Best Verified Steam Deck Games For PS1 Fans

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 16, 2025

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Action-Adventure Classics Reimagined for the Steam Deck

Many PS1 action-adventure games translate beautifully to the Steam Deck's handheld format. The portability factor enhances the immersive experience these titles offer. Their relatively straightforward control schemes also adapt well to the Steam Deck's controls. Let's explore some top picks:

• Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver: This gothic masterpiece boasts fluid combat and a captivating storyline, making it incredibly enjoyable on the Steam Deck. The game's dark atmosphere and exploration-focused gameplay are perfectly suited for handheld play. The intuitive control scheme ensures a smooth experience, even during intense battles. The relatively stable frame rate further enhances the experience.

• Medievil: This charmingly spooky action-adventure game features unique gameplay mechanics that translate seamlessly to the Steam Deck's controls. The quirky humor and memorable characters make it a delightful experience, whether you're playing at home or on the go. The game's level design is well-suited for shorter bursts of play, ideal for the handheld format.

• Crash Bandicoot (N. Sane Trilogy): While not a direct PS1 title, this remake captures the essence of the original platforming experience. It runs flawlessly on the Steam Deck, offering crisp visuals and responsive controls. The trilogy's iconic gameplay remains engaging and the portability adds a new dimension to the classic Crash experience.

RPG Adventures That Stand the Test of Time

The Steam Deck's long battery life makes it ideal for immersive RPG experiences. Many PS1 RPGs, with their compelling narratives and deep gameplay systems, shine on the handheld. Let's look at some standouts:

• Chrono Cross: This beloved JRPG boasts a unique battle system and a sprawling story, perfect for long gaming sessions on the Steam Deck. The game's vibrant world and memorable characters make for an unforgettable experience. The Steam Deck’s larger screen enhances the visual appeal, and the comfortable controls make extended play less strenuous.

• Final Fantasy VII (PC Version): While not a direct PS1 port, the PC version offers a polished experience with improved visuals and runs exceptionally well on the Steam Deck. The classic turn-based combat and epic story are timeless, and the Steam Deck's portability allows you to enjoy this JRPG classic wherever you go. (Note: For other PS1 Final Fantasy titles, you might consider emulation options, discussed later, bearing in mind legal considerations).

• Suikoden II: This classic RPG features a huge cast of characters and a compelling story—a true testament to the depth of PS1 RPGs. The strategic battles and intricate storyline are perfect for longer play sessions, making the Steam Deck a great platform to experience this epic adventure. The game's charm holds up well, proving it's a worthy addition to any Steam Deck library.

Fighting Games for On-the-Go Battles

The Steam Deck's responsive controls make it surprisingly well-suited for fighting games. The portability aspect allows for casual play sessions, or even taking your competitive battles on the go.

• Tekken 3: A classic 3D fighting game with a deep roster and exciting gameplay. The controls map well to the Steam Deck, providing a satisfying experience for both casual and serious players. The portability factor adds a new dimension to the game.

• Street Fighter Alpha 3: Another timeless 2D fighter offering a variety of characters and playstyles. The Steam Deck’s controls allow for precise inputs, crucial for performing special moves and combos. This game is perfect for quick matches on the go.

Emulation Options for Unverified PS1 Titles

While focusing on verified titles is recommended for optimal performance, the Steam Deck's power allows for PS1 emulation. Using emulators like RetroArch or EmuDeck can open up a vast library of PS1 games.

• Important Disclaimer: Remember that you must only use ROMs obtained legally. Downloading ROMs of games you don't own is illegal. Respect copyright laws.

Using emulators like RetroArch or EmuDeck can offer access to a wider selection of PS1 games, but always ensure you legally own the games you emulate. Performance may vary depending on the game and the emulator's settings.

Conclusion

The Steam Deck offers a fantastic opportunity to revisit classic PS1 games, providing a convenient and high-quality handheld experience. This article highlighted some of the best verified and (legally emulated) options for PS1 fans wanting to relive their nostalgic gaming memories on the go. Ready to dive back into the world of PS1 classics on your Steam Deck? Explore these titles and discover the best verified Steam Deck games for PS1 fans! Share your favorite PS1 games that run well on the Steam Deck in the comments below!