2025 is well underway, and it's time to refresh IGN's list of the 25 Best Modern PC Games. But what do we mean by "best"? This list is not an attempt at an "objective" ranking that will align with the tastes of all gamers. Such a list can never exist; personal preferences vary widely, and what one person considers a masterpiece, another might find dull or unengaging. Even two fans of the same genre might not agree on their top picks.
Instead, this list reflects the collective recommendations of IGN's PC gaming team. We used our Face-Off tool to rank these games, allowing everyone to contribute their opinions on which games should rank higher. This list celebrates the games we love and encourages others to explore them if they haven't already.
With only 25 slots available, many fantastic recent PC games didn't make the cut. However, this doesn't mean we don't appreciate them. Each voter has their own favorites that may not have resonated enough with the group to be included. This is inevitable given the vast number of games and the diversity of perspectives.
The Best PC Games
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Keep in mind that our criteria focus on "modern" PC games, which means games released or significantly updated within the last 10 years, 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 moved from modern to all-time classics. To find 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 is no more "right" or "wrong" than a list you might create. If you have your own top 25 or top 100 list of PC games, we invite you to share it 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 games are too new for us to rank yet – we need to let the dust settle – but they will be considered in the next round of voting:
- 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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- Undertale
Undertale is a delightfully inventive game that subverts expectations at every turn. It leverages its role-playing game format to surprise players, remembering their saving habits and story decisions, and constantly adapting to remind them that every action has consequences. The game's emotionally charged story reinforces its message that every choice matters, not just to the player but to those around them. It's subversive, replayable, and a worthy member of the pantheon of great PC games.
Release Date: September 15, 2015 | Developer: Toby Fox | Last Position: New!
- Balatro
Balatro challenges even the most seasoned Texas Hold'em players. While it shares the basic concept of matching or sequential cards, this deck-building roguelite introduces a wild collection of joker cards that can create mind-blowing combos, skyrocketing your scores and redefining the game's dynamics.
Release Date: February 20, 2024 | Developer: LocalThunk | Last Position: New!
- Crusader Kings 3
Crusader Kings 3 is renowned for its intricate grand strategy systems and the compelling human stories that emerge from the interactions of great figures. Whether through military might, diplomatic alliances, or covert plots, the game offers numerous ways to shape these narratives. Its robust tooltip system makes it accessible even to newcomers to the genre.
Release Date: September 1, 2020 | Developer: Paradox Development Studio | Last Position: New!
- Hitman: World of Assassination
Hitman: World of Assassination brings together all the scenarios from Io Interactive's modern Hitman trilogy. With its rich, replayable sandboxes, players can explore countless ways to execute assassinations as Agent 47. The thrill of achieving a perfect hit without detection is one of gaming's most satisfying experiences.
Release Date: January 26, 2023 | Developer: IO Interactive | Last Position: 16
- Doom (2016)
Doom (2016) is one of the greatest reimaginings of a classic game. It launches players into hordes of space demons, encouraging them to rip and tear with barely a moment to breathe. Its pure, satisfying combat broke the mold of first-person shooters and has aged remarkably well, influencing many games that followed.
Release Date: May 13, 2016 | Developer: id Software | Last Position: 17
- Final Fantasy VII Remake
Final Fantasy VII Remake brilliantly reimagines the opening hours of the original RPG as a full-blown action game. It plays with iconic characters and the story in ways that feel like a sequel rather than a remake. Its combat is top-notch, and the city of Midgar is stunningly detailed. While it takes some liberties, it's packed with nostalgic reverence and sets the stage for a new adventure.
Release Date: December 16, 2021 | Developer: Square Enix Business Division 1 | Last Position: 20
- Resident Evil 4 Remake
Resident Evil 4 Remake modernizes the action-horror classic, thrilling both new players and those who remember the original. Rebuilt from the ground up, it builds tension with high-intensity combat and detailed world-building, guiding players through impressive action sequences. It captures the essence of the original while updating it for today's gamers.
Release Date: March 24, 2023 | Developer: Capcom | Last Position: 19
- God of War
God of War made a significant impact when it launched as a PlayStation exclusive in 2018, and its arrival on PC in 2022 opened it up to a broader audience. This reinvention of the series offers excellent combat and a touching story, presented with stunning detail. It's a standout from the last decade and a must-play on PC.
Release Date: January 14, 2022 | Developer: Santa Monica Studio | Last Position: 18
- Nier: Automata
Nier: Automata overcame initial technical issues on PC to secure a strong position on this list. This action-RPG delivers an entertaining journey through a futuristic dystopia, bouncing between genres and styles. Its frenzied combat and unforgettable soundtrack make it a must-play for those who missed it.
Release Date: March 17, 2017 | Developer: PlatinumGames | Last Position: 15
- Final Fantasy XIV
Final Fantasy XIV is not only IGN's top pick for the best MMO but also a fantastic Final Fantasy game. From its initial launch struggles to its expansive updates, it has evolved into a sprawling political thriller. It's accessible for solo play and offers a full MMO experience for those who want it.
Release Date: August 27, 2013 | Developer: Square Enix Product Development Division 3 | Last Position: 21
- Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2's PC port enhances the already impressive open-world adventure with more activities, unlockables, and detailed environments. Arthur Morgan's story of loyalty and infamy is just the beginning. With over 60 hours of story content and extensive multiplayer options, it's a must-play for PC gamers with capable rigs.
Release Date: October 26, 2018 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 6
- Outer Wilds
In Outer Wilds, you're trapped in a 22-minute time loop, exploring a mysterious solar system to uncover the reasons behind your predicament. This heartfelt space adventure is a prime example of exploration and discovery in gaming, with a log system that tracks your progress and hints at what to explore next.
Release Date: May 28, 2019 | Developer: Annapurna Interactive | Last Position: 12
- Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is a standout Metroidvania, offering a beautiful and expansive world full of secrets. The kingdom of Hallownest is challenging but rewarding, with multiple paths and exciting bosses. Since its launch, free updates have expanded the game, adding new areas and even tougher challenges.
Release Date: February 24, 2017 | Developer: Team Cherry | Last Position: 25
- XCOM 2: War of the Chosen
XCOM 2: War of the Chosen builds on the tactical combat of XCOM: Enemy Unknown, casting players as a guerrilla force fighting alien occupation. The expansion adds new soldier classes, equipment, and replayability features like procedurally generated maps and random events. With numerous mods available, it's a deeply engaging experience.
Release Date: August 29, 2017 | Developer: Firaxis Games | Last Position: 9
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Deep, lengthy RPGs are a PC gaming staple, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers one of the most substantial and sophisticated experiences. Its open-world areas are packed with content, from monster slaying to mysteries and personal stories. With a stellar voice cast, original soundtrack, and stunning graphics, it remains a landmark in gaming history.
Release Date: May 19, 2015 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Last Position: 8
- Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077's PC version became truly great with the 2.0 patch and Phantom Liberty expansion in 2023. Exploring Night City is a unique experience, with stunning visuals and refined combat and skill systems. The original story and the spy-themed expansion offer over 50 hours of gameplay, exploring themes of capitalism, police states, and human augmentation.
Release Date: February 15, 2022 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Last Position: 7
- Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley has revitalized the farming sim genre since its 2016 release. Its masterful blend of RPG mechanics, satisfying gameplay, and mellow music makes it a mainstay in PC gaming. With mods and frequent updates, it remains one of the best games to play on PC.
Release Date: February 26, 2016 | Developer: ConcernedApe | Last Position: New!
- Grand Theft Auto V / GTA Online
GTA V's detailed map sets the standard for open-world games. Its campaign, side activities, and bustling city life create an immersive experience. While it's the last time GTA V will appear on this list due to our 10-year age limit, it will live on in our hearts and on our Best Games of All Time list. We're eagerly awaiting GTA 6, set to release on consoles in 2025 and hopefully on PC in 2026.
Release Date: April 4, 2015 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 11
- Satisfactory
Satisfactory builds on the legacy of games like Factorio, offering a first-person perspective on constructing complex factories. The satisfaction of seeing your machines come to life and produce resources is unparalleled, earning it a spot on this list shortly after its full launch.
Release Date: September 10, 2024 | Developer: Coffee Stain Studios | Last Position: New!
- Half-Life: Alyx
Half-Life: Alyx sets a new standard for VR shooters, justifying the investment in a VR headset. Its full-length campaign offers intense combat and clever puzzles, with a level of polish unmatched by other VR games. Its ending made the wait for the next Half-Life game almost worth it.
Release Date: March 23, 2020 | Developer: Valve | Last Position: 14
- Slay the Spire
Slay the Spire's roguelite gameplay keeps things fresh with constantly changing decks and characters. Each run is a unique journey, and the daily challenges offer new ways to play. Its distinctive art and lore make it welcoming, and we're eagerly awaiting Slay the Spire 2.
Release Date: January 23, 2019 | Developer: MegaCrit LLC | Last Position: 4
- Disco Elysium
Disco Elysium reimagines classic CRPG mechanics in a modern noir-detective setting. Its unique gameplay, such as debating with different parts of your brain, and its deep world and characters, make it a fresh experience. Despite the departure of key developers, it remains a standout.
Release Date: October 15, 2019 | Developer: ZA/UM | Last Position: 3
- Hades
Hades is the gold standard for action roguelites. Its combat, soundtrack, story, and post-game content are all exceptional. Dying is part of the fun, offering new conversations, upgrades, and runs with different godly boons. Supergiant Games continues to excel with Hades.
Release Date: December 6, 2018 | Developer: Supergiant Games | Last Position: 2
- Elden Ring
Elden Ring is an excellent entry point into the soulsborne genre. Its open-world design and streamlined introduction make it more accessible, while still offering challenging bosses and intriguing NPCs. The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC adds even more content, making it a must-play.
Release Date: February 25, 2022 | Developer: FromSoftware Inc. | Last Position: 5
- Baldur's Gate 3
Baldur's Gate 3's ambitious scope and old-school style make it a standout RPG. Its epic storytelling, detailed characters, and meaningful choices offer over 100 hours of thrilling gameplay. Despite initial bugs, Larian Studios has been continuously improving the game.
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 All
- Baldur's Gate 3 - Larian Studios
- Hades - Supergiant Games
- Disco Elysium - ZA/UM
- Slay the Spire - Megacrit
- Elden Ring - FromSoftware
- Red Dead Redemption 2 - Rockstar Studios
- Cyberpunk 2077 - CD Projekt Red
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - CD Projekt Red
- XCOM 2 - Feral Interactive
- Dishonored 2 - Arkane
Upcoming PC Games
We're excited about some big upcoming PC games in 2025 that could earn a spot on this list:
- Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii - February 20, 2025
- PGA Tour 2K25 - February 28, 2025
- Monster Hunter Wilds - February 28, 2025
- Split Fiction - March 6, 2025
- WWE 2K25 - March 14, 2025
- Assassin's Creed Shadows - March 20, 2025
- Tales of the Shire: A Lord of the Rings Game - March 25, 2025
- Inzoi - March 28, 2025
- South of Midnight - April 8, 2025
- Doom: The Dark Ages - May 14, 2025
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 – we update them whenever new, great games are released:
- Best PS5 Games
- Best Xbox Series X|S Games
- Best Switch Games
