I impulse bought a Steam Deck shortly after the official release, once units became readily available without needing a pre-order, and I do not regret my purchase. It’s one of the most exciting and thrilling pieces of hardware I own, allowing me to work through my extensive backlog. Here are the five best games on Steam Deck that we love to lose ourselves in!
Elden Ring
Ah, the Game of the Year for most in 2022. Myself included. Elden Ring is a unique game for many, as it’s a first for countless Soulslike players and the culmination of years of From Software refining its gameplay loop for long-time fans to enjoy. From the open world to the cramped dungeons, the iconic characters (yes, even Loathsome Dung Eater) to memorable side quests, and not to mention the build variety, Elden Ring is the type of game people will play for decades.
And hey, guess what? It runs exceptionally well on Steam Deck. Sure, you won’t coax out much in the way of battery life. I managed approximately an hour and a half per play session on a mixture of Low and Medium settings. But that’s from the comfort of my couch or on a long road trip, so it’s a win.
Like other titles on this list, Elden Ring benefits from a controller.
Stardew Valley
I grew up playing Harvest Moon on handheld, losing countless hours over my system’s lifespan to farming and relationship building in small towns. When Stardew Valley was first announced, I pounced. And since then, I’ve amassed hundreds of hours in the game across various systems. But I’ve had the most fun on Steam Deck, sitting beside my wife on the couch as I harvest parsnips and blueberries.
You can complete a full day in Stardew Valley in approximately 14 minutes, which makes it the ideal gameplay loop for the Steam Deck. You can boot up your farm, toil away for a short break, then put the system into sleep mode. Rinse and repeat throughout the day, and you’ll quickly progress on the farm!
Cult of the Lamb
As one of my favorite indie games in recent years and one I launched this website on, Cult of the Lamb will always remain a staple on my Steam Deck. It’s one of the first titles I downloaded, and it never left my SSD.
As action-roguelike, Cult of the Lamb benefits from its controller support. Sure, you can play with a mouse and keyboard, but it’s challenging and, occasionally, downright unfun. But on Steam Deck, the gameplay shines. You won’t miss any details up close and personal with the small screen, and the controls prove responsive and fluid.
Plus, the overall gameplay loop of Cult of the Lamb compliments the portable nature of the Steam Deck. You can turn it on, play through a Crusader, or upgrade your base before saving and closing the game. A short burst of relaxation and entertainment!
Dave the Diver
I’m late to the party regarding Dave the Diver. I heard nothing but good things about its gameplay loop from colleagues, yet I was slow to adapt. It’s upsetting because, for an indie game about diving, catching fish, and making sushi, it’s exceptionally well done, polished, and fun.
Dave the Diver is a game that functions well on Steam Deck due to its simplicity. You don’t need to memorize countless controls or button combinations to excel at its gameplay loop. Plus, the art style allows for extended play sessions as the game doesn’t tax the system’s battery like others on this list. You’ll have a few hours to enjoy Dave the Diver on Steam Deck!
Diablo 4
I realize there is still quite a bit of debate surrounding Diablo 4. Many don’t believe it’s a good fourth entry and are loud about proclaiming their disdain. I’m not one of those, though. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with Diablo 4, though I’m not spending countless hours each day grinding. I’ve hit max level, explored the entire map, completed most dungeons, and participated in every season, all on the Steam Deck.
It’s a fantastic play on a handheld system with improved controller support and movement capabilities. The only downside to Diablo 4 on Steam Deck is its battery life. This game is an absolute resource hog, and you’re lucky to score an hour and a half on a full charge.
The ability to level a character, loot high-end gear, and tackle dungeons with friends, all from the comfort of your bed, on the train to work, or on break at the office, is exceptional fun!
What do you think of our best games on Steam Deck list? Anything you would add? Let us know by tagging us on social media!