The PC Gamer Top 100 is a coveted list, limited to just 100 games, which means that each year, the dedicated team at PC Gamer faces the challenging task of curating this selection. As they explore new titles and revisit beloved classics, the inevitable occurs: when one game earns a spot, another must vacate. This cyclical process is not merely a matter of preference; it’s a reflection of the ever-evolving gaming landscape.
Take, for instance, the case of Apex Legends. Despite its absence from the Top 100, the game’s core mechanics—its exhilarating traversal and shooting—remain engaging. However, player dissatisfaction has surged, stemming from issues like cheating, matchmaking woes, and the controversial decision to introduce two battle passes per season, exclusively purchasable with real money. While the game’s trajectory seems uncertain, it still holds potential for a comeback with the right updates and improvements.
The Sims 4
2023 position: #58
Lauren Morton, Associate Editor: The decision to remove The Sims 4 from the Top 100 is particularly disheartening, as there currently exists no viable alternative. Attempts to reinstate The Sims 3 were thwarted, leaving a noticeable void. EA’s recent commitment to addressing longstanding bugs in the base game indicates a recognition of the challenges facing The Sims 4. With a promise of ongoing content and updates, the game must first overcome its technical hurdles to reclaim its former glory.
Total War: Three Kingdoms
2023 position: #52
Sean Martin, Senior Guides Writer: Total War: Three Kingdoms remains one of Creative Assembly’s crowning achievements in historical strategy gaming. Its absence from the Top 100 is a disappointment, particularly given the abrupt cessation of support for new DLC in favor of a sequel that now appears to be in limbo. Despite its excellence, the game’s future seems uncertain, leaving fans yearning for more content.
Cities: Skylines
2023 position: #51
Christopher Livingston, Senior Editor: Ideally, Cities: Skylines would have been succeeded by its sequel on the list, but various factors have prevented this transition. The city-building genre has expanded dramatically, introducing diverse gameplay experiences that overshadow the original. While Cities: Skylines remains a solid title, the emergence of innovative builders—ranging from survival to cozy genres—has made it challenging for traditional city-building games to maintain their prominence.
Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire
2023 position: #44
Joshua Wolens, News Writer: My mission is clear: to see Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire reinstated on the list. While I understand its absence this year, given its intricate mechanics and less cinematic approach compared to titles like Baldur’s Gate 3, it remains a standout in the CRPG genre. The game’s naval combat can be perplexing, and the shift towards turn-based modes reflects the changing preferences in the RPG community. Nevertheless, for those seeking a rich narrative and complex characters, Deadfire is worth exploring.
