New Steam Deck Verified/Playable Highlights 8/18 - 8/20

Edit 8/22/22: Portal 2 was already verified before this, but due to an update behind the scenes in compatibility options, it was bumped up on the Steam store list. The article has been updated to reflect the change, thank you to GamingOnLinux for catching it.

Valve went crazy these past few days and upgraded some awesome games into the Steam Deck Playable/Verified status! Especially during the 18th to the 20th, we saw some pretty awesome games get pushed upwards, so SDHQ will choose some of our favorites to tell you all about!

Note: Verified or Playable games do not automatically mean they work amazing right out-of-the-box. Some of these games still require work to optimize and play well.

Portal 2 (Verified - Updated Compatibility Options)

I'm sorry, Portal 2 wasn't verified before?? Well...if you haven't played this game yet, stop reading this article and go play it.

Edit: Portal 2 was already verified before this, but due to an update behind the scenes in compatibility options, it was bumped up on the Steam store list. Apologies!

Grindstone (Verified)

With a unique artstyle and enticing gameplay, Grindstone will keep that sweet mind of yours racing. Your job is to mine grindstones and with over 250 levels of intricate puzzles and hazards, you will have to level-up your brain power to accomplish your goal. And with other modes like a boss-rush mode, daily modes, and crafting mechanics, there's always something to do! Grindstone is currently $20 on Steam.

Voxel Tycoon (Playable)

I do love me some management sims, so here is another one! I got Voxel Tycoon when it first released and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Starting from scratch, your goal is to build a thriving economy in a voxel-style world. The game does feature some unique features though like custom factories, physics for vehicles, scheduling, and infinite procedurally-generated worlds! All in all, for a $25 early access game, I had a fantastic time with it.

The Pedestrian (Playable)

If you want to talk about unique games, look no further! The Pedestrian is a 2.5D platformer, taking place in a 3D backdrop where the levels are...yep, those public pedestrian signs you see on the street! By rearranging and reconnecting these signs, you will explore dynamic levels and beautiful environments. The concept is so simple yet...so cool to see. The game is $20 on Steam currently.

Wobbledogs (Playable)

We all love pets. Some love dogs, some love cats, but what about taking care of mutating dogs? Wobbledogs answers that question by giving you a sandbox to raise your own physically simulated dogs. Create their habitat, give them love, and even see what is in their stomach as you enjoy this casual, laid-back experience. Wobbledogs is $20 on Steam.

Halo Infinite (Playable)

Starting on 8/19, Halo Infinite officially has the Playable rating on Steam. Though with its issues, the game is playable at 40 FPS and is a genuine good time. There are still some issues with it, but overall, it can work with Proton Experimental or Proton GE. And with a price tag of free, for the multiplayer, why not try this addicting first-person shooter??

The Touryst (Verified)

If there is one thing I love when it comes to graphics, it is vibrancy. I love vibrant colors that stand out and shine bright, glowing with a saturated hue. The Touryst embodies that deeply. As a...well tourist...you set out to discover an exotic island and explore ancient monuments, deep mines, and even find some secret passages. The game is made to be relaxing and beautiful, which it does so well. The Touryst is $20 on Steam.

Unravel Two (Playable)

Coop games are such a blast to play, and with Joycon support being available on the Steam Deck Client beta, it is easier than ever to enjoy local multiplayer. Unravel Two puts you in the shoes of Yarny where you build relationships with other Yarnys for...friendship? Little confusing, but the game is incredible. Beautiful environments, deep story, and can play the entire game in 2-player local coop, which challenges you to solve different problems in very unique ways. The game is $20 and really is a lot of fun, but it does ONLY have local coop, no online multiplayer.

Pico Park (Verified)

Speaking of coop games, Pico Park is here too! This puzzle-platformer looks simple, yet can be WAY too much fun. You work with your friends to complete all 48 stages in the game, but there is more than meets the eye. Not only do you have those 48 levels, but you also have a Battle and Endless mode. You can compete against your friends or go into an Endless mode to get the highest score possible. Oh, and while this has local multiplayer, it also has ONLINE! The game is $5 and so very worth it.

One More Dungeon 2 (Playable)

One More Dungeon 2 is a roguelike dungeon crawler where you must escape after being trapped by giant sentient snails (yes, snails). You will fight your way through procedurally-generated levels across 5 regions using a wide arsenal of weapons, magic, and ancient relics. The game is currently in early access, but it looks like it has a lot of potential with plans to add new dungeon levels, bosses, and items, as well as challenge modes and an expansion to the hub location! The game is $10 on Steam.

And there you have it! These are the 10 games that really stood out to us from the last few days. Of course, we urge you to check out these games more before purchasing to see if you'd really like them...except Portal 2...get that game right now.

Last week we selected a good chunk of games that we believe should be highlighted as well! The games there are a ton of fun too and definitely worth your time.