ~40fps.
Controls are a significant issue, requiring adjustment.
Despite its genre blend, Star Trucker is enjoyable, particularly for fans of automobile simulation and exploration. 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 Western release following its Japanese PS4 debut. It's a sequel to DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation.
The story follows Shido's dream about Ren, branching into multiple paths and featuring returning characters. The art style is appealing.
Steam Deck performance is excellent, with 16:9 support at 720p and smooth cutscenes. Check system settings to ensure proper button configuration and aspect ratio.
It's recommended for fans of Rio Reincarnation, but playing it before is not advised.
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES Steam Deck Review Impressions
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES is an updated version of Total War: PHARAOH.
It significantly expands the original with added content, factions, and improvements. For owners of the original, it's like a sequel/enhanced re-release.
Steam Deck support lacks controller functionality but is playable via trackpad and touch controls. Initial impressions are positive.
Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions
Pinball FX, a pinball simulator, offers many PC graphics options and HDR support on Steam Deck.
Gameplay is enjoyable, with a wide selection of tables (some free, others DLC). It's a strong recommendation for Steam Deck.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable Games
Notable additions include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition (Verified). Black Myth: Wukong is listed as Unsupported despite playable performance.
Steam Deck Game Sales
The Games from Croatia sale features discounts on Talos Principle and other titles.
This concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly. Feedback is welcome.
