In the ever-evolving landscape of PC gaming, the influence of modders cannot be overstated. These passionate individuals breathe new life into games, transforming them from mere pastimes into expansive worlds filled with endless possibilities. The PC Gamer Top 100 2024 list showcases titles that have not only stood the test of time but have also been significantly enhanced through community-driven modifications.
Bloodlines
2024 Top 100 rank: #96
Initially launched with a myriad of technical issues, Bloodlines has emerged as a beloved classic, thanks to the dedicated efforts of its modding community. Here are three essential projects that have polished this gem:
- Bloodlines Unofficial Patch by Wesp5: A must-have for any player, this evolving patch fixes critical bugs and restores cut content, including a side-campaign where players can step into the shoes of a vampire hunter.
- VTMB: Clan Quest Mod by burgermeister01: Although it hasn’t seen updates in years, this mod remains the closest thing to an expansion for VTMB, introducing new questlines and areas for each clan.
- VtM: The Final Nights by Zer0morph: This ambitious mod offers a complete overhaul, featuring new clans and gameplay mechanics that align more closely with traditional tabletop rules.
Morrowind
2024 Top 100 rank: #57
The Elder Scrolls series is synonymous with modding, and Morrowind set the stage for this legacy. Here are three standout mods that continue to enhance this iconic title:
- Morrowind Rebirth by Trancemaster & crew: A comprehensive overhaul that transforms the original game into a polished experience, akin to a professional remake.
- Tamriel Rebuilt by the Tamriel Rebuilt Team: This mod expands the game’s map, seamlessly integrating new cities and quests that feel like a natural extension of the original.
- Skyrim: Home of the Nords by SHOTN Team: This unique mod transports players to Skyrim, offering a plethora of new quests in a familiar yet frigid landscape.
The Binding of Isaac
2024 Top 100 rank: #55
As a defining title in the action-roguelike genre, The Binding of Isaac boasts a vibrant modding community. Here are three essential mods that enhance the gameplay:
- Fiend Folio: Reheated: A colossal expansion that rivals the official Repentance DLC, introducing new environments and monsters.
- Skill Trees by Ab Aeterno: This mod adds a meta-progression system, allowing players to level up characters through multiple runs.
- Epiphany by The Epiphany Team: A focused mod that introduces new character variants with unique mechanics, challenges, and unlockable items.
Starcraft 2
2024 Top 100 rank: #31
Blizzard’s Starcraft 2 has seen a resurgence in modding, thanks to improved tools and community engagement. Here are some notable mods that redefine the experience:
- Starcraft: Mass Recall by karlprojektorinski & crew: This ambitious project recreates the original Starcraft and Brood War campaigns within the Starcraft 2 engine.
- UED: First Light by NexusCore Games: A polished custom campaign featuring fully voiced missions that delve into humanity’s early alien encounters.
- Azeroth Reborn by Synergy: An impressive remake of Warcraft 3 that surpasses Blizzard’s own remaster, offering enhanced gameplay and balance.
Halo: The Master Chief Collection
2024 Top 100 rank: #30
With the release of modern tools, the Halo modding scene has flourished. Here are some standout mods that showcase this renaissance:
- Cursed Halo Again by InfernoPlus: A whimsical remix of the original game, filled with absurdities and chaotic gameplay.
- Halo 4 Reflow by d3ad connection: This mod rebalances Halo 4, aligning its combat and aesthetics with earlier entries in the series.
- Ultimate Firefight Series by Weaver900: A roguelite twist on the classic Firefight mode, featuring a diverse array of enemies and weapons.
Thief Gold
2024 Top 100 rank: #28
The original Thief remains a stealth classic, bolstered by recent creative mods. Here are three noteworthy additions:
- The Black Parade by an all-star team: A masterfully crafted campaign featuring ten replayable missions and a new protagonist.
- Between These Dark Walls by Skacky: A trilogy of expansive missions that showcase the best of the Thief series.
- The Scarlet Cascabel by PukeyBrunster & Tannar: Two contrasting maps that offer a rich exploration experience.
Total War: Warhammer 3
2024 Top 100 rank: #12
The Total Warhammer modding community continues to thrive, with innovative projects enhancing gameplay. Here are three essential mods:
- SFO: Grimhammer 3 by Venris & team: A comprehensive rework that aligns gameplay more closely with lore and tabletop authenticity.
- Lost Factions: Araby by Team OvN: This mod introduces new factions based on lesser-known lore, complete with unique units and gameplay mechanics.
- The Old World Campaign by ChaosRobie: An all-new campaign map filled with objectives and settlements, offering a fresh experience for veterans.
Doom (1996)
2024 Top 100 rank: #10
The original Doom remains a cornerstone of FPS gaming, with a vibrant modding community. Here are three standout mods from this year:
- Eviternity 2 by Dragonfly & crew: A sequel that delivers an impressive campaign with new aesthetics and engaging gameplay.
- Abysm 2: Infernal Contract by Jazzmaster: A challenging mod that offers a Dark Souls-like experience with interconnected worlds and formidable bosses.
- Space Cats Saga by DerTimmy: A humorous take on Doom, featuring overpowered characters and chaotic gameplay.
Minecraft
2024 Top 100 rank: #4
Minecraft has long been a haven for modders, particularly within its Java edition. Here are three significant projects that exemplify this creativity:
- Better Minecraft by LunaPixel Studios: This mod pack enhances the game with varied environments and quality-of-life features.
- Drehmal: Apotheosis by Primordial Team: An expansive adventure map that blends lore and quests within the familiar Minecraft framework.
- Pixelmon by the Pixelmon Mod Team: A beloved mod that introduces Pokémon into the Minecraft universe, allowing for authentic turn-based battles.
