Since its launch in February 2022, Valve’s Steam Deck has made significant strides in the realm of portable gaming, solidifying its place as a fan favorite among PC gamers. Despite some initial challenges, the device has paved the way for a new generation of handheld PCs. While a few competitors are emerging in the market, the Steam Deck stands out as the primary choice for gamers eager to access their extensive libraries while on the go. Although compatibility is not universal across all titles, the top games for the Steam Deck include some of the most remarkable projects released in recent years.
Valve continues to offer multiple models of the Steam Deck, with three primary options: the 256GB LCD, 512GB OLED, and 1TB OLED. The 64GB and 512GB LCD models are also still available but are subject to stock availability. Recently, Valve has introduced refurbished units, although they often sell out quickly. Once players acquire their device, they can check out the best Steam Deck Verified games, which are updated monthly to reflect new additions.
Purchases can be conveniently made through Valve’s official store. Always ensure to verify a game’s compatibility on the Steam platform; Protondb is another excellent tool for assessing performance on the Steam Deck.
Updated on January 24, 2025, by Mark Sammut: The landscape for Steam Deck games continues to grow, with new titles regularly receiving the Verified label. For instance, the highly anticipated FF7 Rebirth launched with this status, and we have confirmation that Civilization 7 will also support play on Valve’s console. A recently released Metroidvania, which has moved out of early access, is another addition to the list of compatible games. Details for this title can be found below.
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1. Left 4 Dead 2
Steam User Rating: 97%
Left 4 Dead 2 represents an archetype for the Verified games on Deck, embodying the timeless appeal that keeps it at the forefront of players’ minds. Often considered Valve’s most replayable game, it seamlessly brings friends together for thrilling zombie-slaying sessions. Numerous titles have tried to replicate its success, but few can match the excellence refined in Valve’s second iteration of this beloved series.
2. Ring of Fire
Steam User Rating: 92%
Launched just before the Steam Deck, Elden Ring served as a significant test for the device’s capabilities with its expansive open world. The game merges elements of the Dark Souls franchise with sandbox exploration, offering players over 100 hours of engaging content. With a variety of builds, epic confrontations, and profound lore, Elden Ring stands tall among the best offerings of 2022.
Notably, the expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree, is now available, continuing to expand on the game’s rich universe.
3. Baldur’s Gate 3
Steam User Rating: 96%
Baldur’s Gate 3 made waves in the gaming community when it peaked at over 800,000 simultaneous players on Steam. This remarkable success can be attributed to developer Larian Studios’ expertise in crafting RPGs, specifically in the tactical genre. As one of the most celebrated franchises in the industry, Baldur’s Gate sets an unattainable benchmarking for RPGs to follow.
With a storytelling that balances humor and drama, its character creator enhances gameplay in a profound way. The strategic party-based combat can be unrelenting, making it imperative for players to think critically as they engage in tactical battles, catering both to seasoned players and those new to the genre.
4. Hades
Steam User Rating: 98%
Hades, while not the first in the roguelike genre, stands as one of the most influential and successful titles, thanks to its compelling combat and narrative integration. Newcomers and veterans alike should find an engaging experience in Supergiant’s 2020 hit, which has recently expanded with the introduction of Hades 2, also verified for the Steam Deck and currently in early access.
5. Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance
Steam User Rating: 95%
Previously exclusive to Nintendo Switch, the Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance version is now accessible on all platforms. It combines the original title’s solid campaign with an alternative storyline that addresses feedback from earlier versions. Players should expect a challenging experience centered on strategic combat, embodying the essence of Atlus’ flagship JRPG.
6. Dave The Diver
Steam User Rating: 97%
Dave the Diver is an inventive blend of restaurant management and underwater adventure, capturing players’ imaginations with its charming visuals and humorous storyline. The game successfully intertwines exploration and culinary creativity, creating an engaging gaming experience that keeps players coming back for more.
7. The Planet Crafter
Steam User Rating: 96%
After its free prologue in 2021, The Planet Crafter finally launched in April 2024, receiving positive acclaim for its survival and terraforming mechanics. Players are dropped into a barren world, tasked with transforming it into a habitable haven, experiencing a rewarding sense of progress as they reshape the environment.
8. Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Steam User Rating: 91%
The Like A Dragon series remains a favorite on the Steam Deck, with the latest entry marking a noteworthy evolution. The expansive narrative takes players from Japan to Hawaii, offering an exciting twist to the familiar formula. Boasting both quantity and quality in its gameplay, the title delivers an immersive experience filled with rich content, making it a great fit for portable play.
9. Balatro
Steam User Rating: 97%
Balatro combines roguelike elements with card-based mechanics, setting itself apart in a crowded genre. By incorporating traditional Poker strategy, the game offers endless replayability, engaging players to refine their skills in their quest for the ultimate hand.
10. Animal Well
Steam User Rating: 96%
While the Steam Deck is well suited for heavyweight titles, it proves equally adept at spotlighting indie gems like Animal Well. With its emphasis on platforming and clever puzzles set within an atmospheric world, players are drawn into its creative gameplay.
11. Hi-Fi Rush
Steam User Rating: 97%
Surprising the gaming world, Hi-Fi Rush was announced and released on the same day, making waves particularly for its exhilarating soundtrack and engaging hack-and-slash gameplay. This title emphasizes the harmony between movement and rhythm, enhancing every aspect of player interaction.
12. Persona 3 Reload
Steam User Rating: 97%
All Persona mainline titles available on Steam enjoy Verified status, with Persona 3 Reload rejuvenating one of the franchise’s most beloved narratives. The remake updates a groundbreaking story, merging classic elements with modern gameplay sensibilities, ensuring newcomers and veterans alike will be enthralled.
13. Cuphead
Steam User Rating: 96%
Cuphead captivates players with its hand-drawn visuals and challenging gameplay that serves to test even the most seasoned gamers. While levels may be short, their high difficulty makes for an engaging and sometimes frustrating experience perfect for streamlined play sessions on the Steam Deck.
14. Neon White
Steam User Rating: 98%
Designed for speedrunning enthusiasts, Neon White invites players to repeatedly race through stages striving for the least amount of time. The compelling nature of the gameplay translates well to brief gaming sessions, making it an excellent choice for quick gameplay bursts on the go.
15. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade
Steam User Rating: 89%
Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade rejuvenates the classic title with modern graphics and an innovative combat system, intertwining real-time action with strategic elements. The Intergrade version includes the Intermission DLC, showcasing fan-favorite character Yuffie’s adventures, further enhancing the game.
16. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Steam User Rating: 96%
Collaboration between Valve and CD Projekt Red has ensured that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt operates seamlessly on the Steam Deck, providing mobile access to a groundbreaking narrative and immersive RPG elements. The game blends rich storytelling and expansive lore, making for an addictive gameplay experience.
17. Stardew Valley
Steam User Rating: 98%
A standout title among indie games, Stardew Valley offers a blend of farming simulation, RPG elements, and engaging activities. Players can manage their agricultural empire while exploring a plethora of side quests, making it a charming and enduring classic within the gaming community.
18. Against The Storm
Steam User Rating: 95%
Released in December 2023 following an extensive early access period, Against the Storm has emerged as a modern city-building favorite. The game encourages players to create settlements while managing the queen’s demands, providing a unique twist on the genre that rewards creativity and adaptability.
19. Resident Evil 4 (2023)
Steam User Rating: 97%
The remake of Resident Evil 4 carries on the franchise’s compatibility with the Steam Deck, delivering a blend of action and horror. The 2023 version refines elements from the original while enhancing the gameplay experience for both newcomers and longtime fans alike.
20. Devil May Cry 5
Steam User Rating: 95%
Devil May Cry 5 marks a triumphant return for the series, showcasing an innovative combat system and multiple playable characters. Its design encourages fluidity and mastery, making it perfect for quick play sessions, and it’s well-optimized for the portability of the Steam Deck, allowing players to dive in and enjoy at a moment’s notice.
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