As the gaming community increasingly advocates for cross-platform compatibility, a select group of titles remains steadfastly exclusive to PC, leaving console gamers on the sidelines. These PC-only games have not only cultivated substantial player bases but have also redefined their respective genres, consistently dominating streaming charts. The exclusion of console players presents notable challenges, particularly in terms of community growth and potential revenue for developers.
To illuminate this pressing issue, we explore three standout PC-only games that would greatly benefit from a console release.
Arma 3 / Arma Reforger
For enthusiasts of military realism, Arma 3 is often regarded as the pinnacle of tactical gameplay. Developed by Bohemia Interactive, this tactical sandbox offers vast open-world battles, intricate weapon mechanics, and an immersive simulation experience that is unparalleled. Unlike the more arcade-like offerings of franchises such as Call of Duty and Battlefield, Arma emphasizes precision, strategy, and teamwork.
Its successor, Arma Reforger, serves as a precursor to the anticipated Arma 4, introducing modern enhancements such as engine upgrades and improved modding tools. While Reforger hints at Bohemia’s aspirations for console support, the series remains firmly entrenched in the PC realm.
A console adaptation of Arma would not merely be a novelty; it would address a significant genre gap that few titles dare to explore on PlayStation or Xbox. With curated mod support and cross-platform multiplayer, Arma could usher in a new era of tactical shooters for console audiences eager for immersion and authenticity. The demand is palpable, and the capabilities of contemporary hardware render this transition more feasible than ever.
Counter-Strike 2
Among first-person shooters, Counter-Strike 2 has emerged as a dominant force, consistently ranking at the top of Steam’s charts. This free-to-play game builds upon the legacy of the Counter-Strike series, which originated from the PC modding community’s work on Half-Life.
Counter-Strike 2 rewards players with high-stakes tactical combat, emphasizing precision and teamwork over flashy graphics. Valve’s ongoing support ensures that millions of players remain engaged through regular updates. With a thriving esports scene and a dedicated global fanbase, Counter-Strike 2 stands as one of the most played games on Steam.
Regrettably, Valve appears to prioritize PC players, as there are currently no plans for a console release. This decision is unfortunate, as porting the game to platforms like PlayStation and Xbox would unlock an entirely new player base that has remained largely untapped. Given the growing interest among console players in competitive shooters, and the diminishing distinctions between PC and console gaming—especially with the option for keyboard and mouse input—there is hope that Valve will consider a console release.
World of Warcraft
It is difficult to contest the assertion that World of Warcraft (WoW) is the most iconic MMO in history. Since its debut in 2004, WoW has dominated the online gaming landscape, offering expansive storytelling, massive cooperative raids, and a dedicated community of millions. Yet, more than two decades later, a console release remains elusive.
The notion of playing WoW on consoles may have seemed far-fetched in the past, but today’s consoles boast raw power comparable to dedicated gaming PCs, along with modern UI customization and enhanced controller support. A console version of World of Warcraft could significantly amplify the success of its expansive world, Azeroth, and potentially capture a larger share of the market.
With a scarcity of long-form RPG experiences in recent years, the timing for a console release feels opportune. Blizzard is already developing future expansions, and with a modern engine underpinning the game, bringing WoW to PS5 and Xbox Series X could represent a historic milestone for both Blizzard and its community.
While the ability to mod games is a hallmark of the PC experience, Counter-Strike 2 and WoW have been refined to the point where mods may no longer be essential for competitive play. Nevertheless, a console release could still allow the PC community to continue modding, with the potential for the best mods to be officially integrated and updated in the console versions.
