Welcome to this week's Steam Deck Weekly! Missed my Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Steam Deck review? Catch it here. This week, we dive into Steam Deck impressions and reviews of several games, focusing on Verified titles and current sales.
Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review
Yearly sports releases often face skepticism, but I've always enjoyed 2K's NBA titles, despite their flaws. NBA 2K25 stands out for two key reasons: it's the first time since the PS5 generation that the PC version matches the "Next Gen" console experience, and 2K officially confirmed Steam Deck optimization (though it lacks Valve's official rating). Having played it on Steam Deck, PS5, and Xbox Series X (thanks to review codes and a disc purchase), I'm very happy with the game, though some familiar issues remain.
For PC players who've skipped recent entries, NBA 2K25 shines with ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X) for enhanced gameplay, and the WNBA makes its PC debut alongside MyNBA mode. If you've waited for the full PC experience, this is it. I hope its success ensures continued Next-Gen PC releases and ongoing Steam Deck support from 2K.
The PC and Steam Deck versions boast 16:10 and 800p support—a great start. It also features AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I disabled these—more on that later). You can adjust v-sync, dynamic v-sync (targeting 90fps in gameplay, 45fps otherwise), HDR (yes, it works on Steam Deck!), texture detail, overall quality, and shader options. Caching shaders on initial boot is recommended for optimal gameplay. NBA 2K25 performs a quick shader cache on each boot, which is minor but noticeable.
The advanced graphics menu offers extensive customization: shader detail, shadow detail, player detail, crowd detail, NPC density, volumetric effects, reflections, era filters, global illumination, ambient occlusion, TAA, motion blur, depth of field, bloom, and max anisotropy. This is a remarkably feature-rich PC port. I kept most settings low or medium, disabling upscaling due to blurriness. Player detail and shader detail were set to medium. Capping the framerate to 60fps at 60hz via the Steam Deck quick access menu provided the best clarity and stability.
The default Steam Deck preset worked adequately but appeared too blurry for my preference, prompting my settings adjustments.
Offline play is limited. While some modes require online access, I tested the Steam Deck in airplane mode. MyCAREER and MyTEAM were inaccessible, though quick play and eras worked fine. Load times were faster offline.
Technically, the console versions offer a superior experience, but I find myself playing more on the Steam Deck after years on Switch and now Steam Deck. Load times are the biggest difference; even on my Steam Deck OLED's internal SSD, they're slower than on PS5 or Xbox Series X. It's not drastic, but noticeable. Also note: no cross-play between PC and consoles.
Microtransactions remain a persistent issue, impacting certain modes. If you just want a great-looking basketball game, they're less relevant, but remember the $69.99 price tag, higher than in previous years.
NBA 2K25 delivers a fantastic portable basketball experience, matching PS5 and Xbox Series X feature parity. With some tweaking, it looks and runs great. 2K finally brought all features to PC, and the Steam Deck experience is excellent. Be mindful of the microtransactions, though.
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5
Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions
Unfamiliar with Gimmick! 2? Check out Shaun's Switch review here. I tested the Steam Deck performance. While not yet Valve-tested, it runs flawlessly. A recent patch even includes Steam Deck and Linux fixes.
The game is capped at 60fps on Steam Deck; forcing your Steam Deck screen to 60hz (especially on OLED) is recommended to avoid jitter. No graphics options exist, but 16:10 menu support is present. At 1080p, the game correctly supports 16:10 (menus only; gameplay is 16:9).
While I hoped for >60fps, it's not a major drawback. Steam Deck verification seems likely given its smooth out-of-the-box performance. I concur with Shaun's review; Gimmick! 2's Steam Deck performance is excellent.
Arco Steam Deck Mini Review
I loved Arco from the start, but it felt a few updates from perfection. Its PC and Switch releases were followed by a major Steam update addressing many issues (not yet on Switch). This review covers the updated Steam Deck version.
Initial trailers might suggest a simple tactical game, but it's much more. The combat system is engaging; the audio and story were the most surprising aspects. The game presents diverse character stories and unique gameplay styles. While turn-based, real-time elements are present (think Superhot meets pixel art tactical RPG, though that's an oversimplification).
Arco launches as a Verified Steam Deck title; I experienced no issues on either of my Steam Decks. It's capped at 60fps and supports 16:9. A beta assist mode allows combat skipping, infinite dynamite, and more. The option to skip the first act on replays is particularly welcome.
Arco exceeded my expectations. Its dynamic gameplay, superb visuals, music, and compelling story make it highly recommended. A free demo is available on Steam.
Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5
Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review
Skull and Bones's Steam release (after PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC launches) is noteworthy. Having never played it before, I was curious about the Steam Deck performance, especially given Ubisoft's claims of playability. This review focuses on the Steam Deck port.
Valve rates Skull and Bones as "Playable." The initial Ubisoft Connect login is clunky. The tutorial runs smoothly, but for better performance, I limited the framerate to 30fps at 16:10 and 800p, using FSR 2 quality upscaling (performance upscaling is more stable). Settings were mostly low, except for high textures.
My early impressions of the game itself are positive, showing potential with continued support from Ubisoft. It's a better experience than its earlier iterations.
Skull and Bones is a tough recommendation at full price, but the free trial is worthwhile. Naval combat and open-world Ubisoft games are my thing, and Skull and Bones, despite its flaws, is enjoyable. It's online-only on Steam Deck; I'll likely get it on console for cross-progression.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA Steam Deck Review
I enjoy interactive toys like Townscaper. ODDADA felt like the next great one, and it delivered (with a minor control caveat).
ODDADA isn't strictly a game, but a music-making tool with game-like elements. The aesthetic is reminiscent of Windosill. It's a beautiful toolbox for creating unique music. Interaction is via mouse or Steam Deck touch controls. Randomness ensures diverse creations.
On Steam Deck, ODDADA runs perfectly at 90fps, lacking controller support (though touch or mouse are ideal). Graphics options include resolution, v-sync, and anti-aliasing. Menu text is slightly small on Steam Deck.
ODDADA is recommended for music and art enthusiasts. Controller support is absent, but touch controls work perfectly. Steam Deck verification is in progress.
ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5
Star Trucker Steam Deck Mini Review
Genre blends can be hit-or-miss. Star Trucker attempts to combine automobile simulation and space exploration, potentially appealing to a niche audience. It's not officially rated by Valve, but runs well on Proton Experimental.
The goal is space exploration, job completion, earning money, and unlocking content. Difficulty options and pre-game tweaking are available. While the gameplay loop is engaging, the visuals, writing, and radio banter are highlights.
PC and Steam Deck offer video mode, resolution (16:10 support included), refresh rate, v-sync, graphics quality, render scale, shadow quality, temporal anti-aliasing, ambient occlusion, mesh detail, and light shafts. My custom preset used low shadows but normal settings otherwise, disabling temporal anti-aliasing for ~40fps.
The controls are a significant issue, needing improvement.
Star Trucker surprisingly blends truck simulation and space exploration effectively. It caters to my preferences in those genres. Further optimization for Steam Deck would be beneficial.
Star Trucker Steam Deck review score: 4/5
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Mini Review
Initially a PS4 exclusive in Japan (2020), DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia now arrives in the West via Steam, following DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation. For those unfamiliar, it's based on Koshi Tachibana's light novels illustrated by Tsunako. Fans of Rio Reincarnation should definitely play this.
You play as Shido, dreaming of Ren, initiating the narrative with multiple paths and returning characters. Numerous choices are presented, accompanied by excellent art. It's lighter in tone than Rio Reincarnation, serving as a perfect complement.
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia runs flawlessly on Steam Deck (16:9 at 720p). Check system settings to ensure the confirm button is A (not B) and that the 16:9 image isn't stretched to 16:10 in fullscreen mode.
It's highly recommended for fans of Rio Reincarnation, featuring lovely art, music, and memorable characters. Play Rio Reincarnation first.
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES Steam Deck Review Impressions
It's unusual to see a free game update/re-launch get a new Steam page, but that's what happened with Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES. I received early access, expecting an update, not a new app. The original Total War: PHARAOH had potential but wasn't ready for a full price launch. Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES is what the original should have been. It's excellent on PC, but the Steam Deck version has caveats.
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES nearly doubles the campaign content, adding four factions, the Dynasty system, and numerous improvements. For Total War: PHARAOH owners, it feels like a sequel and enhanced re-release simultaneously.
The Steam Deck version lacks controller support but is playable with trackpad and touch controls. My initial impressions are positive.
Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions
Shaun's enthusiasm for Zen Studios' Pinball FX series finally prompted me to try it on a handheld. I previously played some tables on Switch, but the new Steam version (released last year) intrigued me.
The new DLC tables prompted my Steam Deck download. The PC port features and Steam Deck performance were impressive. I haven't played every DLC table, but the PC graphics options (including HDR) make it worthwhile to try the free client.
I've played about seven tables and love it. It feels like a pinball love letter. Download the free-to-play version to check it out.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week
Black Myth: Wukong is surprisingly "Unsupported" despite better performance than many Verified games. Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition are welcome Verified additions.
Black Myth: Wukong – Unsupported (playable, see my review) F1 Manager 2024 – Playable Hidden Through Time 2: Discovery – Playable Hookah Haze – Verified METAL SLUG ATTACK RELOADED – Verified OneShot: World Machine Edition – Verified Slash Quest – Verified Syberia – Verified Toree’s Panic Pack – Verified Volgarr the Viking II – Playable
Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials
Check out the Games from Croatia sale, featuring discounts on the Talos Principle series and more (until Monday morning).
That's it for this week's Steam Deck Weekly! Past and future coverage is here. Feedback is welcome! Thanks for reading!
