The Best PC Games (You Should Be Playing)

November 18, 2024

This second half of the year has ushered in a remarkable array of PC game releases, captivating players with a blend of genres and experiences. While some titles, like Star Wars Outlaws, may not have hit the mark, many others have truly shone, making this an opportune moment to revisit our Best PC Games feature after a year-long hiatus.

Our curated selection encompasses a diverse range of offerings, from blockbuster hits to charming indie titles, multiplayer adventures, and even a couple of noteworthy expansions. And, as is tradition, we’ve included a controversial pick to spark some lively discussion among gaming enthusiasts.

It’s important to note that these fresh recommendations do not diminish the value of our previous selections from 2023 and 2022. Many of those titles remain exceptional choices, now available at enticing discounts, ensuring they deserve your attention.

For the Emperor! and Henry Cavill

<h3 id="Warhammer40000Space_Marine”>Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2

Genre: Action
Similar: Space Marine, Gears of War, Evil West
Graphics: Astoundingly beautiful
Gameplay: Third-person view, shooter, hack ‘n’ slash, big optional multiplayer modes

The Warhammer 40,000 universe has inspired a multitude of games over the years, yet few encapsulate the grim darkness of its lore as effectively as Space Marine 2. After a long wait of 13 years, this sequel places players back in the armored boots of Ultramarine Titus, now a Lieutenant, as he battles against the relentless xenos. The visceral combat and stunning graphics create an immersive experience, from the breathtaking landscapes to the iconic weaponry that fans adore.

While the campaign may feel brief, the co-op Operations mode offers a delightful alternative, allowing players to team up and tackle missions together. With six distinct classes of Space Marine, each with unique abilities, the multiplayer experience is both engaging and accessible.

Hogwarts S.W.A.T

<h3 id="TacticalBreachWizards”>Tactical Breach Wizards

Genre: Turn-based tactics
Similar: Into the Breach, XCOM 2, Invisible, Inc
Graphics: Simple but satisfying, great on the Steam Deck
Gameplay: Strategy, isometric view, upgradable characters, includes a level editor

<p Tactical Breach Wizards* may not boast the most stunning visuals, but its engaging turn-based tactics gameplay more than compensates. Players command a team of modern-day wizards, utilizing spells and magical abilities to execute SWAT-style breach missions. The strategic depth encourages thoughtful positioning and creative use of the environment, while the humorous dialogue adds a delightful touch.

For democracy!

Helldivers 2

Genre: Squad-based shooter
Similar: Earth Defense Force 6, Darktide, Vermintide 2
Graphics: Detailed, impressive environments
Gameplay: Third-person (first-person with some weapons), multiplayer co-op-focused

<p Helldivers 2* has emerged as a standout title, combining intense cooperative gameplay with a satirical take on sci-fi storytelling. Designed for four-player co-op, the game emphasizes teamwork and strategy, particularly with its friendly-fire mechanic that can lead to humorous mishaps. The diverse arsenal and tactical options keep the gameplay fresh, while the vibrant graphics enhance the immersive experience.

Manimal

<h3 id="DiabloIVVessel_of”>Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred

Genre: Rogue-like bullet-hell
Similar: Soulstone Survivors, 20 Minutes Till Dawn, Brotato
Graphics: Retro 8-bit style
Gameplay: Autoshooter, top-down, life-stealingly addictive

<p For casual players who may have drifted away from Diablo IV, the Vessel of Hatred* expansion offers a compelling reason to return. Continuing Neyrelle’s journey, this expansion introduces a lush new jungle region and a fresh Spiritborn class that allows for innovative combat strategies. The addition of familiar Mercenaries from previous titles enhances the gameplay, providing players with valuable companions in their quest.

A.K.A. Game Pass subscriber booster

<h3 id="CallofDuty_Black”>Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Genre: First-Person Shooter
Similar: Call of Duty series, Battlefield 2042
Graphics: Cinematic, well-optimized
Gameplay: Multiplayer focused modes, some stealth and open-world sections in campaign

<p Call of Duty: Black Ops 6* has captured the attention of both returning and new players alike, offering a cinematic campaign filled with intrigue and action. The multiplayer experience has been praised for its innovative movement system and the return of classic features, while the Zombies mode has been highlighted as a standout aspect of the game. However, some players have expressed concerns about technical issues and the prevalence of hackers in the multiplayer arena.

Read ’em and weep

Balatro

Genre: Card game
Similar: Poker Quest: Swords and Spades, Dicey Dungeons, Slay the Spire
Graphics: Simple, perfect for the Steam Deck
Gameplay: Deckbuilder, roguelike

<p Balatro* offers a refreshing take on the deckbuilding genre, combining poker mechanics with roguelike elements. Each playthrough presents players with unique challenges, encouraging strategic thinking and adaptability. The simplicity of the graphics belies the depth of gameplay, making it accessible for both newcomers and seasoned players.

Pyramid Head never looked so good

<h3 id="SilentHill2″>Silent Hill 2

Genre: Survival horror
Similar: Silent Hill series, Resident Evil games, Alan Wake
Graphics: A modern overhaul, including ray tracing
Gameplay: third-person view, puzzles, shooter, pant-wetting

<p The remake of Silent Hill 2* has successfully revitalized the classic horror experience, enhancing its visuals and gameplay mechanics while preserving the essence of the original. The new perspective and improved combat mechanics add depth to the chilling atmosphere, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Monkey Magic

<h3 id="BlackMythWukong”>Black Myth: Wukong

Genre: Action role-playing
Similar: God of War, Star Wars Jedi games, Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, Nioh 2
Graphics: One of the best-looking games ever seen on the PC
Gameplay: Soulslike elements, challenging, combat-focused, RPG-light

<p Black Myth: Wukong has taken the gaming world by storm with its breathtaking visuals and engaging gameplay. Drawing inspiration from the classic Journey to the West*, this action RPG combines challenging combat with a rich narrative, captivating players with its stunning environments and character designs.

Controversy incarnate

<h3 id="DragonAgeThe_Veilguard”>Dragon Age: The Veilguard

Genre: Role-playing game
Similar: Final Fantasy XVI, Final Fantasy 7 remakes, Tales of Arise, Kingdom Hearts III
Graphics: Stunning, colorful visuals
Gameplay: Real-time fighting with pause and AI companions, choice and consequence, some puzzles, exploration, leveling and relationship building.

<p The latest entry in the Dragon Age series, The Veilguard*, has sparked considerable debate among fans due to its vibrant art style and gameplay changes. While it diverges from the series’ traditional roots, it introduces compelling characters and a richly layered world, ensuring that it remains an engaging RPG experience.

Die often and be thankful for it

<h3 id="EldenRingShadow_of”>Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

Genre: Action role-playing
Similar: Dark Souls trilogy, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Graphics: Still beautiful
Gameplay: Soulslike, hack ‘n’ slash, challenging

<p Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree* continues to build upon the acclaimed foundation of its predecessor, offering players a mesmerizing world filled with secrets and challenges. The expansion enhances the combat experience with new weapons and spells, while the intricate design of its environments invites exploration and rewards those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Honorable Mentions

Hades 2

Expanding on the original’s fast-paced action and rich storytelling, Hades II introduces new mythological characters and deeper lore, making it a worthy mention despite still being in early access.

Frostpunk 2

Set in a harsh, frozen world, Frostpunk 2 challenges players with resource management and ethical dilemmas, although many still prefer the first installment.

Red Dead Redemption

Finally arriving on PC, the original Red Dead Redemption includes the beloved Undead Nightmare DLC, though its price tag has raised eyebrows among fans.

Dropped from the list
(Great, but had to make room for others)

For more exceptional games, be sure to check out our late 2023 article and early 2023 picks.

AppWizard