User reports suggest that Diablo 4 runs smoothly on the Steam Deck, but the device's quirks and nuances may present some challenges for players. Despite these potential obstacles, the game's immense popularity is sure to secure its place as a long-term success for Blizzard. As expected, Diablo 4 has shattered records for the developer, selling faster than any other game in their history. With the Steam Deck's appeal to gamers, it's no surprise that players are eager to experience the game on the handheld device. While initial impressions are positive, closer examination reveals some potential hurdles that may prove difficult to overcome.
Diablo 4 has been reported to run smoothly on the Steam Deck, with players praising its compatibility with controllers and ease of setting up controls. However, installing the game through Lutris is recommended for proper launcher functionality. Despite its success on the Steam Deck, some players may be deterred by the game's lack of support for the device's sleep mode and offline play. Additionally, the game's live-service features require a consistent internet connection and some players have reported the game pushing the device hard during certain interactions, requiring further testing to determine if it's an isolated issue or a widespread concern.
The anticipation for Diablo 4's release on the Steam Deck is palpable, despite the fact that it has yet to be officially added to the list of top RPGs for the platform. Based on the features showcased thus far, there is reason to believe that it has the potential to earn a spot on that list in due time. However, it is important to note that since the game is not available on Steam, it will not receive an official verification badge, regardless of its performance on the Deck. Deck owners are understandably eager to experience the highly anticipated flagship portably, especially given the global hype surrounding its release, including special promotions in Sydney and partnerships with KFC. Fortunately, testing the game's compatibility with the Deck should not take long and it will become evident soon enough if it is a good fit for the device, even during endgame sequences.
Diablo 4 is available now for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.