Steam Deck: NBA 2K25, New Games Reviewed

This week's Steam Deck Weekly dives into recent gameplay experiences and reviews, highlighting several titles and current sales. If you missed my Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Steam Deck review, you can find it here.

Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck Review

Despite the usual yearly sports game skepticism, I've always enjoyed 2K's NBA titles. NBA 2K25 stands out for two key reasons: it's the first PC version since the PS5 launch to offer the true "Next Gen" experience, and it's officially optimized for Steam Deck (though not yet officially rated by Valve). My experience across PC, Steam Deck, and consoles confirms its quality, though some familiar 2K quirks remain.

Key improvements for PC players include ProPLAY technology (previously exclusive to PS5 and Xbox Series X) and the PC debut of WNBA and MyNBA mode. If you've held off on recent PC 2K releases, this is the definitive version, and hopefully its success will ensure future PC releases match console 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 also included, but I disabled them (reasons explained later). Adjustable settings include v-sync, dynamic v-sync (targeting 90fps/45fps), HDR (Steam Deck compatible!), texture detail, overall quality, and shader options. Initial shader caching is recommended for optimal gameplay, though the game performs a quick cache on each boot.

Extensive graphics options are available, including shader detail, shadow detail, and more. I opted for low/medium settings, disabling upscaling for improved clarity. Capping the framerate at 60fps at 60hz via the Steam Deck quick access menu provided the best stability and visual fidelity.

The default Steam Deck preset, while functional, appeared overly blurry, prompting my manual adjustments.

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.

While technically inferior to console versions, the Steam Deck provides a superior portable experience. Load times are slower than on PS5/Xbox Series X, but still acceptable. Note that there's no crossplay between PC and consoles.

Microtransactions remain a concern, particularly for certain game modes. However, if you solely focus on core gameplay, this is less of an issue. Keep this in mind given the $69.99 price point.

NBA 2K25 delivers a fantastic portable basketball experience on Steam Deck, matching PS5/Xbox Series X feature parity. With some tweaking, it looks and runs great. A worthwhile purchase for Steam Deck owners, but be mindful of the microtransactions.

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5

Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions

For those unfamiliar, read Shaun's Switch review here. Gimmick! 2, while not yet Valve-tested, runs flawlessly on Steam Deck, even benefiting from recent Linux-specific fixes.

The game is capped at 60fps (forcing your Steam Deck to 60hz on OLED is recommended to avoid jitter). While lacking graphical options, it supports 16:10 menus, though gameplay remains at 16:9. 1080p testing confirmed proper 16:10 menu aspect ratio.

The 60fps cap isn't detrimental. Given its smooth out-of-the-box performance, Steam Deck Verification seems likely. My impressions align with Shaun's review; its excellent performance on Steam Deck is a welcome surprise.

Arco Steam Deck Mini Review

Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, has received a significant update on Steam since its initial PC/Switch release. This review focuses on the updated Steam Deck version.

The game surpasses expectations, offering compelling combat, impressive audio, and a captivating story. Its blend of turn-based and real-time elements creates a unique experience.

Steam Deck compatibility is excellent (Verified), with a 60fps cap and 16:9 support. An assist mode (beta) offers combat skipping, infinite dynamite, and first-act skipping for replays.

Arco is a highly recommended tactical RPG with superb visuals, music, and 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' Steam Deck performance is rated "Playable." Initial setup via Ubisoft Connect is slow. For stable performance, I used a 30fps cap, 16:10/800p resolution, FSR 2 quality upscaling (performance mode is more stable), and low settings (high textures).

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

Recommendation pending further playtime and future updates. Consider the free trial. Cross-progression with consoles is available.

Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA

ODDADA Steam Deck Review

ODDADA, a music-making experience, is a delightful interactive toy. Its aesthetic is visually appealing, offering numerous creative tools. Steam Deck interaction is via touch controls (no controller support yet). It runs smoothly at 90fps.

Minor drawbacks include small menu text and lack of controller support (though touch or mouse are preferable).

Highly recommended for music and art enthusiasts. Controller support is in development; 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 fully satisfying either genre, it creates a unique experience. Unverified, but playable on Proton Experimental.

Gameplay involves exploration, jobs, and unlocking content. Visuals, writing, and radio banter are highlights.

Extensive graphical settings are available, allowing for performance optimization. I achieved ~40fps with adjusted settings. Controls require some adjustment.

Despite control issues, Star Trucker's unique blend of genres is appealing. 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 great sequel to Rio Reincarnation. It runs flawlessly on Steam Deck (720p, 16:9 support).

The story is engaging, with multiple paths and returning characters. Art and music are excellent.

Recommended for fans of Rio Reincarnation, but best played after it.

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 significant update to the original, adding content, factions, and improvements. Steam Deck support is playable, but lacks controller support (using trackpad/touch controls).

Initial impressions are positive for fans of the original.

Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions

Pinball FX offers a wide selection of tables with extensive PC graphical options and HDR support on Steam Deck. Gameplay is enjoyable.

Highly recommended; even the free-to-play version is worthwhile to try.

New Steam Deck Verified & Playable Games

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

Steam Deck Game Sales

Check out the Games from Croatia sale for discounts on Talos Principle and more (until Monday).

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