The Ultimate List of Best Games for Steam Deck

The Steam Deck stands as a remarkable machine, enabling us to carry our beloved PC games wherever we go. Though it may not excel in playing the most recent triple-A games, it shines for those with a craving for indie titles and a desire to clear their backlogs. Let's explore the best games that can be played on this handheld gaming companion.

Unleash Gaming on the Go with the Steam Deck

Tetris Effect

Tetris Effect demands quick thinking while offering a relaxing gaming experience. When paired with the OLED screen of the newer Steam Deck model, it becomes an unbeatable combination. Picking it up at the end of a tiring day and playing a few rounds is a breeze. The game's unique mechanics and soothing visuals make it a perfect fit for the Steam Deck.This game not only tests your reflexes but also allows you to unwind and enjoy the simplicity of the Tetris concept. The seamless integration with the Steam Deck's hardware enhances the overall gaming experience, making it a must-have for any Tetris enthusiast.

Balatro

In Balatro, players utilize randomized joker cards to boost their poker hands and defeat the big blind. Before it was available on mobile, the Steam Deck was its perfect companion. It's a lightweight game that allows you to play for hours without worrying about the device running out of battery.The strategic element of Balatro combined with the portability of the Steam Deck creates an engaging gaming experience. You can easily pick up the game and dive into the world of poker whenever you have a few minutes to spare.

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Metaphor ReFantazio merges the timeless art style of Persona with a high fantasy setting. If you enjoy the gameplay and style of Persona but prefer a high-fantasy world, this game is for you. With a nearly 100-hour RPG following the same calendar system as its predecessor, it's easy to schedule your play sessions on the Steam Deck.The game's visual fidelity remains impressive on the handheld, running at around 40fps. Its unique blend of art and gameplay makes it a standout title on the Steam Deck, allowing you to immerse yourself in a magical world.

Hades 2

Hades 2 stars Melinoe, Zagreus' sister, on a quest to free Hades from Cronos. Technically still in early access, it plays exceptionally well on the Steam Deck. The original Hades was already a perfect action game to play on the go, and its sequel takes it to the next level with a new hero and more powers.The roguelike structure of Hades pairs well with the Steam Deck, allowing you to enjoy short bursts of intense gameplay. Whether you're a fan of the original or looking for a new action adventure, Hades 2 is a great choice on the Steam Deck.

Mouthwashing

Mouthwashing is one of 2024's best horror games, and its old-school art style suits the Steam Deck perfectly. It runs smoothly on the device, and its scares are enhanced by the portable nature. The first-person game follows a stranded crew on a spaceship, with a nightmare that doesn't last long.If you're up for the challenge, you can finish a playthrough before the Steam Deck runs out of battery. The tension and horror of Mouthwashing make it a unique experience on the handheld.

Diablo 4

Diablo IV is the quintessential action RPG that can be played on the go. The Steam Deck's combination of standard controller inputs and dual touchpads emulates mouse input, making it ideal for this game. With its compatibility, you can enjoy fast-paced combat at near 60fps by sticking to the default settings.The immersive world of Diablo 4 comes to life on the Steam Deck, allowing you to battle demons and level up on the move. It's a game that truly shines on this portable gaming device.

Ori and the Blind Forest

Both Ori games are visually stunning and feel tailor-made for the Steam Deck, especially on the OLED model. The vivid colors against the dark jungle backgrounds make the creatures pop out of the screen, creating a mesmerizing experience.Whether you play Blind Forest or its sequel, the Will of the Wisps, you'll be captivated by their beauty. The Steam Deck's hardware enhances the graphics and gameplay, making these games a true delight.

Vampire Survivors

Vampire Survivors is a chaotic auto-battler where your main goal is to keep moving. Like Balatro, it's a lightweight game that won't strain the Steam Deck. You can get hours of playtime with it, as it only requires a few button inputs.The simplicity of Vampire Survivors combined with its addictive gameplay makes it a great choice for short gaming sessions on the go. It's a game that allows you to relax and have fun without the need for complex controls.

UFO 50

UFO 50 is not just one game but a collection of fifty titles in the same vein as classic arcade games. While it may have some challenges, such as the lack of tutorials, there are gems within the collection that pair well with the Steam Deck.You don't have to play all fifty games; just focus on the ones that resonate with you. The variety of games in this collection offers something for every type of gamer.

Cuphead

Cuphead is a difficult throwback to '30s cartoons. Most 2D platformers are great on the Steam Deck, but Cuphead stands out. Its challenging gameplay may make you want to throw your controller at the screen, but the device's attached controls make you think twice.Despite its difficulty, Cuphead runs smoothly on the Steam Deck, allowing you to enjoy its unique art style and gameplay. It's a game that will test your skills and provide a memorable gaming experience.

Final Fantasy 1-VI Pixel Remasters

Being able to play all classic Final Fantasy games on one portable device is a dream come true. The FF pixel remasters feature upgraded visuals and quality-of-life improvements while retaining the essence of Square Enix's JRPG franchise.The low-poly graphics and low system load make it a great fit for the Steam Deck, allowing you to embark on gaming adventures for hours on end. It's a collection that brings the nostalgia of classic Final Fantasy games to a portable device.

Sea of Stars

Sea of Stars is an awesome throwback to retro pixel art RPGs. With modern visuals that look beautiful on the Deck's smaller screen, it takes you on a turn-based adventure across various biomes.The charming pixel art style and engaging story make Sea of Stars a standout title. While you may miss out on three-player couch co-op, the portability and gameplay make it a worthwhile addition to your Steam Deck library.

Marvel's Midnight Suns

Marvel's Midnight Suns offers a new take on superhero combat by combining turn-based, tactical systems with the randomness of deckbuilding games. Made by the same geniuses behind XCOM and Civilization, it applies similar combat mechanics to the Marvel universe.Telling an original story, Midnight Suns provides a unique gaming experience that combines strategy and action. If you're a fan of turn-based combat and deckbuilding games, this is a must-play on the Steam Deck.