For many gamers, physics in games is like a mysterious entity that everyone talks about—either praising or critiquing—yet often goes unnoticed at first glance. But why is it essential? It's straightforward: physics helps create a believable game world, enhancing immersion and making the gameplay feel more real.
In game development, physics primarily deals with an object's mass and velocity. For living characters, detailed skeletons and soft tissue behavior are modeled, which is particularly appreciated by fans of realistic character animations. In this list, we'll explore the best PC games renowned for their physics, covering not just simulators but also mainstream titles.
Table of Contents
- Red Dead Redemption 2
- War Thunder
- Hellish Quart
- SnowRunner
- GTA IV
- Euro Truck Simulator 2
- Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
- Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
- Universe Sandbox
- Space Engineers
- WRC 10
- Assetto Corsa
- Arma 3
- Death Stranding
- BeamNG.drive
Red Dead Redemption 2
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Developer: Rockstar Studios
Release Date: October 26, 2018
Download: Rockstargames
A staple in many gaming collections, Red Dead Redemption 2 stands out for its impressive physics. Arthur Morgan's journey through a burgeoning America is not only captivating due to its rich narrative, stunning visuals, and atmosphere but also its realistic physics. Thanks to "ragdoll" technology, the movement of humans and animals mirrors real-life dynamics. If Arthur stumbles, he'll tumble realistically, and if you shoot an enemy in the leg, they'll limp or collapse, reflecting the impact accurately.
War Thunder
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Developer: Gaijin Entertainment
Release Date: August 15, 2013
Download: Steam
War Thunder showcases how online multiplayer games can also feature robust physics. The game excels in simulating the handling of heavy military vehicles. Driving a tank feels weighty, and the distinction between wheeled and tracked vehicles is evident due to the detailed physics of both the vehicles and the terrain. This affects gameplay significantly; navigating through snow with a lighter vehicle can be frustrating, and sharp maneuvers in aircraft can lead to losing wings due to air resistance.
Hellish Quart
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Developer: Kubold
Release Date: February 16, 2021
Download: Steam
Hellish Quart's key attraction is its realistic character physics. This fencing simulator focuses on online duels, emphasizing the natural movement of the human body. Characters possess mass, inertia, and a detailed skeletal structure, ensuring that every sword swing and step feels authentic. The impact of hits and wounds directly influences movement, adding depth to the combat mechanics.
SnowRunner
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Developer: Saber Interactive
Release Date: April 28, 2020
Download: Steam
While not a highly technical driving simulator, SnowRunner impresses with its physics. The game focuses on navigating heavy trucks through off-road conditions, and the interplay of vehicle weight and terrain properties is fascinating. Trucks can sink into mud, which behaves dynamically with tire ruts and varying soil consistency. Snow and water also play critical roles, with strong currents capable of flipping or carrying vehicles away.
GTA IV
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Developer: Rockstar North
Release Date: April 29, 2008
Download: Rockstargames
GTA IV is often cited in discussions about game physics due to its groundbreaking realism, powered by the Euphoria technology. Characters move and react to forces in a lifelike manner; a simple push can cause someone to fall or regain balance and retaliate. Vehicle physics are equally impressive, with realistic damage and dynamics during collisions. However, the game's demanding nature led to optimization challenges.
Euro Truck Simulator 2
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Developer: SCS Software
Release Date: October 18, 2012
Download: Steam
Euro Truck Simulator 2 offers a realistic truck driving experience. Trucks and cargo have mass and velocity, resulting in significant inertia at high speeds. The game's physics also account for centers of mass, leading to potential rollovers, especially on wet roads, making it a compelling simulator for truck enthusiasts.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
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Developer: Asobo Studio
Release Date: August 18, 2020
Download: Steam
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is renowned for its advanced physics, particularly in flight dynamics. Air resistance, mass, and speed are meticulously modeled, making flying a Cessna feel vastly different from piloting an Airbus. The simulation of air flow is crucial, with the risk of stalling and nose-diving if speed is insufficient, adding a layer of realism and challenge.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
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Developer: Warhorse Studios
Release Date: February 4, 2025
Download: Steam
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II continues the immersive RPG experience set in medieval Europe. The sequel introduces an enhanced combat system and an expanded world, maintaining its focus on realistic storytelling and mechanics. Players must navigate a harsh world, engaging in battles and making strategic decisions, all enhanced by the game's detailed physics.
Universe Sandbox
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Developer: Giant Army
Release Date: August 24, 2015
Download: Steam
Universe Sandbox allows players to experiment with the physics of the cosmos. From altering the mass of planets to simulating black holes, the game uses real physical laws to model astronomical phenomena, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment.
Space Engineers
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Developer: Keen Software House
Release Date: February 28, 2019
Download: Steam
Space Engineers offers a sandbox environment with advanced physics, focusing on construction in space and on planets. Players must contend with zero gravity and planetary atmospheres, requiring careful engineering to build and operate vehicles and structures effectively.
WRC 10
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Developer: KT Racing
Release Date: September 2, 2021
Download: Steam
WRC 10 is a rally racing simulator with exceptional physics. The game accurately models mass and speed, but also includes detailed vehicle tuning and tire grip adjustments to account for varying road surfaces, providing a challenging and realistic driving experience.
Assetto Corsa
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Developer: Kunos Simulazioni
Release Date: December 19, 2014
Download: Steam
Assetto Corsa is a racing simulator that prioritizes realism. The game's physics encompass everything from friction to air resistance and downforce, requiring players to fine-tune their vehicles meticulously. Even minor collisions can have significant consequences, and tire wear is realistically implemented.
Arma 3
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Developer: Bohemia Interactive
Release Date: September 12, 2013
Download: Steam
Arma 3's physics contribute to its realistic military simulation. Characters move with mass and inertia, and the detailed ballistics system affects projectile behavior. Vehicles also have distinct physics models, enhancing the game's immersion and tactical depth.
Death Stranding
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Developer: Kojima Productions
Release Date: November 8, 2019
Download: Steam
Death Stranding's physics play a crucial role in its unique gameplay. The protagonist's physical attributes and the detailed skeletal system make balancing cargo across diverse terrains a challenging yet engaging experience, contributing to the game's immersive walking simulator aspect.
BeamNG.drive
Image: store.steampowered.com
Developer: BeamNG
Release Date: May 29, 2015
Download: Steam
BeamNG.drive is celebrated for its realistic car physics. The game simulates vehicle dynamics with such precision that it resembles real-world crash tests. With hundreds of parameters and realistic material settings, it offers a playground for car enthusiasts to explore and experiment.
This collection highlights 15 games across various genres, each renowned for their exceptional physics. While there are many other games with impressive physics, these titles stand out for their commitment to realism and immersion. We invite you to share your favorite games with outstanding physics in the comments below!
