Top 25 PC Games to Play Now

2025 is well underway, and it's time to refresh IGN's list of the 25 Best Modern PC Games. When we talk about the "best," we're not aiming for an objective ranking that would satisfy every gamer. Such a list is impossible due to the diverse tastes across different genres. What's a thrilling strategy game to one player might be a dull slog to another. Even fans of the same genre often have differing opinions on rankings.

This list reflects the collective recommendations of IGN's PC gaming team, compiled using our Face-Off tool to ensure everyone's voice is heard. It's meant to highlight games we love and encourage others to try them if they haven't already.

With only 25 slots available, many excellent recent PC games didn't make the cut. This doesn't diminish their quality; it's just a reflection of the vast number of games and varied perspectives within our team.

The Best PC Games

26 ImagesOur criteria focus on "modern" PC games, which means titles released or significantly updated within the last 10 years, dating back to the beginning of 2013. Classics like the original Doom, Half-Life 2, Portal, Skyrim, StarCraft 2, Mass Effect 2, Minecraft, BioShock, KOTOR, Fallout: New Vegas, and Batman: Arkham City are now considered all-time greats and can be found on our Top 100 Games of All Time list or other genre-specific lists.

Remember, this list represents our team's perspective and isn't more "right" or "wrong" than your personal list. If you're inspired to create your own top 25 or top 100 list of PC games, feel free to use our Playlist tool and share it in the comments.

Most recent game updates were made on February 13, 2025.

Under Consideration – Recent Games

These highly rated games from 2024 and 2025 are too new for us to rank yet, but they'll be considered in the next round of voting:

Civilization 7Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward VectorDynasty Warriors: OriginsMouthwashingMarvel RivalsIndiana Jones and the Great CircleMicrosoft Flight Simulator 2024STALKER 2: Heart of ChornobylLife is Strange: Double ExposureDragon Age: The VeilguardCall of Duty: Black Ops 6Sonic X Shadow GenerationsMechWarrior 5: ClansMetaphor: ReFantazioSilent Hill 2 RemakeWarhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2Black Myth: WukongYou Might Also Like:

Top 100 Video GamesBest Horror Games for PC25. Undertale

Undertale is a brilliant example of subverting expectations in gaming. It cleverly plays with the conventions of role-playing games, constantly reminding players of the impact of their choices through saving habits, story decisions, and unexpected consequences. Its compelling and emotionally charged narrative reinforces the message that every choice matters, making it a standout in the PC gaming landscape.

Check out our Undertale review.

Release Date: September 15, 2015 |Developer: Toby Fox | Last Position: New!24. Balatro

Balatro might seem familiar to Texas Hold'em enthusiasts, but its deck-building roguelite mechanics introduce a wild twist. With a variety of joker cards that create mind-bending combos, it challenges players to rethink their strategies and push their scores to new heights.

Check out our Balatro review.

Release Date: February 20, 2024 |Developer: LocalThunk | Last Position: New!23. Crusader Kings 3

Crusader Kings 3 is a testament to the storytelling potential of grand strategy games. Whether through military might, diplomatic marriages, or covert plots, players can weave complex narratives. Despite its complexity, the game remains accessible, thanks to its detailed tooltip system.

Check out our Crusader Kings 3 review.

Release Date: September 1, 2020 |Developer: Paradox Development Studio | Last Position: New!22. Hitman: World of Assassination

Hitman: World of Assassination brings together the best of Io Interactive's modern trilogy. With its richly designed sandboxes, players can explore countless assassination opportunities, making each playthrough unique and thrilling.

Check out our Hitman 3: World of Assassination review.

Release Date: January 26, 2023 | Developer: IO Interactive | Last Position: 1621. Doom (2016)

Doom (2016) revitalized the first-person shooter genre with its relentless action and satisfying combat. It stands out for its purity and intensity, making it a timeless classic that continues to influence modern games.

Check out our Doom (2016) review.

Release Date: May 13, 2016 | Developer: id Software | Last Position: 1720. Final Fantasy VII Remake

Final Fantasy VII Remake masterfully modernizes the iconic RPG, transforming its turn-based combat into an action-packed experience. Set in the stunning city of Midgar, it offers a fresh yet nostalgic journey that sets the stage for the upcoming Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.

Check out our Final Fantasy 7 Remake review.

Release Date: December 16, 2021 | Developer: Square Enix Business Division 1 | Last Position: 2019. Resident Evil 4 Remake

Resident Evil 4 Remake successfully updates the classic action-horror game, delivering intense combat and a richly detailed world. It's a testament to how well the original can be adapted for today's gamers.

Check out our Resident Evil 4 Remake review.

Release Date: March 24, 2023 | Developer: Capcom | Last Position: 1918. God of War

God of War's transition to PC brought its compelling narrative and challenging combat to a wider audience. Its detailed world and emotional depth make it a standout in the action-adventure genre.

Check out our God of War review.

Release Date: January 14, 2022 | Developer: Santa Monica Studio | Last Position: 1817. Nier: Automata

Nier: Automata's action-RPG gameplay, combined with its unique storytelling and memorable soundtrack, make it a must-play. Its diverse gameplay and fascinating world set it apart from other games in its genre.

Check out our Nier: Automata review.

Release Date: March 17, 2017 | Developer: PlatinumGames | Last Position: 1516. Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV stands out as not just an excellent MMO, but a great Final Fantasy game. Its engaging story and solo-friendly features make it accessible to all types of players, while its end-game content challenges even the most dedicated raiders.

Check out our Final Fantasy XIV review.

Release Date: August 27, 2013 | Developer: Square Enix Product Development Division 3 | Last Position: 2115. Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2's PC version enhances an already massive game with additional content and stunning visuals. Its expansive world and detailed storytelling make it one of the best single-player experiences on PC.

Check out our Red Dead Redemption 2 review.

Release Date: October 26, 2018 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 614. Outer Wilds

Outer Wilds is a captivating space adventure that emphasizes exploration and discovery. Its time loop mechanic and engaging puzzles make it a standout title in the genre.

Check out our Outer Wilds review.

Release Date: May 28, 2019 | Developer: Annapurna Interactive | Last Position: 1213. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is a beautiful and challenging Metroidvania that keeps players engaged with its expansive world and secrets. Its difficulty and depth have earned it a dedicated fanbase.

Check out our Hollow Knight review.

Release Date: February 24, 2017 |Developer: Team Cherry | Last Position: 2512. XCOM 2: War of the Chosen

XCOM 2: War of the Chosen enhances the tactical combat of the original with new classes, enemies, and a focus on replayability. Its guerrilla warfare theme adds a fresh twist to the series.

Check out our XCOM 2: War of the Chosen review.

Release Date: August 29, 2017 | Developer: Firaxis Games | Last Position: 911. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

With its expansive open world and deep narrative, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a benchmark for RPGs. Its recent updates and mod support ensure it remains a top choice for PC gamers.

Check out our The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt review.

Release Date: May 19, 2015 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Last Position: 810. Cyberpunk 2077

Cyberpunk 2077's 2.0 patch and Phantom Liberty expansion have transformed it into a polished and immersive experience. Its stunning visuals and engaging story make it a must-play on PC.

Check out our Cyberpunk 2077 review.

Release Date: February 15, 2022 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Last Position: 79. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley revitalized the farming sim genre with its engaging gameplay and charming world. Its modding community and regular updates keep it fresh and exciting.

Check out our Stardew Valley review.

Release Date: February 26, 2016 | Developer: ConcernedApe | Last Position: New!8. Grand Theft Auto V / GTA Online

Grand Theft Auto V's detailed and expansive world continues to set the standard for open-world games. Its final appearance on this list due to our 10-year rule highlights its lasting impact, as we look forward to the upcoming GTA 6.

Check out our Grand Theft Auto V review.

Release Date: April 4, 2015 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 117. Satisfactory

Satisfactory offers a unique perspective on factory-building games, allowing players to create intricate networks and megafactories. Its recent full launch from early access has solidified its place on this list.

Check out our Satisfactory review.

Release Date: September 10, 2024 | Developer: Coffee Stain Studios | Last Position: New!6. Half-Life: Alyx

Half-Life: Alyx set a new standard for VR shooters with its innovative gameplay and immersive storytelling. Its impact on the genre justifies investing in VR technology for PC gamers.

Check out our Half-Life: Alyx review.

Release Date: March 23, 2020 | Developer: Valve | Last Position: 145. Slay the Spire

Slay the Spire's roguelite deck-building mechanics offer endless variety and challenge. Its engaging gameplay and unique art style make it a standout in the genre.

Check out our Slay the Spire review.

Release Date: January 23, 2019 | Developer: MegaCrit LLC | Last Position: 44. Disco Elysium

Disco Elysium reimagines the CRPG genre with its innovative mechanics and exceptional writing. Its unique setting and narrative make it a modern classic.

Check out our Disco Elysium review.

Release Date: October 15, 2019 | Developer: ZA/UM | Last Position: 33. Hades

Hades is the pinnacle of action roguelites, offering exhilarating combat, a compelling story, and endless replayability. Its polished design and engaging characters set it apart from the competition.

Check out our Hades review.

Release Date: December 6, 2018 | Developer: Supergiant Games | Last Position: 22. Elden Ring

Elden Ring's open-world design and challenging gameplay make it an excellent entry point into the soulsborne genre. Its recent Shadow of the Erdtree DLC adds even more depth and content.

Check out our Elden Ring review.

Release Date: February 25, 2022 | Developer: FromSoftware Inc. | Last Position: 51. Baldur's Gate 3

Baldur's Gate 3's ambitious scope and detailed storytelling offer an epic roleplaying experience. Its tactical combat and continuous updates make it a top choice for RPG fans.

Check out our Baldur's Gate 3 review.

Release Date: August 3, 2023 | Developer: Larian Studios | Last Position: 1### The 25 Best PC Games to Play Right Now

25 games that we, the IGN editors and contributors, collectively recommend the most, based on our own tastes, and all from within the past 10 years. Updated March 21, 2024.

See All1Baldur's Gate IIILarian Studios2HadesSupergiant Games3Disco ElysiumZA/UM4Slay the SpireMegacrit5Elden RingFromSoftware6Red Dead Redemption 2Rockstar Studios7Cyberpunk 2077CD Projekt Red8The Witcher 3: Wild HuntCD Projekt Red9XCOM 2Feral Interactive10Dishonored 2ArkaneUpcoming PC Games

We're excited about some big upcoming PC games in 2025 that might make it onto this list in the future. Here are the titles we're eagerly anticipating:

**Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii -** February 20, 2025**PGA Tour 2K25 -** February 28, 2025**Monster Hunter Wilds -** February 28, 2025**Split Fiction -** March 6, 2025**WWE 2K25 -** March 14, 2025**Assassin's Creed Shadows -** March 20, 2025**Tales of the Shire: A Lord of the Rings Game -** March 25, 2025**Inzoi -** March 28, 2025**South of Midnight -** April 8, 2025**Doom: The Dark Ages -** May 14, 2025

These are our picks for the 25 best modern PC games! Many incredible games didn't make the cut due to limited space. Share your own list in the comments and check out our other best games lists, which we update regularly with new releases:

Best PS5 GamesBest Xbox Series X|S GamesBest Switch Games