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 my 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 optimized for Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve), it delivers a satisfying, albeit not perfect, portable basketball experience. Long-time PC players will appreciate the inclusion of ProPLAY technology and the WNBA debut. While graphical fidelity isn't quite console-level, the game boasts impressive features like 16:10 and 800p support, AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I found disabling upscaling improved clarity). 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, but Quick Play and Eras modes function offline. Load times, while improved, still lag behind console versions. Microtransactions remain a persistent issue, impacting certain game modes.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the portable convenience makes NBA 2K25 a winning experience on the Steam Deck. 2K's effort in bringing a feature-complete PC port, including Steam Deck optimization, is commendable.

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5

Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions

Gimmick! 2, while not yet Valve-tested, runs flawlessly on the Steam Deck, even boasting recent Linux fixes. Capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended), it offers 16:10 menu support (though gameplay remains 16:9). The lack of graphics options isn't a hindrance; its smooth performance strongly suggests upcoming Steam Deck Verified status.

A perfect out-of-the-box experience, Gimmick! 2 is a must-play for fans of the genre.

Arco Steam Deck Mini Review

Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, shines on Steam Deck with its updated build. Steam Deck Verified, it runs smoothly at 60fps (16:9 support only). The inclusion of an assist mode (beta) allows for combat skipping and other helpful options. Its unique blend of real-time and turn-based elements, combined with stunning visuals, music, and compelling storytelling, makes it a standout title. 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 boasts a "Playable" rating. While the initial Ubisoft Connect login process is slow, gameplay is generally smooth at 30fps (16:10, 800p) with FSR 2 upscaling. Performance improves with the performance upscaling preset. Despite some early performance hiccups, the game shows potential, especially with ongoing updates. A free trial is recommended before purchasing. Note that it's online-only.

Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA

ODDADA Steam Deck Review

ODDADA, a unique music-making experience, runs perfectly at 90fps on Steam Deck, utilizing touch controls (controller support is absent but in development). Minimal graphics settings are available. Despite the lack of controller support, its intuitive touch interface and beautiful aesthetics make it a must-have for music enthusiasts.

ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5

Star Trucker Steam Deck Mini Review

Star Trucker blends space exploration and truck simulation. While not yet rated by Valve, it runs well on Proton Experimental. Extensive graphics settings allow for performance optimization. Despite its unique concept, control issues may deter some players.

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 flawlessly on Steam Deck at 720p (16:9). No adjustments are needed. A recommended title for fans of the series, but best played after 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 re-release, is playable on Steam Deck using trackpad and touch controls (controller support is pending). Initial impressions are positive, particularly for those who enjoyed the original but felt it needed improvement.

Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions

Pinball FX delivers a fantastic pinball experience on Steam Deck, with extensive PC graphics options and HDR support. The free-to-play version allows for sampling before purchasing DLC tables.

New Steam Deck Verified & Playable Games

Notable additions include Hookah Haze and OneShot: World Machine Edition (Verified), while Black Myth: Wukong remains Unsupported (despite playable performance).

Steam Deck Game Sales

The Games from Croatia sale features discounts on the Talos Principle series and more.

That concludes this week's Steam Deck Weekly! Share your feedback in the comments.