My favorite Steam Deck games

My favorite Steam Deck games


Here’s my personal list of games that play great on the Steam Deck, sorted alphabetically. Some of the criterias to make it to the list include:

  • Light graphics that will not strain your APU and will not drain your battery.
  • Bite-sized gameplay loops
  • Controls that fit the Steam Deck

Balatro

“The poker roguelike”. A surprisingly addictive deckbuilding game with fun mechanics that encourage bold bets.

Castlevania Advance Collection

Replay the three GBA classics in this nicely crafted bundle.

Dead Cells

A challenging, fast-paced 2D platformer with a satisfying roguelike loop.

Hades

A hyper-active action-RPG roguelike with a highly engaging scenario that will make you want to uncover its secrets.

Master Key

A lovely tribute to the classic 2D Zelda games

Sonic Mania

The perfect follow-up to the 2D Sonic games from the Genesis / Mega Drive era.

Slay the Spire

A rich deckbuilding game with satisfying tactical fights.

Stardew Valley

SteamWorld Dig 2

You should also start with its predecessor, SteamWorld Dig, which sets up the SteamWorld universe perfectly.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge

A perfect tribute to the classic TMNT beat ‘em ups, complete with a banger soundtrack by Tee Lopes.

Vampire Survivors

The most minimalist gameplay of the list by far, yet extremely rich and addictive.


Honorable mentions: The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, Spelunky

Feel free to add your own recommendations in the comments!

Last updated: 2024-06-02