The Steam Deck, first introduced in 2022, is an exciting handheld gaming device that has captured the attention of gamers worldwide. With its powerful hardware and compatibility with the extensive Steam library, the gaming possibilities are endless.
Among its robust abilities, Steam Deck can also be connected to a TV or monitor through a docking station. It can also run Windows or Linux-based third-party applications, which expands its ability to be used like a desktop computer and a home video game console.
In this article, we will count down the ten best Steam Deck games for 2024 (so far…), showcasing the exceptional experiences that await players on this remarkable device. So, let’s dive into the world of the Steam Deck and discover the top games sure to captivate players.
10. The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth
The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth is a roguelike dungeon crawler taking players on a dark, twisted journey. You control Isaac, a young boy who must navigate through randomly generated dungeons, fighting off hordes of grotesque enemies and uncovering secrets along the way.
With its challenging gameplay, countless items and power-ups to discover, and multiple endings to unlock, The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth offers an addictive and highly replayable experience. Its unique art style and haunting narrative have garnered a dedicated fanbase, making it a must-play game on the Steam Deck.
Visit the Steam page for The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth.
9. Left 4 Dead 2
Get ready to team up with friends and fight hordes of bloodthirsty zombies in Left 4 Dead 2. This cooperative first-person shooter offers intense and fast-paced gameplay as you battle through various campaigns, each filled with infected enemies and challenging scenarios. With a focus on teamwork and strategy, players must work together to survive the onslaught.
Left 4 Dead 2’s dynamic AI director ensures that each playthrough differs, keeping the action fresh and unpredictable. Its thrilling gameplay, diverse weapons, and memorable characters have made it a beloved title among fans of cooperative multiplayer.
Visit the Steam page for Left 4 Dead 2.
8. Ultrakill
Ultrakill is a retro-style first-person shooter that pays homage to classic titles like Doom and Quake. With its blisteringly fast-paced combat, over-the-top action, and satisfying gunplay, Ultrakill delivers an adrenaline-fueled experience. Take control of an unstoppable protagonist armed with various devastating weapons and unleash chaos upon hordes of demonic enemies.
The game’s challenging levels, intricate design, and fluid movement mechanics make each encounter a thrilling and satisfying experience. For fans of old-school shooters, Ultrakill is an absolute must-play on the Steam Deck.
Visit the Steam page for Ultrakill.
7. RimWorld
RimWorld is a captivating sci-fi colony simulator that puts you in charge of a group of survivors stranded on a distant planet. Your objective is to build and manage a thriving colony, ensuring the survival and well-being of your settlers. With its deep and complex gameplay mechanics,
RimWorld offers endless possibilities and challenges. Every decision you make has consequences, from constructing buildings and growing crops to defending against hostile factions and managing interpersonal relationships.
The game’s rich storytelling, emergent gameplay, and modding support have made it a favorite among simulation and strategy enthusiasts.
Visit the Steam page for RimWorld.
6. Portal
Portal is a puzzle-platformer that revolutionized the genre with its innovative mechanics and witty narrative. Armed with a portal gun, you must navigate through a series of test chambers, solving intricate puzzles by manipulating space and momentum. The game’s mind-bending challenges, clever level design, and dark humor have captivated players since its release.
With a compelling storyline and memorable characters, Portal delivers an experience that is both mentally stimulating and highly entertaining. Whether you’re a fan of puzzles or appreciate a well-crafted game, Portal is a must-play on the Steam Deck.
Visit the Steam page for Portal.
5. Stardew Valley
Escape to the charming world of Stardew Valley, a relaxing and addictive farming simulation game. In this delightful pixel-art adventure, you inherit an old farm and embark on a journey to restore it to its former glory.
From tending to crops and raising livestock to fishing, mining, and forming relationships with the vibrant townsfolk, Stardew Valley offers many activities to enjoy. Its soothing soundtrack, endearing characters, and the sense of fulfillment from watching your farm thrive endeared it to players worldwide.
Visit the Steam page for Stardew Valley.
4. Terraria
Prepare for an epic sandbox adventure in Terraria, a game that blends exploration, crafting, and combat elements. Set in a procedurally generated 2D world, you’ll embark on a quest to gather resources, build structures, and battle a variety of enemies and bosses.
With its vast underground caverns, towering mountains, and hidden treasures, Terraria offers a sense of exploration and discovery that keeps players engaged for hours. The game’s extensive crafting system allows limitless creativity, enabling you to build impressive structures and powerful weapons.
Terraria’s expansive world, engaging gameplay, and cooperative multiplayer make it a must-have title on the Steam Deck.
Visit the Steam page for Terraria.
3. Hades
Hades is an action-packed roguelike game that takes you on a journey through the underworld of Greek mythology. As Zagreus, the son of Hades, you’ll fight your way through ever-changing chambers filled with challenging foes and powerful bosses. With each run, you’ll unlock new abilities, weapons, and storylines, uncovering the secrets of the underworld.
Hades’ fast-paced combat, stunning art style, and compelling narrative have garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. The dynamic storytelling and addictive gameplay make it a standout title on the Steam Deck.
Visit the Steam page for Hades.
2. Vampire Survivors
Prepare to sink your teeth into an immersive vampire role-playing experience with Vampire Survivors. In this atmospheric game, you’ll navigate a dark and unforgiving world as a vampire, facing choices that will shape your destiny. Explore intricate environments, engage in challenging combat, and make decisions that impact the game’s branching narrative.
Vampire Survivors offers a rich, immersive world filled with memorable characters, gripping storytelling, and captivating gameplay. Its combination of RPG elements, intense action, and supernatural themes make it an outstanding choice for players on the Steam Deck.
Visit the Steam page for Vampire Survivors.
1. Portal 2
You didn’t think we were done with Portal yet, did you?
Topping our list of the best Steam Deck games is the iconic Portal 2. This critically acclaimed sequel expands upon the ingenious mechanics of the original game, introducing new puzzles, characters, and a captivating story. Once again, armed with your portal gun, you’ll navigate through a series of mind-bending test chambers.
Portal 2’s intricate level design, clever puzzles, and impeccable writing make it a masterpiece of game design. Add to that the inclusion of a cooperative multiplayer mode, and you have a game that offers endless hours of fun and brain-teasing challenges.
