So, you’ve got a shiny new PC, all set up and ready to go. But what do you actually play on it? While consoles have their place, PC gaming offers a whole universe of experiences, especially with titles you just can’t get anywhere else. We’ve rounded up some of the absolute best PC only games that are perfect for showing off your new rig, whether you’re into sprawling open worlds, intense action, or deep stories. Get ready to dive in!
Key Takeaways
- The PC gaming landscape is vast, offering unique titles and experiences not found on consoles.
- Many of the best PC only games are visually stunning and take full advantage of powerful hardware.
- This list covers a range of genres, ensuring there’s something for every type of player.
- While some games benefit from high-end PCs, many are accessible even on mid-range systems.
- PC gaming offers flexibility, with many titles also playable on devices like the Steam Deck.
1. Elden Ring
Alright, let’s talk about Elden Ring. If you’ve got a new PC rig, this is one of those games that really shows off what it can do. FromSoftware, the folks behind Dark Souls, really went all out with this one. They took their usual tough-as-nails combat and dropped it into a massive open world called The Lands Between. It’s huge, and honestly, a bit overwhelming at first, but in a good way.
What makes Elden Ring special is how it mixes that classic FromSoftware challenge with a sense of discovery. You’re not just following a set path; you can go pretty much anywhere. The story, co-written by George R.R. Martin, adds a layer of depth, but you can totally ignore it if you just want to explore and fight. The PC version, after some early patches, runs really well and looks fantastic. It’s the kind of game that makes you feel accomplished after finally beating a tough boss or finding a hidden area.
Here’s a quick rundown of why it’s a must-play:
- Vast Open World: The Lands Between is enormous, filled with secrets, dungeons, and strange creatures. You’re free to explore it at your own pace.
- Challenging Combat: Expect to die. A lot. But every death is a lesson, and overcoming the difficulty is incredibly rewarding.
- Deep Lore: George R.R. Martin’s involvement adds a rich backstory, though it’s presented in a way that encourages player interpretation.
- Character Customization: From your starting class to your gear and spells, you can build your character in many different ways.
Seriously, if you like a good challenge and a world you can get lost in for hundreds of hours, Elden Ring is it. It’s a game that respects your time by making every victory feel earned.
2. Cyberpunk 2077
Man, Cyberpunk 2077. This game had a rough start, didn’t it? Everyone remembers the launch issues. But CD Projekt Red stuck with it, and after a ton of updates, especially that huge 2.0 overhaul and the Phantom Liberty expansion, it’s a totally different beast now. It’s actually a really solid action-RPG that lets you play Night City your way.
The Phantom Liberty expansion, by the way, is fantastic. It adds a whole new story with Idris Elba, new gameplay systems, and it really shows off what your PC can do. It feels like a completely new game within the game, and it’s pretty darn impressive.
Here’s a quick look at what makes the current version so good:
- Revamped Skill Trees: You’ve got way more options for building your character now. Want to be a stealthy netrunner or a cybernetically enhanced street samurai? You can do that.
- Improved AI: Enemies are smarter and put up a better fight, making combat more engaging.
- New Vehicles and Driving: Driving around Night City feels better, and there are new vehicles to check out.
- Police System Overhaul: The cops actually chase you now, and it’s a lot more dynamic than before.
Seriously, if you skipped it at launch, now is the time to jump in. It’s a gorgeous game and a real showcase for a powerful rig. You can really get lost in the world they built, exploring all the nooks and crannies. It’s a great example of how a game can evolve over time, and it’s definitely worth checking out Cyberpunk 2077 if you haven’t already.
3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Okay, so if you’ve got a new PC rig, you absolutely have to check out The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Seriously, this game is a masterpiece. It wraps up the epic story of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter for hire, as he searches for his adopted daughter, Ciri. You’ll be running all over this massive world, bumping into old friends, maybe some ex-girlfriends, and definitely a whole lot of bad guys.
What makes it so good? Well, for starters, the world itself is just huge and packed with stuff to do. It’s not just the main quest, either. The side quests are where this game really shines. Some of them are so involved, they feel like mini-stories all on their own. You’ll be investigating mysteries, dealing with political intrigue, and, of course, hunting down some seriously nasty monsters. You really have to prepare for these fights, figuring out which swords, magic signs, and potions will work best. It’s a lot, but it’s super satisfying when you finally take down a beast that’s been giving you trouble.
And don’t even get me started on the two big expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. They’re practically full games in themselves, adding even more story, characters, and massive new areas to explore. If you’re looking for an RPG that will keep you hooked for hundreds of hours, this is it. It’s just one of those games that sets a standard for the genre.
4. World of Warcraft: The War Within
Alright, so World of Warcraft is back with a brand new expansion, The War Within. This one’s kicking off a whole new story arc called the Worldsoul Saga, which feels like a pretty big deal for a game that’s been around forever. They’re saying it’s more approachable now, which is good news if you’re new or just want to dip in and out. But don’t worry, all the stuff veterans love, like those tough Mythic dungeons and world quests, are still there. Plus, they’ve added some new things like Warbands and Delves that sound pretty interesting.
This expansion is really trying to be something for everyone, whether you’re a hardcore player or just someone who likes to log in now and then. It’s a big undertaking, launching a new saga for a game with such a long history, but it seems like they’re aiming for a fresh start that still respects the old ways. It’ll be cool to see how it all plays out and if it can keep players hooked for another decade.
5. Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred
Alright, so Diablo IV was already a pretty solid dungeon crawler, right? But then they dropped the first big expansion, Vessel of Hatred, and things got way more interesting. This isn’t just a little add-on; it’s a whole new story chapter that picks up right after the main game ends, digging into Mephisto’s whole creepy vibe.
They also tweaked a bunch of stuff in the core game, like how you level up, and honestly, a lot of those improvements are for everyone, expansion or not. But the real star of Vessel of Hatred has to be the new Spiritborn class. This thing is built for fast, close-up combat, chaining attacks together smoothly. You can even mix and match different fighting styles, which is pretty neat.
Here’s a quick rundown of what’s new:
- New Story Chapter: Continues the narrative from the base game, focusing on Mephisto’s influence.
- Spiritborn Class: A new melee-focused class with combo-driven attacks.
- Core Game Improvements: Various updates to gameplay and leveling systems, many available to all players.
- Expanded World: Explore new areas and face new challenges.
The Spiritborn class really changes up the combat. It feels fresh and gives you a lot of options for how you want to play. If you were already into Diablo IV, this expansion is a no-brainer. It adds a good chunk of content and a really cool new way to play.
6. Alan Wake 2
Man, Remedy really went all out with Alan Wake 2. After a long wait, they brought us back to this creepy world, but this time, it’s less "action thriller" and more "full-on survival horror." Seriously, some parts had me looking over my shoulder.
The story is pretty wild, with Alan trying to write his way out of this dark place he’s stuck in. You also play as Saga Anderson, an FBI agent, and you can actually switch between their stories whenever you want. It’s a neat way to piece things together.
What really stands out is the atmosphere. The graphics are top-notch, and the music? Chef’s kiss. They even manage to pull off a musical number that’s somehow both bizarre and totally unforgettable. It’s a game that messes with your head, in a good way. The puzzles can be tough, and the combat keeps you on edge, making you think twice about every move. It’s a pretty intense experience, and definitely a must-play if you’ve got a rig that can handle it.
7. Silent Hill 2
Okay, let’s talk about Silent Hill 2. This isn’t just any horror game; it’s a masterclass in psychological dread. The remake, developed by Bloober Team, takes the original’s unsettling atmosphere and cranks it up for a modern audience. They’ve managed to keep what made the first one so special – that creeping sense of unease, the disturbing creature designs, and the deeply personal story – while updating the gameplay.
The combat has been reworked to feel more immediate, which can be a bit jarring at first if you’re used to the original’s clunkier feel, but it adds to the tension. You’re not a super-soldier here; you’re just a regular guy trying to survive. The environments feel more open, giving you more space to explore, but they never lose that claustrophobic, suffocating vibe that Silent Hill is known for. The sound design is also top-notch, really pulling you into James Sunderland’s nightmare.
If you’ve never played it, this remake is a fantastic way to experience a true classic. And if you have, well, it’s a chance to see it through a new lens. You can check out some gameplay footage here to get a feel for it. It’s a game that sticks with you long after the credits roll, making you think about its themes of guilt, grief, and repression.
8. Monster Hunter Wilds
Get ready, hunters, because Monster Hunter Wilds is shaping up to be a massive leap forward for the series. Capcom is really leaning into the open-world aspect this time around, ditching the loading screens between zones for a truly seamless experience. You’ll be exploring vast, interconnected regions, each packed with unique creatures and resources. It feels like a natural evolution from what Monster Hunter World started, but with even more polish and ambition.
One of the big changes is how they’re streamlining the hunt itself. Tracking monsters is supposed to be more straightforward, and there’s a new ‘wound system’ that gives you mini-goals during those long, drawn-out battles. This should make it easier to see your progress as you take down the game’s impressive roster of beasts. Plus, they’re adding the ability to switch weapons on the fly during a hunt, which is a huge deal for strategy and adapting to different situations. You can even bring along a second weapon, which is a true game-changer.
While playing solo with NPC hunters is an option, this game is definitely best enjoyed with friends. Coordinating your loadouts and weapon choices adds a whole new layer of tactical depth. The visuals are looking pretty stunning, especially the seasonal changes that really bring the world to life. However, some folks have noted that PC performance can be a bit of a challenge, especially if your rig isn’t top-tier. You might need something like a Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 or an AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT to get the best experience. It’s a trade-off, but for many, the sheer fun of the hunt will be well worth it.
9. Pacific Drive
Okay, so Pacific Drive is a really interesting one. It’s a newer game, and it’s definitely got that "New Weird" vibe going on, kind of like some of those creepy online stories or even games like Control.
Basically, you’re driving through this super mysterious and off-limits area called the Olympic Exclusion Zone. It’s a roguelite, which means you’ll be doing a bunch of runs, and each time you go out, things can be a little different. The whole point is to survive and gather resources while dealing with all sorts of bizarre supernatural stuff. Think moving mannequins when you’re not looking or weird buzzsaws that just pop up on the road.
The atmosphere and sound design in this game are seriously top-notch, making it a really unique survival experience. It’s not just about fighting; it’s about managing your car, which is pretty much your only companion out there. You’ve got to keep it running, upgrade it, and make sure it can handle whatever the Zone throws at you. It’s a game that really pulls you in with its strange world and the constant tension of just trying to make it back to your garage.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll be doing:
- Embark on expeditions into the hazardous Olympic Exclusion Zone.
- Gather resources to maintain and upgrade your trusty station wagon.
- Survive supernatural anomalies and strange phenomena that defy explanation.
- Unravel the mysteries of the Zone and your own past through your drives.
10. Disco Elysium
Okay, so let’s talk about Disco Elysium. This game is something else, honestly. You wake up as a detective with absolutely no memory, and you’ve got a murder to solve. Sounds pretty standard for an RPG, right? But here’s where it gets wild: your own thoughts and skills are basically characters you talk to. Seriously, your ‘Inland Empire’ might tell you to do something completely bonkers, or your ‘Logic’ might try to talk you out of it. It’s a really unique way to handle character progression and decision-making.
The writing in this game is just top-tier, blending dark humor with some surprisingly deep philosophical stuff. You’ll be chuckling one minute and then pondering the meaning of existence the next. The world of Revachol feels lived-in, gritty, and full of people with their own stories, even the ones you only meet for a minute. It plays out a lot like a tabletop RPG, with dice rolls determining the success of your actions, which adds a fun layer of unpredictability.
What I really appreciate is the sheer freedom you have. You can approach the investigation in so many different ways, and your choices genuinely shape how the story unfolds and how people react to you. It’s not just about finding the killer; it’s about figuring out who you are in this mess. If you’re looking for an RPG that really puts narrative and character first, you absolutely have to check out Disco Elysium: The Final Cut. It’s a game that sticks with you long after you’ve finished it.
So, What’s Next?
Alright, so that’s our rundown of some seriously great games you can play on your PC. We tried to hit a bunch of different styles, so hopefully, there’s something here that catches your eye, whether you just got a new rig or you’re looking to get more out of the one you already have. PC gaming is always changing, with new stuff coming out all the time, but these titles are solid choices right now. Go ahead and fire up your machine and get playing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a PC game stand out from console games?
PC games often use better graphics and can be played with more controls, like a mouse and keyboard. They also get updates that can change how they look and play, making them feel fresh.
Do I need a super-fast computer to play these games?
Not always! While some games look amazing with top-notch computers, many of these titles can still be enjoyed on less powerful machines. The graphics might not be as fancy, but the fun is still there.
Are there ways to get these games for cheaper?
Yes! Besides buying them directly, you can often find good deals on other online stores. Some games are also available through subscription services like PC Game Pass, which lets you play many games for a monthly fee.
What is PC Game Pass and is it worth it?
PC Game Pass is a service that gives you access to a large collection of games for a monthly price. It’s a great way to try out many different games you might not buy on your own, so it can be a good value.
How do you decide which games make the ‘best PC games’ list?
The people who make this list play a lot of games! They test them thoroughly and consider different types of games to make sure there’s something for everyone. They also update the list regularly to include new and exciting titles.
Can I play some of these PC games on a Steam Deck?
Yes, many PC games work well on the Steam Deck. It’s a handheld device that can play a lot of the same games you’d find on a PC, offering a portable gaming experience.
