The 25 Best PC Games to Play Right Now

As we venture deeper into 2025, it's time to refresh IGN’s list of the 25 Best Modern PC Games. When we say "best," we're not claiming to provide an "objective" ranking that will align with every gamer's preferences. Gaming tastes are incredibly diverse; what one player might consider a grand strategy masterpiece, another might find tedious and unengaging. Therefore, no definitive list can ever satisfy everyone.

This list is curated by IGN’s team of dedicated PC gamers, using our Face-Off tool to collaboratively rank the games. It's a celebration of the titles we adore and a recommendation for others to explore these games if they haven’t already. With only 25 slots, many excellent recent releases didn't make the cut, but that doesn't diminish their quality. Each participant has their own favorites that didn't quite make the group consensus, which is inevitable given the vast array of games and differing tastes.

The Best PC Games

26 ImagesOur criteria focus on "modern" PC games, encompassing titles released or significantly updated within the last 10 years, starting from 2013. Classics like Doom, Half-Life 2, Portal, and others are cherished but have moved beyond the scope of this list into the realm of all-time greats. For those, check out our Top 100 Games of All Time list or genre-specific rankings.

Remember, this list reflects our collective perspective and is no more "right" or "wrong" than your own. We encourage you to create and share your top 25 or top 100 list of PC games using our Playlist tool in the comments section.

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 to rank yet. We'll reassess them for future updates:

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 masterfully subverts expectations, using its awareness as a role-playing game to surprise and engage players. Its story emphasizes the impact of every choice, creating an emotionally charged narrative. With its replayability and unique style, Undertale is a standout among PC games.

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

Balatro challenges even seasoned Texas Hold'em players with its deck-building roguelite mechanics. Its innovative use of joker cards and strategic combos keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting.

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

Crusader Kings 3 excels in the grand strategy genre, balancing complexity with accessibility. Its nested tooltip system helps newcomers navigate its depth, allowing them to craft compelling stories through diplomacy, warfare, or intrigue.

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

Hitman: World of Assassination consolidates the best of the modern Hitman trilogy into a single, replayable experience. As Agent 47, players can explore diverse scenarios, uncovering countless assassination opportunities that blend creativity with thrilling execution.

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

Doom (2016) is a remarkable reboot that revitalizes the first-person shooter genre. Its fast-paced action and pure, satisfying combat distinguish it from other titles, even as its influence continues to be felt in subsequent games.

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

Final Fantasy VII Remake transforms the iconic RPG into a dynamic action game, pushing the boundaries of what a remake can be. Its stunning visuals and engaging combat system make it a must-play, setting the stage for the ongoing saga with Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.

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

Resident Evil 4 Remake reimagines the classic action-horror game with modern enhancements, delivering intense combat and a richly detailed world. It captures the essence of the original while introducing fresh elements that thrill both new and returning players.

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

God of War's transition to PC was a monumental success, offering a touching story and challenging combat. Its arrival on the platform in 2022 opened it up to a broader audience, cementing its place as one of the decade's standout titles.

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

Nier: Automata's blend of action-RPG elements and a captivating narrative set in a dystopian future has earned it a strong position on our list. Its innovative gameplay and emotional depth make it a standout experience.

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

Final Fantasy XIV is not only the best MMO currently available but also a remarkable entry in the Final Fantasy series. Its engaging storyline and diverse gameplay options cater to both solo and group players, making it a versatile and enduring title.

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 port enhances an already expansive world with additional content and stunning visuals. Its rich narrative and open-world exploration make it one of the most immersive single-player experiences available.

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

Outer Wilds offers a unique exploration experience within a time loop, encouraging players to unravel mysteries across multiple planets. Its blend of adventure and puzzle-solving makes it a compelling and unforgettable journey.

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

Hollow Knight stands out as a top-tier Metroidvania with its expansive world and challenging gameplay. Its free updates have added even more content, making it a continuously evolving experience.

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

XCOM 2: War of the Chosen elevates the tactical combat and strategic depth of its predecessor. Its focus on replayability and modding support ensures endless engagement and variety.

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 remains a benchmark for RPGs. Its recent updates and extensive modding community keep it fresh and engaging.

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

Cyberpunk 2077, after significant updates and the Phantom Liberty expansion, has become a visually stunning and narratively rich experience. Its open world and engaging story make it a standout title.

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

Stardew Valley has reinvigorated the farming sim genre with its engaging gameplay and charming world. Its modding support and regular updates keep it a favorite among PC gamers.

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 remains a high standard for the genre. As it reaches the end of its inclusion on this list, we look forward to the anticipated release of GTA 6.

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

Satisfactory offers a unique perspective on the factory-building genre, allowing players to build intricate systems in an alien world. Its cooperative play and creative freedom make it a standout title.

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

Half-Life: Alyx sets a new standard for VR gaming with its innovative gameplay and immersive storytelling. Its impact on the VR genre justifies investing in a headset for those who haven't already.

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 strategic depth. Its engaging gameplay and unique art style make it a beloved title among PC gamers.

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

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

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

Hades is the pinnacle of the roguelite genre, offering exhilarating combat and a compelling story. Its innovative post-game content and rewarding progression system make it endlessly replayable.

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. The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC further enhances its already rich content.

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

Baldur’s Gate 3 combines epic storytelling with tactical, turn-based combat. Its ambitious scope and engaging narrative make it a must-play for RPG enthusiasts.

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 the upcoming PC games in 2025, which could potentially join this list in the future:

These are our picks for the 25 best modern PC games! With only 25 spots, many incredible games couldn't be included, but that's the nature of such lists. Share your own favorites in the comments and explore our other best games lists for more recommendations:

Best PS5 GamesBest Xbox Series X|S GamesBest Switch Games