Weekly Steam Deck News Roundup: Latest Reviews and Verified Games

This week's Steam Deck Weekly highlights reviews and impressions of several games, focusing on their Steam Deck performance. Let's dive in!

Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review

NBA 2K25 marks a significant milestone: the PC version finally mirrors the next-gen console experience. Officially optimized for Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve), it delivers a largely positive experience, though with some familiar 2K quirks. Key improvements include ProPLAY technology and the WNBA's PC debut.

The Steam Deck port boasts 16:10 and 800p support, along with AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I found disabling these improved clarity). Extensive graphical settings allow for customization, with a recommended 60fps cap at 60hz for optimal stability. While the shader cache on each boot is minor, it's noticeable. Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require online access, though quick play and eras function offline. Load times are slower than on consoles, and microtransactions remain a concern.

Despite the technical advantages of console versions, the portable convenience of Steam Deck makes it my preferred platform. The visual preset is a bit blurry, prompting manual adjustment for optimal clarity.

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5

Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions

Unverified by Valve but running smoothly, Gimmick! 2 features a recent patch with Steam Deck and Linux improvements. Capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended), it supports 16:10 in menus but maintains 16:9 gameplay. While lacking graphical options, its out-of-the-box performance is excellent, suggesting imminent Steam Deck Verification.

Arco Steam Deck Mini Review

Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, shines with its engaging combat, compelling story, and superb audio. Steam Deck Verified, it runs at a capped 60fps with 16:9 support. An assist mode (beta) offers combat skipping and other helpful features.

Its blend of real-time and turn-based elements creates a unique experience. The inclusion of an assist mode and the option to skip the first act on replays are welcome additions.

Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5

Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review

Recently added to Steam, Skull and Bones is rated "Playable" on Steam Deck. While the initial Ubisoft Connect login is slow, gameplay is generally smooth with a 30fps cap at 16:10 and 800p, utilizing FSR 2 quality upscaling. Lowering settings (except textures) enhances stability. The game itself shows potential, but requires further development. It's an online-only experience.

Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA

ODDADA Steam Deck Review

ODDADA, a music-making experience, runs flawlessly at 90fps with touch controls. While lacking controller support (currently in development), it offers resolution, v-sync, and anti-aliasing options. Menu text is small.

ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5

Star Trucker Steam Deck Mini Review

Star Trucker blends automobile simulation and space exploration. Running on Proton Experimental, it offers extensive graphical settings, allowing for performance optimization. The controls require adjustment.

Despite some control issues, the game's visuals, writing, and radio banter are highlights.

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 at 720p with 16:9 support. It's recommended to check system settings to ensure proper button configuration and aspect ratio.

DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5

Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES Steam Deck Review Impressions

Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES, an enhanced re-release, is playable on Steam Deck but lacks controller support, relying on trackpad and touch controls.

Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions

Pinball FX offers a robust PC port with HDR support on Steam Deck. The gameplay is highly enjoyable, with many tables available as paid DLC. A free-to-play version allows for sampling.

New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week

Notable additions include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition (Verified), while Black Myth: Wukong, despite being marked Unsupported, performs well.

Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials

The Games from Croatia sale offers discounts on the Talos Principle series and more.

This concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly. Feedback is welcome!