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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 preferences. What one gamer considers a masterpiece, another might find tedious. Even within the same genre, individual tastes vary widely.
This list represents a consensus among IGN's PC gaming staff, ranked using our Face-Off tool. It celebrates 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 perspectives.
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 excluded but remain highly regarded. See our Top 100 Games of All Time for those.
Remember, this is our group's 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 a game and uses that to surprise you, remembering your actions and adjusting accordingly. The emotionally resonant story emphasizes the impact of choices, making it subversive, replayable, and melancholic.
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 deck-building roguelite will challenge your assumptions. Its unique joker cards create unpredictable combos, forcing strategic adaptation.
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 the narrative. Its accessibility makes it enjoyable for strategy newcomers.
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 assassination scenarios. The rich sandboxes encourage exploration, observation, and creative problem-solving.
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 revitalized the franchise with its intense, visceral combat. Ripping and tearing through demons remains incredibly satisfying. Its influence on subsequent FPS games is undeniable.
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 successfully modernizes the classic, delivering intense action-horror. Its rebuilt environments and ferocious creatures create a thrilling experience.
Check out our Resident Evil 4 Remake review.
Release Date: March 24, 2023 | Developer: Capcom | Last Position: 19
Resident Evil 4 Remake
Final Fantasy VII Remake masterfully reimagines the original as a stunning action game. Its combat, detailed Midgar setting, and beloved characters create a captivating experience.
Check out our Final Fantasy 7 Remake review.
Release Date: December 16, 2021 | Developer: Square Enix Business Division 1 | Last Position: 20
God of War
God of War (2018) delivers challenging combat and a touching story. Its gorgeous presentation and innovative gameplay make it a standout. The sequel, God of War: Ragnarök, is also available on PC.
Check out our God of War review.
Release Date: January 14, 2022 | Developer: Santa Monica Studio | Last Position: 18
Nier: Automata
Nier: Automata's blend of action-RPG elements, unique style, and multiple endings creates a memorable experience. Its frenzied combat and soundtrack are highlights.
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 MMORPG with a compelling storyline, streamlined gameplay, and engaging end-game content. It caters to both solo and group play.
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 offers a sprawling open world, a captivating story, and extensive activities. The PC version enhances the experience with additional content and modding capabilities.
Check out our Red Dead Redemption 2 review.
Release Date: October 26, 2018 | Developer: Rockstar Games | Last Position: 6
Outer Wilds
Outer Wilds' time loop mechanic drives exploration and discovery across multiple planets. Its captivating mystery and gorgeous visuals create a unique space 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 combat. Its secrets and constant updates make it endlessly replayable.
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 delivers intense tactical combat with high stakes and permanent consequences. Its procedural generation and modding support offer immense 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 boasts a massive open world, compelling story, and excellent writing. Its recent updates and extensive modding community ensure its continued relevance.
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's stunning open world, refined combat, and engaging story (including the Phantom Liberty expansion) make it a must-play. Its visual fidelity showcases modern PC hardware.
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 farming, RPG elements, and relaxing atmosphere makes it a timeless classic. Its modding capabilities and regular updates enhance the experience.
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 detailed open world, engaging campaign, and expansive online mode offer endless entertainment. Its modding potential adds another layer of depth.
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 offers immense satisfaction in creating complex and efficient production lines. Its cooperative mode enhances the experience.
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 addictive roguelite gameplay, varied characters, and ever-changing deck building keep things fresh and engaging. Its daily climbs offer constant replayability.
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 and its compelling narrative create a truly unforgettable experience. Its writing is among the best in gaming.
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 rewarding gameplay loop 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 make it an exceptional Souls-like 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 delivers a massive and ambitious RPG experience with deep storytelling, tactical combat, and countless choices.
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 in the last 10 years. Updated March 21, 2024.See All
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Upcoming PC Games
Exciting PC games coming in 2025:
This list represents our current top 25. Many other great games exist. Share your favorites in the comments! Check out our other best games lists for different platforms.
Best PS5 Games, Best Xbox Series X|S Games, Best Switch Games
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