Games to play when you first get your Steam Deck

10 cards
The Deck can do a lot. But it can be pretty overwhelming to know where to start if you get a Deck and you're new to Steam. So, here's the best games to show off what the Deck can do and whether it's best to play them docked or undocked.
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Aperture Desk Job

A humorous, interactive tech demo set in the Portal universe, showcasing Steam Deck's controls. Designed specifically for the Deck, it runs flawlessly. ProtonDB Status:Native (Runs perfectly)

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Vampire Survivors

An addictive roguelike where you fend off endless hordes with evolving abilities.Its simplicity and short sessions make it ideal for on-the-go gaming. ProtonDB Status: Verified (Gold)

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DAVE THE DIVER

Blend of deep-sea exploration and sushi restaurant management, offering varied gameplay.Runs smoothly on Steam Deck, providing hours of entertainment. ProtonDB Status:Verified (Gold)

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Street Fighter 6

The latest in the iconic fighting series, featuring diverse characters and modes.Optimized for Steam Deck, delivering responsive controls and smooth performance. ProtonDB Status: Verified (Gold) ​

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ELDEN RING

An expansive open-world RPG with challenging combat and deep lore.Playable on Steam Deck, though some users report occasional crashes. ProtonDB Status: Verified (Gold)

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Stardew Valley

A charming farming simulator with rich content and community. Its relaxed pace and native support make it perfect for portable play. ProtonDB Status: Verified (Native)

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The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition

An epic fantasy RPG offering vast exploration and modding potential.Runs well on Steam Deck, though some adjustments may enhance the experience. ProtonDB Status: Playable (Gold)

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Fallout 4

A post-apocalyptic RPG with base-building and immersive storytelling. Playable on Steam Deck, providing a rich portable experience. ProtonDB Status:Playable (Gold) ​

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Fallout: New Vegas

Renowned for its narrative depth and player choices in a desolate world. Runs smoothly on Steam Deck with minor tweaks. ProtonDB Status: Playable (Gold)

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NieR:Automata

A fusion of action-packed combat and philosophical storytelling. Delivers a smooth experience on Steam Deck, making it a must-play. ProtonDB Status: Playable (Platinum)