Game Reviews Galore: Steam Deck Highlights NBA 2K25 and More

This week's Steam Deck Weekly highlights reviews and impressions of several games recently played on the handheld, including both Steam Deck Verified titles and some notable current discounts.

Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review

Despite the usual yearly sports game skepticism, NBA 2K25 stands out. It's the first PC version since the PS5 launch to offer the "Next Gen" experience, mirroring the consoles, and is officially optimized for Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve). My experience playing it on Steam Deck, alongside consoles, reveals a satisfying, albeit not perfect, port.

Key improvements for PC players include ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X) and the PC debuts of WNBA and MyNBA mode. If you've held off on recent PC 2K releases, NBA 2K25 is the definitive version. Let's hope its success encourages continued Next Gen PC releases and dedicated Steam Deck optimization from 2K.

The Steam Deck and PC versions boast 16:10 and 800p support, along with AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I disabled these for clarity). Adjustable settings include v-sync, a dynamic v-sync targeting 90fps/45fps, HDR (functional on Steam Deck!), texture detail, overall quality, and shader options. Initial shader caching is recommended, though the game inexplicably performs a quick re-cache on each boot.

Extensive graphics options are available, allowing for fine-tuning of shader detail, shadows, player detail, crowd detail, and more. I found a balance of medium settings (player and shader detail) with upscaling disabled, capped at 60fps for optimal clarity and stability. The default Steam Deck preset, while functional, appeared overly blurry.

Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require online access, though quick play and eras work offline, with noticeably faster load times.

While technically inferior to console versions, the Steam Deck's portability makes it my preferred platform for NBA 2K25. Load times are slower than on PS5/Xbox Series X, and there's no crossplay. The persistent issue of microtransactions remains, impacting certain game modes. At $69.99, it's a premium price for a basketball game.

Ultimately, NBA 2K25 provides a fantastic portable basketball experience, matching PS5/Xbox Series X feature parity. With some adjustments, it looks and plays great. 2K has finally delivered a complete PC experience, but be mindful of the microtransactions.

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5

Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions

(See Shaun's Switch review [link]). Gimmick! 2 runs well on Steam Deck, even without official Valve testing, benefiting from recent Steam Deck and Linux fixes. Capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended to avoid jitter), it features 16:10 menu support (though gameplay remains 16:9). It's a strong contender for future Steam Deck Verification.

Arco Steam Deck Mini Review

Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received significant updates since its initial release, making the Steam version (currently more up-to-date than Switch) the best option. Its unique blend of turn-based and real-time elements, combined with excellent visuals, audio, and story, makes it stand out.

Steam Deck Verified, it runs smoothly at 60fps (16:9 support only), including an assist mode (beta) for optional combat skipping and other adjustments. The ability to skip the first act during replays is particularly welcome.

Arco is a highly recommended tactical RPG with a compelling narrative. A free demo is available.

Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5

Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review

Recently added to Steam, Skull and Bones is playable on Steam Deck (rated "Playable" by Valve). Initial setup via Ubisoft Connect is clunky. For stable performance, a 30fps cap at 16:10 and 800p with FSR 2 quality upscaling (or performance for better stability) and low settings (except high textures) is recommended.

Early impressions are positive, showing potential with ongoing updates. It's an online-only experience.

A recommendation depends on price and ongoing support. The free trial is recommended.

Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA

ODDADA Steam Deck Review

ODDADA, a music-making experience, is a gorgeous and elegant tool for creating music. It utilizes mouse or touch controls (no controller support yet) and runs perfectly at 90fps. Menu text is small on Steam Deck.

Despite the lack of controller support, ODDADA is highly recommended 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 exploring either genre, it offers a unique experience. It runs on Proton Experimental.

Extensive graphics settings are available. A custom preset with low shadows and normal settings (except temporal anti-aliasing) yielded around 40fps. Controls require adjustment.

Star Trucker is a surprisingly enjoyable blend of genres. Further optimization for Steam Deck is hoped for.

Star Trucker Steam Deck review score: 4/5

DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Mini Review

A visual novel released on Steam, DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia is a great sequel to Rio Reincarnation. It features a compelling narrative, multiple paths, and beautiful art.

It runs flawlessly on Steam Deck at 720p (16:9). Check system settings for button configuration.

Highly recommended for fans of the series.

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

Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES Steam Deck Review Impressions

Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES is a significantly enhanced re-release of the original, adding content and improvements. While playable on Steam Deck, it currently lacks controller support, relying on trackpad and touch controls.

Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions

Pinball FX offers a great pinball experience with extensive PC graphics options and HDR support on Steam Deck. The free-to-play version allows for sampling the game before purchasing DLC.

New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week

(List of games)

Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials

(Mention of sales)

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