The 50 best PC Games of all time

Definitive guide to the 50 greatest PC games of all time across genres and eras

Introduction: The Ultimate PC Gaming Journey

PC gaming spans generations of innovation and entertainment, but which titles truly stand the test of time? Our comprehensive guide delivers the definitive answer.

Determining the absolute best PC games requires careful consideration across decades of releases. The platform’s versatility offers everything from competitive shooters to immersive RPGs, each bringing unique experiences to the table.

Our selection process involved extensive team collaboration and debate, starting with over 100 potential candidates before narrowing to these 50 exceptional titles. We balanced personal favorites with genre-defining classics to create a diverse list that offers something for every type of gamer.

This collection represents the pinnacle of PC gaming achievement, featuring groundbreaking mechanics, unforgettable stories, and revolutionary gameplay systems that have shaped the industry.

We’ve also noted PC Game Pass availability, providing cost-effective access to many of these masterpieces for subscribers seeking instant gaming gratification.

50. Chivalry 2 (2021)

Genre: Hack and slash
Multiplayer: Yes
Available on PC Game Pass? Yes

What it’s about: Building on Chivalry: Medieval Warfare’s foundation, this sequel delivers massive 64-player medieval warfare with authentic combat mechanics and chaotic battlefield dynamics.

Why we like it: Chivalry 2 masterfully blends brutal medieval combat with unexpected humor, creating unforgettable large-scale battles reminiscent of epic fantasy films. The combat system rewards skill and timing while maintaining accessibility.

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Beyond the Monty Python-inspired voice acting, the gameplay itself generates comedy through improvised weapons and unexpected environmental interactions. The weapon mastery system provides depth, while team objective maps create structured chaos that remains engaging through hundreds of hours.

Pro Tip: Master feinting and chambering to outplay experienced opponents in duels. Use environmental objects as unexpected weapons to catch enemies off guard.

49. Dishonored 2 (2016)

Genre: Action-adventure
Multiplayer: No
Available on PC Game Pass? Yes

What it’s about: This steampunk stealth adventure lets players choose between dethroned Empress Emily Kaldwin or royal assassin Corvo Attano as they navigate political intrigue and supernatural threats.

Why we like it: Dishonored 2 refines the original’s formula with enhanced level design and dual protagonist options. The clockwork mansion and time-bending missions showcase some of gaming’s most creative environmental design.

The branching narrative responds to player choices, with lethal and non-lethal approaches significantly altering story outcomes and world state. Character progression systems allow deep customization of supernatural abilities and combat styles.

Common Mistake: New players often rely too heavily on quick-saving instead of learning level layouts and guard patterns, which diminishes immersion and challenge.

48. Dwarf Fortress (2006)

Genre: Management Sim
Multiplayer: No
Available on PC Game Pass? No, but why not try Medieval Dynasty

What it’s about: An incredibly complex colony management simulation where players guide a dwarf settlement through construction, resource management, and unexpected catastrophes.

Why we like it: Dwarf Fortress presents one of gaming’s steepest learning curves, but rewards persistence with unparalleled simulation depth. The emergent storytelling generated by its complex systems creates unique narratives with every playthrough.

Fortress Mode’s open-ended design encourages creative problem-solving, while the game’s legendary difficulty ensures memorable failures become learning experiences. The procedural generation creates worlds with rich histories and dynamic ecosystems.

Optimization Tip: Use the Dwarf Fortress Wiki extensively during early gameplay. Focus on food production and defense before expanding into complex manufacturing chains.

47. The Sims 3 (2009)

Genre: Simulator
Multiplayer: No
Available on PC Game Pass? No, but why not try Stardew Valley or Cities: Skylines

What it’s about: The third installment in the legendary life simulation franchise expands the virtual dollhouse concept with unprecedented customization and open-world elements.

Why we like it: The Sims 3 revolutionized the series by introducing seamless neighborhood exploration, eliminating loading screens between locations. The Create-a-Style tool provided limitless customization options for characters and environments.

Enhanced AI behavior created more believable character interactions and reduced frustrating pathfinding issues. The trait system allowed deeper personality customization, making each Sim feel genuinely unique rather than just visually distinct.

Words by Ava Thompson-Powell and Tom Percival

Pro Tip: Utilize the lifetime rewards system early to unlock quality-of-life improvements that significantly enhance gameplay efficiency and Sim satisfaction.

46. Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 (2000)

Genre: RTS
Multiplayer: Yes
Available on PC Game Pass? Yes

What it’s about: An alternate history RTS where World War II was avoided, leading to a bizarre conflict between Soviets and Allies involving time travel, psychic warfare, and genetically engineered monsters.

Why we like it: Red Alert 2 represents the peak of Command & Conquer’s signature blend of strategic depth and campy storytelling. The faction diversity and unique unit abilities create dynamic matches that remain compelling decades later.

Each nation’s special abilities encourage diverse strategies, while the accessible base-building mechanics lower the barrier for new RTS players. The campaign’s over-the-top narrative perfectly complements the strategic gameplay.

Common Mistake: Beginners often over-invest in advanced units without establishing proper economic foundations, leaving them vulnerable to early rushes.

45. Dota 2

Genre: MOBA
Multiplayer: Yes
Available on PC Game Pass? No, but why not try League of Legends

What it’s about: Evolving from a Warcraft III mod, Dota 2 stands as Valve’s premier MOBA, featuring deep strategic combat between teams of heroes with unique abilities.

Why we like it: With over 120 distinct heroes and constantly evolving meta, Dota 2 offers near-infinite strategic depth. The game rewards mechanical skill, game knowledge, and team coordination in equal measure.

Regular balance updates and new content keep the experience fresh, while robust anti-cheat systems maintain competitive integrity. The professional scene showcases incredible skill ceilings that inspire casual and competitive players alike.

Optimization Tip: Focus on mastering 2-3 heroes initially rather than trying to learn the entire roster. Use demo mode to practice last-hitting and ability combinations.

44. Divinity: Original Sin 2 (2014)

Genre: RPG
Multiplayer: Yes
Available on PC Game Pass? No, but why not try Wartales or Torment: Tides Of Numenera

What it’s about: Set centuries after the first game, players control an imprisoned Sourcerer with the potential to defeat the terrifying Voidwoken threat.

Why we like it: Before their Baldur’s Gate 3 triumph, Larian Studios perfected their RPG formula here. The game rewards creative problem-solving and offers meaningful choices that significantly impact the narrative.

The turn-based combat system encourages tactical use of environmental interactions and elemental combinations. Character development allows deep customization, while the origin system provides unique narrative perspectives for each playable character.

Words by Tom Percival

Pro Tip: Combine elemental surfaces strategically – oil patches can be ignited, water can be electrified, and poison clouds can be exploded for massive area damage.

43. Apex Legends (2019)

Genre: Hero shooter
Multiplayer: Yes
Available on PC Game Pass? No

What’s it about: A hero-based battle royale that combines precise shooting mechanics with unique character abilities in a competitive last-team-standing format.

Why we like it: Apex Legends emerged unexpectedly to redefine battle royale expectations. The movement system offers unparalleled fluidity, while Legend abilities create strategic depth beyond pure gunskill.

The ping system revolutionized team communication in competitive shooters, providing intuitive non-verbal coordination. Regular content updates and seasonal events maintain engagement, though matchmaking issues occasionally challenge the experience.

Words by Calum Patterson

Common Mistake: New players often prioritize ability usage over positioning and aim fundamentals. Master movement and shooting before focusing heavily on character-specific techniques.

42. Slay the Spire (2019)

Genre: Roguelike deck-building game
Multiplayer: No
Available on PC Game Pass? Yes

What it’s about: Players ascend a mysterious spire through turn-based card combat, building decks from acquired cards while facing increasingly challenging enemies and bosses.

Why we like it: Slay the Spire perfected the deck-building roguelike formula with perfectly balanced progression and immense replay value. The four distinct characters offer completely different playstyles and strategic considerations.

Resource management decisions around resting, card upgrades, and path selection create compelling risk-reward dynamics. The game’s difficulty scaling through Ascension levels provides endless challenge for dedicated players.

Words by Tyler Constable

Optimization Tip: Don’t automatically take every card offered. Focus on building synergistic combinations rather than collecting powerful but disconnected cards.

PC Gaming Action Plan

Your PC Gaming Journey Starts Here

Embarking on your PC gaming adventure requires strategy and planning. Follow this actionable checklist to maximize your experience across these legendary titles.

Remember that gaming mastery develops over time. Focus on enjoyment and gradual improvement rather than immediate perfection.

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