2025 is here, and it's time for IGN's updated list of the 25 best modern PC games. But what constitutes "best?" This isn't an objective ranking; subjectivity is inherent in gaming. What one person considers a masterpiece, another might find tedious. Even fans of the same genre will rarely agree completely.
This list represents a consensus among IGN's PC gaming staff, ranked using our Face-Off tool. It reflects games we love and encourages you to explore them if you haven't already. Many excellent recent PC games didn't make the cut—a consequence of limited slots and diverse preferences.
The Best PC Games
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This list focuses on "modern" PC games (released or significantly updated since 2013). Classic titles like Doom, Half-Life 2, and Skyrim are legendary, but they've transitioned to "all-time classics." See our Top 100 Games of All Time or genre-specific lists for those.
Remember, this is our perspective. Create your own top 25 (or 100!) using our Playlist tool and share it in the comments!
Most recent game updates were made on February 13, 2025.
Under Consideration – Recent Games
These highly-rated 2024 and 2025 games are too new for ranking, but will be considered in future updates.
Civilization 7, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector, Dynasty Warriors: Origins, Mouthwashing, Marvel Rivals, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl, Life is Strange: Double Exposure, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Sonic X Shadow Generations, MechWarrior 5: Clans, Metaphor: ReFantazio, Silent Hill 2 Remake, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, Black Myth: Wukong
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Undertale
Undertale cleverly subverts RPG expectations. It's aware you're playing and uses that to surprise you, remembering your saves and choices. The emotionally resonant story emphasizes the impact of decisions. It's subversive, replayable, and melancholy—a truly great PC game.
Check out our Undertale review.
Release Date: September 15, 2015 |Developer: Toby Fox | Last Position: New!
Balatro
Don't let Texas Hold'em skills fool you; Balatro's roguelite deck-building twists things up. Mixing and matching wild joker cards creates insane combos, challenging your assumptions.
Check out our Balatro review.
Release Date: February 20, 2024 |Developer: LocalThunk | Last Position: New!
Crusader Kings 3
Crusader Kings 3 masterfully blends complex systems with compelling human stories. Whether through military might, diplomacy, or intrigue, you shape historical narratives. Despite its depth, it's surprisingly accessible.
Check out our Crusader Kings 3 review.
Release Date: September 1, 2020 |Developer: Paradox Development Studio | Last Position: New!
Hitman: World of Assassination
Hitman: World of Assassination combines the Hitman trilogy's meticulously crafted levels. These replayable sandboxes offer endless opportunities for creative assassinations. The thrill of a perfect, undetected hit is unparalleled.
Check out our Hitman 3: World of Assassination review.
Release Date: January 26, 2023 | Developer: IO Interactive | Last Position: 16
Doom (2016)
The 2016 Doom reboot is a masterful reimagining. It throws you into relentless demon-slaying action, setting a new standard for aggressive first-person shooters. Its influence is still felt today.
Check out our Doom (2016) review.
Release Date: May 13, 2016 | Developer: id Software | Last Position: 17
Final Fantasy VII Remake
The Resident Evil 4 Remake flawlessly modernizes a classic. The intense combat encounters, richly detailed world, and thrilling action sequences create a masterpiece of action-horror.
Check out our Final Fantasy 7 Remake review.
Release Date: December 16, 2021 | Developer: Square Enix Business Division 1 | Last Position: 20
Resident Evil 4 Remake
Final Fantasy 7 Remake masterfully reimagines the original as an action game. The combat is superb, Midgar is stunning, and the characters are endearing. It's a fantastic start to a new adventure.
Check out our Resident Evil 4 Remake review.
Release Date: March 24, 2023 | Developer: Capcom | Last Position: 19
God of War
God of War (2018) is a phenomenal reinvention of the series. The challenging combat, touching story, gorgeous presentation, and innovative gameplay make it a standout. The PC port is excellent.
Check out our God of War review.
Release Date: January 14, 2022 | Developer: Santa Monica Studio | Last Position: 18
Nier: Automata
Nier: Automata's unique blend of genres, captivating story, and frenetic combat makes it a memorable experience. The PC version's technical issues are now resolved.
Check out our Nier: Automata review.
Release Date: March 17, 2017 | Developer: PlatinumGames | Last Position: 15
Final Fantasy XIV
Final Fantasy XIV is a fantastic Final Fantasy game and a top-tier MMO. Its compelling story, streamlined gameplay, and engaging endgame content make it accessible to both MMO veterans and newcomers.
Check out our Final Fantasy XIV review.
Release Date: August 27, 2013 | Developer: Square Enix Product Development Division 3 | Last Position: 21
Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2's vast, detailed world, compelling story, and extensive activities make it a must-play. The PC version enhances this already massive game.
Check out our Red Dead Redemption 2 review.
Release Date: October 26, 2018 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 6
Outer Wilds
Outer Wilds' unique time loop mechanic and exploration-driven gameplay create a captivating space adventure. Unraveling the mysteries of a long-dead civilization is incredibly rewarding.
Check out our Outer Wilds review.
Release Date: May 28, 2019 | Developer: Annapurna Interactive | Last Position: 12
Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is a superb Metroidvania with beautiful visuals, expansive world, and challenging gameplay. The constant updates add even more content to this already massive game.
Check out our Hollow Knight review.
Release Date: February 24, 2017 |Developer: Team Cherry | Last Position: 25
XCOM 2: War of the Chosen
XCOM 2: War of the Chosen expands on the tactical combat of XCOM: Enemy Unknown, adding new soldier classes, enemies, and strategic layers. The high stakes and replayability make it endlessly engaging.
Check out our XCOM 2: War of the Chosen review.
Release Date: August 29, 2017 | Developer: Firaxis Games | Last Position: 9
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt's massive open world, compelling story, and excellent writing make it a deep and rewarding RPG experience. The recent updates further enhance its visuals and performance.
Check out our The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt review.
Release Date: May 19, 2015 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Last Position: 8
Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077, with its 2.0 patch and Phantom Liberty expansion, is a visually stunning and refined experience. Exploring Night City is a unique and memorable adventure.
Check out our Cyberpunk 2077 review.
Release Date: February 15, 2022 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Last Position: 7
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley's charming world, satisfying gameplay, and endless possibilities make it a relaxing yet engaging experience. The PC version benefits from modding and frequent updates.
Check out our Stardew Valley review.
Release Date: February 26, 2016 | Developer: ConcernedApe | Last Position: New!
Grand Theft Auto V / GTA Online
GTA 5's massive, detailed world, engaging story, and extensive multiplayer mode make it a timeless classic. Its influence on open-world games is undeniable.
Check out our Grand Theft Auto V review.
Release Date: April 4, 2015 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 11
Satisfactory
Satisfactory's factory-building gameplay is incredibly satisfying. Building massive, complex machines to automate resource gathering and production is immensely rewarding.
Check out our Satisfactory review.
Release Date: September 10, 2024 | Developer: Coffee Stain Studios | Last Position: New!
Half-Life: Alyx
Half-Life: Alyx is a groundbreaking VR experience. Its innovative gameplay, immersive world, and compelling story make it a must-play for VR enthusiasts.
Check out our Half-Life: Alyx review.
Release Date: March 23, 2020 | Developer: Valve | Last Position: 14
Slay the Spire
Slay the Spire's addictive roguelite gameplay, varied characters, and constantly changing decks make each run a unique and engaging experience.
Check out our Slay the Spire review.
Release Date: January 23, 2019 | Developer: MegaCrit LLC | Last Position: 4
Disco Elysium
Disco Elysium's unique blend of RPG mechanics, compelling story, and exceptional writing creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Check out our Disco Elysium review.
Release Date: October 15, 2019 | Developer: ZA/UM | Last Position: 3
Hades
Hades is a masterclass in roguelite design. Its exhilarating combat, memorable characters, and innovative post-game content make it incredibly replayable.
Check out our Hades review.
Release Date: December 6, 2018 | Developer: Supergiant Games | Last Position: 2
Elden Ring
Elden Ring's open world, challenging combat, and rich lore create a captivating soulslike experience. The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC adds even more content.
Check out our Elden Ring review.
Release Date: February 25, 2022 | Developer: FromSoftware Inc. | Last Position: 5
Baldur's Gate 3
Baldur's Gate 3's epic story, memorable characters, and deep tactical combat create a truly massive and rewarding RPG experience.
Check out our Baldur's Gate 3 review.
Release Date: August 3, 2023 | Developer: Larian Studios | Last Position: 1
The 25 Best PC Games to Play Right Now
25 games recommended by IGN editors and contributors, all released or significantly updated within the past 10 years. Updated March 21, 2024. See All
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Upcoming PC Games
Exciting PC games coming in 2025:
These are our top 25 modern PC games. Many great games were omitted due to space constraints. Share your favorites in the comments! Check out our other best games lists:
Best PS5 Games, Best Xbox Series X|S Games, Best Switch Games
