The Steam Deck continues to evolve, solidifying its place as a favored portable gaming device in 2024. As a parent, I appreciate the convenience of accessing Steam’s vast library from virtually anywhere, whether I’m at home or enjoying a quiet moment while the baby naps at grandma’s house. Valve’s ongoing software updates enhance the experience, introducing features like game recording that enrich gameplay. For those new to the Steam Deck or those rediscovering it, I’ve curated a selection of standout games from this year, including a fresh take on a classic.
Balatro
Stepping into the realm of card-based roguelikes, Balatro emerges as a formidable contender. Players aim to create familiar poker hands to accumulate chips, with the added excitement of shopping for new cards between rounds. These cards can amplify your power, including jokers that can lead to astonishing chip totals. The thrill of a successful round in Balatro combines strategy, luck, and the exhilarating rush of watching numbers climb. And when fortune wanes, the allure of “just one more round” is hard to resist.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard
BioWare’s latest offering, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, invites players into an expansive fantasy world that fits seamlessly on the Steam Deck. With classic BioWare elements such as intricate dialogue trees, engaging companions, and diverse character-building options, the game presents a rich narrative divided into manageable quests. While some graphics adjustments are necessary for optimal performance, the ability to immerse oneself in this epic tale on the go is a compelling trade-off.
Hades II
Though technically still in early access, Hades II has already made a significant impact, surpassing many completed titles this year. Supergiant Games has skillfully expanded upon the original’s action roguelike formula, introducing new weapons, dual routes (one still in development), and a captivating cast of characters. The game’s addictive nature has prompted me to pace my playtime, ensuring I don’t exhaust its charm before the full release.
Metaphor: ReFantazio
Continuing the legacy of the Persona series, Metaphor: ReFantazio from Atlus offers a turn-based battle system that is both swift and engaging. The game is structured into easily digestible segments, making it perfect for short gaming sessions. Despite its size, the convenience of playing it on a portable device allows for enjoyable progress during spare moments.
Neva
Visually stunning, Neva tells the poignant story of a young woman and her fox companion. While combat exists, the game primarily revolves around solving light platforming puzzles and appreciating its breathtaking art and music. The experience is particularly enhanced on the Steam Deck OLED, making it an ideal choice for cozy evenings spent by the fire.
The Rise of the Golden Idol
For those intrigued by mystery, The Rise of the Golden Idol presents a series of 20 point-and-click enigmas to unravel. Players investigate various scenes and characters, piecing together clues to solve each mystery. Its slightly grotesque elements add a layer of intrigue, making it a captivating choice for fans of the genre.
Stardew Valley’s 1.6 Update
As one of the most beloved titles on the Steam Deck, Stardew Valley continues to enchant players, especially after its substantial 1.6 update. This upgrade introduces new festivals, a fresh farm type, and additional late-game content, ensuring that both seasoned players and newcomers have plenty to explore in this charming farming simulation.
Thank Goodness You’re Here!
In Thank Goodness You’re Here!, players navigate a whimsical English village, interacting with eccentric townsfolk and engaging in humorous antics. The witty writing and delightful accents create a lighthearted atmosphere, and with a completion time of just three hours, it’s a perfect pick-me-up for a brief gaming session.
