Whether you’ve just got your first handheld gaming PC or you’re an early adopter of this portable way to play, you’ll no doubt want to know what the best Steam Deck games are, so we’ve picked out 30 incredible games that you need to play.
While the Steam Deck OLED still sits atop our guide to the best gaming handheld that your money can buy, there are also some serious contenders to Valve’s crown, namely the ROG Ally X and AOKZOE A1X. These devices cost considerably more, and also run Windows as an operating system, but the games on this list all work just as well on those handhelds as they do on the Steam Deck.
Our list contains epic RPGs, cozy indie farming games, and everything in between. There’s something for everyone on our list, but you might want to invest in an SSD from our guide to the best Steam Deck accessories to ensure you have enough storage to download them.
Here are the 30 best Steam Deck games:
1. Baldur’s Gate 3
Released: August 3, 2023 | Developer: Larian Studios | Size: 150GB
The latest game by Larian Studios has taken Steam by storm, becoming one of the most-played games to ever hit the platform. The massive RPG, which sees you setting off on a journey of epic DnD proportions, runs beautifully on the Valve handheld, after a bit of tinkering with the settings. Once you get going, the huge, expansive world of Faerûn comes alive in the palm of your hands, making Baldur’s Gate 3 one of the best games in the entire Steam Deck’s library.
Check out our Baldur’s Gate 3 Steam Deck compatible guide to find out exactly how the game runs, and be sure to read our Baldur’s Gate 3 review to learn more about the latest DnD adventure from Larian Studios.
2. Dave the Diver
Released: June 28, 2023 | Developer: Mintrocket | Size: 10GB
Ever since Dave the Diver splashed its way onto PC, this indie darling has taken the Steam Deck by storm. In this adventure management hybrid RPG, you take on the role of Dave (of course), who spends his time diving for fish in the morning and running a sushi restaurant by night.
Its gorgeous pixel art and chilled gameplay make it incredibly easy to get caught up in what might be one of the best cozy gaming experiences on the handheld, but don’t be fooled by it’s simple gameplay loop, as there is plenty to discover as you dive deeper into the ocean, and there is plenty to challenge you as you grow your enterprise.
3. Hollow Knight
Released: February 24, 2017 | Developer: Team Cherry | Size: 9GB
Indie Souls-like games and the Steam Deck go hand in hand, and while many such games appear all over the Steam Deck’s most-played charts, Hollow Knight is the one that has persisted since the portable was released in 2022.
This challenging yet endearing 2D Metroidvania platformer is still making waves today, with its sequel, Silksong, being one of the most in-demand games in recent memory. While we wait for this sequel, which should also run great on the Steam Deck based on the Silksong system requirements, we can recommend the OG Hollow Knight enough, especially on the Steam Deck.
4. Elden Ring
Released: February 25, 2022 | Developer: FromSoftware | Size: 60GB
No maidens? No worries. You’ll find plenty in this latest massive open-world RPG from FromSoftware. The difficulty found in Soulslike games isn’t for everyone, but this challenging RPG becomes a little bit easier thanks to the portability of the Steam Deck. Being able to practice your dodge rolls and trying out a variety of builds on the go makes venturing through the dangers of The Lands Between that little bit less taxing.
While Elden Ring Nightregin is off to a strong start on the Steam Deck, the OG Elden Ring still regularly outranks it on the most played Steam Deck game chart and is still a top 10 game for the past year.
5. Stardew Valley
Released: February 26, 2016 | Developer: ConcernedApe | Size: 500MB
What was originally a love letter to the farming sim games of yesteryear has become the best of the genre. If you haven’t yet joined the Stardew Valley revolution, you’re missing out. It’s one of the best cozy gaming experiences out there, which is only made better by the portability of the Steam Deck. You can tend to your farm, grow your crops, check out your new neighbors in the valley, and fight monsters in the dungeons – anything’s possible in Stardew Valley.
The Stardew Valley system requirements show just how easy the game is to run, and the Steam Deck has no issue with its demands, offering a buttery smooth frame rate and long battery life to boot. Stardew Valley is the second most-played game on the Steam Deck for the past year, but regularly takes the number one spot for shorter timelines like the monthly and weekly charts.
6. Vampire Survivors
Released: October 20, 2022 | Developer: poncle | Size: 600MB
Vampire Survivors is a perfect fit for the Steam Deck, offering up a devilishly delightful gameplay loop that can be enjoyed in bite-sized sessions or played for hours when one run simply will not do.
While its art style is charming to look at, it’s not taxing on the Steam Deck either, meaning that you can expect a smooth gameplay experience and not have to worry about battery life either. Just be warned that this roguelike bullet hell is as tough as it is impossible to put down. Vampire Survivors still holds a top 10 spot on the list of most played Steam Deck games for the past year.
7. Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered
Released: August 12, 2022 | Developer: Insomniac Games, Nixxes Software | Size: 75GB
This PlayStation console exclusive zips along on the Steam Deck with all the speed and grace worthy of your favorite neighborhood Spider-Man. The first Spidey outing from Insomniac Games looks great on Valve’s handheld, and few things feel better than getting to swing about Manhattan on the go.
8. Cyberpunk 2077
Released: December 10, 2020 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Size: 70GB
While it’s an understatement to say that Cyberpunk 2077 had a rough launch, CD Projekt Red has made its sci-fi epic of an RPG worth a second look. With the new Phantom Liberty now out, there’s never been a better time to get familiar with the characters of Night City on the Steam Deck, exploring this dystopian world from the comfort of wherever you please.
Countless game updates from CDPR have improved every aspect of Cyberpunk 2077, including its performance on devices like the Steam Deck, with a specific Steam Deck graphics profile built into the game. Chances are, if you played CP2077 early on, the game it is now will feel like a completely different experience, so it’s well worth giving it another chance.
9. Red Dead Redemption 2
Released: October 26, 2018 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Size: 150GB
While Grand Theft Auto 5 plays superbly on the Steam Deck, for our Rockstar pick of the list, we’ve gone for the rootin’ and tootin’ Red Dead Redemption 2. In what is one of the best single-player experiences in gaming, you take on the role of Arthur Morgan and play through the events that lead up to the original goings-on in the first Red Dead Redemption.
Even if you’ve played this action-packed sequel before, nothing beats the feeling of roaming through the Wild West on horseback with the Steam Deck. A big reason why RDR 2 is here over GTA 5 is the new anti-cheat, which has made GTA Online unplayable on the Steam Deck, whereas Red Dead Online remains operational on Valve’s handheld, for now.
10. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Released: November 11, 2011 | Developer: Bethesda Game Studios | Size: 12GB
It’s been over a decade since The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim launched, and this colossal RPG is available on most platforms, including your Steam Deck. What makes this version of Skyrim stand out is that, with a bit of elbow grease, you can install mods to vastly improve a multitude of features, like the textures, for one.
However, if you prefer not to spend your time tinkering away with mods, the Anniversary Edition already offers remastered art and effects, all the previously released expansions, and even some fishing.
11. Persona 5 Royal
Released: October 31, 2019 | Developer: P-Studio | Size: 41GB
The Persona games went from being a niche JRPG series, beloved by few subsets of fans, to exploding in popularity, and rightfully so. Persona 5 Royal perfectly encapsulates why the series is now so adored, with its catchy soundtrack, top-tier voice acting, in-depth battle system, and beautiful visuals.
Style is just oozing out of every bit of this game, and it’s never looked better than on the Steam Deck. You might spend anything from 100 to 140 hours on this lengthy RPG on your Valve handheld, but it’s worth every second, and the Steam Deck can run the game with ease and decent battery life, too.
12. Dead by Daylight
Released: June 14, 2016 | Developer: Behaviour Interactive | Size: 50GB
Even if you’re not someone of the spooky persuasion, Dead by Daylight is spine-chillingly fun on the Steam Deck. Whether you take on the role of the killer or prefer to try your best to survive, it’s easy to spend hours on this online asymmetric multiplayer. For an optimum experience on the Valve handheld, I highly recommend using your favorite gaming headset and playing Dead by Daylight in a dimly lit room. This way, you can set the mood and properly get your spooky on, while being able to hear the killer’s every move.
Cheaters have unfortunately started to tarnish the DBD experience for many, but if you’re playing with friends, this should be an easy issue to get around. Just be sure to report any rule-breaking players if you should be matched with them.
13. Blue Prince
Released: April 10, 2025 | Developer: Raw Fury | Size: 6GB
A roguelike that, at least for now, is unlike any other currently available, Blue Prince is a stunning indie game from Raw Fury that will have you scribbling down puzzle clues and solutions with a pen and paper like the good old days.
Moreover, beyond the challenging puzzle gameplay, Blue Prince offers an intriguing story and satisfying gameplay loops that will have you promising to play “one more run” before finding yourself still playing three hours later.
14. Two Point Museum
Released: March 4, 2025 | Developer: Two Point Studios | Size:8GB
Two Point games are made for consoles like the Steam Deck, and this latest entry, Two Point Museum, is no different. As the title suggests, you’re tasked with running a Museum and procuring all sorts of interesting antiquities and relics to make sure people want to come and visit.
Much like with Hospital and Campus, there is a guided challenge mode that prepares you for the free play mode, and it’s easy to lose countless hours building, upgrading, and maintaining your museum.
15. Sea of Stars
Released: August 29, 2023 | Developer: Sabotage Studio | Size: 5GB
We’re no strangers to turn-based RPGs when it comes to this list, but Sea of Stars is the first entry that captures the feeling of playing the classic fantasy games of the ’90s on the Steam Deck. Brought to you by the same studio as The Messenger, Sabotage Studio has created one of the most stunning uses of sprite art in modern gaming and one of the best-looking games to play on the handheld. Sea of Stars tells the story of the Solstice Warriors and their adventures of using Eclipse Magic to save the world and defeat the one known as The Fleshmancer. If you grew up playing RPGs like Chrono Trigger and Breath of Fire, you owe yourself the experience of playing Sea of Stars on the Steam Deck.
16. Cult of the Lamb
Released: August 11, 2022 | Developer: Massive Monster | Size: 4GB
Part roguelike, part city-builder, part cult simulator – there’s a lot to love about Cult of the Lamb on the Steam Deck. In this indie horror game from Massive Monster, you find yourself as an adorable lamb who is saved from annihilation by a creepy entity. To repay your debt, you must start a cult and grow your flock of dedicated followers, represented by equally cute forest animals. The 3D paper-like graphics lend themselves to the Valve handheld, and you’ll easily find yourself spending hours crafting new structures, giving sermons to your flock, or slashing your way through enemies. Cult of the Lamb and the Steam Deck are a match made in heaven, but this indie horror will have you braving through hell and back to create the ultimate cult.
17. Diablo 4
Released: June 6, 2023 | Developer: Blizzard Entertainment | Size: 90GB
Getting Diablo 4 to run on the Valve handheld was as hellish as the depths of Sanctuary, but since the Blizzard game has finally made its way officially on the Steam platform, playing it on your Steam Deck now is utterly heavenly. Hacking and slashing your way through enemies, and reaching pinnacles of gore you never thought possible feels destined for playing on the go. Being able to have Diablo 4 at arm’s length gives you ample time to get familiarised with the numerous classes, and get more acquainted with everyone’s favorite daughter of hatred, Lilith, in this horrifying yet addictive action RPG.
18. Monster Hunter World
Released: August 9, 2018 | Developer: Capcom | Size: 52GB
Thanks to the poor performance of Monster Hunter Wilds on PC and Steam Deck, Monster Hunter Worlds has maintained its popularity on Valve’s handheld, and is still frequently featured in the top 20 games being played on the Steam Deck.
Whether it’s just the technical performance alone, or just the years of updates and content expansions that delighted fans of the franchise, Monster Hunter World is still arguably the best MH experience on a handheld PC.
19. PowerWash Simulator
Released: July 14, 2022 | Developer: FuturLab | Size: 6GB
PowerWash Simulator is arguably one of the greatest games to come out of the simulation trend that appeared in the late 2010s and early 2020s. It’s incredible to think about how many hours we’ve sunk into cleaning random environments in this game, but it’s just so satisfying to hear that ding that indicates you’ve finished cleaning an item.
PowerWash Sim has been a hit on Steam and even has a VR version that kicks the immersion up to 11. However, the game also runs great on the Steam Deck, and is an ideal game for taking on the go because it demands so little of the Deck’s hardware, meaning you can maximize your battery life.
20. Marvel’s Midnight Suns
Released: December 2, 2022 | Developer: Firaxis | Size: 57.3GB
Not the Marvel game everyone was expecting at the time, but this turn-based card game runs exceptionally well on Valve’s handheld, and for us, it’s the best way to enjoy the game.
Looking past the strong performance, Marvel’s Midnight Suns carries fantastic gameplay mechanics and an engaging story that diverts from the typically wide appeal of other Marvel media. You’ll spend time with characters you never knew existed or at least haven’t been featured in a game for years, and enjoy every moment of it.
21. Helldivers 2
Released: February 8, 2024 | Developer: Arrowhead | Size: 75GB
While its first few weeks were rough when it came to Deck compatibility, Helldivers 2 received multiple updates that have now made it a great game to play on the portable.
It now holds a playable rating, with the only marks against it being that you’ll need to tweak the graphics settings, and some text can appear small on screen. All in all, these are minor issues, and spreading democracy is a lot of fun on Steam Deck.
22. War Thunder
Released: November 1, 2012 | Developer: Gaijin Entertainment | Size: Up to 95GB
It makes sense for many of Steam’s best free games to try and secure Deck compatibility, and of those we’ve played and tested, War Thunder is easily one of the better games to play on a handheld.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re fighting over land, sea, or in the air; performance is always solid, and War Thunder has earned its verified rating with ease.
23. Hades 2
Released: May 6, 2024 (early access) | Developer: Supergiant Games | Size: 10GB
The best Steam Deck games are those that work from the moment you boot the game, to the moment you switch off. Hades 2 is the premier example of this. No settings tweaks are needed, just hit play and enjoy.
It also helps that this roguelike sequel is just a fantastic game to play, but Supergiant made sure handheld performance was taken care of from launch, and it’s so easy for the Steam Deck to handle that you can get over six hours of play from a fully charged battery.
Read our Hades 2 review for more.
24. Balatro
Released: February 20, 2024 | Developer: LocalThunk | Size: 62.68MB
Who would have thought a poker-inspired roguelike would have blown up the way Balatro did? This game came from nowhere and is a shining example of why indie developers are so important to the industry. No major publisher would have sanctioned such a game, but the industry is so much better off with games like Balatro being released so regularly on Steam.
As for its Steam Deck performance, Balatro feels like a game made for Valve’s handheld, and thanks to its non-taxing graphical nature, you can play for hours and hours without needing to charge your Deck. It’s also currently the number one most-played game on the Steam Deck over the last 12 months.
25. Ghost of Tsushima
Released: May 16, 2024 | Developer: Sucker Punch | Size: 52.07GB
This might be a slightly controversial inclusion, but Ghost of Tsushima is truly an incredible game to play on a Steam Deck. It’s currently rated as Unsupported, but with the caveat that this is only because the Legends co-op mode is not playable.
Outside of this, Ghost of Tsushima runs incredibly well on Steam Deck, often achieving averages of around 50fps on medium-low settings. The story is fantastic, and the open world is well-suited for exploration. This all makes for a game that is unmissable on Valve’s handheld.
26. Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Released: Jan 25, 2024 | Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku | Size: 82GB
Developer Ryu Ga Gotoku is synonymous with ensuring its games run incredibly on Steam Deck, and this latest adventure following Ichiban Kasuga is no different.
From start to finish, this engrossing JRPG runs at a stable 40-60 fps depending on the settings you use. It allows you to sit back and just enjoy the story. The Steam Deck is my go-to console for Like A Dragon and Yakuza games now because of how well they pair up. Long may this continue!
Read our Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth review for more.
27. No Man’s Sky
Released: Aug 12, 2016 | Developer: Hello Games | Size: 14.1GB
It’s been a turbulent nine years for No Man’s Sky, but the game finally seems to have settled in a sweet spot where most players agree it finally lives up the the initial hype, or at least as close as it may ever get to such an achievement.
As a chilled-out and casual space exploration game, it’s a perfect fit for the Steam Deck, not to mention it has a tiny storage footprint, especially in comparison to some of the games on this list. While Hello Games is now working on its next big release, Light No Fire, No Man’s Sky is still receiving support to keep it ticking over.
28. God of War: Ragnarok
Released: Sept 19, 2024| Developer: Sony Santa Monica (PC Port by Jetpack Interactive) | Size: 190GB
It’s always exciting to see PS5 games eventually make their way to PC, and it was no different for God of War: Ragnarok. Despite some issues with the most recent ports, Ragnarok released with a day-one Verified rating, and AMD FSR 3.0 ensures that fantastic performance is possible on Valve’s handheld.
This expansive RPG is a must-play for fans of the previous game in the series reboot, and while it will look incredible on an all-out gaming PC, there’s nothing wrong with how it looks on Steam Deck either.
29. Schedule 1
Released: March 24, 2025 | Developer: TVGS | Size: 8GB
While far from perfect (which we’ll touch on in a moment), Schedule 1 has taken Steam by storm, and we predict it will soon be one of the most played games on Steam Deck year-on-year, although it already occupies a top 50 spot despite only releasing in March.
This “business management sim” doesn’t have native control support yet, but there are a few Steam Input profiles that can be used to remap the controls to what is available on the Steam Deck. Regular updates should keep coming, given that the game is still in early access, but Schedule 1 is already bags of fun in its current state, and a great game to play on the go via a handheld.
30. Marvel Rivals
Released: Dec 6, 2024 | Developer: NetEase Games | Size: 70GB
Most competitive shooter titles don’t transition all that well to the Steam Deck, but the new Marvel title is an exception to the rule. Its controller support is excellent, and it runs smoothly even on the Steam Deck’s lowly hardware, making it easy to stay competitive even on this modest device.
The fun, colorful art style of Marvel Rivals particularly lends itself well to the small, relatively low-res screen of the Steam Deck, while the game’s vast range of characters, all with different play styles and abilities, means you can find a hero or villain that works for you. Crucially, with relatively high time to kill and few characters that really focus on precision aiming to irritate you with surprise headshots all the time, it’s a forgiving and continually fun game.
There you have it, our list of the 30 best Steam Deck games, and you can download and play right now via Steam. If handhelds aren’t quite your speed, but you still want some portable power, we’ve also got a list of the best gaming laptop picks that you can buy right now. You can also check out our list of the best free Steam games if you’re looking for more things to play.
Elsewhere, if you’re looking to grab some other key accessories to go with your Steam Deck, either for playing on the go or at home, check out our guide to the best gaming headset and the best Steam Deck dock.
You can follow us on Google News for daily PC games news, reviews, and guides. We’ve also got a vibrant community Discord server, where you can chat about this story with members of the team and fellow readers.
