Top 25 PC Games to Play Now

As we stride into 2025, it's time to unveil IGN's updated list of the 25 Best Modern PC Games. To clarify, when we say "best," we're not aiming for an objective ranking that will universally align with every gamer's taste. That's an impossible feat, given the subjective nature of gaming preferences. One person's epic strategy game might be another's tedious slog, and even fans of the same genre often disagree on rankings.

This list represents the collective recommendations of IGN's PC gaming enthusiasts, compiled using our Face-Off tool, where everyone had a say in the final rankings. It's a celebration of the games we adore, and we hope it inspires you to explore some of these titles if you haven't already.

With just 25 slots, many fantastic recent PC games didn't make the cut, but that doesn't diminish their quality. Every participant in our voting had personal favorites that didn't quite resonate with the group as a whole. That's the nature of such a diverse field.

The Best PC Games

26 ImagesOur criteria for this list focused on "modern" PC games, meaning games released or significantly updated within the past decade, 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 now entered the realm of timeless classics. For those, check out our Top 100 Games of All Time list or genre-specific lists.

Remember, this list reflects our team's collective view and isn't more "right" or "wrong" than any list you might create. We encourage you to craft your own top 25 or 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

Here are some highly rated 2024 and 2025 games that are too new for us to rank yet. They'll be considered in our 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 brilliantly inventive game that thrives on subverting expectations. It cleverly plays with the conventions of role-playing games, using your save habits and story choices to craft a dynamic experience. The game's emotional narrative emphasizes the impact of your choices, making it a subversive, replayable, and deeply affecting title.

Check out our Undertale review.

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 mechanics. The game's wild joker cards allow for unexpected combos that can skyrocket your scores, making it a thrilling and unpredictable experience.

Check out our Balatro review.

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

Crusader Kings 3 is a masterclass in historical grand strategy, offering a dense yet accessible experience. It allows players to weave compelling human stories through military might, diplomacy, and intrigue, supported by an intuitive tooltip system that welcomes newcomers.

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 compiles the best of the modern Hitman trilogy into a single, irresistible package. Its sandbox environments offer endless replayability, challenging players to explore, observe, and utilize every tool at their disposal for the perfect assassination.

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 FPS genre with its raw, unapologetic action. Its influence is evident in subsequent games, and its simple yet satisfying combat remains a standout feature, distinguishing it from other shooters of its time.

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, delivering a thrilling action experience. Its stunning visuals and engaging combat system breathe new life into the beloved story, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

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, maintaining its intense combat and rich storytelling. It's a testament to how well the original's elements can be adapted to appeal to both new and veteran players.

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 PC release in 2022 brought its exceptional story and combat to a broader audience. It's a beautifully crafted game that honors its roots while pushing the boundaries of what a modern action-adventure game can achieve.

Check out our God of War review.

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

Nier: Automata's blend of action-RPG gameplay and narrative innovation is unmatched. Its engaging story, genre-blending gameplay, and memorable soundtrack make it a standout title, despite early technical issues on PC.

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 an exceptional MMO and a great Final Fantasy game. Its engaging storyline, streamlined solo play, and robust end-game content cater to a wide range of players, making it a top choice in its genre.

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 deep narrative make it one of the best single-player experiences available 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 offers a unique time-loop adventure that encourages exploration and discovery. Its engaging puzzles and heartfelt narrative make it a standout in the genre, with the Echoes of the Eye expansion adding even more depth.

Check out our Outer Wilds review.

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

Hollow Knight is a premier example of the Metroidvania genre, with its beautiful world and challenging gameplay. Its expansive world and numerous secrets keep players engaged for hours, while free updates have added even more content.

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 elevates the tactical combat of its predecessor with new classes, aliens, and replayability features. Its guerrilla warfare theme adds a fresh twist to the series, making it a must-play for strategy fans.

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 world, rich narrative, and numerous mods, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a landmark RPG. Its recent updates have only enhanced its already impressive graphics and gameplay, making it a timeless classic.

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 masterpiece. Its stunning visuals and engaging narrative, featuring performances by Keanu Reeves and Idris Elba, make it a standout in the open-world genre.

Check out our Cyberpunk 2077 review.

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

Stardew Valley has revitalized the farming sim genre with its engaging gameplay and charming world. The PC version remains the best way to experience it, with mods and frequent updates enhancing the already rich experience.

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 sets the standard for open-world games. Its longevity and ongoing updates, including GTA Online, keep it relevant, though it will soon graduate from our modern list due to its age.

Check out our Grand Theft Auto V review.

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

Satisfactory's intricate factory-building mechanics offer a deeply satisfying experience. Its formal launch from early access has solidified its place as a top choice for players looking to build and manage complex systems.

Check out our Satisfactory review.

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

Half-Life: Alyx redefined VR gaming with its innovative gameplay and high production values. It's a compelling reason to invest in VR, offering an immersive experience that showcases the potential of the medium.

Check out our Half-Life: Alyx review.

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

Slay the Spire's ever-changing deck-building mechanics and engaging roguelite gameplay keep players coming back for more. Its unique art style and compelling narrative make it a standout title in its 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 deep narrative. Its unique setting and exceptional writing make it a modern classic, despite uncertainties about its future development.

Check out our Disco Elysium review.

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

Hades sets the bar for roguelites with its engaging combat, compelling narrative, and innovative post-game content. Its challenging yet rewarding gameplay loop ensures endless replayability.

Check out our Hades review.

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

Elden Ring offers a more accessible entry into the soulsborne genre while retaining its challenging essence. The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC further enriches the experience, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

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 delivers a massive, old-school RPG experience with modern polish. Its deep narrative, tactical combat, and ongoing improvements make it a top choice for fans of the genre.

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

Here are the 25 games that we, the IGN editors and contributors, collectively recommend the most, all from within the past 10 years. Updated March 21, 2024.

See All1Larian Studios2Supergiant Games3ZA/UM4Megacrit5FromSoftware6Rockstar Studios7CD Projekt Red8CD Projekt Red9Feral Interactive10ArkaneUpcoming PC Games

We're excited about the upcoming PC games slated for 2025. Here are some of the most anticipated titles that might find a place on this list in the future:

These are our picks for the 25 best modern PC games! With only 25 slots, many incredible titles didn't make the cut, but that's the nature of such lists. Share your own favorites in the comments, and don't forget to explore our other best games lists, which we update regularly:

Best PS5 GamesBest Xbox Series X|S GamesBest Switch Games