10 Best Short Games on Steam Deck (Perfect for Travelling)
Short games on Steam Deck are perfect for when you’re travelling, commuting or just want something quick and easy to get into that you can also complete in less than a day. You don’t always have 100 hours to sink into a game, and I know the feeling.
Fortunately, there are many short games that work smoothly on Steam Deck, so they’re perfectly portable. I’ve rounded up some of the best, but feel free to leave your top picks in the comments below!
And if you’re looking for great indie games to support but that are also great on Steam Deck, check out my favorites here.
Sheepy: A Short Adventure — 3 ½ Hours to Complete
If you’re going to start somewhere, this is the game to get you going. It’s a short game but you’ll be enjoying every second of it. The beauty and simplicity of Sheepy will hook you in and whatever trip you’re on will seem like a one minute walk.
When I played Sheepy for the first time it was such an amazing experience that I had to share it with you guys. If you want to read more about it or just watch my full playthrough of the game, you can do it here.
ABZU — About 2 Hours to Complete
ABZU is a beautiful adventure game where you go on a breathtaking journey underwater. You get to free some fishes, explore stunning sceneries, and relax completely. Once you start playing it, you’ll be so mesmerized and taken by the game that you’ll do a full playthrough in one go. Not that doing that is a challenge. As soon as I finished it, I wanted to play it again. That’s how much I enjoyed playing ABZU.
What Remains of Edith Finch — About 2 ½ Hours to Complete
With this game you’ll need to be prepared to be taken on an emotional journey with Edith Finch, the last surviving member of the Finch family, as she returns to her ancestral home to uncover the stories of her relatives.
The visuals are stunning with incredible attention to details. The writing is remarkable, a perfect balance between gloominess and wonder. And the soundtrack that perfectly matches every moment of the story, makes this short game an experience worth every penny.
This is also a game you can easily play offline, so it’s perfect for traveling. If you want more offline games for Steam Deck or just your PC, find them here.
Firewatch — About 4 Hours to Complete
The game’s setting is nothing short of breathtaking, enhanced by its unique art style and immersive environment. The narrative is both engaging and emotional, prioritizing exploration and dialogue over action. I thoroughly enjoyed wandering through the forest and piecing together the story. It’s a simple experience that lingers long after the game is over. I highly suggest checking Firewatch for your Steam Deck.
Cocoon — About 4 Hours
This game is a true gem in the world of puzzle games. Its atmosphere is incredibly immersive. The lighting effects and sound design are nothing short of amazing. The puzzles are both fun and inventive, offering plenty of twists and satisfying solutions.
While it may not be a very long game, every second is filled with delightful treats for both the mind and the senses. If you’re a fan of puzzle games then you should definitely check out Cocoon.
Animal Well — About 3 to 4 Hours to Complete
With the Animal Well you’ll have an unforgettable experience from start to finish. The visuals are amazing for such a small game. There’s a smidge of nostalgic feeling to the game that just adds to the overall experience.
If you put on your headset and crank up the sound, you’ll be transported to another place, filled with peace and tranquility. You can finish the game in 3 or 4 hours and be happy with the outcome. Also if you desire you can explore every nook and cranny, and have another 10 hours of fun gameplay.
Lil’ Gator Game — 3 Hours to Complete
This simple yet incredibly fun game offers a lot more than meets the eye. The dialogue among the characters is not only charming but also funny. Beyond its cozy appearance, the game delivers a heartwarming lesson. It’s definitely one of those titles that you won’t leave you the same after playing it. I’ve enjoyed every millisecond of Lil’ Gator Game and I highly recommend playing this game.
The Portal Games (Portal & Portal 2) — From 4 to 8 Hours to Complete
This puzzle game stands as one of the best and an all-time classic in video gaming. Even after decades since its release, it still holds up remarkably well. If you’re new to the internet, or somehow haven’t given Portal or Portal 2 a shot yet, what are you waiting for? The games feel like a perfect fit for the Steam Deck. They run so smoothly.
A Short Hike — About 1 ½ Hours to Complete
A Short Hike is undoubtedly one of the most relaxing games I’ve ever played. You have to be careful while exploring its charming world, soaking in the beautiful scenery, and meeting new characters because you’ll lose yourself and probably spend even more hours than you intended to. Every detail feels meticulously crafted, creating a truly delightful experience. It’s the perfect game to play on Steam Deck while you’re traveling.
If you like this visual style, why not try some of these pixel art games as well?
Gris — 3 to 4 Hours to Complete
GRIS is a game that captivates right from the start with its stunning aesthetics. Each scene is beautifully crafted in a watercolor style, with delicate animations that add to its visual appeal. With an impressive soundtrack enhancing the immersive experience even further. Even though the game might be short, it will move you emotionally. And by the time you’re done with it, you’ll be wishing it was longer or to play it all over again.
