Reflecting on the year as it approaches its end, I find myself reminiscing about the myriad of PC games that have graced my screen. While the excitement of discovering new titles is undeniable, the reality remains that not all games perform optimally on handheld gaming PCs. Often, this revelation comes only after the purchase has been made.
One standout title has been Little Kitty, Big City, which I initially played last year. However, it was my niece who reignited my interest in it a few months ago. Each visit, she eagerly requests to play on my Xbox Ally X, captivated by the whimsical experience of navigating city streets as a playful cat. Our recent gaming session turned into hours of delightful chaos, from tripping unsuspecting pedestrians to pilfering their belongings. This charming adventure runs exceptionally well on handhelds and is Steam Deck verified.
Amber Isle
Another gem that caught my attention is Amber Isle. This cozy game allows players to create their own dinosaur character and embark on a crafting journey. The charming shopkeeping life sim is perfectly suited for handheld devices, marked as Playable for Steam Deck, although I did notice some text was a tad small.
Kingdom of Night
Currently, I’m engrossed in Kingdom of Night, a game that has kept me entertained for six hours so far. Its 80s-inspired pixel art and engaging combat draw parallels to the beloved Stranger Things series, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. The quirky setting of Miami, Arizona, adds a layer of charm, even if it feels slightly cheesy at times. This title is also Steam Deck verified, ensuring a smooth experience on handhelds.
PowerWash Simulator
After much delay, I finally delved into PowerWash Simulator. The satisfaction of transforming grimy surfaces into sparkling clean ones is incredibly addictive. This game pairs wonderfully with watching a show, making it hard to put down my handheld. It is, of course, Steam Deck verified.
The Plucky Squire
The Plucky Squire immediately captured my interest with its playful premise. Players take on the role of a beloved book character who can leap from the pages into the real world. The clever puzzles and humorous narrative make for an engaging experience that runs beautifully on my Steam Deck, also Steam Deck verified.
My Little Puppy
For a more emotional experience, My Little Puppy is a heartfelt journey that tugged at my heartstrings. As a corgi owner, I felt compelled to play this game about a dog searching for its owner in the afterlife. While it features mini-games and puzzles, it also has darker moments, making it a bittersweet experience. This title is also Steam Deck verified.
Blue Prince
Blue Prince surprised me with its roguelike puzzle mechanics. Set in a mansion filled with shifting rooms, players must navigate through challenges to inherit their eccentric uncle’s fortune. The blend of luck and strategy keeps the gameplay fresh, and it is marked as Playable for Steam Deck, though some text can be challenging to read.
Kulebra and the Souls of Limbo
During my time at Gamescom Latam, I discovered Kulebra and the Souls of Limbo, an adventure puzzle game featuring a snake assisting souls in the afterlife. Its charming art style and simple graphics are ideal for handhelds, and it is Steam Deck verified.
Baldur’s Gate 3
In the spring, I revisited Baldur’s Gate 3 with friends, experiencing the chaos of multiplayer gameplay. This title, which has garnered acclaim as 2023’s Game of the Year, runs beautifully on handheld devices, including my ROG Ally X, and is Steam Deck verified.
Dave the Diver
When Dave the Diver became available on Xbox, I finally tackled this engaging game that combines underwater exploration with sushi restaurant management. The gameplay loop kept me hooked for weeks, and it is also Steam Deck verified.
Minecraft
Returning to Minecraft with friends has always been a joy, whether we’re constructing elaborate structures or exploring new biomes. While it isn’t Steam Deck verified, it runs well on handhelds with some adjustments.
Immortals Fenyx Rising
Despite its off-putting name, Immortals Fenyx Rising is a delightful open-world RPG inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The vibrant world and humorous characters make for an enjoyable experience on handhelds, and it is marked as Playable on Steam Deck.
Horizon Zero Dawn
Lastly, I revisited Horizon Zero Dawn after its remaster, enjoying the captivating story of Aloy as she uncovers ancient mysteries. The game remains a favorite, and it is Steam Deck verified.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
After an initial rocky experience with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, an update significantly improved its performance on handhelds. This award-winning game features interactive turn-based combat and a unique story, and it is also Steam Deck verified.
BONUS: Xbox Game Pass
As a bonus, I explored numerous titles via Xbox Game Pass this year, including many that are perfect for handhelds. The vast library offers a wealth of gaming experiences, making it a worthwhile subscription for any gaming enthusiast.
Excellent games to play on handheld gaming PCs
Reflecting on my gaming journey this year, I’ve enjoyed a diverse range of titles, from charming indie games to more graphically intensive adventures. It’s clear that while some games shine on handheld devices, others may not perform as well. Adjusting system settings can enhance performance, but some titles simply aren’t designed for handheld play.
Do you have a favorite game to play on your handheld gaming PC? What do you consider the best handheld device? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
My top 12 handheld games I played in 2025 — Indies and AAA titles I recommend for Steam Deck, Xbox Ally X, Legion Go 2, and more
Reflecting on the year as it approaches its end, I find myself reminiscing about the myriad of PC games that have graced my screen. While the excitement of discovering new titles is undeniable, the reality remains that not all games perform optimally on handheld gaming PCs. Often, this revelation comes only after the purchase has been made.
One standout title has been Little Kitty, Big City, which I initially played last year. However, it was my niece who reignited my interest in it a few months ago. Each visit, she eagerly requests to play on my Xbox Ally X, captivated by the whimsical experience of navigating city streets as a playful cat. Our recent gaming session turned into hours of delightful chaos, from tripping unsuspecting pedestrians to pilfering their belongings. This charming adventure runs exceptionally well on handhelds and is Steam Deck verified.
Amber Isle
Another gem that caught my attention is Amber Isle. This cozy game allows players to create their own dinosaur character and embark on a crafting journey. The charming shopkeeping life sim is perfectly suited for handheld devices, marked as Playable for Steam Deck, although I did notice some text was a tad small.
Kingdom of Night
Currently, I’m engrossed in Kingdom of Night, a game that has kept me entertained for six hours so far. Its 80s-inspired pixel art and engaging combat draw parallels to the beloved Stranger Things series, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. The quirky setting of Miami, Arizona, adds a layer of charm, even if it feels slightly cheesy at times. This title is also Steam Deck verified, ensuring a smooth experience on handhelds.
PowerWash Simulator
After much delay, I finally delved into PowerWash Simulator. The satisfaction of transforming grimy surfaces into sparkling clean ones is incredibly addictive. This game pairs wonderfully with watching a show, making it hard to put down my handheld. It is, of course, Steam Deck verified.
The Plucky Squire
The Plucky Squire immediately captured my interest with its playful premise. Players take on the role of a beloved book character who can leap from the pages into the real world. The clever puzzles and humorous narrative make for an engaging experience that runs beautifully on my Steam Deck, also Steam Deck verified.
My Little Puppy
For a more emotional experience, My Little Puppy is a heartfelt journey that tugged at my heartstrings. As a corgi owner, I felt compelled to play this game about a dog searching for its owner in the afterlife. While it features mini-games and puzzles, it also has darker moments, making it a bittersweet experience. This title is also Steam Deck verified.
Blue Prince
Blue Prince surprised me with its roguelike puzzle mechanics. Set in a mansion filled with shifting rooms, players must navigate through challenges to inherit their eccentric uncle’s fortune. The blend of luck and strategy keeps the gameplay fresh, and it is marked as Playable for Steam Deck, though some text can be challenging to read.
Kulebra and the Souls of Limbo
During my time at Gamescom Latam, I discovered Kulebra and the Souls of Limbo, an adventure puzzle game featuring a snake assisting souls in the afterlife. Its charming art style and simple graphics are ideal for handhelds, and it is Steam Deck verified.
Baldur’s Gate 3
In the spring, I revisited Baldur’s Gate 3 with friends, experiencing the chaos of multiplayer gameplay. This title, which has garnered acclaim as 2023’s Game of the Year, runs beautifully on handheld devices, including my ROG Ally X, and is Steam Deck verified.
Dave the Diver
When Dave the Diver became available on Xbox, I finally tackled this engaging game that combines underwater exploration with sushi restaurant management. The gameplay loop kept me hooked for weeks, and it is also Steam Deck verified.
Minecraft
Returning to Minecraft with friends has always been a joy, whether we’re constructing elaborate structures or exploring new biomes. While it isn’t Steam Deck verified, it runs well on handhelds with some adjustments.
Immortals Fenyx Rising
Despite its off-putting name, Immortals Fenyx Rising is a delightful open-world RPG inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The vibrant world and humorous characters make for an enjoyable experience on handhelds, and it is marked as Playable on Steam Deck.
Horizon Zero Dawn
Lastly, I revisited Horizon Zero Dawn after its remaster, enjoying the captivating story of Aloy as she uncovers ancient mysteries. The game remains a favorite, and it is Steam Deck verified.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
After an initial rocky experience with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, an update significantly improved its performance on handhelds. This award-winning game features interactive turn-based combat and a unique story, and it is also Steam Deck verified.
BONUS: Xbox Game Pass
As a bonus, I explored numerous titles via Xbox Game Pass this year, including many that are perfect for handhelds. The vast library offers a wealth of gaming experiences, making it a worthwhile subscription for any gaming enthusiast.
Excellent games to play on handheld gaming PCs
Reflecting on my gaming journey this year, I’ve enjoyed a diverse range of titles, from charming indie games to more graphically intensive adventures. It’s clear that while some games shine on handheld devices, others may not perform as well. Adjusting system settings can enhance performance, but some titles simply aren’t designed for handheld play.
Do you have a favorite game to play on your handheld gaming PC? What do you consider the best handheld device? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.