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 dives into recent gameplay experiences and reviews, highlighting several titles and a noteworthy sale. 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 mirrors the "Next Gen" experience previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X. Officially confirmed as Steam Deck optimized (though not yet Valve-rated), it delivers a satisfying, if not flawless, portable basketball experience. Key improvements include ProPLAY technology and the WNBA's PC debut. While the full experience is here, familiar 2K issues persist.

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 improved clarity). Extensive graphical settings allow for customization, from texture detail to advanced options like global illumination and ambient occlusion. I recommend a 60fps cap at 60hz for optimal stability and visual fidelity. The game performs a quick shader cache on each boot, a minor inconvenience. A built-in Steam Deck visual preset is available, but I found it overly blurry.

Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require an online connection, though quick play and eras remain accessible offline. Load times, while improved from older systems, are noticeably slower than on PS5 or Xbox Series X. Crossplay with consoles is absent. Microtransactions remain a significant element, impacting certain game modes.

Despite technical limitations compared to consoles, the portable convenience makes NBA 2K25 a compelling Steam Deck experience. 2K's commitment to PC feature parity and Steam Deck optimization is commendable. However, be mindful of the microtransaction model.

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5

Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions

Unverified by Valve but running smoothly, Gimmick! 2 benefits from recent patches addressing Steam Deck and Linux compatibility. Capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended), it offers native 16:10 menu support (gameplay remains 16:9). While higher frame rates would be welcome, its out-of-the-box performance suggests imminent Steam Deck Verification. Shaun's Switch review (linked above) accurately captures the gameplay experience.

Arco Steam Deck Mini Review

Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, shines with its engaging combat system, impressive audio, and captivating story. The Steam version (currently more updated than Switch) is Steam Deck Verified, running smoothly at 60fps (16:9 only). An assist mode offers options like combat skipping and infinite dynamite.

Arco surpasses expectations, blending tactical gameplay with a compelling narrative and stunning visuals. A free demo is available.

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. The Ubisoft Connect login process feels sluggish. Targeting 30fps at 16:10 and 800p with FSR 2 quality upscaling delivers a stable experience (performance upscaling is more stable). Early impressions are positive, showcasing potential with ongoing updates. Online-only play is a key consideration.

A free trial is recommended before a full-price purchase.

Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA

ODDADA Steam Deck Review

ODDADA, a music-making experience, is a visually stunning and elegant tool for creative expression. Running flawlessly at 90fps on Steam Deck, it utilizes touch controls (controller support is absent but in development). Minor drawbacks include small menu text.

Despite the lack of controller support, ODDADA's intuitive touch controls and captivating gameplay make it a worthwhile addition to any Steam Deck library. Steam Deck Verification is pending.

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. Running on Proton Experimental, it offers extensive graphical settings, allowing for performance optimization. A custom preset with lowered shadows and deactivated temporal anti-aliasing achieved a stable 40fps. Controls require adjustment.

Despite control issues, Star Trucker's visuals, writing, and audio design create an enjoyable gameplay loop. 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

DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia, a visual novel, is a delightful sequel to Rio Reincarnation, featuring engaging characters and a lighthearted narrative. Running flawlessly at 720p (16:9), it requires minor system setting adjustments (confirm button and aspect ratio).

A strong recommendation for fans of the series, but best enjoyed after playing 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 re-release of the original, offers expanded content and gameplay improvements. While playable on Steam Deck using trackpad and touch controls (controller support is absent), initial impressions are positive.

Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions

Pinball FX delivers a comprehensive pinball experience with extensive PC graphical options and HDR support on Steam Deck. Gameplay is enjoyable, and the free-to-play version allows for testing before purchasing DLC tables.

New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week

Notable additions include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition (Verified), with several others marked as Playable. Black Myth: Wukong's "Unsupported" status is surprising given its performance.

Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials

The Games from Croatia sale offers discounts on the Talos Principle series and more, running until Monday.

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