Top 25 PC Games to Play Now

As we step into 2025, it's time to unveil IGN's refreshed list of the 25 Best Modern PC Games. Let's clarify what we mean by "best." This list isn't an attempt at an "objective" ranking that aligns with every gamer's taste; that's impossible. Tastes vary widely, and what one person cherishes as a grand strategy masterpiece might be another's idea of a dull slog. Even among fans of the same genre, personal lists rarely match up perfectly.

Instead, this list represents the collective recommendations of IGN's PC gaming enthusiasts, ranked using our Face-Off tool. It's a celebration of the games we love and an invitation for others to explore them. With only 25 slots, many incredible recent releases didn't make the cut, but rest assured, they're still highly valued. The diversity of gaming preferences ensures that many personal favorites don't always garner enough group support to be included.

The Best PC Games

26 ImagesOur criteria focused on "modern" PC games—those 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 have moved into the realm of all-time greats. To find them, explore our Top 100 Games of All Time or genre-specific lists.

Remember, this list reflects our team's perspective and is not definitive. We encourage you to create and share your own top 25 or top 100 list using our Playlist tool in the comments.

Most recent game updates were made on February 13, 2025.

Under Consideration – Recent Games

These highly-rated 2024 and 2025 releases are too new for ranking, 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 plays with the conventions of role-playing games, remembering your save habits and story choices, and constantly adjusting to remind you that every action has consequences. Its emotionally charged narrative underscores the importance of every decision, making it a standout in the pantheon of great 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. By mixing and matching a wild array of joker cards, you can create game-changing combos that skyrocket your scores, making every game a thrilling puzzle.

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

23. Crusader Kings 3

Crusader Kings 3 excels in weaving human stories within its complex historical grand strategy framework. Whether through military might, diplomatic marriages, or covert plots, the game offers numerous ways to shape your narrative. Its accessible design welcomes 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 compiles the best of the modern Hitman trilogy into one package. Its richly detailed sandboxes offer endless replayability, challenging you to explore, observe, and utilize every tool at your disposal to execute perfect, often hilarious, assassinations.

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 timeless classic.

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

20. Final Fantasy VII Remake

Final Fantasy VII Remake brilliantly reimagines the iconic RPG, transforming its opening hours into a full-blown action game. Its stunning visuals, engaging combat, and faithful yet innovative storytelling make it a must-play.

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

19. Resident Evil 4 Remake

Resident Evil 4 Remake modernizes the action-horror classic, delivering intense combat and a richly detailed world. It captures the essence of the original while thrilling new and returning players alike.

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

18. God of War

God of War's PC release in 2022 brought its acclaimed story and challenging combat to a broader audience. Its touching narrative and innovative gameplay make it a standout title of the last decade.

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

17. Nier: Automata

Nier: Automata's action-RPG brilliance shines through its engaging story, frenzied combat, and unforgettable soundtrack. Its genre-blending approach and multiple endings encourage deep exploration of its world.

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, solo-friendly missions, and extensive end-game content make it a must-play for fans of the series and MMOs alike.

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 its already expansive world with new missions, treasures, and details. Its sprawling narrative and robust multiplayer mode make it a landmark in open-world gaming.

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 across multiple planets. Its engaging puzzles and heartfelt narrative make it a standout in the genre.

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

13. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is a quintessential modern Metroidvania, offering a beautiful, expansive world filled with secrets and challenging bosses. Its free updates have only added to its allure, 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 layer of urgency and excitement to every mission.

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

11. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

With its vast open world, deep narrative, and stunning visuals, 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: 8

10. 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 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 world, engaging mechanics, and endless content. Its modding community and regular updates keep it a perennial favorite.

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

8. Grand Theft Auto V / GTA Online

Grand Theft Auto V's detailed world and engaging content set the standard for open-world games. Its final appearance on this list due to our 10-year rule doesn't diminish its impact, as we eagerly await GTA 6.

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

7. Satisfactory

Satisfactory's immersive factory-building experience offers a satisfying blend of planning and execution. Its recent full launch out of early access cements its place among the best PC games.

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 polished gameplay and innovative mechanics. Its compelling narrative and immersive experience justify investing in a VR headset.

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 engagement. Its unique art style and engaging gameplay make it a standout in the genre.

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 exceptional writing. Its noir-detective setting and deep narrative make it a unique and compelling experience.

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

3. Hades

Hades sets the bar for action roguelites with its engaging combat, compelling story, and innovative post-game content. Its difficulty is balanced by rewarding progression and character development.

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 an accessible yet rewarding entry in the soulsborne genre. Its Shadow of the Erdtree DLC adds even more depth and excitement.

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 deliver an epic RPG experience. Its detailed characters, meaningful choices, and engaging combat make it a standout title.

Release Date: August 3, 2023 | Developer: Larian Studios | Last Position: 1

The 25 Best PC Games to Play Right Now

These 25 games represent the collective recommendations of IGN's editors and contributors, all released within the past 10 years. Updated March 21, 2024.

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Upcoming PC Games

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

These are our picks for the 25 best modern PC games! With only 25 spots, many incredible games couldn't be included. Share your favorites in the comments, and don't forget to check out our other best games lists, which we update regularly:

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