What are the most effective Steam Deck video games? As competitors heats up throughout the handheld market, Valve’s Steam Deck nonetheless reigns supreme, with an nearly incomprehensible variety of appropriate video games. You may be stunned at simply how lots of the 15,000+ appropriate video games already sit in your Steam library.
Why you may belief our recommendation ✔ At , our specialists spend hours testing {hardware} and reviewing video games and VPNs. We share sincere, unbiased opinions that will help you purchase the most effective. Discover out how we take a look at.
Whether or not you’re rocking the unique Steam Deck or the Steam Deck OLED, we’re assured you personal the most effective handheld gaming PC in the marketplace, regardless of highly effective gadgets just like the Asus ROG ally X making up important floor not too long ago.
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 with the graphical settings, Horizon Forbidden West and Ghost of Tsushima being probably the most distinguished examples of this. The quantity of fantastic issues you may play in your Steam Deck is rising exponentially, however we’ve put collectively a shortlist of our favorites to make issues loads simpler.
The very 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 most recent sport 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 massive, expansive phrase of Faerûn comes alive within the palm of your palms, making Baldur’s Gate 3 among the best video games in all the Steam Deck’s library.
Try our Baldur’s Gate 3 Steam Deck appropriate information to discover out precisely how the sport runs, and you should definitely learn our Baldur’s Gate 3 assessment to be taught 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 function of Dave (in fact) who spends his time diving for fish within the morning, and operating a sushi restaurant by evening. Its beautiful pixel artwork, and chilled gameplay, make it extremely straightforward to get caught up in what may be among the best cozy gaming experiences on the hand-held.
Try our Dave the Diver Steam Deck appropriate information to discover out precisely how the sport runs.
3. Avenue Fighter 6
Launched: June 2, 2023 | Developer: Capcom | Overview rating: 9/10 | Measurement: 60GB
When taking part in a sport like Avenue Fighter 6, I desire to not go for a handheld machine, in case I find yourself having to combat towards connection points. Nevertheless, due to 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.
Try our Avenue Fighter 6 Steam Deck appropriate information to seek out out precisely how the sport runs, and you should definitely learn our Avenue Fighter 6 assessment to be taught extra concerning the newest instalment within the flagship combating sport sequence.
4. Elden Ring
Launched: February 25, 2022 | Developer: FromSoftware | Overview rating: 10/10 | Measurement: 60GB
No maidens? No worries. You’ll discover lots on this newest large open-world RPG from FromSoftware. The issue present in Soulslike video games isn’t for everybody, however this difficult RPG turns into somewhat bit simpler due to the portability of the Steam Deck. Having the ability to observe your dodge rolls, and making an attempt out quite a lot of builds on the go, makes venturing by means of the risks of The Lands Between that little bit much less taxing.
Learn our Elden Ring assessment to be taught 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 grow to be the most effective of the style. For those who 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 just made higher by the portability of the Steam Deck. You possibly can are likely to your farm, develop your crops, try your new neighbors within the valley, and combat 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 fashion is charming to take a look at, it’s not taxing on the machine both, that means that you would be able to anticipate a easy 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 unattainable 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 velocity and beauty worthy of your favourite neighborhood Spider-Man. The primary Spidey outing from Insomniac Video games seems to be 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 assessment.
8. Cyberpunk 2077
Launched: December 10, 2020 | Developer: CD Projekt Purple | Overview rating: 9/10 | Measurement: 70GB
Whereas it’s an understatement to say that Cyberpunk 2077 had a tough launch, CD Projekt Purple has made its sci-fi epic of an RPG price a re-examination. With the brand new Phantom Liberty enlargement quickly on its manner, there’s by no means been a greater time to get aware of the characters of Evening Metropolis on the Steam Deck, exploring this dystopian world from the consolation of wherever you please.
Learn our Cyberpunk 2077 assessment.
9. Purple 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 choose of the checklist we’ve gone for the rootin’ and tootin’ Purple Lifeless Redemption 2. In what is among the greatest single-player experiences in gaming, you tackle the function of Arthur Morgan and play by means of the occasions that lead as much as the unique goings-on within the first Purple Lifeless Redemption. Even should you’ve performed this action-packed sequel earlier than, nothing beats the sensation of roaming by means of the Wild West on horseback with the Steam Deck.
Learn our Purple Lifeless Redemption 2 PC assessment.
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 out there 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 may set up mods to vastly enhance a magnitude of options, just like the textures for one. Nevertheless, should you 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. Fashion is simply oozing out of each little bit of this sport, 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 should you’re not somebody of the spooky persuasion, Lifeless by Daylight is spine-chillingly enjoyable on the Steam Deck. Whether or not you tackle the function of the killer or desire to attempt your greatest to outlive, it’s straightforward 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 may set the temper and correctly get your spooky on, whereas with the ability to hear the killer’s each transfer.
13. Halls of Torment
Launched: Might 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 sport 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 sport.
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 sport to make the checklist, however its addition absolutely is an indication that the developer is aware of methods to make a sport run nice on the Steam Deck. Armored Core 6 is the most recent sport within the Armored Core sequence, and as a substitute 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. For those who love powerful boss battles, blasting away your enemies, and, much more robots, then that is the fast-paced motion sport for you and your Steam Deck.
Try our Armored Core 6 Steam Deck appropriate information to seek out out precisely how the sport runs.
Learn our Armored Core 6 assessment.
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 relating to this checklist, however Sea of Stars is the primary entry that captures the sensation of taking part in the traditional fantasy video games of the ’90s on the Steam Deck. Dropped at you by the identical studio as The Messenger, Sabotage Studio has created some of the gorgeous makes use of of sprite artwork in fashionable 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. For those who 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 assessment.
16. Cult of the Lamb
Launched: August 11, 2022 | Developer: Huge Monster | Measurement: 4GB
Half roguelike, half city-builder, half cult simulator – there’s loads to like about Cult of the Lamb on the Steam Deck. On this indie-horror sport from Huge Monster, you end up as an cute lamb, who’s saved from annihilation from a creepy entity. To repay your debt, you will need 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 constructions, giving sermons to your flock, or slashing your manner by means of enemies. Cult of the Lamb and the Steam Deck are a match made in heaven, however this indie horror can have you braving by means of hell and again to create the last 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 because the Blizzard sport 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 means of 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 courses, and get extra acquainted with everybody’s favourite daughter of hatred, Lilith, on this horrifying but addictive motion RPG. Try our Diablo 4 Steam Deck compatibility information to seek out out precisely how the sport runs.
Learn our Diablo 4 assessment.
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 gadgets 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. Geared up with an cute cat-sidekick, known as a Paliceo, and a large 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.
Try our Monster Hunter World assessment to be taught extra about what you may anticipate from some of the 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 may not be canonical to the franchise as a complete, it’s a must-play should you 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 varied buttons and controls however by means of 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 function at Aperture, with the humor and wit you’d anticipate from the Portal video games. Aperture Desk Job ought to be obligatory taking part in for first-time Steam Deck homeowners, and higher but, it’s totally free.
20. Marvel’s Midnight Suns
Launched: December 2, 2022 | Developer: Firaxis | Measurement: 57.3GB
Not the Marvel sport everybody was anticipating on the time, however this turn-based card sport runs exceptionally properly on Valve’s handheld, and for us, it’s the easiest way to benefit from the sport.
Trying previous the sturdy efficiency, Marvel’s Midnight Suns carries implausible gameplay mechanics and an interesting story that diverts from the usually extensive enchantment of different Marvel media. You’ll spend time with characters you by no means knew existed or not less than haven’t been featured in a sport for years, and luxuriate in each second of it.
Learn our 9/10 Marvel’s Midnight Suns assessment for extra.
21. Helldivers 2
Launched: February 8, 2024 | Developer: Arrowhead | Measurement: 75GB
Whereas its first few weeks had been tough when it got here to Deck compatibility, Helldivers 2 obtained a number of updates which have now made it a fantastic sport to play on the moveable.
It now holds a playable ranking, with the one marks towards it being that you simply’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 quite a lot of enjoyable on Steam Deck.
Try our Helldivers 2 Steam Deck information for recommendation on the most effective settings to make use of.
22. Struggle Thunder
Launched: November 1, 2012 | Developer: Gaijin Leisure | Measurement: As much as 95GB
It is smart for a lot of of Steam’s greatest free video games to try to safe Deck compatibility, and of these we’ve performed and examined, Struggle Thunder is definitely 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 at all times stable and Struggle Thunder has earned its verified ranking with ease.
For extra, try our Struggle Thunder Steam Deck compatibility information.
23. Hades 2
Launched: Might 6, 2024 (early entry) | Developer: Supergiant Video games | Measurement: 10GB
The very 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 implausible sport 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 would be able to recover from six hours of play from a totally charged battery.
Learn our Hades 2 assessment for extra.
24. Balatro
Launched: February 20, 2024 | Developer: LocalThunk | Measurement: 62.68MB
Who would have thought a poker-inspired roguelike would have blown up the way in which Balatro did? This sport got here from nowhere and is a shining instance of why indie builders are so vital to the business. No main writer would have sanctioned such a sport, however the business is so a lot better off with video games like Balatro being launched so often on Steam.
As for its Steam Deck efficiency, Balatro looks like a sport made for Valve’s handheld, and because of its non-taxing graphical nature, you may play for hours and hours with no need to cost your Deck.
25. Ghost of Tsushima
Launched: Might 16, 2024 | Developer: Sucker Punch | Measurement: 52.07GB
This may be a barely controversial inclusion, however Ghost of Tsushima is actually and unimaginable sport to play on a Steam Deck. It’s at the moment rated as Unsupported, however with the caveat that that is solely as a result of the Legends co-op mode is just not playable.
Exterior of this, Ghost of Tsushima runs extremely properly on Steam Deck, usually reaching averages of round 50fps on medium-low settings. The story is implausible and the open-world is properly with exploring. This all makes for a sport that’s unmissable on Valve’s handheld.
Learn our Ghost of Tsushima assessment for extra.
26. Multiversus
Launched: Might 28, 2024 | Developer: Participant First Video games | Measurement: 11.4GB
This free-to-play Smash Bros-esque brawler has made probably the most of its second launch and continues to be a implausible sport to play on Valve’s handheld. It runs with out situation or want to regulate settings and also you’re assured to get a stable 60fps with minimal drops detected even throughout hectic on-screen motion.
Whereas the sport could have modified fairly a bit because the preliminary beta, the core mechanics are nonetheless very a lot in place, with added single-player content material obtainable should you’re not eager on the thought of testing your abilities towards different gamers on-line. You’ll have to keep watch over the Multiversus servers although, as they’re nonetheless essential to single-player motion.
27. Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Launched: Jan 25, 2024 | Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku | Measurement: 82GB
Developer Ryu Ga Gotoku is synonymous with making certain its video games run extremely on Steam Deck, and this newest journey following Ichiban Kasuga isn’t any totally different.
From begin to end, this engrossing JRPG runs at a steady 40-60 fps relying on the settings you utilize. It means that you can sit again and simply benefit from the story. The Steam Deck is my go-to console for Like A Dragon and Yakuza video games now due to how properly they pair up. Lengthy could this proceed!
Learn our Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth assessment for extra.
28. No Man’s Sky
Launched: Aug 12, 2016 | Developer: Whats up Video games | Measurement: 14.1GB
It’s been a turbulent eight years for No Man’s Sky, however the sport lastly appears to have settled in a candy spot the place most gamers agree it lastly lives up the the preliminary hype.
As a chilled-out and informal area exploration sport, it’s an ideal match for the Steam Deck, to not point out it has a tiny storage footprint, particularly compared to a few of the video games on this checklist.
Do you’ve got a fantastic 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. We’ve additionally obtained an inventory of the most effective laptop computer video games to play proper now, should you’re in search of different methods to play on the go.
