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<p>This year, I played a multitude of games on my Steam Deck. The variety of amazing indie titles seemed endless—<a target="_blank" href="https://www.theverge.com/24339574/indie-games-recommendations-pc-switch-steam-deck-best-new-hidden-gems">many of which were highlighted by <em>The Verge</em></a>—and they ran exceptionally well on Valve's portable gaming device. Additionally, some larger games gained popularity on the Steam Deck. While they may not reach the same graphical fidelity as on a high-end PC, I usually don't mind sacrificing that for the convenience of gaming on the couch or while on the go.</p>
<p>If you're opening a Steam Deck this holiday season or have some Steam gift cards to spend, here are my game recommendations released in 2025 that are worth your time. (For more suggestions, check out my <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theverge.com/24305570/steam-deck-best-games-2024-verified-playable-valve">best picks from 2024</a>.)</p>
<h2><em>Ball x Pit</em></h2>
<p><em>Ball x Pit</em> mixes elements from titles like <em>Breakout</em>, <em>Vampire Survivors</em>, and city builders into a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theverge.com/games/805022/ball-x-pit-review-pc-nintendo-switch-ps5-xbox-series-x-s">deeply enjoyable roguelike experience</a>. In the game, players shoot balls at an advancing horde of enemies, collecting gems and upgrades to turn into a chaotic force of nature. Following each playthrough, players can construct a base to enhance their stats and unlock new characters, including some with clever mechanics that change gameplay into a turn-based format. With runs typically under 15 minutes, it’s perfect for quick sessions on the Steam Deck.</p>
<h2><em>Clair Obscur: Expedition 33</em></h2>
<p>The debut RPG from Sandfall Interactive truly impressed me this year; it features <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theverge.com/games-review/656405/clair-obscur-expedition-33-review-xbox-ps5-pc">thrilling turn-based combat</a>, a fantastic parrying system, memorable characters, a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theverge.com/games/664492/clair-obscur-expedition-33-twist-spoilers">captivating story</a>, and a soundtrack I still enjoy months after completion. While it may not have the same visuals on Steam Deck as it does on my PS5, it's still a playable experience, and Valve has recently verified its compatibility. For those exclusively using the Steam Deck, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.protondb.com/app/1903340?device=steamDeck">ProtonDB</a> users offer tweaks for improved visuals.</p>
<h2><em>Hades II</em></h2>
<p>I know I featured <em>Hades II</em> on my previous list, but with its significant 1.0 update in September, it’s <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theverge.com/games/783718/hades-ii-2-1-0-update-review-pc-nintendo-switch">really quite impressive</a>. Supergiant Games expands on the original with a new protagonist, fresh boons, a slew of new characters, two additional routes, and yet another outstanding soundtrack. They even improved the ending for a better experience. <em>Hades II</em> showcases Supergiant at its finest and is frequently mentioned as the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theverge.com/24152085/hades-2-steam-deck-performance">ideal game for the Steam Deck</a>.</p>
<h2><em>Hollow Knight: Silksong</em></h2>
<p>After years of anticipation—and much playful skepticism—<em>Hollow Knight</em>’s sequel was finally released in September, and thankfully, it exceeded expectations. <em>Silksong</em> doesn’t stray from its roots; it remains an atmospheric Metroidvania, featuring charming bug characters, challenging bosses, and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theverge.com/games/777653/silksong-impressions-team-cherry-metroidvania-sherma-is-cool">the same captivating formula</a> that made the original a success.</p>
<h2><em>Is This Seat Taken?</em></h2>
<p>For a more relaxing puzzle experience, try <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theverge.com/games-review/717713/is-this-seat-taken-review-pc-nintendo-switch-ios-android"><em>Is This Seat Taken?</em></a>. In this game, you are tasked with finding seats for cute geometric shapes, each with varying needs—some may prefer to sit near a window, while others avoid close contact with certain characters. If a seating arrangement doesn’t work, you can move to the next puzzle without major penalties, keeping the pressure light and manageable.</p>
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