The Steam Deck now boasts thousands of games that run great on the handheld. We’ve rounded up the best Steam Deck games for you here.
The Steam Deck has established itself as a versatile portable console, letting players take their PC library on the go. For a game to work on Steam Deck, Valve reviews it and assigns a compatibility status. Below, we’ve listed the best games for Steam Deck and highlighted extra notes where helpful.
What do “Verified” or “Playable” mean?
- Verified: The game runs without issues using the default controller layout, shows the correct controller glyphs, text is easily readable on Steam Deck, and default graphics settings deliver a smooth experience.
- Playable: The game is fundamentally compatible but may have minor caveats. For example, some text may be hard to read or you might need to tweak controller/input settings.
- Unsupported: According to Valve, the game isn’t currently compatible with Steam Deck.
- Unknown: Valve hasn’t tested the game yet. You may need to try it yourself to see if it works.
To give you a clear overview, we’ve picked a selection of popular titles you can play on Steam Deck.
- By the way: You can also find the top 100 most-played Steam Deck games on the official Steam page.
Baldur’s Gate 3
- Note: Verified for Steam Deck.
A story-driven, party-based RPG set in the D&D universe where your choices shape the narrative. With companions, intrigue, and a gripping plot, you’re thrown right into the heart of the tale. It’s considered a modern classic with tons of different playstyles. Baldur’s Gate 3 is fully Steam Deck Verified and runs perfectly without any tweaks.
Hogwarts Legacy
- Note: Verified for Steam Deck. First-time setup requires an active internet connection.
Set in the 1800s, you play a student at Hogwarts as you uncover ancient magic, attend classes, and unravel a long-hidden mystery. The world is richly detailed and packed with fan service. Hogwarts Legacy is Steam Deck Verified and runs smoothly on the handheld.
Elden Ring
- Note: Verified for Steam Deck.
A vast open-world action RPG with dangerous bosses and demanding combat. Explore the Lands Between, meet memorable characters, and carve your path toward becoming Elden Lord. With hundreds of hours of content, you can lose yourself here. Elden Ring is Steam Deck Verified and runs reliably.
Palworld
- Note: Verified for Steam Deck. The game doesn’t automatically fall back to external Bluetooth/USB controllers on Steam Deck. You may need to switch the active controller manually via the Quick Access menu.
An open-world adventure where you catch creatures, build bases, and fight to survive. Your Pals help with combat, gathering, and construction. The blend of creature-collecting charm and survival mechanics keeps things fresh. Palworld is Steam Deck Verified and runs smoothly on the go.
Stardew Valley
- Note: Verified for Steam Deck.
A charming farming sim where you tend fields, raise animals, and settle into village life. Explore mines, attend festivals, build relationships, and uncover secrets. It’s one of the most beloved indies around with a dedicated community. Stardew Valley is Steam Deck Verified and runs beautifully on the handheld.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
- Note: Verified for Steam Deck. The game doesn’t automatically switch to external Bluetooth/USB controllers. A manual switch in the Quick Access menu may be required.
You play as monster hunter Geralt in a sprawling fantasy world full of quests and choices. With an epic story, memorable characters, and countless side activities, it’s one of the biggest RPGs ever. The next-gen updates further boost visuals and performance.
Cult of the Lamb
- Note: Verified for Steam Deck. The game doesn’t automatically switch to external Bluetooth/USB controllers. A manual change in the Quick Access menu may be needed.
A quirky roguelike where you play a small lamb founding a cult and recruiting followers. Mix base-building, rituals, and combat in procedurally generated dungeons. The cute look paired with dark themes gives it a unique vibe. Cult of the Lamb is Steam Deck Verified and runs flawlessly.
Monster Hunter: World
- Note: Verified for Steam Deck. The game doesn’t automatically switch to external Bluetooth/USB controllers. You may need to switch manually via the Quick Access menu.
An action-packed co-op RPG where you hunt massive monsters across varied regions. Craft weapons and armor, and take on hunts solo or in a squad. Every hunt demands new strategies and delivers thrilling fights. Monster Hunter: World is Steam Deck Verified and runs at a stable 30 FPS on the handheld.
Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered
- Note: Verified for Steam Deck.
Swing through a richly detailed New York and experience an emotional story around Peter Parker. With acrobatic combat, gadgets, and side missions, there’s plenty to do. The PC port is technically strong and also runs well on Steam Deck.
No Man’s Sky
- Note: Verified for Steam Deck.
An almost boundless space exploration game where you discover planets, lifeforms, and entire systems. Gather resources, build bases, and hop from world to world in your ship. Thanks to constant updates, there are always new features and content.
Resident Evil 4
- Note: Verified for Steam Deck. The game doesn’t automatically switch to external Bluetooth/USB controllers. A manual change via the Quick Access menu may be required. First-time setup requires an active internet connection.
An intense survival-horror experience where you play Leon on a rescue mission against infected foes. Expect firefights, puzzles, and a tense atmosphere. The remake delivers modern visuals and tighter controls. Resident Evil 4 also plays well on Steam Deck.
