Top 25 PC Games to Play Now

As we dive into 2025, it's time to update IGN's coveted list of the 25 Best Modern PC Games. What do we mean by "best"? This isn't about crafting an "objective" ranking that aligns universally with every gamer's preferences—that's an impossible task given the diverse tastes among players. Instead, this list reflects the collective recommendations of IGN's dedicated PC gamers, ranked through our interactive Face-Off tool where everyone had a say. It's meant to spotlight games we adore and inspire you to explore them if you haven't yet.

With just 25 slots available, numerous fantastic recent releases didn't make the cut—but that doesn't diminish their quality. Each participant in our voting process has personal favorites that, despite their brilliance, didn't garner enough group support to make the list. Such is the nature of compiling a list with so many games and varied perspectives.

The Best PC Games

26 ImagesKeep in mind, our criteria focus on "modern" PC games, encompassing titles released or significantly updated within the last decade, starting from 2013. Classics like Doom, Half-Life 2, Portal, Skyrim, StarCraft 2, Mass Effect 2, Minecraft, BioShock, KOTOR, Fallout: New Vegas, and Batman: Arkham City are now considered timeless and have been moved to our Top 100 Games of All Time list. If you're looking for the best within specific genres, check out our other curated lists.

Remember, this list represents our team's perspective and is no more "right" or "wrong" than a list you might create. We encourage you to craft your own top 25 or even top 100 list of PC games using 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 anticipated titles from 2024 and 2025 are too fresh for ranking, but they're on our radar for the 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 stands out as a masterful exercise in subverting expectations. It cleverly plays with the conventions of roleplaying games, constantly surprising players with its awareness of their actions and decisions. With an emotionally charged narrative, Undertale reminds us that every choice has consequences, making it a compelling and replayable experience.

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

24. Balatro

Balatro takes the familiar framework of Texas Hold'em and turns it into a thrilling deck-building roguelite. With its wild joker cards and unexpected combinations, it challenges players to rethink their strategies and enjoy the chaos.

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 world of historical grand strategy. Its depth is matched by accessibility, thanks to a helpful tooltip system that welcomes even newcomers to the genre.

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

22. Hitman: World of Assassination

Hitman: World of Assassination consolidates the ingenious scenarios of the modern Hitman trilogy, offering players a sandbox of endless possibilities. As Agent 47, you'll navigate intricate levels, exploit every detail, and revel in the thrill of a perfect assassination.

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

21. Doom (2016)

Doom's 2016 reboot is a thrilling reimagining that catapults players into relentless battles against space demons. Its pure, satisfying combat revitalized first-person shooters and continues to influence games to this day.

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

20. Final Fantasy VII Remake

Final Fantasy VII Remake redefines what a remake can be, transforming the iconic RPG into a dynamic action game. Its stunning visuals and innovative storytelling make it a must-play, setting 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 a classic, blending high-intensity combat with a richly detailed world. It captures the essence of the original while thrilling a new generation of gamers.

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

18. God of War

God of War's arrival on PC opened this epic tale to a broader audience. Its reinvention of the series offers a compelling narrative, challenging combat, and a visually stunning world that stands out among PC greats.

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

17. Nier: Automata

Nier: Automata blends action-RPG elements with a unique narrative, bouncing between genres and delivering a memorable experience. Its technical improvements on PC have solidified its place among top games.

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

16. Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV stands out as the premier MMO, evolving from its initial launch to a richly detailed world with compelling narratives. It caters to both solo players and those who enjoy end-game raiding.

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 port enhances its already stunning open-world adventure. With its vast map, detailed activities, and expansive multiplayer, it's a must-play for those with powerful PCs.

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

14. Outer Wilds

Outer Wilds is a captivating exploration of a time loop mystery across multiple planets. Its blend of exploration, discovery, and puzzle-solving makes it a standout in the genre.

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

13. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight offers an expansive and challenging Metroidvania experience. Its beautiful world, tough bosses, and engaging secrets make it a game worth exploring, with free updates adding even more content.

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

12. XCOM 2: War of the Chosen

XCOM 2's expansion enhances its tactical combat, adding new classes, equipment, and replayability. As a guerrilla force fighting alien occupation, it's a thrilling and tense experience.

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 sets a high bar for RPGs. Its continued updates and modding community keep it fresh 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 visually stunning and deeply engaging experience. Its open world and narrative depth make it a standout title.

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

9. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley has revitalized the farming sim genre, offering a rich blend of RPG mechanics, satisfying gameplay, and a serene setting. Its modding community and regular updates keep it fresh.

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

8. Grand Theft Auto V / GTA Online

GTA V's detailed open world remains a benchmark for the genre. Its expansive map, engaging story, and robust multiplayer mode ensure its enduring appeal, though it will be its last appearance on this list due to our age limit.

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

7. Satisfactory

Satisfactory lets players build complex factories on an alien world, offering a deeply satisfying gameplay loop. Its formal launch from early access marks it as a standout in the genre.

Release Date: September 10, 2024 | Developer: Coffee Stain Studios | Last Position: New!

6. Half-Life: Alyx

Half-Life: Alyx showcases Valve's innovation in VR, offering a polished and immersive experience. Its detailed world and engaging narrative make it a compelling reason to invest in VR.

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

5. Slay the Spire

Slay the Spire's dynamic deck-building and roguelite elements keep each playthrough fresh and engaging. Its unique art style and compelling gameplay make it a favorite among players.

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

4. Disco Elysium

Disco Elysium blends traditional CRPG mechanics with a modern noir setting, offering deep storytelling and innovative gameplay. Its exceptional writing and unique world make it a must-play.

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

3. Hades

Hades sets the standard for action roguelites with its engaging combat, compelling narrative, and innovative post-game content. Its rewarding gameplay loop keeps players coming back for more.

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

2. Elden Ring

Elden Ring offers a challenging yet accessible entry into the soulsborne genre. Its expansive open world, challenging bosses, and engaging story have been enhanced by the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC.

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

1. Baldur's Gate 3

Baldur's Gate 3's epic roleplaying adventure combines ambitious scope with old-school charm. Its detailed characters, meaningful choices, and tactical combat make it a standout RPG.

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 these upcoming PC games in 2025, which may well find their way onto future lists:

• 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 slots, many incredible games couldn't be included, but that's the challenge of curation. Share your own top picks in the comments, and don't forget to explore our other best games lists, which we update regularly with new, great titles:

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