This week's Steam Deck Weekly roundup features reviews and impressions of several games, along with a look at new Verified and Playable titles, and current sales. If you missed my Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Steam Deck review, you can find it here.
Despite the usual yearly sports game skepticism, I've always enjoyed 2K's NBA titles. NBA 2K25 stands out for two key reasons: it's the first PC version since the PS5 launch to offer the "Next Gen" experience, and 2K officially confirmed its Steam Deck optimization (though lacking a Valve rating). After playing it on Steam Deck, PS5, and Xbox Series X, I'm very satisfied, despite some expected shortcomings.
Longtime PC NBA 2K players will appreciate ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X) for enhanced gameplay, and the PC debut of WNBA and MyNBA modes. If you skipped recent PC releases hoping for the complete experience, NBA 2K25 delivers. I hope its success ensures future PC releases mirror the Next Gen versions and maintain Steam Deck compatibility.
The PC and Steam Deck versions boast 16:10 and 800p support. AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS are included, but I disabled them (explained later). Adjustable settings include v-sync, dynamic v-sync (targeting 90fps during gameplay and 45fps otherwise), HDR (Steam Deck compatible!), texture detail, overall quality, and shader options. I recommend caching shaders on first boot for optimal gameplay. NBA 2K25 on Steam Deck performs a quick shader cache on each boot, a minor but noticeable detail.
Extensive graphics options are available, including shader detail, shadow detail, player detail, crowd detail, NPC density, and more. I used low or medium settings, disabling upscaling to avoid blurriness. Capping the framerate to 60fps at 60hz via the Steam Deck quick access menu provided the clearest, most stable experience.
The default Steam Deck visual preset, while functional, appeared too blurry for my preference, prompting my manual adjustments.
Offline play is limited. While some modes require internet access, quick play and eras work offline. Load times were faster offline.
Technically, the console versions surpass the Steam Deck experience. However, after years on Switch and Steam Deck, I find myself playing more on Valve's handheld. Load times are slower on Steam Deck, even with an OLED's internal SSD, but not excessively so. Note: no crossplay with consoles.
Microtransactions remain an issue, particularly in certain modes. If you solely want a visually appealing and playable basketball game, they're less of a concern. However, remember that the $69.99 PC price is higher than in previous years.
NBA 2K25 provides a fantastic portable basketball experience on Steam Deck, matching PS5 and Xbox Series X features. With minor adjustments, it looks and runs great. 2K finally brought all features to PC after years of waiting. Steam Deck owners will enjoy it, but be mindful of the microtransactions.
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5
For those unfamiliar with Gimmick! 2, check out Shaun's Switch review here. It runs smoothly on Steam Deck (unverified, but with recent Steam Deck and Linux fixes). Capped at 60fps, I recommend forcing 60hz on OLED screens to prevent jitter. No graphics options, but 16:10 menu support is present; gameplay remains 16:9.
While 60fps is the limit, it's not a significant drawback. It's likely to receive Steam Deck Verified status soon. I concur with Shaun's positive review.
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received significant updates since its initial release, addressing prior concerns. This review focuses on the updated Steam Deck version. The combat system is unique, blending real-time elements with turn-based gameplay. The audio and story are particularly impressive.
Steam Deck compatibility is excellent (Verified). Capped at 60fps (16:9 support), it includes an assist mode (beta) for skipping combat, infinite dynamite, and skipping the first act on replays.
Arco exceeded expectations. The dynamic gameplay, visuals, music, and story are superb. A free demo is available.
Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5
Skull and Bones, recently added to Steam, is playable on Steam Deck (Valve rating: Playable). The Ubisoft Connect login process is slow. For stable performance, I used a 30fps limit, 16:10 and 800p resolution, FSR 2 quality upscaling, and low settings (except high textures).
While early in my playthrough, I see potential. Ubisoft's continued support will improve it further.
Difficult to recommend at full price, but the free trial is worth checking. Naval combat fans and those who enjoy Ubisoft's open worlds might find it appealing. It's online-only.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA is a unique music-making experience. It runs perfectly at 90fps on Steam Deck (no controller support yet, but touch controls work well). Resolution, v-sync, and anti-aliasing are adjustable. Menu text is small.
Despite the lack of controller support, it's highly recommended. Touch or mouse controls are preferable.
A must-have for music and art enthusiasts. The team is working on Steam Deck Verification.
ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5
Star Trucker blends automobile simulation and space exploration. It runs well on Proton Experimental (unrated by Valve). The gameplay loop, visuals, writing, and radio banter are highlights. Extensive graphics options are available. I used a custom preset targeting 40fps. Controls need improvement.
Despite some control issues, it's an enjoyable experience for fans of automobile simulation and exploration games. Further optimization is hoped for.
Star Trucker Steam Deck review score: 4/5
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia, a visual novel, runs flawlessly on Steam Deck (16:9 at 720p). Check system settings for button configuration.
Recommended for fans of DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation. Play Rio Reincarnation first.
DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5
Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES is a significant update to the original. It's highly recommended on PC. Steam Deck playability is good, but controller support is absent (using trackpad and touch controls).
Pinball FX offers many PC graphics options, including HDR on Steam Deck. The gameplay is enjoyable. The free version is recommended to test compatibility and sample tables.
Notable additions include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition (Verified). Black Myth: Wukong is listed as Unsupported, despite playable performance.
The Games from Croatia sale features discounts on Talos Principle and more. Sale ends Monday.
That concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly. Feedback is welcome.
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