Over the past decade, the PC gaming landscape has witnessed the release of exceptional games that have elevated the platform to the same level as the latest consoles such as the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Thanks to services like Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, accessing popular and viral games has become even more convenient, eliminating the need for extensive hard drive space or costly hardware.
In fact, PC gaming offers certain advantages over consoles, particularly due to the technical capabilities of top-notch graphics cards and PC processors. These enhancements include superior framerates, resolutions, cutting-edge features like ray-tracing and HDR, and the immersive experiences facilitated by the best gaming monitors. For gamers who prefer using a gamepad, the Xbox controller comes highly recommended. If you’re looking to grab one at a discounted price, keep an eye on our Black Friday Xbox Controller Deals page, as the best deals are expected to roll out around November 25. Additionally, for comfortable gaming sessions, consider exploring gaming chair options during Black Friday. Our Black Friday gaming chair deals page will assist you in finding the finest choices.
Whether you possess an impressive PC gaming setup or simply play games on your everyday laptop, we have compiled a list of the top PC games available right now. While not every game will appeal to every individual, there are certainly one or two titles that will capture your interest.
Number 1. Elden Ring
Elden Ring is an action role-playing game developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. The game, directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, was made in collaboration with fantasy novelist George R. R. Martin, who provided material for the game’s setting. Released for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S on February 25, 2022, Elden Ring is presented through a third-person perspective, with players freely roaming its interactive open world. Gameplay elements include combat, exploration, and character development similar to those found in previous Souls games, while the open world design allows players to explore the Lands Between at their own pace and choose their own path to the game’s conclusion.
The Lands Between is a realm ruled by the demigod offspring of Queen Marika the Eternal, each possessing a shard of the titular Elden Ring that corrupts and taints them with power. As a Tarnished — exiles from the Lands Between who lost the Ring’s grace — summoned back after the Shattering, players must traverse the realm to find all the Great Runes, restore the Elden Ring, and become the Elden Lord.
Elden Ring received critical acclaim, with praise for its open world design, gameplay, and presentation. It is considered one of the greatest video games of all time, and won numerous awards, including Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2022.
Here are some of the features of Elden Ring:
- Open world: Elden Ring is an open world game, which means players are free to explore the Lands Between at their own pace. There are no strict objectives or goals, and players can choose to focus on the main story, complete side quests, or simply explore the world and discover its secrets.
- Combat: Elden Ring features challenging combat that is similar to other FromSoftware games. Players must carefully choose their attacks and dodge enemy attacks in order to survive. The game also features a variety of weapons and armor that players can use to customize their character’s playstyle.
- Exploration: The Lands Between is a vast and beautiful world that is full of secrets to discover. Players can find hidden dungeons, treasures, and NPCs throughout the world. Exploration is rewarded with powerful items and weapons that can help players in their quest to become the Elden Lord.
- Character development: Players can customize their character’s appearance, stats, and skills. This allows players to create a character that fits their playstyle and preferences. As players progress through the game, they will earn experience points that can be used to level up their character and improve their stats.
- Multiplayer: Elden Ring supports both cooperative and competitive multiplayer. Players can team up with friends to explore the world and defeat enemies, or they can challenge other players to PvP battles.
Elden Ring is a challenging but rewarding game that offers a vast and immersive world to explore. If you’re a fan of open world games or challenging RPGs, then Elden Ring is definitely worth checking out.
Number 2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an action role-playing game developed and published by CD Projekt. It is the sequel to the 2011 game The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings and the third game in The Witcher video game series, played in an open world with a third-person perspective. The games follow The Witcher series of fantasy novels written by Andrzej Sapkowski.
The game takes place in a fictional fantasy world based on Slavic mythology. Players control Geralt of Rivia, a monster slayer for hire known as a Witcher, and search for his adopted daughter, Ciri, who is on the run from the otherworldly Wild Hunt.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an open world game, meaning players are free to explore the game’s world at their own pace. The game world is divided into several regions, each with its own unique environment and inhabitants. Players can complete quests, explore dungeons, and fight monsters in any order they choose.
The game’s combat system is based on a combination of swordplay, magic, and alchemy. Players can use a variety of weapons and abilities to defeat their enemies. The game also features a morality system, which affects the way Geralt interacts with the world around him.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt was released in May 2015 for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. The game was a critical and commercial success, selling over 28 million copies worldwide. It received numerous awards, including Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2015.
The game is considered to be one of the greatest video games of all time. It has been praised for its open world design, story, characters, and visuals. The game’s morality system has also been praised for its complexity and impact on the story.
If you are a fan of open world games, role-playing games, or fantasy games, then you should definitely check out The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. It is an amazing game that will keep you entertained for hours on end.
Here are some of the game’s strengths:
- Open world design: The game world is vast and full of things to explore. There are dozens of side quests to complete, as well as hidden treasures and locations to find.
- Story: The game’s story is well-written and engaging. It features complex characters and a plot that will keep you guessing until the very end.
- Characters: The game’s characters are well-developed and memorable. Geralt is a complex and relatable protagonist, and the supporting cast is equally impressive.
- Visuals: The game’s visuals are stunning. The world is beautifully rendered, and the character models are incredibly detailed.
- Gameplay: The gameplay is challenging and rewarding. There are a variety of different ways to approach combat, and the game’s morality system adds an extra layer of depth.
Overall, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an amazing game that is sure to please fans of open world games, role-playing games, and fantasy games. It is a must-play for anyone who enjoys a good story, challenging gameplay, and stunning visuals.
Number 3. Ghostrunner
Ghostrunner is a first-person perspective (FPP) action-adventure game developed by One More Level and Slipgate Ironworks, produced by 3D Realms, and co-published by 505 Games and All in! Games. It was released for the PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One in October 2020, and Nintendo Switch in November 2020, followed by a next gen release for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S in September 2021. A version for Amazon Luna was made available in April 2021. A story expansion, titled Ghostrunner: Project Hel, was released on 3 March 2022. A sequel, Ghostrunner II, is scheduled for release in 2023.
In Ghostrunner, the player controls Jack, a cybernetically enhanced warrior who must ascend Dharma Tower, a megastructure that is humanity’s last remaining city. The tower is ruled by Mara the Keymaster, a tyrannical ruler who has enslaved the remaining humans. Jack must use his speed, agility, and katana to defeat Mara’s forces and reach the top of the tower.
The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player must use their reflexes and skills to navigate the tower’s many obstacles and enemies. Jack can run, jump, wall-run, and grapple, and he can also use his katana to slice through enemies. The game features a “cybervoid” mechanic that allows Jack to slow down time, which can be used to dodge enemy attacks or make precise jumps.
Ghostrunner is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding. The game’s fast-paced combat and fluid movement make it a blast to play, and the game’s visuals are stunning. Ghostrunner is a must-play for fans of action-adventure games.
Here are some of the features of Ghostrunner:
- Fast-paced, action-packed gameplay
- Fluid movement and combat
- Stunning visuals
- challenging but rewarding gameplay
- A unique cyberpunk setting
- A story-driven campaign
- A variety of enemies and bosses to fight
- A variety of abilities and upgrades to unlock
- A free demo available on Steam
If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding action-adventure game, then Ghostrunner is definitely worth checking out.
Number 4. Forza Horizon 5
Forza Horizon 5 is a racing video game developed by Playground Games and published by Xbox Game Studios. It is the fifth Forza Horizon title and twelfth main instalment in the Forza series. The game is set in a fictionalised representation of Mexico.
Forza Horizon 5 features a large open world environment for players to explore, with a variety of different biomes to race through, including deserts, jungles, beaches, and snow-capped mountains. The game also features a wide variety of cars to choose from, with over 500 vehicles available at launch.
In addition to the main campaign, Forza Horizon 5 also features a variety of multiplayer modes, including online racing, co-op challenges, and a new game mode called Horizon Arcade. Horizon Arcade is a series of short, community-based challenges that players can participate in to earn rewards.
Forza Horizon 5 was released on November 5, 2021 for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows. The game received positive reviews from critics, with praise for its visuals, gameplay, and variety of content.
Here are some of the key features of Forza Horizon 5:
- Large open world environment: Forza Horizon 5 features a vast open world environment set in Mexico. The world is full of different biomes to explore, including deserts, jungles, beaches, and snow-capped mountains.
- Wide variety of cars: Forza Horizon 5 features a wide variety of cars to choose from, with over 500 vehicles available at launch. Players can choose from a variety of different cars, including sports cars, supercars, off-road vehicles, and classic cars.
- Variety of gameplay modes: Forza Horizon 5 features a variety of gameplay modes, including the main campaign, multiplayer racing, co-op challenges, and Horizon Arcade.
- Visually stunning: Forza Horizon 5 is a visually stunning game. The game features realistic graphics and a dynamic weather system.
- Accurate physics: Forza Horizon 5 features accurate physics. Players can feel the weight of their cars and the effects of the terrain on their driving.
- Challenging gameplay: Forza Horizon 5 is a challenging game. Players will need to master their driving skills in order to succeed in the game.
- Variety of content: Forza Horizon 5 features a variety of content. Players can explore the open world, race against other players, complete challenges, and customize their cars.
Overall, Forza Horizon 5 is a great racing game. It features a large open world environment, a wide variety of cars, and a variety of gameplay modes. The game is visually stunning and features accurate physics. Forza Horizon 5 is a challenging game that will keep players entertained for hours on end.
Number 5. God of War
God of War is an action-adventure game developed by Santa Monica Studio and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. It was released for the PlayStation 4 in April 2018, with a Windows port in January 2022. The game is the eighth installment in the God of War series, the eighth chronologically, and the sequel to 2010’s God of War III. Unlike previous games, which were loosely based on Greek mythology, this installment is loosely inspired by Norse mythology, with the majority of it set in ancient Scandinavia in the realm of Midgard.
The game is set many years after the events of God of War III. Kratos has now settled in the realm of Midgard with his son, Atreus. Kratos is still haunted by his past, and he is determined to keep Atreus from repeating his mistakes. The two of them set out on a journey to spread the ashes of Kratos’s late wife, Faye, at the highest peak of the nine realms.
Along the way, Kratos and Atreus encounter a variety of Norse gods and monsters. They must use their skills and teamwork to survive in this harsh and unforgiving world. The game’s combat system has been completely overhauled, with a greater emphasis on close-quarters combat and the use of Kratos’s Leviathan Axe. The game also features a more open-ended world than previous installments, with players free to explore at their own pace.
God of War received critical acclaim upon release, with praise for its story, characters, combat, and visuals. It was also a commercial success, selling over 10 million copies worldwide. The game won numerous awards, including Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2018.
If you’re a fan of action-adventure games, then God of War is definitely worth checking out. It’s a visually stunning game with a gripping story and memorable characters. The combat is challenging and satisfying, and the world is full of secrets to discover. If you’re looking for a new game to sink your teeth into, then God of War is a great option.
Number 6. Red Dead Redemption
Red Dead Redemption, developed by Rockstar San Diego and published by Rockstar Games, is an immersive Western-themed action-adventure game that serves as a prequel to the highly acclaimed Red Dead Redemption 2. Originally released in May 2010 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, the game takes players on a captivating journey through a fictionalized representation of the United States in 1911.
Playing as the rugged outlaw John Marston, a former member of the notorious Van der Linde gang, players must navigate the harsh realities of a fading Wild West while contending with government forces, rival gangs, and other formidable adversaries. With its expansive open world and gripping narrative, Red Dead Redemption offers a third-person perspective that allows players to fully immerse themselves in the richly detailed environments.
The game offers a compelling blend of mission-based gameplay, where players undertake linear scenarios with specific objectives to progress the story, and the option to freely explore the vast open world. The American states of New Austin and West Elizabeth, along with the fictional Mexican state of Nuevo Paraíso, provide a captivating backdrop for players to discover and unravel the intricacies of Marston’s tale. Utilizing different breeds of horses as the primary means of transportation adds an authentic touch, each breed offering unique attributes and characteristics.
Red Dead Redemption garnered widespread critical acclaim, lauded for its expansive open world, engaging gameplay mechanics, well-crafted story, and memorable characters. It achieved commercial success, selling over 15 million copies worldwide. The game received numerous prestigious awards, including Game of the Year at both the 2010 Spike Video Game Awards and the BAFTA Games Awards.
In 2018, the release of Red Dead Redemption 2 further expanded the gripping narrative of the series. Set in 1899 and following the exploits of outlaw Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, Red Dead Redemption 2 continued the legacy of its predecessor and solidified its status as one of the greatest video games of all time.
Both Red Dead Redemption and Red Dead Redemption 2 are available for purchase on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows. Furthermore, Red Dead Redemption is also accessible on Xbox Series X/S through backward compatibility, ensuring that players can experience these exceptional games on modern platforms.
Number 7. Diablo 4
Diablo IV is a multiplayer action role-playing game developed and published by Blizzard Entertainment. It is the fourth main installment in the Diablo series and was released on June 6, 2023 for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
The game is set in the fictional world of Sanctuary, which is once again under threat from the forces of Hell. Players create a character from one of five classes: Barbarian, Druid, Necromancer, Rogue, or Sorcerer, and use their skills to complete quests through combat. The game features a vast open world, which players can explore freely. They can also take on side quests, engage in PvP combat, or join clans.
Diablo IV is a loot-based game, and players will find a variety of weapons, armor, and other items as they explore the world. These items can be equipped to improve the player’s character’s stats and abilities. The game also features a randomly generated dungeon system, which provides players with a new challenge each time they play.
Diablo IV has been praised for its visuals, gameplay, and atmosphere. The game has received a Metacritic score of 88, indicating “universal acclaim”.
Here are some of the key features of Diablo IV:
- Vast open world: Players can explore a vast open world, which is filled with dungeons, towns, and other locations.
- Five playable classes: Players can choose from one of five playable classes: Barbarian, Druid, Necromancer, Rogue, or Sorcerer.
- Loot-based gameplay: Players will find a variety of weapons, armor, and other items as they explore the world. These items can be equipped to improve the player’s character’s stats and abilities.
- Randomly generated dungeons: The game features a randomly generated dungeon system, which provides players with a new challenge each time they play.
- PvP combat: Players can engage in PvP combat with other players.
- Clans: Players can join clans to cooperate with other players and complete quests.
Diablo IV is a challenging and rewarding game that offers hours of entertainment. If you are a fan of the Diablo series or action role-playing games in general, then you should definitely check out Diablo IV.
Number 8. Microsoft Flight Simulator
Microsoft Flight Simulator (also referred to as MSFS) is a series of flight simulation programs for Microsoft Windows and Xbox operating systems. It was an early product in the Microsoft application portfolio and differed significantly from Microsoft’s other software, which was largely business-oriented.
The first version of Microsoft Flight Simulator was released in 1982 for the Apple II computer. It was a 2D simulation that used wireframe graphics. The next major version, released in 1984 for the IBM PC, added 3D graphics and more realistic flight physics.
The series continued to evolve over the years, with each new version adding more features and realism. The most recent version, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, was released in 2020. It uses a new engine that allows it to render the entire world in 3D, using data from Bing Maps. This means that you can fly anywhere in the world, and the scenery will be accurate down to the smallest detail.
Microsoft Flight Simulator is not just a game. It is also a powerful tool for learning about aviation. It can be used to train pilots, or simply to explore the world from the comfort of your own home.
The game is available for purchase on the Microsoft Store and Steam. It requires a high-end PC to run, with at least 12GB of RAM and a graphics card with 4GB of VRAM. The game is also available on Xbox Series X|S.
If you are interested in learning more about Microsoft Flight Simulator, you can visit the official website at www.flightsimulator.com. You can also find a community of flight simulator enthusiasts on forums and social media.
Here are some of the key features of Microsoft Flight Simulator:
- Realistic flight physics: The game uses real-world data to simulate the physics of flight, including wind, weather, and turbulence. This makes it a challenging and rewarding experience for pilots of all skill levels.
- Accurate scenery: The game uses data from Bing Maps to render the entire world in 3D. This means that you can fly over any location in the world, and the scenery will be accurate down to the smallest detail.
- Wide variety of aircraft: The game includes a wide variety of aircraft, from light planes to commercial jets. You can also choose from a variety of liveries, or paint schemes, for each aircraft.
- Challenging missions: The game includes a variety of challenging missions, such as flying through a narrow canyon or landing in a small airport. These missions can help you to improve your flying skills.
- Online multiplayer: The game supports online multiplayer, so you can fly with friends or other players from around the world.
Microsoft Flight Simulator is a powerful and immersive flight simulator that can be enjoyed by pilots of all skill levels. If you are interested in learning more about aviation, or simply want to explore the world from the comfort of your own home, then Microsoft Flight Simulator is the perfect game for you.
Number 9. Death Stranding
Death Stranding is an action game developed by Kojima Productions and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment for the PlayStation 4. It is the first game from director Hideo Kojima and Kojima Productions after their split from Konami in 2015. A Windows port licensed by Sony was released by 505 Games in July 2020. A director’s cut version was released for the PlayStation 5 in September 2021, followed by a release for Windows in March 2022. A macOS version is scheduled to be released, although a release date has yet to be announced.
Death Stranding is an action game set in an open world, and includes asynchronous online functions. Kojima refers to Death Stranding as the first “strand game”, an original genre characterized by the game’s incorporation of social elements. Kojima compared this genre to how his earlier game Metal Gear—now considered a stealth game—was called an action game during its release because the stealth genre had not been established. The player controls Sam Bridges, a porter for a company known as BRIDGES.
The game’s story is set in a post-apocalyptic United States, where a cataclysmic event known as the Death Stranding has opened a doorway between the living and the dead. This has led to the appearance of BTs, ghostly creatures that can only be seen by those who are “Beached”—people who have been in contact with the afterlife. Sam is tasked with delivering supplies across the United States, reconnecting the isolated cities and rebuilding society.
The gameplay of Death Stranding is focused on delivering cargo. Players must carefully balance their load, as carrying too much weight will slow Sam down and make him more vulnerable to BTs. They must also use a variety of tools and equipment to traverse the landscape, such as ladders, ropes, and vehicles.
Death Stranding also features a strong social component. Players can leave helpful items for other players to find, such as bridges, ladders, and vehicles. They can also rate each other’s deliveries, which can affect their online reputation. This social component encourages players to help each other, and creates a sense of community.
Death Stranding was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its unique gameplay, its innovative social features, and its thought-provoking story. The game has sold over 5 million copies worldwide.
Here are some of the things that people love about Death Stranding:
- The unique gameplay: Death Stranding is a game that has no real comparison. It’s a mix of action, adventure, and social networking, and it’s unlike anything else that’s come before it.
- The story: Death Stranding is a story about connection, hope, and rebuilding. It’s a powerful and moving story that will stay with you long after you finish the game.
- The cast: Death Stranding features an all-star cast, including Norman Reedus, Mads Mikkelsen, Léa Seydoux, and Guillermo del Toro. The performances are all top-notch, and they help to bring the world of Death Stranding to life.
- The visuals: Death Stranding is a beautiful game. The environments are stunning, and the character models are incredibly detailed.
- The music: The music in Death Stranding is haunting and beautiful. It perfectly complements the game’s atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a unique and challenging game with a powerful story, then Death Stranding is definitely worth checking out.
Number 10. Hitman 3
Hitman 3 is a 2021 stealth game developed and published by IO Interactive. It is the eighth main installment in the Hitman video game series, the sequel to 2018’s Hitman 2, and the third and final entry in the World of Assassination trilogy. Concluding the story arc started in 2016’s Hitman, the game follows genetically engineered assassin Agent 47 and his allies as they hunt down the leaders of the secretive organization Providence, which controls global affairs and was partially responsible for 47’s creation and upbringing.
The game features six new sandbox maps, each set in a different location around the world, including Dubai, Dartmoor, Berlin, Mendoza, Chongqing, and Chonqing. The maps are all highly detailed and offer a variety of ways to approach your targets. You can use stealth to sneak around and take them out quietly, or you can go in guns blazing if you prefer. The game also features a variety of challenges and objectives to complete, which will give you a reason to replay each map multiple times.
Hitman 3 received positive reviews from critics, with praise for its level design, stealth mechanics, and 47’s abilities. Some critics called it the best entry in the series and it has been cited as one of the greatest stealth games of all time. The game won various awards including “PC Game of the Year” at the 2021 Golden Joystick Awards.
Here are some of the key features of Hitman 3:
- Six new sandbox maps, each set in a different location around the world
- Highly detailed and immersive environments
- Variety of ways to approach your targets
- A variety of challenges and objectives to complete
- Excellent level design
- Stealth mechanics
- 47’s abilities
If you’re a fan of stealth games, then Hitman 3 is definitely worth checking out. It’s a well-made game with a lot to offer, and it’s sure to provide you with hours of entertainment.
2023 is shaping up to be an exciting year for PC gaming. With so many great games on the horizon, it can be hard to know where to start. But if you’re looking for a few must-play titles, then you’ve come to the right place.
The games on this list are all highly anticipated and have the potential to be some of the best PC games of the year. From action-packed shooters to open-world RPGs, there’s something for everyone on this list.
