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PC gaming has only increased in popularity over the years, which has also fortunately led to more titles being released. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down some of the best PC games, but here are our top picks.
Key Takeaways
No matter what genre you’re into, the best PC games cover a wide range.
For those on a budget, there are many free-to-play PC titles, including Destiny 2, League of Legends, and Counter-Strike 2.
We’ve included cozy PC games like Unpacking, Preserve, and Islanders.
Anyone hoping to jump into PC games with friends can check out Fall Guys and Overwatch 2.
PC gaming is bigger now than ever, with over 133 monthly users on Steam alone.
You can find games of all genres, including competitive titles, cozy games, and even some puzzle titles. We’ve also considered a range of budgets, with some of the best free PC games ready to be installed.
25. Unpacking
Unpacking is a bright, colorful, and cheerful puzzle game aimed at casual gamers. Source: Steam
One of the best PC puzzle games has to be Unpacking. This somewhat frustrating puzzle game has you unbox the belongings of an unseen protagonist as she moves houses throughout her life. Make sure you’ve put everything exactly as it belongs to progress to the next level.
24. Fortnite
Fortnite is massively popular and ever-evolving, with new modes and characters. Source: Epic Games
There’s no way to compile a list of the best PC games without Fortnite being on it. This free-to-play battle arena title is a fantastic shooter that can be played alone or with friends. Squad up and jump in with 100 other players as you collect loot and battle out to be on top.
23. League of Legends
League of Legends remains massively popular all these years later. Source: Epic Games
This title from Riot Games utilizes reaction time, strategy, and teamwork to take down the enemy’s nexus and prevent them from doing the same. It’s one of the best MOBAs on PC and has over 100 champions to choose from, each with their own skill set, so you can decide if you want to master one or play a new one every game.
22. Persona 5 Royal
Equal parts high-school simulator and action RPG, Persona 5 Royal is truly iconic. Source: Steam
Persona 5 Royal features a beautiful soundtrack to match its stunning visuals. Explore Japan and unlock Personas in this RPG, Action, Adventure title, which has multiple alternative endings to experience. It’s the definitive way to play what can easily be considered one of the best RPGs on PC right now, thanks to the new wealth of content ushered in over the years.
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21. Destiny 2
Destiny 2 is completely free to play, but franchise fans will want The Final Shape expansion. Source: Steam
One of the best free games that also happens to be one of the best PC games is Destiny 2. This online shooter has a fantastic story that you can choose to pursue alone or with friends. Our favorite part of this game has to be character customization which could take up entire play sessions before you even jump in. Since its release in 2017, the title has gone from strength to strength, with The Final Shape expansion (paid) capping things off nicely… for now.
20.? Hi-Fi Rush
Hi-Fi Rush combines rhythm game action with spectacle fighter tropes for a wild ride. Source: Steam
Hi-Fi Rush is an essential weekend-ready action game with a twist. This title incorporates rhythm elements to bring you a whole new and beautiful experience for both your eyes and your ears as you work towards beating the evil executives. While it’s available to buy on Steam, it’s also one of the best PC games on Game Pass, meaning you can play with no added cost. The experience isn’t long, but it’s certainly memorable.
19. Diablo IV
Diablo IV takes what worked with the original trilogy and dials it up to 11. Source: Blizzard
For fans of dungeon-crawling action, you owe it to yourself to play Diablo 4. It’s one of the best RPG PC games available and is only getting better over time. You can create your character from six playable classes and then explore the world of Sanctuary, where you complete quests along the way. Those who are into hack-and-slack PvE combat will be right at home with Diablo IV.
18. Valheim
Valheim is a Viking adventure game that delivers on the power fantasy. Source: Steam
Whether you’re hoping to jump in solo or with friends, Valheim is a fantastic sandbox survival game to jump into. Whether you want to pursue the story or not is your choice; instead, you can opt to build a home or explore the landscape. It’s one of the best survival games on PC for its open-ended design, ensuring you’ll have tons to do. Keep in mind that Valheim is still in early access, so certain features are likely to change.
17. Islanders
Islanders is a relaxing puzzle game with a pleasing art style. Source: Steam
If you’re looking for a cozy game to help you relax, then Islanders is the best PC game to jump into. This peaceful city-building game removes all of the intense numbers that can come with city builders and just allows you to place houses, farms, and other elements to improve the lives of your islanders. What’s more, it’s available for the price of a cup of coffee, making it very affordable if you’re working with a tight budget.
16. Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 casts you and a group of friends as an elite force protecting Super Earth. Source: Steam
Another fantastic title to play with friends on PC is Helldivers 2. The cooperative third-person shooter has you group up with others, whether it be with friends or other solo players in the game, to tackle missions and battle the environment. It’s immensely popular for a reason, as there’s no other game that delivers the rush of momentum like this, especially with friends. For that reason, it’s an easy pick for the best multiplayer PC games around.
15. Portal 2
Larger, funnier, and darker than the original, Portal 2 is how a sequel should be done. Source: Steam
One of the best PC games of all time is the sequel to a title that is also on this list, Portal 2. This puzzle shooter allows you to buddy up with a friend and tackle the complicated puzzle rooms together, all while using portal technology. The sequel doesn’t quite live up to the original, fine, but it takes a bigger is better approach, combine that with a lengthy co-op campaign, and you’ve got all the makings of an all-star classic all the same.
14. No Man’s Sky
While flawed at release, No Man’s Sky has blossomed into an incredible space adventure. Source: Steam
Despite some fans being disappointed with No Man’s Sky at launch, through regular updates the game has shaped up to be one of the best space PC games. With the option to experience full and infinite freedom or follow the story, how you play No Man’s Sky is solely up to you. You can now play with friends, build complicated bases, and explore both lush and hostile terrain. It’s become an incredibly rewarding experience for any fans of the best open world games.
13. Fall Guys
Fall Guys isn’t as popular as it was during the pandemic, but it offers a ton of fun. Source: Epic Games
If you’re on the hunt for one of the best party games on PC, then Fall Guys delivers. Don’t be fooled by its cutesy art style and cheerful music; however, behind its candy-coated veneer is one of the most frustrating games you will play with friends. You’ll compete in a range of regularly updated series of obstacle courses and mini-games in the pursuit of being the last person (bean?) standing and winning the coveted crown.
12.? Preserve
Preserve may be in early access, but there’s already a lot to enjoy in its current state. Source: Steam
Preserve is one of the best PC games for anyone looking for an equally challenging and peaceful game to play. Its calming soundtrack will take you away as you place tile pieces to obtain enough points to progress while building habitats and placing animals. The game creates a zen-like atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day at school or work. Keep in mind it’s still in early access, so aspects of the experience will change and be added over time.
11. Teamfight Tactics
Teamfight Tactics is an auto-battler which rewards careful, strategic play. Source: Riot Games
Highlights: Auto battler, battle arena, strategy game
Whether you’ve played League of Legends or not, Teamfight Tactics is easy to enjoy. This auto-battler is fantastic, with a constantly changing roster. Play solo or with a friend in Double Up as you put together different team compositions and destroy your enemies. It’s one of the best strategy games on PC for its easy to learn but hard-to-master approach that will keep you coming back for countless hours.
10. Dredge
Dredge isn’t your average everyday fishing simulator; under the waves lies genuine horror. Source: Steam
If you’re on the lookout for one of the best PC horror games, then Dredge is a great option. This oppressive boat-based title makes you venture out into the seven seas as you capture fish, sell your catch to upgrade your ship, and discover untold mysteries. It’s probably the most intense fishing simulator you’ll ever play and an experience you won’t forget any time soon.
9. Call of Duty: Warzone
Warzone takes the Call of Duty run-and-gun formula and applies to the battle royale genre. Source: Steam
For those who are fans of the Call of Duty franchise, Warzone is one of the best PC shooter games to pick up. You’re thrown into a giant battle royale, where you have to loot crates and travel tactically to attempt to be the last one standing. It evolves the run-and-gun formula of the series’ mainline entries with elements from the genre’s greats, such as PUBG and Fortnite, with the classic CoD style.
8. Portal
Portal with RTX is truly incredible, provided you have the horsepower to run it. Source: Steam
The cult classic Portal is one of the best PC games of all time. Despite releasing almost 20 years ago, the game is still fantastic. While the graphics aren’t stunning compared to modern-day equivalents, this puzzle game is worth trying out for the amazing story alone. If you have a powerful graphics card, then you can experience Portal with RTX; as the name implies, this officially sanctioned mod includes real-time ray tracing and DLSS functionality for incredible lighting.
7. Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley sees you inherent a farm and learn about agriculture in a trial by fire. Source: Steam
If you’re looking for the best PC game to destress, then Stardew Valley is a fantastic title. This peaceful farming simulator drops you into an abandoned farm left by your grandfather. Do with it as you wish while also exploring mines and befriending the townspeople. There’s a familiar 16-bit art style combined with gentle music, which delivers a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that should keep you coming back.
6. Counter-Strike 2
Counter-Strike 2 has a steep learning curve, but nothing comes close once you’re invested. Source: Steam
Another contender for the best free PC game is Counter-Strike 2. This tactical first-person shooter allows you to play with friends or solo as you protect zones as counterterrorists or plant bombs as terrorists. You would be forgiven for thinking it’s merely an update to the older CS: GO, as CS2 features a ton of new features, making it the definitive strategic shooter on the platform. Be warned: there’s a steep learning curve.
5. Grand Theft Auto V
Despite its age, Grand Theft Auto V remains a seminal open world experience on PC. Source: Steam
Grand Theft Auto V is a must-play title. Even with GTA 6 on the horizon now, its predecessor is still one of the best open world PC games to fire up, whether you want to play with friends and jump into some custom maps or just to cruise solo and follow the enriching story. Once you’re done with the lengthy main story, there’s over 10 years of content to play with in GTA Online which receives free expansions and updates to this day, too.
4. Overwatch 2
Overwatch 2 may have made some controversial changes, but its formula remains strong. Source: Steam
For those who enjoy playing with friends or want a more competitive title, then Overwatch 2 is one of the best PC games to install. This free-to-play title is a 5v5 first-person shooter with a range of heroes to choose from, so there’s always someone to suit your playstyle. Characters are divided into classes: Tank, Damage, and Support, and your team needs a mix of all three to pull ahead. You’ll complete objectives such as pushing the Payload and fighting for the Control Point.
3.? Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077 had a rocky launch, but it’s now an incredible action RPG experience. Source: Steam
One of the best PC games of all time is Cyberpunk 2077. It’s quite a hardware-intensive title, but if your PC can handle it, you’ll have a fantastic time exploring the world of Night City, where you get ahold of cybernetic enhancements to complete missions, save yourself, and protect others around you in this harsh life to become a legend. What’s more, through the Phantom Liberty expansion, there’s a new area of Dogtown to explore, as well as new characters to meet, such as Idris Elba’s Solomon Reed.
2. Elden Ring
Elden Ring evolves the Soulsborne genre by going fully open world. Source: Steam
Elden Ring managed to pick up Game of the Year in 2022, and for good reason. Simply put, it’s one of the best PC RPGs you can play right now, allowing you to traverse the landscape as you battle monsters along the way to determine your fate. All the Soulsborne hallmarks are present and accounted for: larger-than-life boss fights, challenging traversal, and endless exploration, but this time, the game takes an open world approach and is all the better for it.
1. Baldur’s Gate 3
Baldur’s Gate 3 tells a thrilling open-ended D&D story, befitting the best dungeon masters. Source: Steam
After taking Game of the Year last year, Baldur’s Gate 3 takes our top spot for best PC games. This turn-based RPG title, which is based on Dungeons and Dragons, allows you to explore the world of the Forgotten Realms as you recruit new friends and foes to join your party. Embodying the spirit of the most electrifying dungeon masters, Larian Studios’ latest is a landmark release for not only the genre but the platform in general. If you play one game from our list, make it this one.
More of the Best PC Games to Play in 2024
Red Dead Redemption 2HadesOuter WildsSlay the SpireHollow KnightHalf-Life AlyxHitman World of AssassinationAlan Wake 2Resident Evil 4God of WarDota 2MinecraftDoom
Open world action set at the height of the Old West. Cost: $59.99
Challenging roguelike set in the Greek underworld. Cost: $19.99
Landmark VR shooter set in Valve’s premier world. Cost: $59.99
Encompassing collection of the Hitman trilogy. Cost: $69.99
Survival horror sequel with compelling dual-narratives. Cost: $49.99
Faithful remake of the quintessential horror shooter from 2005. Cost: $39.99
Soft reboot of the series featuring brutal Norse mythology. Cost: $39.99
Massively popular long-running MOBA by Valve. Free on Steam
Hugely successful crafting and survival game made of blocks. Play on Game Pass
Incredibly violent sci-fi shooter that reboots classic franchise. Cost: $19.99
The Bottom Line
The best PC games span not only many genres but also decades from all-star developers. For those cash-strapped gamers, there are many cheap and free PC games to choose from as well. Our list goes through a huge variety of experiences that can push the platform to its limits and can be played on more humble hardware.
FAQs
What is the top PC game right now?
The best PC game on our list is Baldur’s Gate 3. After winning Game of the Year last year, it’s no wonder this title takes the crown. The turn-based RPG is great for those looking for an immersive gaming experience, whether solo or with friends, as you build your team along the way.
What are the top 10 best PC games?
The best PC games will depend on what type of game you’re looking for. There is a wide range of genres to choose from when playing on PC, whether it be shooters, card games, or puzzle titles—there’s something for everyone. Our top 10 consists of Baldur’s Gate 3, Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, Overwatch 2, GTA 5, Counter-Strike 2, Stardew Valley, Portal, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Dredge.
Is PC gaming still worth it?
With the cost of components increasing, it can feel like PC gaming is getting more and more expensive. However, using older components can still be a surefire way to go, with so many games still running on lower-level machines.
Is PC gaming expensive?
Yes, PC gaming is expensive at the top end, but that’s not the case for the vast majority of players. Hardware manufacturers such as AMD, Intel, and Nvidia have budget and mid-range options, which can greatly reduce the costs of building a rig for the first time.
Is it better to build or buy a gaming PC?
Building a gaming PC will give you complete control over which components you utilize, such as your graphics card, CPU, RAM, motherboard, SSD, AIO, etc. However, assembling a machine requires a degree of technical knowledge, so newcomers may be better off buying a prebuilt PC instead of risking breaking any expensive—and fragile—parts.
Is PC gaming better than consoles?
PC gaming can offer a vastly improved gaming experience than what’s possible on the current generation of consoles, but at the expense of affordability. Top-end gaming PCs running components such as an RTX 4090 GPU and an AMD Ryzen 9 CPU are capable of gaming in 4K with framerates upwards of 120fps natively, something which isn’t possible from consoles.
Techopedia’s editorial policy is centered on delivering thoroughly researched, accurate, and unbiased content. We uphold strict sourcing standards, and each page undergoes diligent review by our team of top technology experts and seasoned editors. This process ensures the integrity, relevance, and value of our content for our readers.
Jasmine Mannan is an avid lover of all of the games everyone else dares to call terrible, sinking thousands of hours (and dollars) into League of Legends and Overwatch 2. She enjoys multiplayer games that allow her to relax after her days of writing at Mirror Gaming and formerly GamesRadar.
We uphold a strict editorial policy that focuses on factual accuracy, relevance, and impartiality. Our content, created by leading industry experts, is reviewed by a team of seasoned editors to ensure compliance with the highest standards in reporting and publishing.
Disclosure
When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn how our funding model works. By using this website you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy.