As we delve into 2025, it's time to update IGN's coveted list of the 25 Best Modern PC Games. When we talk about "best," we're not chasing an elusive "objective" ranking that would align perfectly with every gamer's preference. Such a list is a myth, given the diverse tastes in gaming; what one might hail as a strategic masterpiece could be another's tedious slog. Even within the same genre, two enthusiasts might rank games differently.

Instead, this list is a collective recommendation from IGN's dedicated team of PC gamers, crafted using our Face-Off tool to reflect our group's consensus. It's a celebration of the games we cherish, and a nudge for others to dive in if they haven't yet.

With just 25 slots available, many excellent recent PC games couldn't make the cut, but their absence doesn't diminish their quality. Each voter has personal favorites that, despite not making the list, are still highly regarded.

The Best PC Games

26 ImagesOur focus for this list is on "modern" PC games, which we define as those released or significantly updated within the last decade, starting from 2013. Classics like the original Doom, Half-Life 2, Portal, Skyrim, StarCraft 2, Mass Effect 2, Minecraft, BioShock, KOTOR, Fallout: New Vegas, and Batman: Arkham City have transcended to all-time classics. To explore those, check out our Top 100 Games of All Time list or other genre-specific lists.

Remember, this list is merely our team's perspective, and it's just as valid as any list you might compile. If you're inspired to create your own, we encourage you to use 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 games from 2024 and 2025 are too fresh to rank yet, but they'll be considered in our next update:

• 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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25. Undertale

Undertale is a masterclass in subversion, cleverly twisting the conventions of role-playing games. It's aware of your every move, adapting its narrative and gameplay to surprise you and emphasize the impact of your choices. The game's engaging and emotionally resonant story reinforces its message that every decision matters, not just to you, but to the characters around you. It's replayable, poignant, and a deserving member of the pantheon of great PC games.

Check out our Undertale review.

Release Date: September 15, 2015 | Developer: Toby Fox | Last Position: New!

24. Balatro

Balatro takes the familiar framework of Texas Hold'em and transforms it into a deck-building roguelite. It challenges your assumptions about card games by allowing you to mix and match an array of wild joker cards, creating explosive combos that can skyrocket your scores. It's a game that will make you rethink your strategies and enjoy the thrill of unexpected victories.

Check out our Balatro review.

Release Date: February 20, 2024 | Developer: LocalThunk | Last Position: New!

23. Crusader Kings 3

Crusader Kings 3 stands out in the grand strategy genre by weaving compelling human stories from historical events. Whether through military might, diplomatic marriages, or covert plots, the game offers numerous ways to shape your dynasty's legacy. It balances complexity with accessibility, making it welcoming even to newcomers to the genre.

Check out our Crusader Kings 3 review.

Release Date: September 1, 2020 | Developer: Paradox Development Studio | Last Position: New!

22. Hitman: World of Assassination

Hitman: World of Assassination is a must-play for its collection of intricately designed scenarios from the modern Hitman trilogy. With a multitude of replayable sandboxes, you can explore countless assassination methods, study NPC behaviors, and use every tool at your disposal to execute the perfect hit. The thrill of a successful, undetected assassination is unmatched.

Check out our Hitman 3: World of Assassination review.

Release Date: January 26, 2023 | Developer: IO Interactive | Last Position: 16

21. Doom (2016)

Doom (2016) is a landmark reboot that redefines first-person shooters with its relentless action and visceral combat. It broke away from the multiplayer-focused trend of its contemporaries, delivering a single-player experience that remains exhilarating. Its influence on subsequent games is undeniable, and its enduring appeal makes it a timeless classic.

Check out our Doom (2016) review.

Release Date: May 13, 2016 | Developer: id Software | Last Position: 17

20. Final Fantasy VII Remake

Final Fantasy VII Remake transforms the iconic RPG into a stunning action game, taking bold liberties with its narrative while paying homage to its roots. The combat is top-notch, Midgar is beautifully realized, and the characters are lovingly reimagined. It's a fresh take on a classic that sets the stage for an exciting new journey.

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is available now.

Check out our Final Fantasy 7 Remake review.

Release Date: December 16, 2021 | Developer: Square Enix Business Division 1 | Last Position: 20

19. Resident Evil 4 Remake

Resident Evil 4 Remake masterfully modernizes the action-horror classic, delivering intense combat and a richly detailed world. It captures the essence of the original while thrilling a new generation of gamers. Its influence is evident in countless games, yet none have replicated its success as well as this remake.

Check out our Resident Evil 4 Remake review.

Release Date: March 24, 2023 | Developer: Capcom | Last Position: 19

18. God of War

God of War's 2018 launch as a PlayStation exclusive was monumental, earning a perfect score and IGN's Game of the Year. Its PC release in 2022 expanded its reach, showcasing its excellent combat and poignant storytelling. It's a fresh take on a beloved series, deserving its place among the best PC games.

The sequel, God of War: Ragnarok, is now available on PC, but starting with the original is essential for the full experience.

Check out our God of War review.

Release Date: January 14, 2022 | Developer: Santa Monica Studio | Last Position: 18

17. Nier: Automata

Nier: Automata's initial PC issues have been resolved, earning it a strong spot on our list. This action-RPG blends genres seamlessly, offering a captivating journey through a futuristic dystopia. Its combat is exhilarating, and its soundtrack is unforgettable, making it a must-play for those who missed it.

Check out our Nier: Automata review.

Release Date: March 17, 2017 | Developer: PlatinumGames | Last Position: 15

16. Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV is not only the best MMO to play today but also a standout Final Fantasy game. Its evolution from a troubled launch to a sprawling epic is remarkable. Whether you're a solo player or enjoy group activities, FFXIV offers a rich experience that caters to all playstyles.

Check out our Final Fantasy XIV review.

Release Date: August 27, 2013 | Developer: Square Enix Product Development Division 3 | Last Position: 21

15. Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 is a monumental open-world game, enhanced further by its PC port. Arthur Morgan's story is compelling, set against a beautifully detailed Wild West backdrop. With extensive single-player and multiplayer modes, plus modding capabilities, it's a must-play for PC gamers.

Check out our Red Dead Redemption 2 review.

Release Date: October 26, 2018 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 6

14. Outer Wilds

Outer Wilds is a unique space exploration game where you're trapped in a 22-minute time loop. It's a heartfelt adventure that encourages you to explore and solve mysteries across multiple planets. The game's design fosters discovery, with a helpful log that tracks your progress and hints at what's next.

The Echoes of the Eye expansion adds thrilling puzzles and a tense atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience.

Check out our Outer Wilds review.

Release Date: May 28, 2019 | Developer: Annapurna Interactive | Last Position: 12

13. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is a standout Metroidvania, offering a vast, beautiful world full of secrets. Its challenging gameplay and expansive map keep players engaged for hours. Even after its initial release, free updates have expanded the game, adding new areas and bosses. It's a must-explore title for fans of the genre.

The eagerly awaited sequel, Hollow Knight: Silksong, remains in development, leaving fans hopeful for its eventual release.

Check out our Hollow Knight review.

Release Date: February 24, 2017 | Developer: Team Cherry | Last Position: 25

12. XCOM 2: War of the Chosen

XCOM 2: War of the Chosen elevates the tactical combat of its predecessor, adding depth and replayability. The game's shift to guerrilla warfare against alien occupiers heightens the stakes, while procedural maps and frequent events ensure each playthrough is unique. With mods like Long War 2, the game offers endless variety.

Check out our XCOM 2: War of the Chosen review.

Release Date: August 29, 2017 | Developer: Firaxis Games | Last Position: 9

11. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

As a pinnacle of RPGs, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers a vast, dense open world filled with compelling content. Its narrative depth, stellar voice acting, and stunning visuals make it a masterpiece. Regular updates and a wealth of mods keep it fresh, even years after its release.

Check out our The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt review.

Release Date: May 19, 2015 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Last Position: 8

10. Cyberpunk 2077

Cyberpunk 2077's PC version has been transformed by the 2.0 patch and Phantom Liberty expansion, making it a visually stunning and mechanically refined experience. Exploring Night City is a unique journey, enhanced by the presence of Keanu Reeves and Idris Elba. It's a testament to the potential of open-world gaming.

Check out our Cyberpunk 2077 review.

Release Date: February 15, 2022 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Last Position: 7

9. Stardew Valley

Since its launch, Stardew Valley has revitalized the farming sim genre with its blend of RPG mechanics, satisfying gameplay, and relaxing atmosphere. The PC version benefits from mods and frequent updates, making it the ideal way to experience this beloved game.

Check out our Stardew Valley review.

Release Date: February 26, 2016 | Developer: ConcernedApe | Last Position: New!

8. Grand Theft Auto V / GTA Online

GTA V's expansive and detailed world remains a benchmark for open-world games. Its single-player campaign, side activities, and bustling city life offer endless entertainment. As it exits our list due to age, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of GTA 6, expected to continue the series' legacy with a return to Vice City.

Check out our Grand Theft Auto V review.

Release Date: April 4, 2015 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 11

7. Satisfactory

Satisfactory builds on the factory-building genre with its first-person perspective, allowing players to craft complex networks on an alien planet. The satisfaction of seeing your megafactory come to life is unparalleled, securing its spot on our list shortly after its full launch from early access.

Check out our Satisfactory review.

Release Date: September 10, 2024 | Developer: Coffee Stain Studios | Last Position: New!

6. Half-Life: Alyx

Half-Life: Alyx set a new standard for VR shooters with its innovative gameplay and polished execution. It's a testament to Valve's commitment to the Half-Life series, justifying the investment in VR hardware. The game's immersive experience, from combat to puzzles, is unmatched in the genre.

Check out our Half-Life: Alyx review.

Release Date: March 23, 2020 | Developer: Valve | Last Position: 14

5. Slay the Spire

Slay the Spire excels in the roguelite genre with its ever-changing decks and transformative relics. The journey of evolving your character across runs is engaging, and the daily challenges keep the game fresh. Its distinctive art and lore add to its charm, making it a standout title.

The anticipation for Slay the Spire 2's early access launch this year is palpable.

Check out our Slay the Spire review.

Release Date: January 23, 2019 | Developer: MegaCrit LLC | Last Position: 4

4. Disco Elysium

Disco Elysium reinvents the CRPG genre with its noir-detective setting and innovative mechanics. Its deep storytelling, supported by exceptional writing, creates an immersive experience. Despite the departure of key developers, its impact on the genre remains significant.

Check out our Disco Elysium review.

Release Date: October 15, 2019 | Developer: ZA/UM | Last Position: 3

3. Hades

Hades sets the standard for action roguelites with its exhilarating combat, compelling story, and innovative post-game content. Its challenging yet rewarding gameplay, coupled with an unforgettable soundtrack, makes it a must-play. Supergiant Games continues to impress with Hades 2's early access release.

Check out our Hades review.

Release Date: December 6, 2018 | Developer: Supergiant Games | Last Position: 2

2. Elden Ring

Elden Ring offers a fantastic entry point into FromSoftware's challenging games. Its open-world design and flexible playstyles make it more approachable, yet it retains the series' signature difficulty and depth. The Shadow of the Erdtree expansion adds even more content, cementing its place on our list.

Check out our Elden Ring review.

Release Date: February 25, 2022 | Developer: FromSoftware Inc. | Last Position: 5

1. Baldur's Gate 3

Baldur's Gate 3 is an ambitious RPG that harks back to the classics while pushing the genre forward. Its epic storytelling, detailed characters, and tactical combat offer over 100 hours of engaging content. Despite initial bugs, continuous updates have polished it into a must-play title.

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 that we, the IGN editors and contributors, collectively recommend the most, based on our own tastes, and all from within the past 10 years. Updated March 21, 2024.

See All1Baldur's Gate IIILarian Studios2HadesSupergiant Games3Disco ElysiumZA/UM4Slay the SpireMegacrit5Elden RingFromSoftware6Red Dead Redemption 2Rockstar Studios7Cyberpunk 2077CD Projekt Red8The Witcher 3: Wild HuntCD Projekt Red9XCOM 2Feral Interactive10Dishonored 2Arkane

Upcoming PC Games

We're excited about several upcoming PC games in 2025, which have the potential to join this list in the future:

Those are our picks for the 25 best modern PC games! With only 25 slots, many incredible games couldn't be included. Share your own top games in the comments, and explore our other lists for more gaming recommendations:

• Best PS5 Games
• Best Xbox Series X|S Games
• Best Switch Games