Latest Steam Releases: Sports, Action, JRPGs, and Adventure - News

This week's Steam Deck Weekly dives into recent gameplay experiences, reviews, and noteworthy sales. If you missed my Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Steam Deck review, you can find it here.

Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review

NBA 2K25 marks a significant milestone: the PC version finally mirrors the "Next Gen" experience previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X. Officially optimized for Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve), it delivers a satisfying, albeit not flawless, portable basketball experience. Key improvements include ProPLAY technology and the WNBA's PC debut. While not as fast-loading as console counterparts, the 16:10 and 800p support, along with AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I disabled these for clarity), make for a visually appealing game. Extensive graphics settings allow for customization, with a recommended 60fps cap at 60hz for optimal stability. Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require online access.

Despite the technical edge of console versions, the Steam Deck's portability makes it my preferred platform. Load times are noticeably slower than on PS5/Xbox Series X, and cross-play isn't supported. The persistent issue of microtransactions remains, impacting certain game modes. At $69.99, the price point is higher than previous years.

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5

Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions

Unverified by Valve but running smoothly, Gimmick! 2 boasts a recent patch with Steam Deck and Linux fixes. Capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended), it supports 16:10 in menus but maintains 16:9 gameplay. The lack of graphics options isn't a major drawback, and its smooth performance suggests imminent Steam Deck Verification.

Arco Steam Deck Mini Review

Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, shines with its engaging combat system, impressive audio, and compelling narrative. Steam Deck Verified, it runs at 60fps with 16:9 support. An assist mode (beta) offers combat skipping and other helpful options. The game's blend of real-time and turn-based elements sets it apart.

Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5

Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review

Newly available on Steam, Skull and Bones is rated "Playable" on Steam Deck. While the Ubisoft Connect login process could be smoother, the game runs well with a 30fps cap at 16:10 and 800p, utilizing FSR 2 upscaling. Performance is more stable with the performance upscaling preset. Early impressions are positive, showcasing potential with continued support. 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), its intuitive touch interface and beautiful visuals make it a joy to use. The menu text is slightly small for the Steam Deck screen.

ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5

Star Trucker Steam Deck Mini Review

Star Trucker blends automobile simulation and space exploration. While not deeply engaging in either genre, it creates a unique experience. It runs on Proton Experimental with customizable graphics settings, including 16:10 support. Controls require some adjustment.

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 a great sequel to DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation, offering a lighthearted story with excellent art. Ensure button configuration is checked in system settings.

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

Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES Steam Deck Review Impressions

Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES, a significantly enhanced version of the original, is playable on Steam Deck using trackpad and touch controls, though controller support is absent. Early impressions are positive.

Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions

Pinball FX offers a robust PC port with impressive graphics options, including HDR support on Steam Deck. Gameplay is enjoyable, and the free-to-play version allows for sampling before purchasing DLC.

New Steam Deck Verified & Playable Games for the Week

Notable additions include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition (Verified), and several others marked as Playable. Black Myth: Wukong, surprisingly, remains Unsupported despite playable performance.