As noted by Evan Lahti earlier this year, PC gaming has firmly established itself in the mainstream, evolving from a niche pastime into a formidable competitor against consoles. The success of titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 underscores this transformation, highlighting the platform’s growing significance in the gaming landscape. After years of speculation about its decline, the resurgence of PC gaming brings a sense of satisfaction and excitement, as it garners respect and attention from both players and developers alike.
One thing was undeniable: PC gaming is still extremely weird.
This peculiar charm is evident when examining the Steam wishlist charts, which reveal a vibrant and unpredictable ecosystem. Unlike console charts that often showcase a predictable lineup of major releases, the PC gaming scene resembles a wild west of creativity and innovation. The top ten most wishlisted games frequently include:
- An extremely janky survival game
- An indie debut with an irresistible gimmick
- A very fiddly strategy game
- Hollow Knight: Silksong… still
- The latest over-anticipated multiplayer zombie game
- Something you’ve never heard of, that no games site has ever covered, that’s inexplicably unbelievably popular
Scrolling through the top 100 reveals an astonishing variety of games, spanning a multitude of genres and styles. From solo indie projects crafted in a bedroom to blockbuster titles developed by large teams, the unpredictability of this list is part of its allure. While some anticipated games may not appear, obscure titles from unknown studios can suddenly capture the spotlight.
Weird and wonderful
This year’s narrative is a testament to the eclectic nature of PC gaming. Notable highlights include a survival game featuring knock-off Pokémon that attracted 25 million players within two months, and a poker roguelike that sparked widespread acclaim. Stalker 2, developed under challenging circumstances, emerged as a compelling experience, while a new Valve game gained traction and discussion before its official announcement, showcasing the community’s enthusiasm for the unexpected.
In conversations surrounding our Game of the Year awards, the discussions were nothing short of surreal. We found ourselves weighing the merits of a game about a Yorkshire lemon alongside one that challenges players to survive in the depths of Half-Life‘s Black Mesa. A significant portion of our meetings revolved around categorizing games, as we navigated the complexities of defining genres while appreciating their unique qualities.
This paradox of PC gaming—being both more mainstream and weirder than ever—paints a vivid picture of a thriving community. It resembles an eclectic local band that has achieved superstardom while remaining true to its quirky roots. The platform continues to embrace a multitude of interests, creating an inclusive space where every niche finds a home.
Even as console-first releases become more prevalent on PC, they integrate seamlessly into the diverse tapestry of gaming experiences. The unexpected resurgence of once-forgotten genres or the emergence of entirely new concepts keeps the community engaged and excited. Who could have predicted that an isometric RPG would capture the collective imagination in 2023, or that a dungeon crawler inspired by arcade claw machines would become a hit?
For decades, PC gaming has maintained its distinctive identity despite facing numerous challenges. Its success does not diminish its unique character; rather, it enhances it. This vibrant hobby remains a sanctuary for the strange and unexpected, ensuring that each day brings new surprises. As we celebrate its accessibility and popularity, we also cherish the delightful weirdness that defines PC gaming.
