The best RPG on the Steam Deck is often debated among players, but consensus typically leans towards games that offer a balance of storyline, character development, and gameplay mechanics that are enhanced by the Steam Deck's unique features. These games shine on the portable console, providing a satisfying blend of convenience and complexity, allowing for both short bursts of play and longer, more engaging sessions. Below is a list of our recommendations on the best RPGs for the Steam Deck, which not only adapts well to the hardware but also offers a seamless experience that feels good on the handheld device.
1. Elden Ring
From the creators of Dark Souls comes a game that's garnered a treasure trove of awards. Elden Ring stands out with its vast open world that encourages exploration without overwhelming you with icons and objectives. The game remains true to its challenging nature, offering no apologies for its difficulty. It's an RPG that rewards patience and strategy, with numerous builds to experiment with, ensuring each playthrough feels fresh. On the Steam Deck, you might want to dial down the settings slightly and lock the frame rate to 40 FPS for a more stable and consistent performance, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the Lands Between.
2. Final Fantasy VII Remake
This title breathes new life into the story of Cloud and the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE as they take on the corrupt Shinra megacorporation. While staying true to its roots, the game stretches the first few hours of the original into a full-length epic. You'll find the pacing deliberate, allowing for deeper character development and more expansive world-building. To keep the action smooth on your Steam Deck, consider reducing the number of on-screen characters and capping the frame rate at 40 FPS. This ensures a consistent experience, especially during those high-intensity combat sequences that demand quick reflexes.
3. The Witcher 3
The Witcher 3 is a sprawling narrative set in a world rich with lore, where every choice can lead to far-reaching consequences. You step into the boots of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter in search of his adopted daughter. The game doesn't require knowledge of its predecessors to be enjoyed, standing strong on its own with a story that's accessible and deeply engaging. Side quests are as compelling as the main narrative, often branching into stories that are memorable and complex. Gwent, the in-game card game, is a strategic diversion perfectly suited for the portable nature of the Steam Deck. For the best experience, fine-tuning the graphical settings will help maintain a smooth adventure across the Northern Realms.
4. Persona Series
The Persona series invites you into the dual lives of high school students who lead secret lives as warriors battling malevolent forces in an alternate reality. The games balance daytime activities like attending class and forming friendships with exploring dungeons and engaging in turn-based combat by night. These relationships and your choices directly influence battle abilities, as friendships can enhance the power of your Personas—manifestations of your character's psyche. The series is known for its deep storytelling and character development, with each installment offering a unique narrative and cast. The music is a standout, with a soundtrack that complements the emotional and action-packed moments. On the Steam Deck, the Persona series shines as a portable experience, allowing you to live out these epic stories wherever you go, but make sure to use headphones to get the full impact of the game's iconic tunes.
5. Yakuza 0
Set in a vibrant recreation of Japan's '80s bubble economy period, Yakuza 0 serves as a prequel to the series, introducing you to the intricate lives of Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima before they became legends in the underworld. The game is a rich tapestry of gripping narrative and over-the-top side activities, from karaoke to real estate management. The combat system is robust, with a brawler feel that's complemented by a dynamic soundtrack. While the game only features Japanese voice acting, it adds to the authenticity and immersion, making it a compelling experience on the Steam Deck.
6. Darksiders II
In Darksiders II, you embody Death, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, navigating through a world teeming with demons, angels, and creatures beyond imagination. The game is a blend of action and RPG elements, with a distinctive art style that draws inspiration from gothic fantasy. It's a journey through varied landscapes, from ethereal realms to grim dungeons. The combat is fluid, the puzzles are engaging, and the exploration is rewarding. On the Steam Deck, you may need to engage with experimental settings to optimize performance, but once configured, the experience is seamless.
7. Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters
The Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters are a celebration of the series' origins, offering a return to the classic JRPG format with updated visuals and audio. These remasters respect the original designs while enhancing them for a modern audience. With a focus on storytelling and character development, each game in the series offers a unique experience. The sixth installment, often lauded for its narrative and ensemble cast, stands out as a pinnacle of the series. The remasters are tailored for the Steam Deck's capabilities, providing a comfortable and nostalgic gaming session with the convenience of a handheld. Whether you're revisiting these classics or experiencing them for the first time, the Pixel Remasters are a perfect match for RPG lovers on the go.
8. Deus Ex: Human Revolution
Deus Ex: Human Revolution immerses you in a cyberpunk world where human augmentation has begun to blur the lines between humanity and machinery. As Adam Jensen, a security expert outfitted with new augmentations after a near-fatal incident, you navigate a world rife with conspiracy and moral ambiguity. The game combines first-person action with deep RPG mechanics, allowing you to customize your augmentations to suit stealth, combat, or social interactions. The choices you make have significant impacts on the story's outcome, offering a tailored experience. The atmospheric world is rich for exploration, with every corner offering lore and secrets. On the Steam Deck, the game's immersive experience is at your fingertips, allowing you to delve into its complex narrative and gameplay whenever you wish.
9. Nier: Automata
Nier: Automata combines the narrative depth of Square Enix with the polished gameplay mechanics of Platinum Games. Set in a dystopian future where androids and machines wage war after humanity has fled Earth, the game weaves a tale that's as philosophical as it is action-packed. The storytelling is layered, often requiring multiple playthroughs to fully uncover, while the combat system is fluid, allowing for a mix of melee and ranged attacks that can be customized to your playstyle. The game's soundtrack is hauntingly beautiful, enhancing the desolate yet strangely beautiful landscapes you'll explore. On the Steam Deck, Nier: Automata's mix of action and story makes for an engaging experience that's hard to put down.
10. Dragon Quest XI
Dragon Quest XI is a celebration of the JRPG genre, offering a classic turn-based combat system while telling the story of a hero on a quest to uncover his true heritage. The game is filled with charm, from its colorful characters to its vibrant world brimming with life and secrets. As the supposed Darkspawn, you're hunted by those who fear your potential, leading you on a journey that's as much about self-discovery as it is about saving the world. The game respects its roots while offering enough modern polish to feel fresh. The Steam Deck allows you to take this expansive adventure on the move, with the end-game content providing even more depth and challenge after the main story concludes.