Steam Deck: 12 Best RPGs

The Steam Deck continues to captivate gamers with its incredible versatility, offering a portable gaming experience that rivals a high-performance laptop. With access to a vast library of games, including over 5,000 verified titles and hundreds more playable options, it’s clear why this handheld powerhouse is making waves.

While you might not immediately think of immersive RPGs as ideal for a portable platform, the Steam Deck proves otherwise. Its flexibility and performance allow epic adventures and intricate mechanics to shine, delivering a seamless experience for RPG enthusiasts on the go.

In this article, we’re highlighting the very best RPGs for the Steam Deck, ensuring that every journey, quest, and character choice is just as thrilling as on a full-fledged gaming rig. Let’s dive into the top RPGs you can enjoy on this revolutionary handheld!

#12: Scarlet Nexus

Scarlet Nexus brings its stylish anime-inspired action RPG gameplay to the Steam Deck, and it’s a fantastic experience. Set in a futuristic world where humanity is protected by psychic soldiers, the game immerses you in its gripping story and fast-paced combat. You can choose to play as either Yuito or Kasane, each with their unique abilities and storylines, providing plenty of replay value.

The Steam Deck handles the game’s visually striking graphics and complex enemy encounters with ease. The combination of fluid combat mechanics and a deeply engaging narrative makes Scarlet Nexus a perfect RPG for handheld gaming, allowing you to dive into its brain-punk world wherever you go.

#11: There Is No Light

There Is No Light offers a hauntingly atmospheric action RPG experience, perfectly suited for the Steam Deck. Set in a grim post-apocalyptic world, the game challenges players to navigate labyrinthine dungeons, face grotesque enemies, and uncover the dark secrets of a society driven underground.

Its pixel art aesthetic is beautifully optimized for the Steam Deck’s display, delivering stunning visuals without compromising performance. The gameplay combines challenging combat with exploration, rewarding players for their curiosity and skill. Whether you’re battling through hordes of enemies or piecing together the rich lore, There Is No Light is an engaging RPG that’s ideal for portable play.

#10: Yakuza: Like A Dragon

Yakuza: Like A Dragon reimagines the beloved Yakuza series with an engaging turn-based RPG system, making it a standout title for Steam Deck users. This installment introduces players to Ichiban Kasuga, a quirky and lovable protagonist, as he embarks on a journey of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption in the vibrant streets of Yokohama.

The game’s rich storyline is complemented by its hilarious side quests and mini-games, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Its RPG mechanics—complete with job classes and party dynamics—bring a refreshing twist to the series’ traditionally action-heavy gameplay. On the Steam Deck, Yakuza: Like A Dragon runs smoothly, allowing you to immerse yourself in the gripping story and over-the-top humor wherever you go.

#9: Horizon Zero Dawn

Horizon Zero Dawn is a breathtaking action RPG that combines a post-apocalyptic setting with advanced technology, offering a truly immersive experience for Steam Deck players. In this game, you step into the shoes of Aloy, a skilled hunter in a world overrun by robotic creatures. As you uncover the secrets of her past and the origins of the mechanical beasts, you’ll traverse stunning landscapes filled with diverse biomes and engaging challenges.

The game’s blend of strategic combat, exploration, and crafting makes it an excellent RPG for portable gaming. Its compatibility with the Steam Deck ensures smooth performance, letting players enjoy its vast open world, intricate storylines, and thrilling encounters on the go. Horizon Zero Dawn is a must-play for RPG fans who value both narrative depth and dynamic gameplay.

#8: South Park: The Stick of Truth

South Park: The Stick of Truth brings the crude humor and satirical brilliance of the iconic TV show into a hilariously immersive RPG experience. Set in the small, chaotic town of South Park, players join Cartman, Stan, Kyle, and Kenny in an epic, absurd quest for the fabled Stick of Truth. You create your own character and explore the town, engaging in turn-based battles filled with ridiculous yet strategic combat mechanics.

What makes this game perfect for the Steam Deck is its humor-packed narrative, compact maps, and pick-up-and-play design. The game’s art style mimics the show’s animation, ensuring seamless performance on the Deck while maintaining its charm. Whether you’re a South Park fan or an RPG enthusiast, The Stick of Truth offers hours of entertainment and laughter in a handheld-friendly format.

#7: Elden Ring

Elden Ring is a masterpiece of action RPG gaming, brought to life by the creative minds of FromSoftware and George R.R. Martin. This critically acclaimed title offers a sprawling open world, hauntingly beautiful landscapes, and the intense, challenging combat that FromSoftware is known for. Players venture through the Lands Between as a Tarnished, forging their own path, battling fearsome foes, and uncovering the secrets of a shattered world.

What makes Elden Ring an exceptional choice for the Steam Deck is its ability to deliver a grand, immersive experience on a portable platform. While the game is demanding, the Deck’s robust hardware ensures smooth gameplay with the right settings. The ability to pause your adventure and pick it up anytime adds flexibility to the typically grueling, immersive nature of this game.

For those seeking an unforgettable RPG journey filled with exploration, lore, and adrenaline-pumping combat, Elden Ring is a must-play on the Steam Deck.

#6: Tales of Arise

Tales of Arise is a visually stunning and emotionally gripping RPG that redefines the Tales franchise. Set in the war-torn world of Dahna, the game follows two protagonists, Alphen and Shionne, as they fight for freedom against oppressive overlords. With its compelling narrative, lovable cast of characters, and breathtaking visuals, Tales of Arise offers an unforgettable experience for RPG enthusiasts.

The Steam Deck’s portability makes Tales of Arise even more enjoyable, allowing players to dive into the game’s intricate storytelling and real-time combat system anytime, anywhere. The Deck handles the game’s high-quality visuals and intense battles remarkably well, ensuring a seamless experience.

Whether you’re taking on epic boss battles, exploring vibrant environments, or bonding with your party through heartfelt skits, Tales of Arise shines as a top-tier RPG perfectly suited for the Steam Deck. It’s an ideal pick for players looking to lose themselves in a rich and vibrant fantasy world.

#5: Eastward

Eastward is a heartwarming RPG that combines a charming pixel-art aesthetic with an engaging storyline. Set in a beautifully crafted, post-apocalyptic world, the game follows John and Sam, an unlikely duo traveling through decaying cities and lush landscapes. As they uncover the mysteries of their surroundings, players are treated to a rich blend of puzzle-solving, exploration, and action-packed combat.

The Steam Deck enhances Eastward’s immersive experience, allowing players to appreciate the game’s gorgeous pixel art and atmospheric soundtrack in a portable format. Its intuitive controls and optimized performance on the Deck make navigating through intricate dungeons and towns a smooth and enjoyable experience.

With its compelling narrative, quirky characters, and a perfect balance of combat and puzzles, Eastward offers a delightful journey that’s well-suited for on-the-go gaming. It’s a must-play for fans of story-driven RPGs looking for a memorable adventure on the Steam Deck.

#4: Baldur’s Gate 3

Baldur’s Gate 3 is a groundbreaking RPG that masterfully brings the world of Dungeons & Dragons to life. Developed by Larian Studios, the game features deep storytelling, complex character creation, and tactical turn-based combat. Players are thrust into a high-stakes adventure, balancing intricate narratives with morally challenging decisions that shape the course of their journey.

The Steam Deck handles Baldur’s Gate 3 impressively, with its touch controls and thumbsticks seamlessly navigating the game’s sprawling environments and detailed menus. The portability of the Deck allows players to delve into its captivating story wherever they are, whether solving intricate puzzles or battling hordes of enemies.

What makes this title shine on the Deck is its immersive cinematic dialogue, strategic combat system, and the freedom to experiment with endless character builds. Baldur’s Gate 3 is a quintessential RPG experience and an excellent fit for players who crave depth, strategy, and storytelling in their gaming sessions.

#3: Disco Elysium - The Final Cut

Disco Elysium - The Final Cut is a genre-defining RPG that thrusts players into the role of a deeply flawed detective navigating a surreal, politically charged city. With its intricate dialogue, unique skill-based progression, and freedom to approach problems creatively, the game offers an unparalleled narrative experience.

On the Steam Deck, Disco Elysium feels right at home. Its point-and-click mechanics translate beautifully to the device’s touch controls, and the handheld format enhances the intimacy of its richly detailed world. Whether you’re interrogating suspects, exploring the rundown streets of Revachol, or wrestling with your inner demons, the Deck allows you to fully immerse yourself in the story at your own pace.

What sets this game apart is its ability to cater to multiple playstyles, whether you choose to be a thoughtful problem solver, a chaotic force of nature, or a philosophical wanderer. Disco Elysium - The Final Cut delivers a deeply personal and engaging experience that’s perfect for long, contemplative sessions on the go.

#2: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt remains one of the most celebrated RPGs of all time, blending a deeply immersive narrative with an expansive open world teeming with life. As Geralt of Rivia, players navigate a richly detailed universe filled with monsters, morally complex quests, and captivating characters, all while unraveling the mystery of Ciri’s disappearance.

On the Steam Deck, The Witcher 3 provides a seamless portable experience, with optimized settings ensuring smooth gameplay without sacrificing its stunning visuals. The ability to dive into this epic tale anytime, anywhere transforms the way players experience its intricate world, making it feel even more personal and engaging.

Whether you’re tracking down mythical beasts, engaging in heart-pounding combat, or losing hours in Gwent, The Witcher 3 showcases how timeless RPGs can thrive on the Steam Deck. It’s an essential pick for anyone looking to combine the grandeur of AAA storytelling with the convenience of a handheld console.

#1: Hades

Hades is the perfect blend of fast-paced action and deep storytelling, making it an exceptional RPG for the Steam Deck. Developed by Supergiant Games, this roguelike adventure takes players into the Underworld as Zagreus, the rebellious son of Hades, who seeks to escape his father’s domain. Each run offers new challenges, upgrades, and narrative elements, keeping gameplay fresh and rewarding.

What makes Hades particularly fun on the Steam Deck is its tight controls and visually stunning art style that runs flawlessly on the device. The pick-up-and-play nature of the game pairs perfectly with the portable format, allowing players to squeeze in quick sessions or lose hours diving into the Underworld’s depths.

From its dynamic combat system to its compelling characters and rich mythology-inspired lore, Hades is an absolute must-play. Its replayability and polish make it the crown jewel of RPG experiences for the Steam Deck, ensuring players will keep coming back for “just one more run.”

Conclusion

The Steam Deck opens up a new world of possibilities for RPG enthusiasts, delivering an incredible selection of games that combine expansive worlds, compelling stories, and engaging mechanics—all in a portable format. From intense action-packed adventures like Hades and Elden Ring to story-rich masterpieces like Disco Elysium and The Witcher 3, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this revolutionary device.

Whether you’re a fan of deep tactical gameplay, emotional narratives, or immersive exploration, the Steam Deck ensures these RPGs run smoothly and provide a seamless experience on the go. This library of games not only highlights the versatility of the device but also showcases why the Steam Deck is a dream come true for RPG lovers. Dive in, and take your favorite adventures wherever you go.