Steam Deck Weekly: Reviews and News for ARCO, ODDADA, and More

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 review, you can find 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. Key improvements include ProPLAY technology for enhanced gameplay and the WNBA's PC debut. However, the familiar microtransaction issues persist.

The Steam Deck port boasts 16:10 and 800p support, AMD FSR 2, DLSS, and XeSS (though I disabled these for better clarity). Extensive graphics settings allow for customization, although I found a 60fps cap at 60hz offered the most stable and visually appealing performance. The default Steam Deck preset appeared overly blurry. Offline play is limited; MyCAREER and MyTEAM require an online connection, but quick play and eras function offline. Load times are noticeably slower than on consoles.

Despite technical limitations compared to consoles (primarily load times and lack of crossplay), the portability factor makes the Steam Deck version my preferred platform.

The pervasive microtransactions remain a concern, especially for modes heavily reliant on them, considering the game's $69.99 price point.

NBA 2K25 Steam Deck review score: 4/5

Gimmick! 2 Steam Deck Impressions

(See Shaun's Switch review here). Gimmick! 2 runs smoothly on Steam Deck, even boasting Steam Deck and Linux fixes in its latest patch. Capped at 60fps (forcing 60hz on OLED screens is recommended), it offers 16:10 menu support (gameplay remains 16:9). The lack of graphics options isn't detrimental, and its seamless performance suggests imminent Steam Deck Verified status.

Arco Steam Deck Mini Review

Arco, a dynamic turn-based RPG, shines on Steam Deck with its updated build (superior to the Switch version). The blend of real-time and turn-based combat, coupled with compelling audio and storytelling, makes it a standout title. Steam Deck Verified, it runs at 60fps with 16:9 support and includes an assist mode for optional combat skipping.

Arco Steam Deck review score: 5/5

Skull and Bones Steam Deck Mini Review

Newly available on Steam, Skull and Bones is rated "Playable" on Steam Deck. While the initial Ubisoft Connect login is cumbersome, the game runs well with a 30fps cap, 16:10 and 800p resolution, and FSR 2 upscaling. Performance is more stable with the performance upscaling preset. My initial impressions are positive, though further playtime is needed for a complete assessment. It's an online-only experience.

Skull and Bones Steam Deck review score: TBA

ODDADA Steam Deck Review

ODDADA, a music-making experience, runs flawlessly at 90fps on Steam Deck, utilizing touch controls (controller support is absent but in development). While the menu text is small, the visuals and gameplay are excellent.

ODDADA Steam Deck review score: 4.5/5

Star Trucker Steam Deck Mini Review

Star Trucker blends automobile simulation and space exploration. While the controls require adjustment, the visuals, writing, and radio banter are highlights. The Steam Deck port offers extensive graphics options, allowing for performance optimization. I achieved a stable 40fps with a custom low-shadow preset.

Star Trucker Steam Deck review score: 4/5

DATE A LIVE: Ren Dystopia Steam Deck Mini Review

This visual novel runs perfectly on Steam Deck, requiring no adjustments. It offers 16:9 support at 720p and smooth cutscene playback. Remember to check system settings for button configuration.

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, though controller support is absent. Trackpad and touch controls are functional.

Pinball FX Steam Deck Impressions

Pinball FX offers a robust PC port with extensive graphics options, including HDR support on Steam Deck. The gameplay is highly enjoyable, and the free-to-play version allows for testing before purchasing DLC.

New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week

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

Steam Deck Game Sales, Discounts, and Specials

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

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