What are the very best Steam Deck video games? Because the premier handheld gaming PC, the Steam Deck is consistently below the microscope for the way it runs the newest and biggest video games. Whereas the Valve score system is useful, it isn’t essentially one of the best ways to find out which video games are the very best to play on its handheld, which is why we’ve assembled this checklist.
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There are at the moment over 14,00 video games rated playable or verified on Deck – whether or not it’s the unique Steam Deck or the Steam Deck OLED – and that’s not together with the magnitude of further video games that Valve exams every single day. Whereas the Steam Deck is by far the very best handheld gaming PC, it’s not with out its quirks.
Steam video games don’t essentially require Valve’s coveted approval to be playable, with loads of huge video games engaged on the hand held after some easy tinkering about with the settings, Horizon Forbidden West being essentially the most distinguished instance of this. The quantity of great issues you possibly can play in your Steam Deck is rising exponentially, however we’ve put collectively a shortlist of our rated favorites to make issues quite a bit simpler.
Take a look at the very best microSD card for Steam Deck information earlier than getting too immersed within the checklist of video games we suggest taking part in. Increasingly we’re seeing trendy video games require numerous cupboard space, so whether or not you’re sporting the 64GB mannequin, or simply wish to have the liberty to put in extra video games, it’s well worth the funding.
One of the best Steam Deck video games are:
1. Baldur’s Gate 3
Launched: August 3, 2023 | Developer: Larian Studios | Overview rating: 9/10 | Measurement: 150GB
The newest recreation by Larian Studios has taken Steam by storm, turning into one of many most-played video games to ever hit the platform. The huge RPG, which sees you setting off on a journey of epic DnD proportions, runs fantastically on the Valve handheld, after a little bit of tinkering with the settings. When you get going, the large, expansive phrase of Faerûn comes alive within the palm of your fingers, making Baldur’s Gate 3 among the best video games in your entire Steam Deck’s library.
Take a look at our Baldur’s Gate 3 Steam Deck suitable information to discover out precisely how the sport runs, and remember to learn our Baldur’s Gate 3 evaluation to study extra concerning the newest DnD journey from Larian Studios.
2. Dave the Diver
Launched: June 28, 2023 | Developer: Mintrocket | Measurement: 10GB
Ever since Dave the Diver splashed its manner onto PC, this indie darling has taken the Steam Deck by storm. On this journey administration hybrid RPG, you tackle the position of Dave (in fact) who spends his time diving for fish within the morning, and working a sushi restaurant by night time. Its beautiful pixel artwork, and chilled gameplay, make it extremely simple to get caught up in what may be among the best cozy gaming experiences on the hand held.
Take a look at our Dave the Diver Steam Deck suitable information to discover out precisely how the sport runs.
3. Road Fighter 6
Launched: June 2, 2023 | Developer: Capcom | Overview rating: 9/10 | Measurement: 60GB
When taking part in a recreation like Road Fighter 6, I desire to not go for a handheld system, in case I find yourself having to struggle towards connection points. Nonetheless, because of the addition of the single-player marketing campaign, World Tour, and the community-driven Battle Hub, this sixth instalment within the beloved sequence from Capcom turns into among the best fighting-game experiences on the Valve handheld.
Take a look at our Road Fighter 6 Steam Deck suitable information to seek out out precisely how the sport runs, and remember to learn our Road Fighter 6 evaluation to study extra concerning the newest instalment within the flagship combating recreation sequence.
4. Elden Ring
Launched: February 25, 2022 | Developer: FromSoftware | Overview rating: 10/10 | Measurement: 60GB
No maidens? No worries. You’ll discover a lot on this newest huge open-world RPG from FromSoftware. The problem present in Soulslike video games isn’t for everybody, however this difficult RPG turns into a bit of bit simpler because of the portability of the Steam Deck. Having the ability to follow your dodge rolls, and attempting out a wide range of builds on the go, makes venturing by the risks of The Lands Between that little bit much less taxing.
Learn our Elden Ring evaluation to study extra about among the best FromSoftware, soulslike adventures.
5. Stardew Valley
Launched: February 26, 2016 | Developer: ConcernedApe | Measurement: 500MB
What was initially a love letter to the farming sim video games of yesteryear, has turn into the very best of the style. In case you haven’t but joined the Stardew Valley revolution, you’re lacking out. It’s among the best cozy gaming experiences on the market, which is simply made higher by the portability of the Steam Deck. You possibly can are likely to your farm, develop your crops, take a look at your new neighbors within the valley, and struggle monsters within the dungeons – something’s potential in Stardew Valley.
6. Vampire Survivors
Launched: December 17, 2021 | Developer: Luca Galante | Measurement: 600MB
Vampire Survivors is an ideal match for the Steam Deck, providing up a devilishly pleasant gameplay loop that may be loved in bite-sized periods or performed for hours when one run merely is not going to do. Whereas its artwork type is charming to have a look at, it’s not taxing on the system both, that means that you may anticipate a clean gameplay expertise and never have to fret about battery life both. Simply be warned that this roguelike bullet hell is as powerful as it’s inconceivable to place down.
7. Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered
Launched: August 12, 2022 | Developer: Insomniac Video games, Nixxes Software program, Marvel Leisure | Overview rating: 8/10 | Measurement: 75GB
This PlayStation console unique zips alongside on the Steam Deck with all of the pace and style worthy of your favourite neighborhood Spider-Man. The primary Spidey outing from Insomniac Video games seems nice on Valve’s handheld, and few issues really feel higher than attending to swing about Manhattan on the go.
Learn our Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered PC evaluation.
8. Cyberpunk 2077
Launched: December 10, 2020 | Developer: CD Projekt Pink | Overview rating: 9/10 | Measurement: 70GB
Whereas it’s an understatement to say that Cyberpunk 2077 had a tough launch, CD Projekt Pink has made its sci-fi epic of an RPG price a re-evaluation. With the brand new Phantom Liberty growth quickly on its manner, there’s by no means been a greater time to get conversant in the characters of Night time Metropolis on the Steam Deck, exploring this dystopian world from the consolation of wherever you please.
Learn our Cyberpunk 2077 evaluation.
9. Pink Lifeless Redemption 2
Launched: October 26, 2018 | Developer: Rockstar Video games | Overview rating: 10/10 | Measurement: 150GB
Whereas Grand Theft Auto 5 performs fantastically on the Steam Deck, for our Rockstar decide of the checklist we’ve gone for the rootin’ and tootin’ Pink Lifeless Redemption 2. In what is without doubt one of the finest single-player experiences in gaming, you tackle the position of Arthur Morgan and play by the occasions that lead as much as the unique goings-on within the first Pink Lifeless Redemption. Even if you happen to’ve performed this action-packed sequel earlier than, nothing beats the sensation of roaming by the Wild West on horseback with the Steam Deck.
Learn our Pink Lifeless Redemption 2 PC evaluation.
10. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Launched: November 11, 2011 | Developer: Bethesda Sport Studios | Measurement: 12GB
It’s been over a decade since The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim launched, and this colossal RPG is obtainable on most platforms, together with your Steam Deck. What makes this model of Skyrim stand out is that, with a little bit of elbow grease, you possibly can set up mods to vastly enhance a magnitude of options, just like the textures for one. Nonetheless, if you happen to desire to not spend your time tinkering away with mods, the Anniversary Version already gives up remastered artwork and results, all of the beforehand launched expansions, and even some fishing.
11. Persona 5 Royal
Launched: October 31, 2019 | Developer: P-Studio | Measurement: 41GB
The Persona video games went from being a distinct segment RPG sequence, beloved by few subsets of followers, to exploding in reputation, and rightfully so. Persona 5 Royal completely encapsulates why the sequence is now so adored, with its catchy soundtrack, top-tier voice performing, in-depth battle system, and delightful visuals. Model is simply oozing out of each little bit of this recreation, and it’s by no means regarded higher than on the Steam Deck. You would possibly spend something from 100 to 140 hours on this prolonged RPG in your Valve handheld, however it’s price each second.
12. Lifeless by Daylight
Launched: June 14, 2016 | Developer: Behaviour Interactive | Measurement: 50GB
Even if you happen to’re not somebody of the spooky persuasion, Lifeless by Daylight is spine-chillingly enjoyable on the Steam Deck. Whether or not you tackle the position of the killer or desire to attempt your finest to outlive, it’s simple to spend hours on this on-line uneven multiplayer. For an optimum expertise on the Valve handheld, I extremely suggest utilizing your favourite gaming headset and taking part in Lifeless by Daylight in a dimly lit room. This fashion, you possibly can set the temper and correctly get your spooky on, whereas having the ability to hear the killer’s each transfer.
13. Halls of Torment
Launched: Could 24, 2023 | Developer: Chasing Carrots | Measurement: 4GB
Though it’s nonetheless in early entry, Halls of Torment has already confirmed itself to be vital for the Steam Deck. The horde survival indie recreation is impressed by late-90s RPGs, and just like the video games of your childhood, you’ll simply end up spending hours upon hours on this recreation.
14. Armored Core 6 Fires of Rubicon
Launched: August 25, 2023 | Developer: FromSoftware Inc | Overview rating: 8/10 | Measurement: 60GB
This isn’t the primary FromSoftware recreation to make the checklist, however its addition absolutely is an indication that the developer is aware of tips on how to make a recreation run nice on the Steam Deck. Armored Core 6 is the newest recreation within the Armored Core sequence, and as an alternative of the gothic environment, you’ll be greater than used to in video games like Elden Ring, this time round it’s all about robots. In case you love powerful boss battles, blasting away your enemies, and, much more robots, then that is the fast-paced motion recreation for you and your Steam Deck.
Take a look at our Armored Core 6 Steam Deck suitable information to seek out out precisely how the sport runs.
Learn our Armored Core 6 evaluation.
15. Sea of Stars
Launched: August 29, 2023 | Developer: Sabotage Studio | Overview rating: 9/10 | Measurement: 5GB
We’re no strangers to turn-based RPGs in relation to this checklist, however Sea of Stars is the primary entry that captures the sensation of taking part in the basic fantasy video games of the ’90s on the Steam Deck. Dropped at you by the identical studio as The Messenger, Sabotage Studio has created probably the most beautiful makes use of of sprite artwork in trendy gaming and one of many best-looking video games to play on the hand held. Sea of Stars tells the story of the Solstice Warriors and their adventures of utilizing Eclipse Magic to avoid wasting the world and defeat the one often known as The Fleshmancer. In case you grew up taking part in RPGs like Chrono Set off and Breath of Hearth, you owe your self the expertise of taking part in Sea of Stars on the Steam Deck.
Learn our Sea of Stars evaluation.
16. Cult of the Lamb
Launched: August 11, 2022 | Developer: Large Monster | Measurement: 4GB
Half roguelike, half city-builder, half cult simulator – there’s quite a bit to like about Cult of the Lamb on the Steam Deck. On this indie-horror recreation from Large Monster, you end up as an lovely lamb, who’s saved from annihilation from a creepy entity. To repay your debt, it’s essential to begin a cult, and develop your flock of devoted followers, represented by equally cute forest animals. The 3D paper-like graphics lend themselves on the Valve handheld, and also you’ll simply end up spending hours crafting new buildings, giving sermons to your flock, or slashing your manner by enemies. Cult of the Lamb and the Steam Deck are a match made in heaven, however this indie horror may have you braving by hell and again to create the final word cult.
17. Diablo 4
Launched: June 6, 2023 | Developer: Blizzard Leisure | Overview rating: 10/10 | Measurement: 90GB
Getting Diablo 4 to run on the Valve handheld was as hellish because the depths of Sanctuary, however for the reason that Blizzard recreation has lastly made its manner formally on the Steam platform, taking part in it in your Steam Deck now could be totally heavenly. Hacking and slashing your manner by enemies, and reaching pinnacles of gore you by no means thought potential, feels destined for enjoying on the go. Having the ability to have Diablo 4 at arm’s size, provides you ample time to get familiarised with the quite a few lessons, and get extra acquainted with everybody’s favourite daughter of hatred, Lilith, on this horrifying but addictive motion RPG. Take a look at our Diablo 4 Steam Deck compatibility information to seek out out precisely how the sport runs.
Learn our Diablo 4 evaluation.
18. Monster Hunter World
Launched: August 9, 2018 | Developer: Capcom | Overview rating: 9/10 | Measurement: 52GB
Monster Hunter and handhelds go hand in hand, with a few of the earliest video games within the sequence being initially launched on units like the unique Sony PSP. That being stated, its wealthy environments of dinosaur-laden landscapes and epic action-packed battles have by no means regarded higher when taking part in on the Steam Deck. Monster Hunter World locations you within the Elder Crossing, a brand new world ready to be found. Outfitted with an lovely cat-sidekick, referred to as a Paliceo, and an enormous arsenal of weapons, there’s a complete number of monsters out so that you can hunt, and switch into a few of the coolest-looking armor and weapons round.
Take a look at our Monster Hunter World evaluation to study extra about what you possibly can anticipate from probably the most expansive installments within the beloved Monster Hunter sequence.
19. Aperture Desk Job
Launched: March 1, 2022 | Developer: Valve | Measurement: 4GB
Aperture Desk Job marks one of many first correct returns to the world of Portal, and whereas it won’t be canonical to the franchise as a complete, it’s a must-play if you happen to personal a Steam Deck. The sport works just about like a tech demo for what your Valve handheld is able to, taking you thru all the assorted buttons and controls however by a Portal lens. Whereas deep within the depths of the dilapidated Aperture Science Labs, you stumble throughout Grady, a Persona Assemble (much like that of Wheatley) who takes you thru your new position at Aperture, with the humor and wit you’d anticipate from the Portal video games. Aperture Desk Job must be necessary taking part in for first-time Steam Deck homeowners, and higher but, it’s completely free.
20. Marvel’s Midnight Suns
Launched: December 2, 2022 | Developer: Firaxis | Measurement: 57.3GB
Not the Marvel recreation everybody was anticipating on the time, however this turn-based card recreation runs exceptionally nicely on Valve’s handheld, and for us, it’s one of the best ways to benefit from the recreation.
Wanting previous the sturdy efficiency, Marvel’s Midnight Suns carries incredible gameplay mechanics and an interesting story that diverts from the usually extensive attraction of different Marvel media. You’ll spend time with characters you by no means knew existed or at the very least haven’t been featured in a recreation for years, and luxuriate in each second of it.
Learn our 9/10 Marvel’s Midnight Suns evaluation for extra.
21. Helldivers 2
Launched: February 8, 2024 | Developer: Arrowhead | Measurement: 75GB
Whereas its first few weeks have been tough when it got here to Deck compatibility, Helldivers 2 obtained a number of updates which have now made it an excellent recreation to play on the moveable.
It now holds a playable score, with the one marks towards it being that you just’ll have to tweak the graphics settings and a few textual content can seem small on display screen. All in all, these are minor points, and spreading democracy is numerous enjoyable on Steam Deck.
Take a look at our Helldivers 2 Steam Deck information for recommendation on the very best settings to make use of.
22. Conflict Thunder
Launched: November 1, 2012 | Developer: Gaijin Leisure | Measurement: As much as 95GB
It is smart for a lot of of Steam’s finest free video games to try to safe Deck compatibility, and of these we’ve performed and examined, Conflict Thunder is well one of many higher video games to play on a handheld.
It doesn’t matter whether or not you’re combating over land, sea, or within the air, efficiency is all the time stable and Conflict Thunder has earned its verified score with ease.
For extra, take a look at our Conflict Thunder Steam Deck compatibility information.
23. Hades 2
Launched: Could 6, 2024 (early entry) | Developer: Supergiant Video games | Measurement: 10GB
One of the best Steam Deck video games are those who work from the second you boot the sport, to the second you turn off. Hades 2 is the premier instance of this. No settings tweaks are wanted, simply hit play and luxuriate in.
It additionally helps that this roguelike sequel is only a incredible recreation to play, however Supergiant made positive handheld efficiency was taken care of from launch, and it’s really easy for the Steam Deck to deal with that you may recover from six hours of play from a completely charged battery.
Learn our Hades 2 evaluation for extra.
Do you’ve gotten an excellent bunch of video games already put in? Pivot your consideration to our greatest Steam Deck equipment checklist and assist Valve’s handheld {hardware} attain its full potential.
