Top 25 PC Games to Play Now

As we step into 2025, it's time to refresh IGN's list of the 25 Best Modern PC Games. But what do we mean by "best"? This list isn't about creating an "objective" ranking that aligns with every gamer's preferences. Such a list is impossible to achieve; after all, one person's strategy masterpiece might be another's tedious slog. Even two fans of the same genre might rank games differently.

Instead, this list reflects the collective recommendations of IGN's PC gaming enthusiasts, ranked through our Face-Off tool to ensure everyone's voice is heard. It's about celebrating games we love and suggesting them to others who might enjoy them.

With only 25 spots available, many fantastic recent PC games didn't make the cut. This doesn't diminish their quality; it's just the nature of such a limited list. Each voter has personal favorites that might not have resonated enough with the group to be included.

The Best PC Games

26 ImagesOur criteria for this list focus on "modern" PC games, defined as those released or significantly updated within the last 10 years, starting from 2013. Classics like Doom, Half-Life 2, Portal, and Skyrim have moved beyond modern to all-time status. For those, check out our Top 100 Games of All Time list or other genre-specific lists.

Remember, this list represents our group's perspective and isn't inherently "right" or "wrong." If you have your own rankings, we encourage you to create and share your top 25 or 100 using our Playlist tool in the comments.

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, 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 is a masterclass in subverting expectations. It plays with the conventions of role-playing games, remembering your actions and adjusting the narrative accordingly. Its story is both engaging and emotionally charged, reinforcing the message that every choice has consequences. Undertale is replayable, thought-provoking, and a worthy addition to any PC gamer's library.

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

24. Balatro

Balatro may seem like a simple card game at first glance, but its deck-building roguelite mechanics and wild joker cards create unique and exhilarating combos. It challenges your strategy and forces you to rethink your approach to card games, making it a must-play for those looking for something fresh and exciting.

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

23. Crusader Kings 3

Crusader Kings 3 offers a rich tapestry of historical grand strategy, allowing you to weave epic tales through military might, diplomacy, or subterfuge. Despite its complexity, it's surprisingly accessible, thanks to its robust tooltip system, making it a great entry point into the genre.

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

22. Hitman: World of Assassination

Hitman: World of Assassination brings together the best of the modern Hitman trilogy into one comprehensive package. With its intricate sandboxes and endless assassination opportunities, it's a thrilling experience that rewards creativity and meticulous planning.

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

21. Doom (2016)

Doom (2016) is a triumphant reboot that revitalized the first-person shooter genre with its relentless action and satisfying combat. It stands out for its purity and simplicity, offering an experience that has aged remarkably well and influenced countless games since.

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

20. Final Fantasy VII Remake

Final Fantasy VII Remake masterfully modernizes the iconic RPG, delivering a full-blown action game with stunning visuals. It respects the original while boldly reimagining the story, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

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

19. Resident Evil 4 Remake

Resident Evil 4 Remake elevates the classic action-horror game to new heights with modernized gameplay and stunning visuals. It captures the essence of the original while delivering a fresh experience that stands on its own.

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

18. God of War

God of War's arrival on PC in 2022 opened this masterpiece to a wider audience. Its reinvention of the series with excellent combat and a touching story makes it a standout title that deserves a spot among the best PC games.

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

17. Nier: Automata

Nier: Automata combines action-RPG gameplay with a captivating narrative that explores themes of humanity and existence. Its frenetic combat and unforgettable soundtrack make it a must-play, especially with its improved PC version.

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

16. Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV is not just the best MMO available; it's a stellar entry in the Final Fantasy series. Its engaging story and accessible gameplay make it a fantastic choice for both solo players and those who enjoy multiplayer.

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 the already stunning world of Arthur Morgan's tale. With its expansive map and detailed activities, it's one of the biggest and best single-player experiences available on PC.

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

14. Outer Wilds

Outer Wilds offers a unique time-looping adventure where you explore a mysterious solar system. Its emphasis on discovery and exploration, coupled with its engaging narrative, makes it a standout in the genre.

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

13. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is a beautifully crafted Metroidvania with a vast world full of secrets and challenges. Its difficulty is balanced by its rewarding gameplay and the satisfaction of uncovering its hidden depths.

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

12. XCOM 2: War of the Chosen

XCOM 2: War of the Chosen builds on the tactical brilliance of XCOM: Enemy Unknown, adding new classes, equipment, and a focus on replayability. Its guerrilla warfare theme and challenging gameplay make it a standout strategy game.

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

11. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

With its expansive world and rich storytelling, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt remains one of the best RPGs available on PC. 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 has evolved into a stunning open-world experience with its 2.0 patch and Phantom Liberty expansion. Its detailed world and compelling narrative make it a must-play for fans of immersive RPGs.

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

9. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley revitalized the farming sim genre with its engaging gameplay and charming world. Its ongoing updates and modding community keep it a beloved choice 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 and expansive world sets the standard for open-world games. Its rich content and creative tools make it a timeless classic, though it will be its last appearance on this list due to our 10-year age limit.

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

7. Satisfactory

Satisfactory offers a unique perspective on factory building, allowing you to create sprawling sci-fi megafactories. Its satisfying gameplay and innovative mechanics make it a standout in its genre.

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

6. Half-Life: Alyx

Half-Life: Alyx set a new standard for VR gaming with its polished gameplay and immersive world. It's a testament to Valve's innovation and a compelling reason to invest in VR technology.

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

5. Slay the Spire

Slay the Spire's roguelite deck-building gameplay offers endless variety and challenge. Its engaging mechanics and unique art style make it a standout title that's hard to put down.

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 compelling narrative. Its deep dialogue and unique setting make it an unforgettable experience.

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

3. Hades

Hades is the pinnacle of the action roguelite genre, offering exhilarating combat, a captivating story, and endless replayability. Its innovative design and engaging characters make it a must-play.

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

2. Elden Ring

Elden Ring is a masterpiece of the soulsborne genre, offering a vast open world and challenging gameplay. Its recent Shadow of the Erdtree expansion 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 style make it a standout RPG. Its deep storytelling and tactical combat offer over 100 hours of engaging gameplay.

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.

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Upcoming PC Games

We're excited about the following upcoming PC games in 2025, which might earn a spot on 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. Let us know in the comments what's on your list that didn't make ours, and be sure to check out our other best games lists, which we update regularly:

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