Top 25 PC Games to Play Now

As we step into 2025, it's time to update IGN's list of the 25 Best Modern PC Games. When we say "best," we're not aiming for an objective ranking that would universally align with every gamer's preferences. Such a list is impossible to create, given the diverse tastes and genres that define gaming. What one player might consider a strategic masterpiece, another might find tedious and unengaging. Even among fans of the same genre, personal lists rarely match perfectly.

Instead, this list reflects the collective recommendations of IGN's PC gaming enthusiasts, compiled using our Face-Off tool to ensure everyone's voice is heard. It's a celebration of the games we love and a suggestion for others to explore if they haven't yet. With only 25 slots available, many fantastic recent PC games didn't make the cut, but that doesn't diminish their quality. Each participant in our voting process has their own favorites that, while not making the final list, are still cherished.

The Best PC Games

26 ImagesOur criteria for this list focus on "modern" PC games, specifically those released or significantly updated within the last 10 years, starting from 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 have moved beyond modern to become timeless classics. For those, check out our Top 100 Games of All Time list or other genre-specific lists.

Remember, this list represents our group's perspective and is no more "right" or "wrong" than any list you might create. We encourage you to share your own top 25 or top 100 list of PC games using our Playlist tool 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 our next update:

• Civilization 7
• Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
• Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector
• Dynasty Warriors: Origins
• Mouthwashing
• Marvel Rivals
• Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
• Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
• STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl
• Life is Strange: Double Exposure
• Dragon Age: The Veilguard
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
• Sonic X Shadow Generations
• MechWarrior 5: Clans
• Metaphor: ReFantazio
• Silent Hill 2 Remake
• Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
• Black Myth: Wukong

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25. Undertale

Undertale is a masterclass in subverting expectations. It cleverly plays with the conventions of role-playing games, using your save habits and story decisions to create a dynamic and surprising experience. The game's emotionally charged narrative underscores the importance of every choice, making it a standout in the PC gaming landscape.

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

24. Balatro

Balatro challenges even seasoned Texas Hold'em players with its unique deck-building roguelite mechanics. By mixing and matching a wild array of joker cards, players can create game-changing combos that skyrocket their scores, making every game session unpredictable and thrilling.

Release Date: February 20, 2024 | Developer: LocalThunk | Last Position: New!

23. Crusader Kings 3

Crusader Kings 3 excels in weaving human stories within the complex framework of historical grand strategy. Whether through military might, diplomatic marriages, or covert plots, the game offers multiple paths to power. Its accessible design, supported by a robust tooltip system, welcomes both newcomers and veterans to its intricate world.

Release Date: September 1, 2020 | Developer: Paradox Development Studio | Last Position: New!

22. Hitman: World of Assassination

Hitman: World of Assassination compiles the best of Io Interactive's modern Hitman trilogy into one exceptional package. With its richly detailed sandboxes, players can explore countless assassination opportunities, making each playthrough a unique and satisfying experience.

Release Date: January 26, 2023 | Developer: IO Interactive | Last Position: 16

21. Doom (2016)

Doom (2016) revitalized the first-person shooter genre with its relentless action and pure, satisfying combat. Its influence is evident in subsequent games, and its enduring appeal makes it a must-play for any PC gamer.

Release Date: May 13, 2016 | Developer: id Software | Last Position: 17

20. Final Fantasy VII Remake

Final Fantasy VII Remake reimagines the iconic RPG with stunning visuals and dynamic action gameplay. While it takes creative liberties with the original story, it remains a loving tribute that sets the stage for an exciting new adventure.

Release Date: December 16, 2021 | Developer: Square Enix Business Division 1 | Last Position: 20

19. Resident Evil 4 Remake

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

Release Date: March 24, 2023 | Developer: Capcom | Last Position: 19

18. God of War

God of War's arrival on PC brought its acclaimed story and challenging combat to a new audience. Its reinvention of the series, combined with its stunning presentation, makes it a standout title in the last decade.

Release Date: January 14, 2022 | Developer: Santa Monica Studio | Last Position: 18

17. Nier: Automata

Nier: Automata's blend of action-RPG gameplay and a captivating narrative has earned it a spot on our list. Its genre-hopping style and unforgettable soundtrack make it a unique and rewarding experience.

Release Date: March 17, 2017 | Developer: PlatinumGames | Last Position: 15

16. Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV stands out as both a top-tier MMO and a compelling Final Fantasy game. Its engaging story and flexible gameplay options make it accessible to both solo players and those who enjoy group activities.

Release Date: August 27, 2013 | Developer: Square Enix Product Development Division 3 | Last Position: 21

15. Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2's PC version enhances the already expansive world of Arthur Morgan's tale. With its detailed open world and extensive multiplayer mode, it's a must-play for any PC gamer with a capable rig.

Release Date: October 26, 2018 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 6

14. Outer Wilds

Outer Wilds offers a unique time-looping adventure that encourages exploration and discovery. Its engaging narrative and beautiful world make it a standout in the genre of space exploration games.

Release Date: May 28, 2019 | Developer: Annapurna Interactive | Last Position: 12

13. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is a prime example of the modern Metroidvania genre, offering a vast and challenging world to explore. Its free updates have only added to its appeal, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Release Date: February 24, 2017 | Developer: Team Cherry | Last Position: 25

12. XCOM 2: War of the Chosen

XCOM 2: War of the Chosen elevates the tactical combat of its predecessor with new classes, equipment, and a focus on replayability. Its guerrilla warfare setting adds a fresh twist to the series.

Release Date: August 29, 2017 | Developer: Firaxis Games | Last Position: 9

11. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

With its expansive open world and deep narrative, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt remains a benchmark for RPGs. Its recent updates and extensive modding community keep it relevant and engaging.

Release Date: May 19, 2015 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Last Position: 8

10. 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 standout in the open-world genre.

Release Date: February 15, 2022 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Last Position: 7

9. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley has revitalized the farming sim genre with its charming gameplay and extensive content. Its modding community and regular updates keep it fresh and engaging for players.

Release Date: February 26, 2016 | Developer: ConcernedApe | Last Position: New!

8. Grand Theft Auto V / GTA Online

Grand Theft Auto V's detailed open world and engaging gameplay make it a landmark in the genre. While it's reaching the end of its eligibility for this list, its impact will be felt for years to come.

Release Date: April 4, 2015 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 11

7. Satisfactory

Satisfactory offers a unique perspective on factory-building games, allowing players to create complex networks and megafactories. Its satisfying gameplay and cooperative elements make it a standout title.

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 gaming with its innovative gameplay and immersive storytelling. Its impact on the genre makes it a must-play for VR enthusiasts.

Release Date: March 23, 2020 | Developer: Valve | Last Position: 14

5. Slay the Spire

Slay the Spire's roguelite deck-building mechanics offer endless variety and replayability. Its engaging gameplay and unique art style make it a favorite among strategy game fans.

Release Date: January 23, 2019 | Developer: MegaCrit LLC | Last Position: 4

4. Disco Elysium

Disco Elysium redefines the CRPG genre with its innovative mechanics and compelling narrative. Its detailed world and exceptional writing make it a standout in modern gaming.

Release Date: October 15, 2019 | Developer: ZA/UM | Last Position: 3

3. Hades

Hades sets the standard for action roguelites with its engaging combat, memorable characters, and innovative post-game content. Its excellence across all aspects makes it a must-play.

Release Date: December 6, 2018 | Developer: Supergiant Games | Last Position: 2

2. Elden Ring

Elden Ring's open-world design and challenging gameplay make it a standout in the soulsborne genre. Its Shadow of the Erdtree DLC further enhances its appeal with new content and challenges.

Release Date: February 25, 2022 | Developer: FromSoftware Inc. | Last Position: 5

1. Baldur's Gate 3

Baldur's Gate 3's ambitious scope and old-school charm make it a top choice for RPG fans. Its detailed storytelling and tactical combat offer over 100 hours of engaging gameplay.

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 All

1. Baldur's Gate 3 - Larian Studios
2. Hades - Supergiant Games
3. Disco Elysium - ZA/UM
4. Slay the Spire - Megacrit
5. Elden Ring - FromSoftware
6. Red Dead Redemption 2 - Rockstar Studios
7. Cyberpunk 2077 - CD Projekt Red
8. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - CD Projekt Red
9. XCOM 2 - Feral Interactive
10. Dishonored 2 - Arkane

Upcoming PC Games

We're excited about several upcoming PC games in 2025 that could potentially join this list in the future:

• 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! With only 25 spots, many incredible games couldn't be included. Share your own list in the comments and check out our other best games lists for more recommendations:

• Best PS5 Games
• Best Xbox Series X|S Games
• Best Switch Games