Steam Deck Weekly: NBA 2K25, ARCO, ODDADA, DATE a LIVE Ren Dystopia, Star Trucker, Skull and Bones, & More Reviews With New Verified Games

This week's Steam Deck Weekly features reviews and impressions of several games recently played on the handheld, including verified titles and some currently discounted.

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 feature the "Next Gen" experience, mirroring the consoles. Furthermore, the official PC FAQ confirms Steam Deck optimization. While lacking official Valve verification, my experience is positive, though some expected issues remain.

Key improvements for PC players include ProPLAY technology (previously PS5/Xbox Series X exclusive) for enhanced gameplay, and the WNBA and MyNBA mode debuts on PC. If you've avoided recent PC versions, NBA 2K25 delivers the complete package. Hopefully, this success will ensure future PC releases maintain Next-Gen parity and continued Steam Deck support.

The PC and Steam Deck versions boast 16:10 and 800p support. AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS are included but were disabled for improved clarity. V-sync, dynamic v-sync (targeting 90fps/45fps), HDR (Steam Deck compatible), texture detail, overall quality, and shader options are adjustable. Initial shader caching is recommended, although the game performs a quick cache on each boot.

Advanced graphics settings offer granular control over shader detail, shadows, player/crowd detail, NPC density, volumetric effects, reflections, era filters, global illumination, ambient occlusion, TAA, motion blur, depth of field, bloom, and anisotropy. For optimal performance and clarity on Steam Deck, I recommend medium settings for player detail and shader detail, with upscaling disabled, and a 60fps cap at 60hz. The default Steam Deck preset appeared overly blurry.

Offline play is partially supported. While MyCAREER and MyTEAM require online access, quick play and eras function offline, with noticeably faster load times.

While technically inferior to console versions, the Steam Deck provides a superior portable experience due to its convenience. Load times are slower than on PS5/Xbox Series X, but still acceptable. Cross-play with consoles is absent. Microtransactions remain a concern, impacting certain game modes. The $69.99 PC price is higher than previous years.

NBA 2K25 delivers a fantastic portable basketball experience on Steam Deck, matching PS5/Xbox Series X features. With minor adjustments, it looks and performs exceptionally well. The addition of all features to the PC version is welcome after years of waiting. However, be mindful of the microtransactions.

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5

Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions

(See Shaun's Switch review for background). Gimmick! 2 runs smoothly on Steam Deck, even without Valve verification, benefiting from recent Steam Deck and Linux fixes. Capped at 60fps, a 60hz screen refresh is recommended for OLED users to prevent jitter. While lacking graphics options, 16:10 menu support is present, though gameplay remains 16:9. 1080p testing confirmed proper 16:10 UI scaling. The smooth performance suggests imminent Steam Deck verification.

Arco Steam Deck Mini Review

Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received a major Steam update addressing previous issues (not yet on Switch). The game's blend of turn-based and real-time elements, along with its compelling story and audio, makes it more than just a visually appealing tactical game.

Steam Deck verification is present, with 60fps performance and 16:9 support. An assist mode (beta) allows combat skipping, infinite dynamite, and first-act skipping on replays.

Arco exceeds expectations with superb visuals, music, and a captivating story. Highly recommended for fans of tactical RPGs. 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). Ubisoft Connect login is required, but the process is slow. A 30fps cap, 16:10/800p resolution, and FSR 2 quality upscaling provide stable performance. Low settings (except high textures) are recommended.

Early impressions are positive, with potential for improvement through continued updates. It's an online-only experience.

Recommendation: Try the free trial before purchasing.

Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA

ODDADA Steam Deck Review

ODDADA, a music-making experience, functions as a game. Its aesthetic is appealing, and it offers many creative tools. Steam Deck touch controls work well, with 90fps performance. Resolution, v-sync, and anti-aliasing are adjustable. Menu text is small.

The lack of controller support is the only drawback; touch or mouse are preferable. Steam Deck verification is pending.

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 mastering either genre, it creates a unique experience. It runs on Proton Experimental. Extensive graphics options are available, including 16:10 support. A custom preset with low shadows and disabled temporal anti-aliasing achieved ~40fps. Controls require adjustment.

Despite control issues, the gameplay loop, visuals, writing, and voice acting are highlights. 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, DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia runs flawlessly on Steam Deck, with 720p/16:9 support. Check system settings to ensure correct button configuration and aspect ratio.

Recommended for fans of the series. Play DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation first.

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

Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES Steam Deck Review Impressions

Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES is an enhanced re-release of the original, adding significant content. Steam Deck play is possible using trackpad and touch controls, though controller support is absent.

Initial impressions are positive.

Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions

Pinball FX offers many PC graphics options, including HDR support on Steam Deck. Gameplay is enjoyable, with a wide selection of tables (some free, others paid DLC).

Highly recommended. Try the free version to test compatibility and gameplay.

New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week

(List of games)

Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials

(Mention of the Games from Croatia sale)

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