Steam Deck Reviews: NBA 2K25, ARCO, & More

This week's Steam Deck Weekly highlights recent gameplay experiences and reviews, focusing on several titles tested on the handheld device. We also cover new Verified and Playable game additions and a noteworthy sale.

Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review

Despite the usual yearly sports game skepticism, NBA 2K25 stands out. This PC version finally matches the "Next Gen" quality of PS5 and Xbox Series X releases, and is officially optimized for Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve). My experience playing it across PC, Steam Deck, and consoles reveals a satisfying, if not perfect, game.

Key improvements include ProPLAY technology for enhanced gameplay, and the PC debut of WNBA and MyNBA modes. If you've held off on PC versions in the past, NBA 2K25 delivers the complete experience. Hopefully, this success will ensure future PC releases maintain this standard and continue strong Steam Deck support.

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). Extensive graphical settings allow for customization, from v-sync and HDR to texture and shader detail. I recommend letting the game cache shaders initially for optimal gameplay. Note that NBA 2K25 on Steam Deck performs a brief shader cache on each boot.

While the advanced graphics menu offers granular control, I found a balance between visual quality and performance by setting most to low or medium, disabling upscaling, and capping the framerate at 60fps. The built-in Steam Deck visual preset, while functional, appeared too blurry for my preference.

Offline play is limited; while quick play and eras are accessible offline, MyCAREER and MyTEAM require an internet connection. Interestingly, offline load times were faster.

Technically, the console versions surpass the Steam Deck experience, but the portability factor makes the Steam Deck my preferred platform. Load times are noticeably slower on Steam Deck, even with an SSD, but the overall convenience outweighs this difference. Cross-play isn't available between PC and consoles.

The pervasive microtransactions remain a concern, especially for modes heavily reliant on them. However, if you prioritize core gameplay, this issue is less impactful. Note the higher price point ($69.99) compared to previous years.

NBA 2K25 delivers a fantastic portable basketball experience on Steam Deck, matching the PS5 and Xbox Series X feature set. With some minor adjustments, it looks and plays great. 2K and Visual Concepts have finally brought the full experience to PC, and Steam Deck users will be pleased. 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 on Gimmick! 2). Despite lacking official Valve testing, Gimmick! 2 runs flawlessly on Steam Deck, even benefiting from recent Linux-specific fixes. It's capped at 60fps (forcing your Steam Deck to 60hz on OLED is recommended to avoid jitter), and offers 16:10 support in menus (gameplay remains 16:9).

While a higher framerate would be welcome, the current performance is excellent and suggests a likely future Steam Deck Verified status. The game itself lives up to expectations, making its smooth Steam Deck performance even more impressive.

Arco Steam Deck Mini Review

Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received significant updates since its initial release, fixing previous issues. The Steam version (currently the most up-to-date) is reviewed here. The game blends turn-based and real-time elements in a unique way, surpassing expectations with its compelling story, audio, and diverse character gameplay styles.

Steam Deck compatibility is excellent (Verified), with a 60fps cap and 16:9 support. An assist mode (beta) offers options like combat skipping and infinite dynamite. The ability to skip the first act on replays is a welcome addition.

Arco is a highly recommended tactical RPG with a memorable story. A free demo is available on Steam.

Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5

Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review

Recently added to Steam, Skull and Bones is reviewed here with a focus on its Steam Deck performance. Ubisoft's confirmation of playability was reassuring. The game is rated "Playable" by Valve. Initial login through Ubisoft Connect can be slow, but gameplay is generally smooth at 30fps (16:10, 800p) with FSR 2 quality upscaling and low settings (textures set to high).

While still early in my playthrough, the game shows potential, especially with recent updates. It's an online-only experience.

A recommendation is pending further playtime, but the free trial is suggested.

Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA

ODDADA Steam Deck Review

ODDADA, a music-making experience, resembles an interactive toy. Its beautiful visuals and intuitive design allow for creative music generation. It's best played with touch controls or a mouse (currently lacks controller support), running flawlessly at 90fps with adjustable settings. Menu text is somewhat small on the Steam Deck.

Despite the lack of controller support, ODDADA is highly recommended for music and art enthusiasts. The team is working towards Steam Deck Verified status.

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 creates a unique experience. Tested on Proton Experimental, it offers a range of graphical settings (including 16:10 support) allowing for performance optimization. I achieved around 40fps with a custom low-shadow preset. Controls require some adjustment.

Despite some control issues, the game's visuals, writing, and radio banter 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

DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia, a visual novel, runs perfectly on Steam Deck out-of-the-box, with 16:9 support at 720p. Check system settings to ensure button configuration (confirm button as A, not B) and proper aspect ratio.

Highly recommended 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 reviewed here. While lacking controller support on Steam Deck, it's playable with trackpad and touch controls. Initial impressions are positive.

Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions

Pinball FX, featuring extensive PC graphics options and HDR support on Steam Deck, is a strong recommendation. 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). Black Myth: Wukong's "Unsupported" rating is surprising given its performance.

Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials

The Games from Croatia sale offers discounts on Talos Principle and other titles.

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