Welcome to this week’s version of the Steam Deck Weekly. For those who missed my Gundam Breaker 4 Steam Deck overview, learn it right here. Right this moment’s article has Steam Deck impressions and opinions for Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint, Visions of Mana, Gori: Cuddly Carnage, Bloons Card Storm, and extra. This week additionally sees just a few notable new Steam Deck Verified video games and the standard slew of gross sales and reductions. Let’s get into the opinions and impressions first.
Steam Deck Sport Evaluations & Impressions
We’re formally within the very busy season of the yr, and I’m going to attempt to cowl as a lot as I can this week via just a few scored opinions and impressions of video games on Steam Deck with one preview as properly.
Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint Steam Deck Impressions
Through the years, we’ve seen Cygames attempt to develop its Umamusume property via oblique methods with DLC in its different video games, via the anime, and extra. Umamusume: Fairly Derby itself is lastly getting localized this yr as properly on cell, and Cygames has launched a celebration recreation primarily based on Umamusume with Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint.
I want a bit extra time for my full overview of Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint after I’ll probably additionally cowl the Swap model, however I’ve been enjoying Cygames’ first ever official Umamusume: Fairly Derby launch within the West on Steam Deck forward of its launch this week. Till then, I needed to offer you an concept of how Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint is on Steam Deck.
Out of the field, Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint appears to run at full 16:10, however it’s stretched. I like to recommend going into the settings and altering the decision to 720p and show mode to full display screen so it shows appropriately. One factor to bear in mind is Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint at the moment has some video playback codec points leading to a shade bar sample for some movies. I examined 3 totally different Proton GE variations together with 9-9 with no luck as the sport wouldn’t load some modes until I used Proton Experimental.
Other than the movies, Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint runs high-quality at its 60fps goal. I’m wanting ahead to enjoying extra of it for my full overview that hopefully covers the console variations as properly. As of now Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint doesn’t have a Steam Deck ranking from Valve, and I think about it is going to be marked unsupported till the cut-scene situation is addressed.
Reynatis English Launch Preview
Reynatis from NIS America and Furyu is ready to launch on September twenty seventh for Steam, PS5, PS4, and Swap following its Japanese debut. Forward of its launch, I had an opportunity to attend a preview occasion for the sport to take a look at a few of the English construct. Often, I don’t trouble doing hands-off previews, however I’ve been curious to see how the English localization is, and likewise study extra about this launch.
Since this was a hands-off preview, I can’t touch upon how the sport feels or how it’s on PC, however Reynatis is shaping as much as be certainly one of Furyu’s extra formidable video games with its story, setting, and seemingly easy fight. Through the years, I often find yourself clicking with Furyu recreation tales and soundtracks, however one or two elements at all times really feel missing. With Reynatis, I’ve been within the narrative and fight as properly. Reynatis takes place in a recreation of modern-day Tokyo and the totally different views make it seem to be it is going to be distinctive. I gained’t touch upon a lot of the gameplay till I attempt it out for myself, however the English localization to date appears superb. I’m a bit dissatisfied at no English dub although.
A whole lot of people probably are all in favour of Reynatis as a result of it has music by Yoko Shimomura and a state of affairs from Kazushige Nojima each of whom are well-known to Sq. Enix followers for his or her work on Closing Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts, and extra. If we do get a demo within the close to future, I like to recommend making an attempt it out to see how you discover it for your self.
I’m wanting ahead to enjoying Reynatis myself hopefully quickly for overview, however it undoubtedly seems like this would possibly find yourself certainly one of Furyu’s higher video games in recent times. Whereas the story and setting are undoubtedly highlights, I’m very all in favour of seeing how the fight system feels. Keep tuned for extra Reynatis protection within the close to future.
Visions of Mana Steam Deck Evaluate
When Visions of Mana was introduced, I used to be very comfortable to see the sequence again after we noticed the excellent Assortment of Mana after which the remake of Trials of Mana launched throughout a number of platforms. After I tried the demo for Visions of Mana, I used to be involved as a result of there have been some elements that didn’t work for me in any respect, however I used to be hopeful. Quick ahead to at this time and Visions of Mana is on the market on PS5, Xbox Sequence X, and Steam. I’ve been enjoying it on each Steam Deck and PS5 for overview, and it ended up stunning me in a great way, however I really feel like it could have benefited from just a few months of polish and tweaking on the subject of its basic motion. I’m going to deal with the sport on Steam Deck on this overview, but in addition cowl the way it feels on PS5.
For those who’re new to the Mana sequence, you’ll be able to nonetheless begin with this one. Visions of Mana is a brand new recreation within the sequence masking the Mana Tree and extra. For those who, like me, have performed prior video games, this may really feel nice in some methods, however you is perhaps let down in components, particularly for the story. Visions of Mana’s power is in its attractive world, the fight, and basic gameplay. It’s a big step up over Trials of Mana in its scope and visuals, identical to Tales of Come up felt in a means when it was launched. The problems I’ve with Visions of Mana are to do with its basic really feel. The motion and digicam by no means really feel good. Whereas I managed fixing this on PS5 with the digicam distance and motion pace, I want it was snappier on the whole.
On the PC port aspect, Visions of Mana is sort of bare-bones. You possibly can alter display screen mode, decision, body fee goal (30fps to limitless), toggle v-sync, alter FSR 2, and simply “graphics settings” presets. These presets are low, commonplace, and excessive. It doesn’t let you know what the three choices change, however it does have an effect on draw distance, post-processing, and extra. Whereas the sport boots up seemingly fullscreen at 16:10, it’s truly stretched. Don’t be fooled into pondering the sport helps the native decision. Altering the show mode from borderless to windowed or fullscreen may have it alter to 16:9 the place the weather and display screen should not stretched. A buddy of mine really useful making an attempt out forcing a decrease decision within the demo to get higher efficiency, however that appears to return with its personal points the place the decision choices bug out even whenever you return to forcing native or increased decision on the Deck’s personal show.
Visions of Mana is at the moment rated as Steam Deck Playable by Valve, however it has notable efficiency points proper now. Whatever the settings I used on the subject of body fee goal or upscaling, I couldn’t get a locked body fee even focusing on 30fps with it dropping beneath in crowded areas. When utilizing the low preset and totally different upscaling strategies for testing functions, the sport runs above 60fps in components, however it additionally drops beneath 30fps. Some areas simply stutter on the whole, and even enjoying on Extremely Efficiency upscaling with the actually low picture high quality isn’t sufficient. Visions of Mana’s artwork model actually doesn’t work with heavy upscaling so I might not advocate it. After spending about 5 hours simply testing out totally different settings throughout my save information in Visions of Mana, I settled on enjoying with FSR set to high quality and the excessive preset for a 30fps goal with drops beneath to the excessive 20s.
For those who’re pleased with round 30fps and common drops beneath to the excessive 20s, Visions of Mana is okay on Steam Deck, and appears glorious on the hand-held’s display screen when enjoying on the excessive graphics preset. I might advocate downloading the free Visions of Mana demo to check out the totally different graphics choices, however observe that the ultimate recreation runs a bit in a different way. It’s nonetheless value checking to see how the aesthetic scales on Steam Deck with totally different settings used. Visions of Mana wants extra optimization proper now on PC on the whole although. I’d additionally love for the PC port to really see extra detailed graphics choices added in order that gamers can alter issues individually quite than counting on console-like modes.
On the management aspect, Visions of Mana has help for controller and keyboard + mouse inputs. It’s also possible to change the controller glyphs which is at all times a welcome choice.
Talking of console, Visions of Mana on PS5 is nice after some tweaking. The default digicam motion and distance felt terrible. Having modified it to zoomed out and the digicam pace to 10 resulted in a massively higher feeling expertise. The default gave me movement illness in components. I might additionally advocate toggling on auto-run. For those who, like me, play on each present consoles or Steam Deck, I might seize Visions of Mana on PS5 for positive over Steam Deck till it will get some patches on the latter.
Visions of Mana has increased highs but in addition decrease lows than Trials of Mana, however it’s a recreation I’m glad I bought to expertise by the tip. For those who loved Trials of Mana and video games like Tales of Come up particularly on the gameplay aspect, Visions of Mana is value your time. I simply want the motion and PC port had been higher. In its present state, it’s glorious to have a contemporary Mana recreation and Visions of Mana delivered on that entrance. Simply don’t anticipate it to achieve the highs of Secret of Mana. Whereas it’s rated Steam Deck Playable by Valve, I like to recommend enjoying it on PS5 quite than Steam Deck with how bare-bones the PC port is in its present state.
Visions of Mana Steam Deck overview rating: 3.5/5
Gori: Cuddly Carnage Steam Deck Evaluate
After I first noticed promotional artwork for Gori: Cuddly Carnage, I assumed it could be a brief horror recreation. I didn’t anticipate it to be a mix of Ratchet & Clank, Cyril Cyberpunk, and an motion recreation with a ton of early 2000s humor sprinkled throughout. If that sounds good to you, simply go obtain the demo as a result of it’s nice.
Gori: Cuddly Carnage has you enjoying as a badass cat in an motion platformer that occurs to have higher fight than any current recreation within the style. Whereas the aesthetic won’t work for some, I discovered it completely fits the writing and was impressed by the sleek animations and visuals all through my time enjoying it.
On PC, Gori: Cuddly Carnage allows you to alter graphics presets (low, medium, excessive, very excessive), decision, show mode, FOV, body fee goal (30fps to limitless), toggle v-sync, toggle movement blur, toggle ray tracing, upscale methodology (off, DLSS, XeSS), and likewise alter the standard for anti-aliasing, shadows, textures, results, and post-processing. The PC model is sort of a characteristic packed port for a recreation like this, and it controls completely on Steam Deck with good rumble as properly.
On Steam Deck enjoying on the very excessive preset with no upscaling used, anticipate to play with a 30fps goal. I didn’t wish to accept simply 30fps in fact. Utilizing the medium preset with no upscaling is sweet for taking part in with 45fps at 90hz on Steam Deck OLED. If you wish to goal for 60fps or increased, I like to recommend enjoying with increased visuals however XeSS. Taking issues all the best way down on the low preset and XeSS set to extremely efficiency leads to 90fps with some drops. It doesn’t look dangerous even now, however it’s undoubtedly a visible step down from native anti-aliasing.
I additionally had entry to Gori: Cuddly Carnage on PS5, and that model is simply as spectacular because the PC model with a number of efficiency modes together with a ray tracing mode, 120fps mode, and extra. It additionally has good DualSense help.
In terms of the sport itself, Gori: Cuddly Carnage has some digicam points that have an effect on platforming sections and likewise just a few boss battles that irritated me. Whereas the latter may simply make sure encounters not clicking with me, I hope the previous may be addressed.
General, I’m very happy with how Gori: Cuddly Carnage is on Steam Deck, and anticipate it to get Verified very quickly. The sport itself stunned me with its high quality, and it’s one I gained’t overlook for some time. It excels with its enjoyable gameplay, good writing, and nice fight and feels proper at dwelling on Steam Deck from begin to end. It’s simply held again by just a few annoyances.
Gori: Cuddly Carnage Steam Deck overview rating: 4/5
Bloons Card Storm Steam Deck Gameplay Impressions
After I discovered about Bloons Card Storm, a collectible card recreation set within the Bloons recreation universe, I used to be interested by it. I had entry to a Steam preview construct of the sport forward of its full launch later this yr on cell and Steam, and it has been an attention-grabbing expertise. Having performed the Bloons video games on iOS with contact controls, I wasn’t positive what to anticipate with Bloons Card Storm, however it feels proper at dwelling on Steam Deck with contact controls. As of now there isn’t a controller help within the preview construct, however it performs completely with contact controls.
As for the sport itself, Bloons Card Storm seems like a pleasant addition to the crowded style. I performed just a few ranges of the PvE mode and like how the staff introduced over Bloons characters and skills to this world. For those who’re new to Bloons, I like to recommend enjoying the tremendous in style Bloons TD 6 or TD Battles 2 earlier than, however you’ll be able to nonetheless play and luxuriate in this one. I simply hope the monetization is dealt with properly when it launches as a result of I can’t see what the in-game retailer is promoting proper now.
I can safely say that it runs and appears nice on Steam Deck even in its early preview construct. Hopefully it will get controller help at or round launch although. It’s shaping as much as be a pleasant and accessible card recreation, and the cross platform multiplayer means I’m undoubtedly going to get just a few pals to offer it a shot at launch.
Age of Mythology: Retold Steam Deck Gameplay Impressions
I’ve been very excited for Age of Mythology: Retold as a result of I performed the unique a ton again within the day. The motion RTS bringing collectively gods and monsters was already nice on PC, however this remake had me extra as a result of it was coming to console day one. You is perhaps questioning why that issues for a Steam Deck overview, and I want to return a bit to Age of Empires coming to Xbox for that.
When Microsoft introduced Age of Empires II Definitive Version to Xbox, it performed splendidly with full controller help and a improbable port. The corporate sadly didn’t carry this controller help to the PC model and I’ve needed to depend on utilizing the trackpad on Steam Deck to play Age of Empires II Definitive and likewise Age of Empires IV. I ended up enjoying each of these extra on Xbox as a result of I actually love the controller help. It isn’t pretty much as good as enjoying with a mouse and keyboard for some particular areas, however I performed sufficient of those video games with a keyboard and mouse after they first launched.
Age of Mythology: Retold had a beta check on Steam, and after I tried it out, I used to be glad to see it included controller help even on Steam. This was sufficient for me to pre-order the sport’s Premium Version just a few days in the past to play on Steam Deck. Thus far, Age of Mythology: Retold feels nice on Steam Deck, after making one change.
By default, Age of Mythology: Retold is marked as Steam Deck Playable by Valve, however I truly couldn’t get it as well up in any respect on my Steam Deck OLED or LCD fashions. It stored freezing or crashing. Transferring to GE Proton 9-9 fastened this situation for me. I haven’t performed sufficient to do a full overview but, however I’m glad at how good Age of Mythology: Retold feels and appears on Steam Deck proper now. I’m wanting ahead to enjoying it extra over the approaching weeks.
As for the most effective graphics settings for Age of Mythology: Retold on Steam Deck OLED, I want a bit extra time to see the way it performs afterward. Proper now, I’ve settled for 45fps at 90hz with a mixture of medium settings with FSR 2 set to high quality. It will be attention-grabbing to see the way it fares afterward within the marketing campaign.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn Steam Deck Gameplay Impressions
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is Tengo Challenge and NatsumeAtari’s latest remake of a basic, and it’s a rattling high-quality launch total. Shaun is engaged on a full overview of this one, however I needed to cowl the way it feels on Steam Deck and likewise Xbox briefly.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn on PC allows you to alter decision and display screen mode (borderless, windowed, and fullscreen). It solely has 16:9 help, however the aesthetic completely shines on Steam Deck with the particle results and crisp animation work. As for the PC port itself, there are some management points if you wish to use a keyboard, however I performed Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn on Steam Deck solely and it felt proper at dwelling on Valve’s handheld with quick loading and no efficiency points.
Whereas Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn’s supply recreation isn’t as wonderful because the likes of Pocky and Rocky and even The Ninja Warriors like we’ve seen from Tengo Challenge previously, it has gotten a wonderful launch that runs and appears good on Steam Deck and Xbox Sequence X. I additionally loved enjoying it on-line via Steam Distant Play Along with a buddy of mine overseas. For those who aren’t positive about this one but, I like to recommend downloading the demo and making an attempt it out for your self.
Information and Trailers
Let’s begin this week’s part with a brand-new prolonged showcase for Atlus’ upcoming RPG Metaphor: ReFantazio. It continues to look wonderful and I can’t imagine it’s only a bit of over a month away. Watch the trailer beneath:
Following that, Sq. Enix simply posted new particulars for the upcoming Romancing SaGa 2 remake titled Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven coming to Steam and consoles this October. Take a look at some new screenshots right here and one showcasing Glimmer beneath:
Now let’s shift gears to the Nintendo Indie Direct + Associate Showcase that had 99% video games coming to or on Steam. I’ve included the highlights right here. Marvelous USA had an impactful trailer for Rune Manufacturing facility: Guardians of Azuma coming to Swap and Steam in Spring 2025. Watch it beneath:
Bandai Namco introduced Tales of Graces f Remastered for January 2025 launch on Steam and all consoles with visible upgrades and DLC included. Watch the trailer beneath:
Konami and M2 have launched Castlevania Daybreak of Sorrow, Portrait of Wreck, and Order of Ecclesia in a single assortment out now on Steam and all consoles. I’ll be reviewing this one subsequent week so keep tuned for that.
Capcom introduced Capcom Combating Assortment 2 that includes Capcom Vs SNK, Energy Stone, and 6 different video games coming in 2025 to Steam, Swap, and PlayStation. Capcom additionally introduced that the Marvel Vs Capcom assortment launches in underneath 2 weeks.
The wonderful Cuisineer from Marvelous USA is coming to Swap and different consoles early subsequent yr alongside a giant replace for the Steam launch. I’m undoubtedly getting the bodily version.
The Ghibli-inspired action-adventure recreation Europa was showcased for Swap through the Nintendo Indie World showcase and can launch on October eleventh for Swap and Steam.
Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Recollections & the Envisioned Land, the subsequent mainline Atelier recreation is coming to Steam and all consoles together with Xbox, a sequence first, in early 2025, and it seems unimaginable.
Tetris Without end is the brand new Gold Grasp Sequence launch from Digital Eclipse coming this yr that includes greater than 15 playable basic video games from the sequence’ historical past. Some have by no means seen a launch outdoors Japan earlier than.
PowerWash Simulator goes deeper into the insanity with the Shrek Particular Pack coming quickly for Steam and all consoles.
FAIRY TAIL 2 from Gust and Koei Tecmo is lastly coming to Steam, Swap, and different consoles starting December eleventh. Watch the trailer beneath:
Incredible Video games: Offered by Day of the Devs can be happening from September twentieth to twenty second, and the complete listing of video games and builders has been revealed. I’m excited for fairly just a few of these, and I even have performed just a few of these already (however I can’t say which of them but!).
- Channel: Loss of life by Night time Metropolis, Huge Sir Video games
- darkwebSTREAMER by We Have At all times Lived within the Forest
- Concern the Highlight by Cozy Sport Friends and Blumhouse Video games
- 5 Nights at Freddy’s: Secret of the Mimic by Metal Wool
- Grunn by Sokpop Collective
- Hollowbody by Headware Video games
- Holstin by Sonka
- Horses by Santa Ragione
- Karma: The Darkish World by Pollard Studio, Wired Productions and Gamera Video games
- Pinball M (DLC) by Zen Studios
- Publish Trauma by Pink Soul Video games and Uncooked Fury
- Skate Story by Sam Eng and Devolver Digital
- Tom the Postgirl by Oopsie Daisies
SWORD ART ONLINE Fractured Daydream bought two new character trailers this week. Take a look at the Yui and Oberon trailers beneath:
D3 Writer launched the primary DLC pack for Earth Protection Pressure 6 within the type of Earth Protection Pressure 6 – Misplaced Days DLC 1. It’s out now on Steam and PS5.
Tremendous Evil Megacorp posted a roadmap for TMNT Splintered Destiny following its launch on Apple Arcade and Swap revealing that it is going to be Steam Deck Verified and extra.
Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Pageant is coming to Steam and present consoles on November seventh with 120fps help and extra. It performs wonderful on Steam Deck already. Strive the demo right here.
Panic’s latest showcase aired just a few days in the past and it’s completely value watching in the event you like attention-grabbing video games.
Forward of Tokyo Video games Present, SEGA and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio introduced the subsequent RGG Summit for September twentieth at 3 AM PT. You possibly can watch it beneath when the occasion begins:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=
Pinball FX brings in Goat Simulator and The Princess Bride as DLC tables this week on Steam and different platforms. Keep tuned for my protection of each of those and the sport itself within the close to future:
The primary DLC for That Time I Obtained Reincarnated as a Slime ISEKAI Chronicles, “A Unusual Destiny” is now obtainable with Hinata as a brand new playable character and an unique story by the unique creator. Watch the launch trailer beneath:
SYNDUALITY: ECHO OF ADA has a brand new trailer with closed community check signal ups now stay. Enroll right here and watch the trailer for it beneath:
The ultimate bit of stories is The First Descendant’s Season 1: Invasion now obtainable bringing in a brand new descendent: Hailey, battle go rewards, new dungeon invasions, and rather more.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable video games for the week
A whole lot of attention-grabbing additions this week with the newly launched Castlevania assortment and Gundam Breaker 4 being marked as playable alongside Marvel Vs Capcom Combating Assortment: Arcade Classics getting Verified forward of its launch in underneath two weeks. I’m additionally glad to see the upcoming Dragon Quest Monsters launch and Regency Solitaire II get examined by Valve.
- Age of Mythology: Retold – Playable
- Castlevania Dominus Assortment – Playable
- DRAGON QUEST MONSTERS: The Darkish Prince – Playable
- GUNDAM BREAKER 4 – Playable
- MARVEL vs. CAPCOM Combating Assortment: Arcade Classics – Verified
- Pool Panic – Verified
- Regency Solitaire II – Verified
- Sam & Max: The Satan’s Playhouse – Verified
- The Elder Scrolls On-line – Playable
- Visions of Mana – Playable
Steam Deck Sport Gross sales, Reductions, and Specials
The notable gross sales of the week embody a Tales of franchise sale the place I like to recommend Tales of Berseria as the most effective recreation within the sequence on Steam adopted by Tales of Come up, Kingdom Come Deliverance at 90% off, and Pink Useless Redemption II at 60% off on Steam. Notice that for Pink Useless Redemption II, you’ll be able to’t purchase the Steam model outdoors Steam whilst you can for the opposite video games I’ve talked about right here.
That’s all for this version of the Steam Deck Weekly. As regular, you’ll be able to learn all our previous and future Steam Deck protection right here. You probably have any suggestions for this characteristic or what else you’d wish to see us do across the Steam Deck, tell us within the feedback beneath. I hope you all have a terrific day, and thanks for studying.
Welcome to this week’s version of the Steam Deck Weekly. For those who missed my Gundam Breaker 4 Steam Deck overview, learn it right here. Right this moment’s article has Steam Deck impressions and opinions for Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint, Visions of Mana, Gori: Cuddly Carnage, Bloons Card Storm, and extra. This week additionally sees just a few notable new Steam Deck Verified video games and the standard slew of gross sales and reductions. Let’s get into the opinions and impressions first.
Steam Deck Sport Evaluations & Impressions
We’re formally within the very busy season of the yr, and I’m going to attempt to cowl as a lot as I can this week via just a few scored opinions and impressions of video games on Steam Deck with one preview as properly.
Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint Steam Deck Impressions
Through the years, we’ve seen Cygames attempt to develop its Umamusume property via oblique methods with DLC in its different video games, via the anime, and extra. Umamusume: Fairly Derby itself is lastly getting localized this yr as properly on cell, and Cygames has launched a celebration recreation primarily based on Umamusume with Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint.
I want a bit extra time for my full overview of Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint after I’ll probably additionally cowl the Swap model, however I’ve been enjoying Cygames’ first ever official Umamusume: Fairly Derby launch within the West on Steam Deck forward of its launch this week. Till then, I needed to offer you an concept of how Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint is on Steam Deck.
Out of the field, Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint appears to run at full 16:10, however it’s stretched. I like to recommend going into the settings and altering the decision to 720p and show mode to full display screen so it shows appropriately. One factor to bear in mind is Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint at the moment has some video playback codec points leading to a shade bar sample for some movies. I examined 3 totally different Proton GE variations together with 9-9 with no luck as the sport wouldn’t load some modes until I used Proton Experimental.
Other than the movies, Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint runs high-quality at its 60fps goal. I’m wanting ahead to enjoying extra of it for my full overview that hopefully covers the console variations as properly. As of now Umamusume: Fairly Derby – Occasion Sprint doesn’t have a Steam Deck ranking from Valve, and I think about it is going to be marked unsupported till the cut-scene situation is addressed.
Reynatis English Launch Preview
Reynatis from NIS America and Furyu is ready to launch on September twenty seventh for Steam, PS5, PS4, and Swap following its Japanese debut. Forward of its launch, I had an opportunity to attend a preview occasion for the sport to take a look at a few of the English construct. Often, I don’t trouble doing hands-off previews, however I’ve been curious to see how the English localization is, and likewise study extra about this launch.
Since this was a hands-off preview, I can’t touch upon how the sport feels or how it’s on PC, however Reynatis is shaping as much as be certainly one of Furyu’s extra formidable video games with its story, setting, and seemingly easy fight. Through the years, I often find yourself clicking with Furyu recreation tales and soundtracks, however one or two elements at all times really feel missing. With Reynatis, I’ve been within the narrative and fight as properly. Reynatis takes place in a recreation of modern-day Tokyo and the totally different views make it seem to be it is going to be distinctive. I gained’t touch upon a lot of the gameplay till I attempt it out for myself, however the English localization to date appears superb. I’m a bit dissatisfied at no English dub although.
A whole lot of people probably are all in favour of Reynatis as a result of it has music by Yoko Shimomura and a state of affairs from Kazushige Nojima each of whom are well-known to Sq. Enix followers for his or her work on Closing Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts, and extra. If we do get a demo within the close to future, I like to recommend making an attempt it out to see how you discover it for your self.
I’m wanting ahead to enjoying Reynatis myself hopefully quickly for overview, however it undoubtedly seems like this would possibly find yourself certainly one of Furyu’s higher video games in recent times. Whereas the story and setting are undoubtedly highlights, I’m very all in favour of seeing how the fight system feels. Keep tuned for extra Reynatis protection within the close to future.
Visions of Mana Steam Deck Evaluate
When Visions of Mana was introduced, I used to be very comfortable to see the sequence again after we noticed the excellent Assortment of Mana after which the remake of Trials of Mana launched throughout a number of platforms. After I tried the demo for Visions of Mana, I used to be involved as a result of there have been some elements that didn’t work for me in any respect, however I used to be hopeful. Quick ahead to at this time and Visions of Mana is on the market on PS5, Xbox Sequence X, and Steam. I’ve been enjoying it on each Steam Deck and PS5 for overview, and it ended up stunning me in a great way, however I really feel like it could have benefited from just a few months of polish and tweaking on the subject of its basic motion. I’m going to deal with the sport on Steam Deck on this overview, but in addition cowl the way it feels on PS5.
For those who’re new to the Mana sequence, you’ll be able to nonetheless begin with this one. Visions of Mana is a brand new recreation within the sequence masking the Mana Tree and extra. For those who, like me, have performed prior video games, this may really feel nice in some methods, however you is perhaps let down in components, particularly for the story. Visions of Mana’s power is in its attractive world, the fight, and basic gameplay. It’s a big step up over Trials of Mana in its scope and visuals, identical to Tales of Come up felt in a means when it was launched. The problems I’ve with Visions of Mana are to do with its basic really feel. The motion and digicam by no means really feel good. Whereas I managed fixing this on PS5 with the digicam distance and motion pace, I want it was snappier on the whole.
On the PC port aspect, Visions of Mana is sort of bare-bones. You possibly can alter display screen mode, decision, body fee goal (30fps to limitless), toggle v-sync, alter FSR 2, and simply “graphics settings” presets. These presets are low, commonplace, and excessive. It doesn’t let you know what the three choices change, however it does have an effect on draw distance, post-processing, and extra. Whereas the sport boots up seemingly fullscreen at 16:10, it’s truly stretched. Don’t be fooled into pondering the sport helps the native decision. Altering the show mode from borderless to windowed or fullscreen may have it alter to 16:9 the place the weather and display screen should not stretched. A buddy of mine really useful making an attempt out forcing a decrease decision within the demo to get higher efficiency, however that appears to return with its personal points the place the decision choices bug out even whenever you return to forcing native or increased decision on the Deck’s personal show.
Visions of Mana is at the moment rated as Steam Deck Playable by Valve, however it has notable efficiency points proper now. Whatever the settings I used on the subject of body fee goal or upscaling, I couldn’t get a locked body fee even focusing on 30fps with it dropping beneath in crowded areas. When utilizing the low preset and totally different upscaling strategies for testing functions, the sport runs above 60fps in components, however it additionally drops beneath 30fps. Some areas simply stutter on the whole, and even enjoying on Extremely Efficiency upscaling with the actually low picture high quality isn’t sufficient. Visions of Mana’s artwork model actually doesn’t work with heavy upscaling so I might not advocate it. After spending about 5 hours simply testing out totally different settings throughout my save information in Visions of Mana, I settled on enjoying with FSR set to high quality and the excessive preset for a 30fps goal with drops beneath to the excessive 20s.
For those who’re pleased with round 30fps and common drops beneath to the excessive 20s, Visions of Mana is okay on Steam Deck, and appears glorious on the hand-held’s display screen when enjoying on the excessive graphics preset. I might advocate downloading the free Visions of Mana demo to check out the totally different graphics choices, however observe that the ultimate recreation runs a bit in a different way. It’s nonetheless value checking to see how the aesthetic scales on Steam Deck with totally different settings used. Visions of Mana wants extra optimization proper now on PC on the whole although. I’d additionally love for the PC port to really see extra detailed graphics choices added in order that gamers can alter issues individually quite than counting on console-like modes.
On the management aspect, Visions of Mana has help for controller and keyboard + mouse inputs. It’s also possible to change the controller glyphs which is at all times a welcome choice.
Talking of console, Visions of Mana on PS5 is nice after some tweaking. The default digicam motion and distance felt terrible. Having modified it to zoomed out and the digicam pace to 10 resulted in a massively higher feeling expertise. The default gave me movement illness in components. I might additionally advocate toggling on auto-run. For those who, like me, play on each present consoles or Steam Deck, I might seize Visions of Mana on PS5 for positive over Steam Deck till it will get some patches on the latter.
Visions of Mana has increased highs but in addition decrease lows than Trials of Mana, however it’s a recreation I’m glad I bought to expertise by the tip. For those who loved Trials of Mana and video games like Tales of Come up particularly on the gameplay aspect, Visions of Mana is value your time. I simply want the motion and PC port had been higher. In its present state, it’s glorious to have a contemporary Mana recreation and Visions of Mana delivered on that entrance. Simply don’t anticipate it to achieve the highs of Secret of Mana. Whereas it’s rated Steam Deck Playable by Valve, I like to recommend enjoying it on PS5 quite than Steam Deck with how bare-bones the PC port is in its present state.
Visions of Mana Steam Deck overview rating: 3.5/5
Gori: Cuddly Carnage Steam Deck Evaluate
After I first noticed promotional artwork for Gori: Cuddly Carnage, I assumed it could be a brief horror recreation. I didn’t anticipate it to be a mix of Ratchet & Clank, Cyril Cyberpunk, and an motion recreation with a ton of early 2000s humor sprinkled throughout. If that sounds good to you, simply go obtain the demo as a result of it’s nice.
Gori: Cuddly Carnage has you enjoying as a badass cat in an motion platformer that occurs to have higher fight than any current recreation within the style. Whereas the aesthetic won’t work for some, I discovered it completely fits the writing and was impressed by the sleek animations and visuals all through my time enjoying it.
On PC, Gori: Cuddly Carnage allows you to alter graphics presets (low, medium, excessive, very excessive), decision, show mode, FOV, body fee goal (30fps to limitless), toggle v-sync, toggle movement blur, toggle ray tracing, upscale methodology (off, DLSS, XeSS), and likewise alter the standard for anti-aliasing, shadows, textures, results, and post-processing. The PC model is sort of a characteristic packed port for a recreation like this, and it controls completely on Steam Deck with good rumble as properly.
On Steam Deck enjoying on the very excessive preset with no upscaling used, anticipate to play with a 30fps goal. I didn’t wish to accept simply 30fps in fact. Utilizing the medium preset with no upscaling is sweet for taking part in with 45fps at 90hz on Steam Deck OLED. If you wish to goal for 60fps or increased, I like to recommend enjoying with increased visuals however XeSS. Taking issues all the best way down on the low preset and XeSS set to extremely efficiency leads to 90fps with some drops. It doesn’t look dangerous even now, however it’s undoubtedly a visible step down from native anti-aliasing.
I additionally had entry to Gori: Cuddly Carnage on PS5, and that model is simply as spectacular because the PC model with a number of efficiency modes together with a ray tracing mode, 120fps mode, and extra. It additionally has good DualSense help.
In terms of the sport itself, Gori: Cuddly Carnage has some digicam points that have an effect on platforming sections and likewise just a few boss battles that irritated me. Whereas the latter may simply make sure encounters not clicking with me, I hope the previous may be addressed.
General, I’m very happy with how Gori: Cuddly Carnage is on Steam Deck, and anticipate it to get Verified very quickly. The sport itself stunned me with its high quality, and it’s one I gained’t overlook for some time. It excels with its enjoyable gameplay, good writing, and nice fight and feels proper at dwelling on Steam Deck from begin to end. It’s simply held again by just a few annoyances.
Gori: Cuddly Carnage Steam Deck overview rating: 4/5
Bloons Card Storm Steam Deck Gameplay Impressions
After I discovered about Bloons Card Storm, a collectible card recreation set within the Bloons recreation universe, I used to be interested by it. I had entry to a Steam preview construct of the sport forward of its full launch later this yr on cell and Steam, and it has been an attention-grabbing expertise. Having performed the Bloons video games on iOS with contact controls, I wasn’t positive what to anticipate with Bloons Card Storm, however it feels proper at dwelling on Steam Deck with contact controls. As of now there isn’t a controller help within the preview construct, however it performs completely with contact controls.
As for the sport itself, Bloons Card Storm seems like a pleasant addition to the crowded style. I performed just a few ranges of the PvE mode and like how the staff introduced over Bloons characters and skills to this world. For those who’re new to Bloons, I like to recommend enjoying the tremendous in style Bloons TD 6 or TD Battles 2 earlier than, however you’ll be able to nonetheless play and luxuriate in this one. I simply hope the monetization is dealt with properly when it launches as a result of I can’t see what the in-game retailer is promoting proper now.
I can safely say that it runs and appears nice on Steam Deck even in its early preview construct. Hopefully it will get controller help at or round launch although. It’s shaping as much as be a pleasant and accessible card recreation, and the cross platform multiplayer means I’m undoubtedly going to get just a few pals to offer it a shot at launch.
Age of Mythology: Retold Steam Deck Gameplay Impressions
I’ve been very excited for Age of Mythology: Retold as a result of I performed the unique a ton again within the day. The motion RTS bringing collectively gods and monsters was already nice on PC, however this remake had me extra as a result of it was coming to console day one. You is perhaps questioning why that issues for a Steam Deck overview, and I want to return a bit to Age of Empires coming to Xbox for that.
When Microsoft introduced Age of Empires II Definitive Version to Xbox, it performed splendidly with full controller help and a improbable port. The corporate sadly didn’t carry this controller help to the PC model and I’ve needed to depend on utilizing the trackpad on Steam Deck to play Age of Empires II Definitive and likewise Age of Empires IV. I ended up enjoying each of these extra on Xbox as a result of I actually love the controller help. It isn’t pretty much as good as enjoying with a mouse and keyboard for some particular areas, however I performed sufficient of those video games with a keyboard and mouse after they first launched.
Age of Mythology: Retold had a beta check on Steam, and after I tried it out, I used to be glad to see it included controller help even on Steam. This was sufficient for me to pre-order the sport’s Premium Version just a few days in the past to play on Steam Deck. Thus far, Age of Mythology: Retold feels nice on Steam Deck, after making one change.
By default, Age of Mythology: Retold is marked as Steam Deck Playable by Valve, however I truly couldn’t get it as well up in any respect on my Steam Deck OLED or LCD fashions. It stored freezing or crashing. Transferring to GE Proton 9-9 fastened this situation for me. I haven’t performed sufficient to do a full overview but, however I’m glad at how good Age of Mythology: Retold feels and appears on Steam Deck proper now. I’m wanting ahead to enjoying it extra over the approaching weeks.
As for the most effective graphics settings for Age of Mythology: Retold on Steam Deck OLED, I want a bit extra time to see the way it performs afterward. Proper now, I’ve settled for 45fps at 90hz with a mixture of medium settings with FSR 2 set to high quality. It will be attention-grabbing to see the way it fares afterward within the marketing campaign.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn Steam Deck Gameplay Impressions
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn is Tengo Challenge and NatsumeAtari’s latest remake of a basic, and it’s a rattling high-quality launch total. Shaun is engaged on a full overview of this one, however I needed to cowl the way it feels on Steam Deck and likewise Xbox briefly.
Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn on PC allows you to alter decision and display screen mode (borderless, windowed, and fullscreen). It solely has 16:9 help, however the aesthetic completely shines on Steam Deck with the particle results and crisp animation work. As for the PC port itself, there are some management points if you wish to use a keyboard, however I performed Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn on Steam Deck solely and it felt proper at dwelling on Valve’s handheld with quick loading and no efficiency points.
Whereas Shadow of the Ninja – Reborn’s supply recreation isn’t as wonderful because the likes of Pocky and Rocky and even The Ninja Warriors like we’ve seen from Tengo Challenge previously, it has gotten a wonderful launch that runs and appears good on Steam Deck and Xbox Sequence X. I additionally loved enjoying it on-line via Steam Distant Play Along with a buddy of mine overseas. For those who aren’t positive about this one but, I like to recommend downloading the demo and making an attempt it out for your self.
Information and Trailers
Let’s begin this week’s part with a brand-new prolonged showcase for Atlus’ upcoming RPG Metaphor: ReFantazio. It continues to look wonderful and I can’t imagine it’s only a bit of over a month away. Watch the trailer beneath:
Following that, Sq. Enix simply posted new particulars for the upcoming Romancing SaGa 2 remake titled Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven coming to Steam and consoles this October. Take a look at some new screenshots right here and one showcasing Glimmer beneath:
Now let’s shift gears to the Nintendo Indie Direct + Associate Showcase that had 99% video games coming to or on Steam. I’ve included the highlights right here. Marvelous USA had an impactful trailer for Rune Manufacturing facility: Guardians of Azuma coming to Swap and Steam in Spring 2025. Watch it beneath:
Bandai Namco introduced Tales of Graces f Remastered for January 2025 launch on Steam and all consoles with visible upgrades and DLC included. Watch the trailer beneath:
Konami and M2 have launched Castlevania Daybreak of Sorrow, Portrait of Wreck, and Order of Ecclesia in a single assortment out now on Steam and all consoles. I’ll be reviewing this one subsequent week so keep tuned for that.
Capcom introduced Capcom Combating Assortment 2 that includes Capcom Vs SNK, Energy Stone, and 6 different video games coming in 2025 to Steam, Swap, and PlayStation. Capcom additionally introduced that the Marvel Vs Capcom assortment launches in underneath 2 weeks.
The wonderful Cuisineer from Marvelous USA is coming to Swap and different consoles early subsequent yr alongside a giant replace for the Steam launch. I’m undoubtedly getting the bodily version.
The Ghibli-inspired action-adventure recreation Europa was showcased for Swap through the Nintendo Indie World showcase and can launch on October eleventh for Swap and Steam.
Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Recollections & the Envisioned Land, the subsequent mainline Atelier recreation is coming to Steam and all consoles together with Xbox, a sequence first, in early 2025, and it seems unimaginable.
Tetris Without end is the brand new Gold Grasp Sequence launch from Digital Eclipse coming this yr that includes greater than 15 playable basic video games from the sequence’ historical past. Some have by no means seen a launch outdoors Japan earlier than.
PowerWash Simulator goes deeper into the insanity with the Shrek Particular Pack coming quickly for Steam and all consoles.
FAIRY TAIL 2 from Gust and Koei Tecmo is lastly coming to Steam, Swap, and different consoles starting December eleventh. Watch the trailer beneath:
Incredible Video games: Offered by Day of the Devs can be happening from September twentieth to twenty second, and the complete listing of video games and builders has been revealed. I’m excited for fairly just a few of these, and I even have performed just a few of these already (however I can’t say which of them but!).
- Channel: Loss of life by Night time Metropolis, Huge Sir Video games
- darkwebSTREAMER by We Have At all times Lived within the Forest
- Concern the Highlight by Cozy Sport Friends and Blumhouse Video games
- 5 Nights at Freddy’s: Secret of the Mimic by Metal Wool
- Grunn by Sokpop Collective
- Hollowbody by Headware Video games
- Holstin by Sonka
- Horses by Santa Ragione
- Karma: The Darkish World by Pollard Studio, Wired Productions and Gamera Video games
- Pinball M (DLC) by Zen Studios
- Publish Trauma by Pink Soul Video games and Uncooked Fury
- Skate Story by Sam Eng and Devolver Digital
- Tom the Postgirl by Oopsie Daisies
SWORD ART ONLINE Fractured Daydream bought two new character trailers this week. Take a look at the Yui and Oberon trailers beneath:
D3 Writer launched the primary DLC pack for Earth Protection Pressure 6 within the type of Earth Protection Pressure 6 – Misplaced Days DLC 1. It’s out now on Steam and PS5.
Tremendous Evil Megacorp posted a roadmap for TMNT Splintered Destiny following its launch on Apple Arcade and Swap revealing that it is going to be Steam Deck Verified and extra.
Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Pageant is coming to Steam and present consoles on November seventh with 120fps help and extra. It performs wonderful on Steam Deck already. Strive the demo right here.
Panic’s latest showcase aired just a few days in the past and it’s completely value watching in the event you like attention-grabbing video games.
Forward of Tokyo Video games Present, SEGA and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio introduced the subsequent RGG Summit for September twentieth at 3 AM PT. You possibly can watch it beneath when the occasion begins:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=
Pinball FX brings in Goat Simulator and The Princess Bride as DLC tables this week on Steam and different platforms. Keep tuned for my protection of each of those and the sport itself within the close to future:
The primary DLC for That Time I Obtained Reincarnated as a Slime ISEKAI Chronicles, “A Unusual Destiny” is now obtainable with Hinata as a brand new playable character and an unique story by the unique creator. Watch the launch trailer beneath:
SYNDUALITY: ECHO OF ADA has a brand new trailer with closed community check signal ups now stay. Enroll right here and watch the trailer for it beneath:
The ultimate bit of stories is The First Descendant’s Season 1: Invasion now obtainable bringing in a brand new descendent: Hailey, battle go rewards, new dungeon invasions, and rather more.
New Steam Deck Verified & Playable video games for the week
A whole lot of attention-grabbing additions this week with the newly launched Castlevania assortment and Gundam Breaker 4 being marked as playable alongside Marvel Vs Capcom Combating Assortment: Arcade Classics getting Verified forward of its launch in underneath two weeks. I’m additionally glad to see the upcoming Dragon Quest Monsters launch and Regency Solitaire II get examined by Valve.
- Age of Mythology: Retold – Playable
- Castlevania Dominus Assortment – Playable
- DRAGON QUEST MONSTERS: The Darkish Prince – Playable
- GUNDAM BREAKER 4 – Playable
- MARVEL vs. CAPCOM Combating Assortment: Arcade Classics – Verified
- Pool Panic – Verified
- Regency Solitaire II – Verified
- Sam & Max: The Satan’s Playhouse – Verified
- The Elder Scrolls On-line – Playable
- Visions of Mana – Playable
Steam Deck Sport Gross sales, Reductions, and Specials
The notable gross sales of the week embody a Tales of franchise sale the place I like to recommend Tales of Berseria as the most effective recreation within the sequence on Steam adopted by Tales of Come up, Kingdom Come Deliverance at 90% off, and Pink Useless Redemption II at 60% off on Steam. Notice that for Pink Useless Redemption II, you’ll be able to’t purchase the Steam model outdoors Steam whilst you can for the opposite video games I’ve talked about right here.
That’s all for this version of the Steam Deck Weekly. As regular, you’ll be able to learn all our previous and future Steam Deck protection right here. You probably have any suggestions for this characteristic or what else you’d wish to see us do across the Steam Deck, tell us within the feedback beneath. I hope you all have a terrific day, and thanks for studying.
