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; subjective preferences mean what one gamer considers a masterpiece, another might find tedious. Even fans of the same genre will have different favorites.
This list represents IGN's PC gaming team's collective recommendations, ranked using our Face-Off tool. It celebrates games we love and encourages you to try them if you haven't. Many excellent recent PC games didn't make the top 25, but that doesn't diminish their quality. Individual preferences inevitably lead to some omissions.
The Best PC Games
26 Images
This list focuses on "modern" PC games released or significantly updated since 2013. Classic titles like Doom, Half-Life 2, and Skyrim remain beloved but are considered all-time classics, not "modern." See our Top 100 Games of All Time or genre-specific lists for those.
Remember, this is our team's perspective; your own list might differ. Create your 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 voting.
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
You Might Also Like:
Top 100 Video Games, Best Horror Games for PC
Undertale
Undertale cleverly subverts RPG expectations. It's aware you're playing a game and uses that to surprise you, remembering your saves and choices, highlighting the impact of your actions.
Its emotionally resonant story underscores its core message: choices matter, both for you and those around you. Subversive, replayable, and melancholic, it's 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 expertise fool you; Balatro's scoreboards are harder to conquer than you think. This clever deck-building roguelite mixes and matches wild joker cards, creating crazy combos that will redefine your strategy.
Check out our Balatro review.
Release Date: February 20, 2024 |Developer: LocalThunk | Last Position: New!
Crusader Kings 3
Grand strategy games are known for complex systems, but Crusader Kings 3 excels at creating compelling human stories from the clash of powerful figures. Whether through military might, diplomacy, or intrigue, you shape history. Its robust tooltip system makes it 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 entire Hitman trilogy, offering countless replayable scenarios. As Agent 47, you'll explore richly detailed environments, observe NPCs, and utilize diverse tools to achieve the perfect, undetected assassination.
Check out our Hitman 3: World of Assassination review.
Release Date: January 26, 2023 | Developer: IO Interactive | Last Position: 16
Doom (2016)
A masterful reboot, 2016's Doom throws you into a relentless battle against space demons. Its aggressive, satisfying combat redefined first-person shooters, and its influence remains strong. While Doom Eternal refined the combat, the original's pure, visceral action remains unmatched.
Check out our Doom (2016) review.
Release Date: May 13, 2016 | Developer: id Software | Last Position: 17
Final Fantasy VII Remake
The 2023 remake of Resident Evil 4 masterfully modernizes the original, retaining its action-horror thrills while enhancing visuals and gameplay. Intense combat encounters and stunning detail make this a standout reimagining.
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 VII Remake successfully transforms the original's opening into a stunning action game, respectfully reimagining iconic characters and story elements. Its combat is exceptional, Midgar is breathtaking, and the characters are charmingly recreated.
Check out our Resident Evil 4 Remake review.
Release Date: March 24, 2023 | Developer: Capcom | Last Position: 19
God of War
The 2018 God of War (PC version 2022) is a phenomenal reinvention of the series. Challenging combat, a moving story, and gorgeous visuals make it a standout. The sequel, God of War: Ragnarök, is also available on PC, but this is the essential starting point.
Check out our God of War review.
Release Date: January 14, 2022 | Developer: Santa Monica Studio | Last Position: 18
Nier: Automata
Nier: Automata's PC version, now stable, delivers a wildly entertaining blend of genres and styles within a captivating dystopian setting. Its frenetic combat and unforgettable soundtrack make it a must-play.
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 an excellent MMO. Its story has evolved into a sprawling political thriller, and the latest expansion, Dawntrail, continues this compelling narrative. Even solo play is enjoyable, and the endgame offers challenging raids.
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 epic story of loyalty and betrayal is enhanced by its superb PC port. The vast, detailed world is packed with activities, unlockables, and stunning visuals. Red Dead Online adds a substantial multiplayer component.
Check out our Red Dead Redemption 2 review.
Release Date: October 26, 2018 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 6
Outer Wilds
In Outer Wilds, a 22-minute time loop drives exploration across multiple planets, unraveling the mysteries of a lost civilization. Its emphasis on discovery and beautiful visuals make it a truly unique adventure.
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 exploration, and challenging boss fights. Its constantly growing content and challenging gameplay keep players engaged for hours.
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 its predecessor, adding new soldier classes, enemies, and challenging boss fights. The high stakes of permanent soldier deaths and procedural generation ensure high replayability.
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 offers a massive open world brimming with quests, monsters, and compelling stories. Its writing, voice acting, soundtrack, and visuals remain impressive even today, enhanced by recent updates and a wealth of mods.
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, significantly improved with the 2.0 patch and Phantom Liberty expansion, delivers a stunning open world and compelling story. Its refined combat and skill systems make it a truly exceptional experience.
Check out our Cyberpunk 2077 review.
Release Date: February 15, 2022 | Developer: CD Projekt Red | Last Position: 7
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley's blend of RPG mechanics, satisfying gameplay, and relaxing atmosphere makes it a timeless classic. Its modding community and regular updates keep it fresh and engaging.
Check out our Stardew Valley review.
Release Date: February 26, 2016 | Developer: ConcernedApe | Last Position: New!
Grand Theft Auto V / GTA Online
Grand Theft Auto V's vast, detailed world, compelling story, and extensive side activities make it a landmark open-world game. GTA Online adds a massive persistent multiplayer component. This is its final appearance on this list due to the 10-year age limit.
Check out our Grand Theft Auto V review.
Release Date: April 4, 2015 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 11
Satisfactory
Satisfactory's unique blend of exploration, factory building, and cooperative gameplay makes it incredibly addictive. The satisfaction of creating massive, efficient factories is incredibly rewarding.
Check out our Satisfactory review.
Release Date: September 10, 2024 | Developer: Coffee Stain Studios | Last Position: New!
Half-Life: Alyx
Half-Life: Alyx sets a new standard for VR shooters. 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 constantly evolving deck-building and roguelike mechanics ensure high replayability. Its charming art style and challenging gameplay make it a captivating 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 approach to RPG mechanics, combined with its compelling noir detective story and exceptional writing, makes it 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 compelling narrative make it an incredibly rewarding and replayable experience.
Check out our Hades review.
Release Date: December 6, 2018 | Developer: Supergiant Games | Last Position: 2
Elden Ring
Elden Ring's open-world design and streamlined approach to the Soulslike formula make it accessible yet challenging. Its vast world, engaging characters, and challenging boss fights provide countless hours of gameplay. 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 scope, detailed characters, and challenging turn-based combat make it an unforgettable RPG experience. Its deep story and meaningful choices keep players engaged for hundreds of hours.
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 collectively recommended by IGN editors and contributors, all released or significantly updated within the past 10 years. Updated March 21, 2024.
See All
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
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 and check out our other best games lists:
Best PS5 Games, Best Xbox Series X|S Games, Best Switch Games
