This week's Steam Deck Weekly dives into recent gameplay experiences, reviews, and noteworthy sales. Missed the Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 review? Catch it here!
Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review
NBA 2K25 marks a significant milestone: the PC version finally matches the next-gen console experience, a first since the PS5 launch. The game's official PC FAQ confirms Steam Deck optimization, although it lacks Valve's official rating. My experience across PC, Steam Deck, and consoles reveals a highly enjoyable game, though with some familiar shortcomings.
Key improvements for PC players include ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X) and the WNBA and MyNBA modes, making this the definitive PC experience. Let's hope this success encourages continued next-gen PC ports and dedicated Steam Deck support.
The PC and Steam Deck versions boast 16:10 and 800p support, along with AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I disabled these for clarity). Extensive graphical settings allow for customization, including shader detail, shadow quality, and more. I found capping the framerate at 60fps at 60hz provided the best balance of performance and visual fidelity. The game performs a quick shader cache on each boot, a minor inconvenience.
While a Steam Deck visual preset is available, I preferred tweaking settings for sharper visuals. Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require an internet connection, but Quick Play and Eras modes function offline with faster load times.
Technically, the console versions surpass the Steam Deck experience, but the portability factor makes the Steam Deck my preferred platform. Load times are noticeably longer on the Steam Deck, even with an SSD. Cross-play with consoles is absent. The persistent issue of microtransactions remains, impacting certain game modes. At $69.99, the price point is also a factor.
In conclusion, NBA 2K25 offers a fantastic portable basketball experience on the Steam Deck, matching the PS5 and Xbox Series X feature set. With some adjustments, the visuals and performance are excellent. However, be mindful of the microtransactions.
NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5
Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions
Unfamiliar with Gimmick! 2? Check out Shaun's Switch review here. My Steam Deck experience was smooth, with the game running well out-of-the-box, even mentioning Steam Deck and Linux fixes in its latest patch.
The game is capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended), lacks graphical options, but supports 16:10 in menus. Gameplay remains at 16:9. Its seamless performance suggests a likely Steam Deck Verified rating soon.
Arco Steam Deck Mini Review
Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received a significant update on Steam, addressing previous issues. This review focuses on the updated Steam version. The game blends turn-based and real-time elements, offering a unique tactical RPG experience. The audio and narrative are particularly noteworthy.
Steam Deck Verified, Arco runs flawlessly at 60fps, supporting 16:9. An assist mode (beta) allows for combat skipping and other adjustments. The ability to skip the first act during replays is a welcome addition.
Arco exceeded expectations, boasting superb visuals, music, and a compelling narrative. A free demo is available on Steam.
Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5
Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review
Newly available on Steam, Skull and Bones is rated "Playable" by Valve. Initial setup requires a Ubisoft Connect login, which proved slightly cumbersome. Setting a 30fps frame rate limit, 16:10 resolution at 800p, and using FSR 2 quality upscaling provided a stable experience.
While early in my playthrough, the game shows promise, particularly with recent updates. It's an online-only experience.
A full-price recommendation is difficult, but the free trial is worth checking. Cross-progression with consoles is a plus.
Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA
ODDADA Steam Deck Review
ODDADA, a music-making experience, is a delightful interactive toy. Its aesthetic is captivating, offering a range of creative tools. Steam Deck touch controls work well, although controller support is currently absent. The game runs smoothly at 90fps.
Menu text is somewhat small. Despite the lack of controller support, touch or mouse controls are perfectly adequate. Steam Deck Verification is in progress.
A strong recommendation for music and art enthusiasts.
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 rooted in either genre, it offers a unique experience. The visuals, writing, and radio banter are highlights. Extensive graphical settings allow for optimization.
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 the Steam Deck out-of-the-box, supporting 16:9 at 720p. Check system settings to ensure proper button configuration.
A recommended follow-up to DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation.
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 highly recommended on PC. Steam Deck play is possible using trackpad and touch controls, although controller support is absent.
Initial impressions are positive.
Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions
Pinball FX offers a comprehensive PC port with HDR support on Steam Deck. The gameplay is highly enjoyable, with many tables available as DLC. A free-to-play version allows for sampling.
Highly recommended.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable Games
Notable additions include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition (Verified). Black Myth: Wukong's "Unsupported" rating is surprising given its performance.
Steam Deck Game Sales
The Games from Croatia sale offers discounts on Talos Principle and other titles.
This concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly. Feedback is welcome!
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