Figuring out the absolute best PC games ever made is a tough job. There are so many good ones, and everyone has their favorites, right? We looked at what makes a game special – how it plays, how it changed things, and if people still love playing it today. This list is our take on the top rated PC games of all time, a mix of classics and newer hits that really stand out. It’s a tough call, but these are the games we think every PC gamer should know about.
Key Takeaways
- This list focuses on the top rated PC games of all time, considering quality, influence, and lasting appeal.
- Games were selected based on a mix of critical reception, player engagement, and historical significance.
- The selection includes a variety of genres, showcasing the breadth of experiences available on PC.
- Each game represents a significant achievement in game design and player enjoyment.
- These titles are highly recommended for anyone looking to explore the best of PC gaming history.
1. The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild
Okay, so let’s talk about The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This game, man, it really changed things up for the Zelda series, didn’t it? It dropped us into this massive, open Hyrule that felt so alive, but also kind of… empty, in a good way. You know, like a quiet forest after a rain. It wasn’t just about fighting monsters and saving the princess; it was about exploring, figuring things out on your own, and just soaking in the atmosphere. The sense of freedom you get from just gliding off a cliff or climbing any mountain you see is something else.
It’s a game that trusts you to find your own adventure. You’re given a few tools and then pointed towards a huge world with very little hand-holding. This approach really makes you feel like you’re discovering things for yourself, whether it’s a hidden shrine, a quirky character, or just a really cool view. It’s a big departure from older Zelda games, which often had a more set path.
Here are a few things that make it stand out:
- Exploration is key: You can go almost anywhere from the start. The map is huge and full of secrets.
- Physics and chemistry engine: Things interact in cool ways. Fire burns grass, metal conducts electricity, and wind can carry your glider.
- Survival elements: You need to manage stamina, cook food for health and buffs, and deal with different weather conditions.
It’s the kind of game that sticks with you long after you’ve put the controller down. If you’re looking for a truly epic adventure, this is definitely one to check out. It’s a prime example of what makes open-world games so great, and it really set a new standard for the genre. You can find out more about this amazing title on its official page.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Wii U
2. Tetris
It’s kind of wild to think about, but Tetris is one of those games that’s been around forever. Seriously, it’s one of the oldest games on this whole list, coming out way back before 1990. Created by Alexey Pajitnov, this game is all about fitting falling blocks, called tetrominoes, together to make complete lines. When you make a line, poof, it disappears, and you get points. The more lines you clear, the faster the blocks fall, and the harder it gets. Tetris is a masterclass in simple, addictive gameplay that just works.
What’s so great about Tetris is how easy it is to pick up, but man, it’s tough to master. You can play it on pretty much anything, too. It holds the Guinness World Record for being the most ported game ever, showing up on over 65 different platforms officially. That’s a lot of places to stack some blocks!
Here’s a quick look at why it’s so enduring:
- Simple Concept: Falling blocks, clear lines. That’s it. No complicated story, no complex controls.
- Endless Replayability: The game never really ends; it just gets faster and more challenging.
- Universal Appeal: It’s a puzzle game that anyone, anywhere, can understand and enjoy.
- Satisfying Feedback: Clearing lines gives you a nice little visual and auditory reward that keeps you playing.
Even with all the fancy new games out there, Tetris still holds its own. It’s the perfect game to play when you have a few minutes to kill or when you just want something straightforward and fun.
3. The Last Of Us
Okay, so let’s talk about The Last of Us. This game, man, it really hit different when it came out. Naughty Dog took a huge swing with this one, basically making a post-apocalyptic road trip story that felt like something out of a gritty novel. And it paid off, big time. It’s one of those games that sticks with you long after you’ve put the controller down.
The story follows Joel, a guy just trying to survive in a world gone to hell after a fungal outbreak. He ends up escorting Ellie, a young girl who might be the key to humanity’s survival, across the country. Their journey is rough, I mean, really rough. You’re constantly on edge, not just from the infected, but from other survivors who are just as dangerous, if not more so. The relationship that builds between Joel and Ellie is the heart of it all. It’s not just about surviving; it’s about finding something to hold onto in a world that’s lost everything.
What makes it so special?
- The characters feel incredibly real. You get so invested in Joel and Ellie’s struggles and their growing bond.
- The world-building is top-notch. It’s bleak, sure, but it’s also incredibly detailed and believable.
- The gameplay is tense and strategic. You can’t just run and gun; you have to think about your resources and how you approach every encounter.
It’s a game that really makes you feel things, you know? It’s a masterclass in storytelling and character development, and honestly, it’s a benchmark for what narrative games can achieve. If you haven’t played it, you’re missing out on a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a game that’s hard to forget, kind of like how some people still talk about the impact of games like Absolum on the beat ’em up genre, even with its flaws.
4. Super Mario 64
Man, where do you even start with Super Mario 64? This game wasn’t just a step forward for Mario; it was a giant leap for gaming itself. It basically invented the 3D platformer as we know it. Before this, Mario was stuck on a flat plane, but suddenly, he was free to run, jump, and explore in a whole new dimension. It was mind-blowing back in 1996, and honestly, it still holds up.
Think about it: the sheer freedom you felt just running around Peach’s Castle before even diving into a painting. That sense of discovery was huge. Each world felt like its own little playground, packed with secrets and challenges that made you want to keep exploring.
Here’s a little breakdown of what made it so special:
- Revolutionary 3D Movement: The analog stick control was a game-changer, allowing for precise movement in all directions. You could finally control Mario’s speed and direction with incredible nuance.
- Open-Ended Level Design: Instead of linear paths, levels were designed as mini-sandboxes. You had multiple objectives within each world, encouraging replayability and exploration.
- Iconic Soundtrack: The music is just unforgettable. From the cheerful main theme to the atmospheric tunes of each world, it perfectly captured the game’s adventurous spirit.
It’s the kind of game that just oozes fun. Even the little things, like being able to mess with Mario’s face on the title screen, showed a level of polish and creativity that was rare. It really set the standard for 3D game design and is still a blast to play today. It’s like comfort food in video game form.
5. The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time
Okay, so let’s talk about The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. This game, man, it’s something else. It came out way back in 1998 for the Nintendo 64, and honestly, it just changed everything for so many people, myself included. It wasn’t just another adventure game; it felt like a whole new way to tell stories in video games. It showed us that digital worlds could be more than just fun distractions; they could be places with real depth and emotion.
Sure, on the surface, it’s the classic tale: a young hero, Link, has to save Hyrule from the evil Ganondorf. You travel through different lands, solve puzzles in dungeons, and collect important items. But what makes Ocarina of Time stick with you, even after all these years, is how incredibly well-crafted it all is. The music, especially the ocarina songs you learn, is unforgettable. Every dungeon feels unique, and the townsfolk in places like Kakariko Village and Castle Town feel alive. The way the world shifts when you go from being Young Link to Adult Link is still mind-blowing, and that final showdown with Ganondorf? Goosebumps every time.
It’s the kind of game where you can play it again and again and still find little details you missed before. It really set a new standard for 3D adventure games and open-world design, and that’s why it’s still talked about so much today. It’s just a masterpiece that holds up.
6. Hades
Okay, so let’s talk about Hades. If you’re like me and sometimes roguelikes feel a bit too punishing, this might just be the game to change your mind. It’s got this amazing way of making you feel like you’re always making progress, even when you’re, you know, dying. A lot.
The story is surprisingly deep for a game where you’re constantly trying to escape the underworld. You play as Zagreus, son of Hades, and you’re trying to get out. Along the way, you meet all these cool characters from Greek mythology, and they all have their own little stories and personalities. It’s rare that a game manages to blend such compelling narrative with addictive gameplay, but Hades pulls it off.
What really makes it stand out are the boons you get from the gods. Each god offers different power-ups, and figuring out which ones work best together is half the fun. It’s like a puzzle, but with lightning bolts and stuff.
Here’s a quick look at how the boon system generally works:
- Zeus: Focuses on lightning damage and chain lightning effects.
- Poseidon: Adds knockback and water-based attacks.
- Athena: Offers defensive abilities and deflects.
- Ares: Deals damage over time and curses enemies.
The art style is gorgeous, too. Everything is so detailed and vibrant, it really brings the underworld to life. And the music? Absolutely fantastic. It really gets you pumped up for each escape attempt. If you’re looking for a game that’s hard to put down, and you want to try something that feels fresh and exciting, give Hades a shot. You might just find yourself hooked, just like so many others have.
7. Grand Theft Auto 5
Alright, let’s talk about Grand Theft Auto 5. This game is just massive, right? It dropped back in 2015, and honestly, it still feels pretty relevant. You get to explore Los Santos, which is this huge, sunny city that’s seen better days. It’s packed with all sorts of characters, from folks trying to get famous to people who used to be big deals.
The real magic of GTA 5 is how it lets you switch between three very different main characters: Franklin, Michael, and Trevor. Each one has their own story and way of doing things. Franklin’s trying to make a name for himself, Michael’s dealing with a complicated retirement, and Trevor? Well, he’s just pure chaos.
What makes this game stick around is the sheer freedom it offers. You can follow the main story, which involves some pretty wild heists, or just mess around in the open world.
Here’s a quick look at what you can get up to:
- Heists: Plan and execute elaborate robberies, from small-time jobs to massive bank jobs.
- Exploration: Drive, fly, or sail around the massive map of Los Santos and Blaine County.
- Side Activities: Play tennis, go golfing, race cars, do yoga, or even invest in the stock market.
- Online Mode: Jump into GTA Online for endless multiplayer fun with friends, from cooperative missions to competitive games.
It’s a game that really lets you live out different fantasies, whether you’re a criminal mastermind or just want to cause some mayhem. Even years later, people are still finding new ways to play, especially with all the mods out there for the PC version. It’s a world you can really get lost in.
8. Deus Ex
Man, Deus Ex. What a trip. Released way back in 2000, this game was something else. It’s a first-person shooter, sure, but it’s also got all these RPG elements and a story that’s just dripping with conspiracy theories. You play as JC Denton, a super-agent who can get augmentations, basically superpowers, to help him out. The cool thing is, you can play it however you want. Want to sneak around and avoid everyone? Go for it. Want to blast your way through? You can do that too. It’s got this really deep story about corporations, government control, and the future of humanity that, honestly, feels even more relevant today than it did back then.
Here’s a quick look at what made it special:
- Player Choice: Seriously, the game lets you tackle objectives in so many different ways. It’s not just about shooting; you can hack, talk your way through, or use stealth.
- Augmentations: These are like your special abilities. You can get things like invisibility, super strength, or even the ability to see through walls. Picking the right ones for your playstyle is key.
- Conspiracy-Laden Story: The plot is wild, involving secret societies, government cover-ups, and a whole lot of ‘what if’ scenarios about technology and society.
It might look a bit dated now, and the voice acting is… well, it’s something. But underneath all that, Deus Ex is a masterclass in game design. It’s the kind of game that sticks with you long after you’ve finished it, making you think about the world and how things work. It really set a standard for what games could be.
9. Into The Breach
Into the Breach is a game that really makes you think. It’s a turn-based strategy game where you control mechs fighting off giant bugs, called kaiju. The core gameplay loop is incredibly satisfying, blending tactical combat with roguelike elements. You’re dropped onto a small 8×8 grid, and you have to figure out how to survive waves of enemies. It sounds simple, but the way the game presents challenges is brilliant. You can see exactly what the enemy is going to do next turn, so it becomes this intense puzzle of how to minimize damage and take out the biggest threats.
What makes Into the Breach stand out is its clever design. You’re not just trying to win; sometimes, you have to make tough choices about which buildings to sacrifice or which pilot might not make it. It feels like a desperate battle for survival, which fits the story perfectly. Plus, there’s a ton of replayability because you unlock different squads of mechs, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles.
Here are a few things that make it so good:
- Strategic Depth: Every move matters. You have to consider enemy attacks, your mech’s abilities, and the environment.
- Roguelike Structure: Unlocking new squads and upgrades keeps the game fresh, even after many playthroughs.
- Meaningful Choices: You’re often faced with no-win scenarios, forcing you to make difficult decisions that have real consequences.
It’s a game that’s easy to pick up but offers a lot of depth for those who want to master it. If you enjoy puzzle-like strategy games, you should definitely check out Into the Breach.
10. Bioshock
Man, where do I even start with Bioshock? This game just sticks with you, you know? It drops you into this underwater city called Rapture, which was supposed to be this perfect place but, surprise, it’s totally gone to hell. You’re basically trying to figure out what happened while fighting off these creepy, mutated people and these giant robot-like dudes called Big Daddies.
The atmosphere in Rapture is just something else; it’s this creepy, art deco style that feels both beautiful and totally unsettling. You’ve got these plasmids you can find that give you crazy powers, like shooting lightning or setting stuff on fire. It really changes how you approach fights, making it more than just a simple shooter.
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the cool stuff you can do:
- Use Plasmids: These are like magic powers you inject into yourself. Think telekinesis, fire, or even mind control.
- Hack Systems: You can mess with security cameras, turrets, and even vending machines to help you out.
- Craft Items: Gather resources to make ammo, health packs, and other useful things.
- Explore: The city itself is a character, full of audio logs and environmental storytelling that piece together the messed-up history of Rapture.
It’s one of those games where the story really pulls you in, and you’re constantly wondering what’s going to happen next. Definitely a classic for a reason.
Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it. We’ve looked at a bunch of games that have really made their mark on PC gaming over the years. It wasn’t easy picking just a few, and honestly, everyone’s got their own favorites, right? This list is just our take, based on what we think makes a game truly special – whether it’s how it played, how it changed things, or just how much fun it is to jump back into. Hopefully, this gives you some ideas for your next gaming session, or maybe just a good trip down memory lane. There are so many amazing games out there, and it’s pretty cool to see how far PC gaming has come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are these games chosen?
These games are picked by a team of game experts who vote on them. They look at how good the game is, how much it changed gaming, how many people still play and love it, and how easy it is to play on modern computers. It’s a mix of what the experts think is great and what players enjoy.
Why is The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild number one?
Breath of the Wild is seen as a game-changer for open-world games. It lets players explore a huge world freely, solve puzzles in many ways, and fight enemies however they want. It gives players a lot of freedom to discover things on their own.
What makes Tetris so special?
Tetris is a super simple game that’s been around for a long time. Its easy-to-learn but hard-to-master gameplay makes it fun for everyone. It’s also been put on almost every device ever made, which shows how popular it is.
Is The Last of Us only on PlayStation?
While The Last of Us started on PlayStation, it has since been released on PC as well. This means more people can experience its amazing story and characters.
Why is Super Mario 64 on this list?
Super Mario 64 was a huge deal when it first came out because it brought Mario into 3D! It was one of the first games to let players explore a 3D world freely. It’s still super fun to play and is loved for its great movement and levels.
What is Deus Ex?
Deus Ex is a classic role-playing game where you make choices that really affect the story. It mixes shooting, sneaking, and talking with other characters to create a deep and exciting experience.
