22 Best PC Games That Define The Gaming Industry
The best PC games of all time aren’t just fun – many of them are the reason I fell in love with gaming.
There’s something special about a game that sticks with you long after the credits end rolling. Maybe it’s the gripping story with a satisfying conclusion, the smooth gameplay with immersive action, or the sheer freedom to explore and create your own adventures. Or perhaps it’s a unique combination of these and other things that makes the magic happen.
Whatever the secret formula is, few things in the world feel the same as playing something for the first time, which you know will go down in history as one of the all-time greats. And with how much variety and freedom it can offer, there is no platform with bigger potential for such legends to be born than PC.
So, with that in mind, today I bring you exactly that. The best of the best. Crème de la crème. This list is a mix of legendary classics and modern masterpieces. These are games that every PC gamer should experience at least once. Are you ready?
Our Top Picks for the Best PC Games
Hand-picking the best PC games is no easy task. After all, there are very many strong contenders, most of whom truly deserve to be here. However, after doing some thorough research, we came down to a handful of titles that are the best of the best out there. Here’s a quick sneak peek at them:
1. Elden Ring (2022) – Set out on an epic yet very challenging RPG adventure of restoring the shattered Elden Ring and becoming the Elden Lord of the majestic Lands Between.
2. Dark Souls 3 (2016) – Become the Ashen One and go on a quest to link the First Flame and prevent the end of the world in this unforgiving, dark fantasy tale.
3. Cyberpunk 2077 (2020) – Take on the role of V, a mercenary trying to survive in the open world of the futuristic, dystopian Night City.
4. Marvel’s Midnight Suns (2022) – Combine tactics and superpowers as you lead an elite team of superheroes in an attempt to stop Lilith, the Mother of Demons.
5. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015) – Navigate politics, war, and supernatural forces as you step into the shoes of Geralt, a witcher on an epic journey to find his adopted daughter, Ciri.
These few titles are but the tip of the iceberg, because today I brought you an entire collection of what could be called the best PC games of all time. I’ve got 22 names in total, so stick around to learn about the rest of them!
Best PC Games of All Time
There are many titles that were strong contenders to be on this list, and very many different aspects that gave them a case in this hearing. That’s exactly why finalizing this selection was such a complicated task.
Since no single thing can make something truly great, there really was a lot to consider when picking the best PC games of all time. The narrative? Well, there’s no story without it. It’s what sticks to our minds the strongest. But what about gameplay? Even the most vivid tales will fade away if you get frustrated trying to enjoy them. And let’s not forget the atmosphere. Though we may not be able to touch it, its presence is unmatched.
This and much more came into play for a mix that you’re about to see. But that’s enough talking. I say, it’s time we dive straight in!
1. Elden Ring
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 96 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | 2022 | FromSoftware |
To me, Elden Ring isn’t just another open-world RPG, it’s an experience like few others. But of course, what else could we even expect from a company such as FromSoftware, the masterminds behind the world-renowned Dark Souls series?
Become the Tarnished, an outcast drawn back to the Lands Between to piece together the shattered Elden Ring and claim the throne as Elden Lord. Embark on a journey that is anything but easy. Towering bosses, hidden dungeons, and cryptic lore, co-written by George R.R. Martin, await those brave enough to venture forth.
One of the best features of this world is its freedom. From the moment you step out into the wild, you can go anywhere, and there’s very little guidance to show you the way.
The combat, in a regular Souls game fashion, is very challenging and equally rewarding. Every battle requires focused attention and careful planning, leading to victories that feel truly earned.
This hauntingly beautiful post-apocalyptic fantasy world, deep lore, and exciting combat make this game into a wonderful combination. However, the best part about it is that, while difficult, this title is absolutely the most newcomer-friendly, which means that even if you’re not a fan of challenging games, you must give it a shot. There are only a few games like Elden Ring, but none are as incredible.
Oh, and if you need additional motivation, just keep in mind that the game’s only DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, is the highest-rated expansion to date. I think that says it all.
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2. Dark Souls 3
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 89 | PC, PS4, Xbox One | 2016 | FromSoftware |
Dark Souls 3 is another brutal FromSoftware masterpiece that I simply couldn’t resist including here. It hooks you from the get-go. It’s the kind of Dark Souls game where every step feels earned and every swing, dodge, and block feels like it matters.
Although the game demands a lot of patience, mastering it is a satisfactory sensation like no other. But that’s but a piece of what makes this masterpiece worth trying.
There’s something magical traveling through this dark, gritty, and oddly beautiful world on your way to stop it from ending. And the battles? Every single one of them feels like a scene from some epic movie.
If you’ve got the time and the patience, Dark Souls 3 will reward you in ways few other games can. It’s tough, but that’s what makes every triumph feel so damn good. I can’t recommend it enough if you’re looking for a game that’ll challenge and captivate you.
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3. Cyberpunk 2077
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 86 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | 2020 | CD Projekt RED |
Cyberpunk 2077 is one of those rare success stories that started out on the completely opposite side of the spectrum. After its disastrous launch, few believers thought that this game could become anything more than a complete flop. And yet, CD Projekt RED surprised us all.
I honestly didn’t expect to get this hooked, but from the moment I stepped into Night City, I was already in for the long ride. The world is massive, alive, and so detailed. You can practically feel that neon-soaked dystopian future enter your veins as you explore this gorgeous action RPG.
In the game, you play as V, a mercenary whose plans to make it big quickly turn sideways. Fortunately, this little switch plunges you into a wild story filled with twists, cool characters, and replay-worthy action. All that is only amplified by the presence of Keanu Reeves as Johnny Silverhand and, if you get the DLC, Idris Elba as Solomon Reed.
Overall, there are not that many games like Cyberpunk 2077, no matter how you look at it. But why even search for alternatives when you have the perfect mix? This masterpiece is something I couldn’t imagine a list like this without. I really couldn’t recommend it enough. It’s absolute gold.
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4. Marvel’s Midnight Suns
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 83 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | 2022 | Firaxis Games |
Marvel’s Midnight Suns should definitely be among the best story games I’ve played in a while. If you’re a fan of Marvel and strategy games, this combination that we’ve got here will treat you well.
The perfect mix of tactical, card-based combat really makes you think about every move, but what makes the game special is the character-driven story. You play as the Hunter, a customizable hero tasked with leading this awesome superhero squad. Team up with Wolverine, Ghost Rider, Blade, Iron Man, Spider-Man, and more as you try to take down the recently resurrected Lilith, Mother of Demons.
As I picked it up, I wasn’t expecting too much, but this game has surely exceeded all of my expectations. With it being as fun as it is, I often found myself checking the time, only to realize I’d already spent half the day playing. Thus, if you’re into Marvel or just love a great story, I’d definitely recommend checking this one out!
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5. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 92 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch | 2015 | CD Projekt RED |
When we talk about CD Projekt RED’s The Witcher 3, saying that it’s one of the best RPG games on PC is simply an understatement. It’s a masterpiece in every sense of the word, even if we take only the base game without its jaw-dropping expansions.
The world is breathtaking. It really makes you feel as if you just entered one of the books the game is based on. Of course, that is partly because you play as the famous witcher, Geralt of Rivia himself, as he embarks on a journey to find his missing adopted daughter Ciri.
The combat is incredibly fun, and the story grips you and doesn’t let you go. Even the sidequest, and something as seemingly irrelevant as monster-hunting contracts end up telling the most interesting tales you didn’t expect.
The storytelling in this game knows no equals. It’s what truly makes this game stand out. And if you combine it with the fact that there are a ton of highly significant choices you get to make while shaping that narrative, there isn’t much that you could even add.
I have no doubt that you already heard about this game and how well-regarded it is. Thus, I can only say one thing. If you haven’t played it yet, do yourself a favor and give it a shot. It’s one of those rare games that stays with you long after the credits roll.
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6. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 96 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch | 2011 | Bethesda |
Have you ever wanted to get lost in another world? The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim does exactly that, and there are almost countless reasons to keep coming back to it.
While it may be a running joke about how many times this game has been remastered and rereleased, it’s all very much worth it. In this massive open-world RPG you can really do just about anything. Fight dragons, explore ancient ruins, or just live your life as a blacksmith or assassin. You’re the Dragonborn, destined to stop a world-ending prophecy, but how you get there, and if you get there at all, is entirely up to you.
The base game alone is massive and can easily offer over 100 hours of gameplay as you explore the snowy peaks, dark forests, and sprawling cities packed with secrets. However, if there’s one thing Skyrim is known for, is just how loved it is by modders. If you don’t mind spending a little time spicing it up, you can almost make it into hundreds of different games.
There’s no wonder in my mind why Skyrim is so loved. Whether you’re into deep stories or just want an epic adventure, this game delivers, and if you haven’t tried it yet, I can’t think of a good reason why you should wait any longer.
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7. Red Dead Redemption 2
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 97 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | 2018 | Rockstar Games |
For how much potential the Wild West has as a video game setting, there are surprisingly few good titles that really make it work. However, when they do, we get absolute masterpieces that are nothing short of the best open-world games ever made.
That’s right, I’m talking about Red Dead Redemption 2. As you take on the role of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw in the dying days of the Wild West, you become a part of a story that you’re sure to remember for a long time.
The world is massive, detailed, and alive. The story is gripping, emotional, and filled with characters that feel real. Every choice you make as Arthur feels personal, and every step you take in this game feels like a frame in a great Spaghetti Western film. The first game was already 10/10 in all these categories. The second one only cranked it up to 11.
It takes around 50-60 hours to beat the campaign, and there is a whole lot of fun to have online after. The game has over 600,000 reviews on Steam, averaging 9/10, which really says a lot. Are you ready to dive in, or should I keep going?
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8. Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 93 | PC, PS3, PS4, PS5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, Mobile | 2009 | Mojang Studios |
Minecraft likely needs no introduction. It’s a game that’s known worldwide even by those who never played it. It’s an ultimate sandbox experience that many of us grew up with. It’s a testament that to be great, a game doesn’t necessarily have to be complicated.
While now, due to its popularity, it can easily be mistaken for an AAA game, Minecraft is that same old indie title that everyone fell in love with, just improved. You can still build massive castles, explore endless caves, fight monsters, or just chill and farm. Whatever you can imagine, you can do, and that’s why it’s so addictive.
Minecraft has sold over 238 million copies worldwide, and that number will only keep increasing. You can spend endless hours surviving, building the most insane things in the creative mode, or playing almost any kind of mode in hundreds of thousands of online servers. Be it every day or a couple of days every other year, there’s always something to come back for, and there’s no other game quite like it.
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9. Mass Effect: Legendary Edition
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 87 | PC, PS4, Xbox One | 2021 | BioWare |
Mass Effect Legendary Edition is hands down one of the best PC games you could find, especially if you’re a hardcore sci-fi fan like me. It’s a remaster of the original Mass Effect trilogy, and you better believe it still holds up.
As you step into the shoes of Commander Shepard, you quickly become not just a badass soldier, but a key piece in a battle that will decide the fate of all sentient life in the galaxy. Arguably the strongest part of this game is its writing. Alongside a very strong narrative, the game lets you make decisions that shape the entire story, which makes this experience truly your own.
The combat is a sweet mix of action and strategy. It’s easy to get lost in the gameplay, especially with how fun the upgrades and powers are. And the relationships you build with your crew and the world around you? They make it all feel so much more personal.
It might be the nostalgia in me talking, but this experience is something I don’t think I’ll ever forget. If space RPGs and good storytelling are your drive, this is a must-play. Over 40 hours of gameplay in each game, and the entire trilogy will keep you hooked from start to finish.
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10. Half-Life 2
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 96 | PC | Valve |
There might be many great games, but there are a few titles that simply revolutionized the industry. Half-Life 2 is undeniably one of them. It’s not just a game – it’s a landmark in gaming history.
From the moment you get to step into Gordon Freeman’s shoes, you’re sure to get blown away. The narrative about a dystopian world under alien rule is insanely gripping. But it’s nothing compared to how much it impacted everything that came after it.
The Source engine was revolutionary. The physics-based gameplay wasn’t just insanely fun – it changed how developers thought about interaction in games.
The Gravity Gun became iconic, letting you use objects in creative ways during combat and puzzles. Every moment was pure innovation, whether it was exploring the eerie streets of Ravenholm, fighting the alien invaders, or speeding down canals on a hovercraft.
Half-Life 2 was and is not only one of the best games ever but also the reason for the existence of many other legendary titles, like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Portal 2, and more. If not for the solid 15-20 hours of masterful gameplay, then for the sake of taking in a piece of history – it’s something you really shouldn’t miss out on.
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11. Disco Elysium
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 91 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch | 2019 | ZA/UM |
Disco Elysium is unlike anything I’ve ever played. It’s more than a game – it’s an experience that is going to change you, be it in a small or a big way.
Its unique vibe can be felt from the very first moment, as you start a game as a man with a hangover so bad you forgot everything about yourself and the world around you. As you get up from the floor and gather your bearings, you realize that you’re a detective tasked with solving a murder in the gritty, broken city of Revachol. However, the murder is but the tip of the iceberg.
This game doesn’t offer a lot of action. It’s all about the writing, and it’s unmatched. Every choice you make matters, and sometimes failure can lead to much more interesting outcomes. Your skills, like Empathy or Logic, act like voices in your head, constantly arguing and shaping how you see the world. It’s a wild ride in a brilliant but deranged mind.
The game is about 20–30 hours long, depending on how deep you go. And trust me, you’ll want to explore everything. The art style is gorgeous, and the soundtrack is hauntingly good. This is a detective in the truest sense of the word.
If you want a game that challenges you emotionally and intellectually, this is it. Disco Elysium is not just one of the best PC games I’ve played – it might be one of the best stories, period. Play it.
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12. Resident Evil 4 (Remake)
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 93 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Mobile | 2023 | Capcom |
When talking about Resident Evil games, it’s difficult to choose the best one. However, Resident Evil 4 Remake is what truly blew me away.
It’s not just a remake, it feels like a whole new experience. They kept everything that made the original great and made it better. The story, the characters, the tension. It’s all there, but sharper, scarier, and more polished.
You play as Leon Kennedy, a federal agent sent to rescue the president’s daughter from a creepy cult in a remote European village. In typical Resident Evil fashion, things go south fast, and you’re up against hordes of infected villagers, terrifying monsters, and more. The combat is intense but smooth, especially since the remake gives us updated controls and mechanics.
The game looks and feels absolutely incredible. The campaign offers solid 15–20 hours of gameplay, and every minute is gripping. And the voice acting? Spot on.
When it comes to survival horror, no game does it better than Resident Evil 4. Simply put, it’s a masterpiece, and if games like that are your cup of tea, there’s nothing I’d recommend more.
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13. Hades
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 93 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, Mobile | 2020 | Supergiant Games |
Ever wondered what escaping the underworld might feel like? Well, step into the shoes of Zagreus, the son of Hades, and find out.
Hades is a fast and fluid game with a perfect mix of hack-and-slash combat and strategic thinking. Every run feels fresh, thanks to the randomized layouts and the insane variety of upgrades and godly powers you can choose from. There’s simply no time to get bored.
Yet, surprisingly, what blew me away the most was the storytelling. It might be because it caught me off-guard, as it’s very rare for a rogue-like to have this much depth, but I absolutely loved it. Every death felt like part of the story, with new dialogue and character interactions that kept me invested. The voice acting was top-tier, and the art style was absolutely stunning.
I spent over 40 hours on it at first, and while I don’t play it as much these days now, I keep coming back to it. Of all the great games in the genre, nothing treats Rogue-like fans better than Hades.
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14. Sid Meier’s Civilizations VI
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 88 | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, Mobile | 2016 | Firaxis Games |
A list like this could never do without a 4X strategy game. And when it comes to such games, there’s nothing better than one of the best Civilization games. At least not yet.
Simply put, this is the ultimate strategy experience. Build a civilization from scratch and guide it through history. Whether you focus on science, culture, religion, or dominance, every choice matters. A single move can put you on top or send your carefully crafted empire to ruins.
And yet, I’d say that the most fun part is that this game feels unique. The map is randomly generated, so no two playthroughs are the same. Plus, the leaders you play against, like Cleopatra or Gandhi, all have their own strategies and personalities, and it’s just really fun dealing with historical figures.
A single game can take 10–15 hours, and the replayability is pretty much endless. You can play it against bots or real people, and every single time there will be something new. If you want strategy, spend not a minute more thinking. This is it.
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15. Grand Theft Auto V
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 97 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | 2013 | Rockstar North |
It would be hard to find a person who has never heard of the Grand Theft Auto (GTA) franchise. It’s something that defined not only the open-world game genre but for the longest time has arguably been the face of gaming overall.
Like most of its predecessors, GTA V had a very impressive start. It wasn’t just a great game, it was revolutionary. It set a new standard for open-world design, storytelling, and attention to detail. The sheer scale of it was unprecedented when it launched.
The ability to switch between three protagonists was groundbreaking, too. Each character has their own personality, skill set, and story, with their lives intertwining in the most interesting ways.
GTA Online, the multiplayer mode, was another game changer. Although there existed similar mods for previous GTA games before, they never came close to this. Now, you could create your own chaos, run businesses, and even pull off heists with friends like never before.
With over 185 million copies sold and millions of active players a decade later, it’s clear that this game once again redefined what an open-world game could be. Don’t miss out on this precious piece of history.
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16. World of Warcraft
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 93 | PC | 2004 | Blizzard Entertainment |
If you were ever into MMO games, you undoubtedly have at the very least heard of World of Warcraft (WoW). While it wasn’t the first of its kind, this game is the reason this genre is what it is today.
The first time I first stepped into Azeroth, it felt like entering another universe. To my young mind, WoW wasn’t just a game – it was an entire new world filled with endless, never-before-seen adventure. From the peaceful forests of Elwynn to the fiery depths of Blackrock Mountain, every zone has its own story, beauty, and danger.
It was also just the possibility to become whoever you want, be it a noble paladin, a clever mage, a fierce orc warrior, or anything else. Of course, all that would’ve been a whole lot less special if you couldn’t share that experience with your friends and just random strangers online.
WoW has been around since 2004 and is still going strong to this day. As new content keeps the game fresh even for seasoned veterans, there are still millions of people playing every day, while the total player base is estimated at over 160 million.
Thus, if you’re looking for an MMO to dip your toes in, you might as well start with the best of the best. And if you have already walked all these paths in the past, grab that latest expansion and jump back in for more. There’s always something to do in the World of Warcraft.
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17. No Man’s Sky
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 83 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S Switch | 2016 | Hello Games |
No Man’s Sky, where to even begin? An indie game that started out by massively underdelivering on its promises is now raking among the greatest of all time. Now that’s what I call an epic comeback!
Despite the disappointment of the beginning, these days, this gem is rocking 90% positive reviews from over 200,000 players on Steam. Having spent over 100 hours on it, I wholeheartedly agree.
I mean, there really is nothing quite like it, is there? A procedurally generated universe with 18 quintillion planets. That doesn’t even sound real. And yet, that’s exactly what we’re getting. No two planets are the same, and you can potentially visit every single one of them.
But honestly, there’s just so much to love about this game. You can explore, mine, trade, fight, or just chill in space. The soundtrack is gorgeous, and the visuals are stunning. What else could you even ask for?
It’s the most relaxing yet exciting game I’ve ever played. If you love space and adventure, I bet you’ll feel the same way I do.
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18. Hollow Knight
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 90 | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch | 2017 | Team Cherry |
Hollow Knight is one of those games that feels like a journey into the unknown. As you take control of a silent warrior known as Knight and enter this seemingly simple 2D action adventure, you quickly realize that it’s so much more than just that.
At its core, this journey is about discovery. The world pulls you in right away. Hallownest, a crumbling kingdom full of beauty, danger, and secrets, mesmerizes with its eerie atmosphere and hand-drawn art.
The gameplay is very balanced, which makes it super satisfying. You may feel unstoppable in one moment and struggle to earn your way past a boss soon after. All of this is perfectly complimented by the story, which is subtly told through the world and cryptic dialogue.
Even though it might not look like it at first glance, the game is huge. It can easily take 30–40 hours to finish the base game, although the subtle story with its cryptic dialogue and great mysteries will likely pull you in for longer.
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19. Outer Wilds
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 85 | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch | 2019 | Mobius Digital |
Imagine being an explorer in a tiny solar system, piecing together ancient mysteries as you hop from planet to planet, all while stuck in an endless time loop. Sounds interesting? Then Outer Wilds is exactly the game for you.
Now, this indie title is very unique, and one of the most special things about it is that it’s best experienced going in as blind as you can. I know, I know, the curiosity is often hard to contain, but trust me, it will be a lot more than worth it.
The game usually takes about 15-20 hours to complete, and because of its nature, it doesn’t offer a lot of replayability beyond that. But that first playthrough is something no other game has ever managed to achieve. It’s magical in every sense of that word.
To put it briefly, if the great space mysteries and the most interesting puzzles with unique rules are up your alley, you absolutely must try this game. That’s it. Take that leap of faith. I can guarantee you’ll be glad that you did.
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20. Stardew Valley
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 89 | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, Mobile | 2016 | The Secret Police Limited |
Most of these games are about fast-paced action, cosmic-sized mysteries, and all other huge things. However, sometimes all you need is to have something truly good to relax with, and when it comes to pure comfort, there’s nothing cozier than games like Stardew Valley.
It starts as you inherit a run-down farm and arrive at it to make it your own. From there, it’s all up to you. Grow crops, raise animals, fish, mine, or just hang out with the townsfolk. Watching your farm slowly grow has this very satisfying feeling, and every day feels like a nice, little adventure of its own.
Still, what I loved about it the most is how much heart this whole game has. Each villager has their own story, and getting to know them is just as rewarding as building your farm. Plus, the seasons change, there are festivals to attend, and there’s always something new to discover.
Life out here can be a lot. For those days when it gets a bit too stressful, there’s nothing better than having a nice, warm place to get away to. Stardew Valley is exactly that place.
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21. Rocket League
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 85 | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch | 2015 | Psyonix |
Have you ever wanted to play soccer with a rocket-powered car? No? You never even thought about it? Well, you definitely should!
Despite combining a couple of completely unrelated things into a seemingly weird mix, Rocket League is insanely fun. I mean, every time I play it, even if it’s a casual mode, I’m on the edge of my seat, almost jumping and turning together with my car.
The controls are smooth, the matches are fast-paced, and every goal you score feels amazing. The game is very easy to pick up but insanely hard to master. Thus, whether you’re pulling off aerial shots or just trying to hit the ball straight, there’s always something to improve.
You can play it solo, with friends, or against randoms; it never gets old. I think I’ve got over 200 hours in, and I’m still learning new tricks.
Oh, and the best part? It’s free to play, so if it sounds at least remotely interesting, I say give it a shot. You’re gonna love it.
22. Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered
| Metacritic Score | Platforms | Year of release | Developer |
| 87 | PC, PS5 | 2020 | Insomniac Games |
Have you ever dreamt of swinging through the streets of New York City as Spider-Man himself? I know I have. That’s why I always played every Spider-Man game I could get my hands on. But while they all seemed magical at the time, not one has ever come close to this.
I’m being completely truthful when I say that this is probably the most thrilling gaming experience I ever had. While the story is good, it’s not a flawless masterpiece. However, the gameplay is absolutely unbeatable.
Traversing the city alone is why this game deserves to be on this list. I haven’t ever played any other game where the fast-traveling function was so unnecessary. And don’t even get me started on the combat. With all the powers and gadgets at your disposal, every fight is like straight out of the golden days of MCU.
The base game takes about 20 hours to beat, while the DLCs potentially add 12 more hours to it. Oh, and if you feel like you still want more after you beat it, just know that the sequel is no longer a PlayStation exclusive either and has just arrived on PC as well!
If you ever wanted to be Spider-Man, there hasn’t ever been a better time for it than now.
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Best Single-Player PC Games
From my experience, some of the best video game journeys are those that you have to experience alone. Nothing makes you feel like the main character as stepping into the shoes of a hero in a narrative that they were designed for.
As it happens, all of the games in this list, except for World of Warcraft and Rocket League, have a single-player mode, which you can dive into straight ahead. However, even though all these experiences are wonderful, not all of them could be called the best single-player PC games ever made.
If you’re looking for the absolute pinnacle of solo gaming, this is what I recommend:
- Are you looking for a true action-packed challenge? Then you can’t go wrong with Elden Ring. The journey to becoming an Elden Lord is absolutely unforgettable, and while, in certain places, you can get a little outside help, the game is primarily designed to be played single-player.
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is one of my all-time favorite games, and it is in no small part thanks to how perfectly balanced it is. Here you’ll find everything – interesting characters to talk to, mysteries to solve, monsters to slay. It even has a card game you can get so hooked on that you’ll forget about the main quest altogether.
- Finally, if you’re more interested in mind work and the narrative rather than fighting, Disco Elysium is an obvious pick. Even though you play as a police officer, there are only a few situations where you can potentially engage in combat, and most of those are not guaranteed. In this game, it’s all about the characters, the dialogue, and the story as a whole.
Best Co-op PC Games
While taking on narratives and challenges designed for solo playthroughs can be incredibly immersive, sometimes everything is more fun with a little help from your friends. Fortunately for PC gamers, there are a bunch of titles that offer exactly this.
Do you feel like taking on the world but don’t want to do it alone? Then, the best co-op PC games might be what you need, and I suggest going with these:
- A huge online open world where you can be whoever you want to be. That’s right, I’m talking about Grand Theft Auto V, specifically GTA Online. Run a business, rob banks, race, or just chill around with your friends. The world is at your disposal.
- Perhaps you want something a little more otherworldly? Well then, how about some fantasy? Jump into the World of Warcraft, a place designed to be enjoyed together. As an MMO, WoW might technically be more of a multiplayer than a co-op game, but the essence remains the same. Get the gang together and go on a magical adventure bigger than ever before.
- Of course, not everything is about going big. Sometimes, all you really need is to hang out together without any big worries on your mind. That’s where Stardew Valley comes into play. Take care of your farm, explore the town, and go on all kinds of relaxing adventures with up to 3 friends.
Best Cross-Platform Games: Play with Anyone
Playing together might be fun, but it’s easy to find yourself limited by the invisible borders that come up when online games don’t allow their players to connect with others who are using different platforms for that very same experience.
Luckily, on this list, I also have some of the best cross-platform games that you and your friends can hop right into without any inconveniences. Here are my go-to titles:
- Minecraft is the obvious answer to this question. As long as you have the Bedrock Edition of the game, you and your gang can do anything. Survive, explore, slay monsters, and build the grandest castles – the only limit is your imagination.
- If one planet proves not enough, you can always turn to No Man’s Sky. This game shares a lot of similarities with Minecraft, including cross-platform multiplayer, which allows you and up to 3 of your pals to build, trade, battle, and explore the cosmos together.
- Of course, sometimes it’s not about exploring at all. If you and your cross-platform buddies feel competitive and seek some fast-paced action, Rocket League might just be the answer. Jump into your rocket-powered cars and go win some championships.
FAQs
Can I play Xbox games on PC?
Yes, if you buy an Xbox Play Anywhere digital game, you can play it on both PC and Xbox.
Are all PC games available on Steam?
No, not every PC game is available on Steam. Some games may be exclusive to other digital stores, like Epic Games, Origin, Ubiplay, etc.
Are there any PC-exclusive games?
Yes, for example, World of Warcraft is PC-exclusive and cannot be played on any consoles or other hand-held gaming devices.
Can I play any Pokémon games on a PC?
Yes, but only using an emulator, as there are no official Pokémon games on PC.
Are there any Harry Potter games on PC?
Yes, there are many Harry Potter games on PC, including the recent open-world RPG sensation, Hogwarts Legacy.
What is the first PC game?
Spacewar! is considered the first PC game that was developed by MIT engineers back in 1962.
