New Steam Deck verified free-to-play game has “very positive” reviews despite dev calling it a “failed project”

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2025’s top-rated game, Blue Prince, will eventually be playable on the Steam Deck. Interestingly, this game is included for free in the PS Plus Extra subscription, but costs something on PC. If you prefer free games, there’s a brand new Steam Deck-verified title with “very positive” reviews that its own developers consider a “failed project,” but it’s still worth checking out!

New Steam Deck verified free-to-play game has “very positive” reviews

In the meantime, before Amazon Prime Gaming’s next set of freebies in April 2025, Steam Deck users can already enjoy a game called Iron Mandate for free. This game will be available starting from April 9th, 2025 and has received very positive feedback with more than 100 reviews.

Regarding the essence of Iron Mandate, it’s essentially a game that combines elements of steampunk, roguelike genre, and an innovative combat system. In this game, you’ll find yourself controlling massive mechanical worms. With over 30 weapons at your disposal, both for offense and defense, you’ll need to master them in order to overcome the 20+ unique trials that test your Juggernaut piloting abilities.

Beyond what’s been mentioned earlier, you can enjoy “competitive local multiplayer” for up to 4 people in the game’s “versus mode”. This game is officially compatible with the Steam Deck, ensuring a smooth gaming experience. And best of all, it comes entirely free!

Although the reviews are overwhelmingly favorable, Emerick Gibson, the developer, has referred to the game as a “flawed endeavor” in a post-production analysis. According to the developer, they’ve made the game freely accessible due to time constraints, financial limitations, and fundamental problems with the original concept.

The developer assures that “It operates perfectly and can be completed as is,” and expresses continued satisfaction with the project. However, the developer labels it a “challenging project” because they found the controls difficult to adapt to, encountered obstacles in terms of visuals, and felt there was limited variety.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve got to say, the developer really seems to get us. Yet, it feels like they’ve created something even greater than they may realize. For instance, I personally found Iron Mandate to be an unforgettable journey – and that’s coming from someone who didn’t pay a dime for it!

And here’s the kicker: what the developer calls flaws, I see as intentional, fun elements of the game. It just goes to show how unique and well-crafted

Once more, this game is absolutely free to enjoy, and it has been verified by Steam Deck. If you’re fond of roguelikes, it’s definitely worth exploring. Moving forward, the developer is busy creating a new project titled “The People of Sea, Sun & Salt.

Additionally, it’s been confirmed that a new Sonic game will be compatible with the Steam Deck, offering pre-registration incentives for those who sign up in advance.

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2025-04-09 15:10