Top 20 PC games of all time

by Mr Wolf · Published September 21, 2023 · Updated September 27, 2023

Best PC games

The Evolution of PC Gaming

Top 20 games of all time

PC gaming has come a long way since its inception, with countless games being released over the years. From the early days of text-based adventures to the modern era of high-definition graphics and immersive virtual reality experiences, the evolution of PC gaming has been nothing short of remarkable.

The Diversity of PC Games

From action-packed adventures to immersive role-playing experiences, the world of PC gaming offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of fast-paced shooters, complex strategy games, or engaging simulation titles, there’s a PC game out there that’s perfect for you.

The Purpose of This Article

In this article, we will take a look at the top 20 PC games of all time, highlighting their unique features and why they have stood the test of time. We’ll delve into the gameplay mechanics, storylines, and visual aesthetics that have made these games so memorable and beloved by gamers around the world.

1. “Red Dead Redemption 2”

Top 20 PC games of all time – 1/20

The Phenomenon of “Red Dead Redemption 2”

“Red Dead Redemption 2” is an open-world action-adventure game developed by Rockstar Games. With its vast, immersive Wild West setting and captivating storytelling, “RDR2” has captivated players and critics alike, establishing itself as a cultural phenomenon.

The Gameplay and Updates

The game’s gameplay revolves around the adventures of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw, and offers players a rich and detailed world to explore. Activities range from engaging in shootouts, hunting wildlife, and embarking on complex heists. Rockstar’s continuous updates and online mode expansions ensure that players always have fresh content to enjoy.

The Impact of “Red Dead Redemption 2”

“Red Dead Redemption 2” has had a profound impact on the gaming industry, setting new standards for open-world gaming and narrative storytelling. It has garnered critical acclaim for its attention to detail, realistic world-building, and complex characters. The success of “RDR2” also led to the creation of an online multiplayer mode, similar to the success of “GTA Online” from the same developers.

Moreover, it has inspired a range of merchandise, including clothing, collector’s items, and even a series of novels based on the game’s universe.

2. “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt”

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The Legacy of “The Witcher 3”

“The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” is often hailed as one of the best PC games of all time. Developed by CD Projekt Red, this open-world action role-playing game offers a captivating storyline, stunning visuals, and a vast, immersive world to explore.

The Narrative and Characters

With its rich narrative and complex characters, “The Witcher 3” has become a benchmark for storytelling in video games. The game’s protagonist, Geralt of Rivia, is a compelling character whose personal journey is as engaging as the game’s overarching plot.

The Impact of “The Witcher 3”

The game’s impact on the industry cannot be overstated. It has set a high bar for open-world RPGs, influencing many games that came after it. Its success also led to the creation of a popular Netflix series, further cementing its place in popular culture.

3. “Grand Theft Auto V”

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The Phenomenon of “Grand Theft Auto V”

“Grand Theft Auto V” needs no introduction. This open-world action-adventure game developed by Rockstar Games has become a cultural phenomenon. With its sprawling map, engaging storyline, and a wide range of activities to indulge in, “GTA V” offers endless hours of entertainment.

The Gameplay and Storyline

The game’s gameplay is a blend of driving, shooting, and exploration, with players given the freedom to roam the game’s vast cityscape at their leisure. The storyline, which follows three distinct characters with interwoven narratives, is one of the most engaging and well-written in the series.

The Impact of “Grand Theft Auto V”

“GTA V” has had a significant impact on the gaming industry, setting records for sales and receiving widespread critical acclaim. Its online multiplayer mode, “GTA Online”, has also been a massive success, providing endless entertainment for players around the world.

4. “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim”

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The Epicness of “Skyrim”

“The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” is an epic fantasy role-playing game developed by Bethesda Game Studios. With its vast open world, rich lore, and countless quests to embark on, “Skyrim” offers an immersive experience like no other.

The Gameplay and Modding Community

The game’s gameplay mechanics, which allow players to customize their character’s skills and abilities, offer a high degree of freedom and replayability. The game’s modding community has also contributed to its longevity, with players being able to customize their experience to their liking.

The Impact of “Skyrim”

“Skyrim” has left a lasting legacy on the RPG genre, influencing many games that came after it. Its success has also led to numerous re-releases and remasters, ensuring that new generations of gamers can experience this classic title.

5. “Minecraft”

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The Popularity of “Minecraft”

“Minecraft” is a game that needs no introduction. Developed by Mojang Studios, this sandbox game allows players to unleash their creativity and build anything they can imagine. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, “Minecraft” has become a global sensation, appealing to players of all ages.

The Gameplay of “Minecraft”

“Minecraft” offers a unique blend of survival and creativity. Players can gather resources, craft tools and build structures, all while surviving against various threats. The game’s procedurally generated worlds ensure that each playthrough is unique and unpredictable.

The Impact of “Minecraft”

“Minecraft” has had a profound impact on the gaming industry, inspiring countless imitators and spin-offs. Its educational potential has also been recognized, with the game being used in schools to teach everything from basic coding to principles of architecture.

6. “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive”

The Popularity of “CS:GO”

“Counter-Strike: Global Offensive” is a first-person shooter game developed by Valve Corporation. With its intense multiplayer gameplay and competitive scene, “CS:GO” has become a staple in the PC gaming community.

The Gameplay and Esports Scene

The game’s strategic depth and skill-based mechanics make it a favorite among esports enthusiasts. The game’s competitive scene is one of the most active in esports, with numerous tournaments and leagues taking place around the world.

The Impact of “CS:GO”

“CS:GO” has had a significant impact on the gaming industry, particularly in the realm of esports. Its success has helped to popularize competitive gaming and has paved the way for other esports titles.

7. “Elden Ring”

The Popularity of “Elden Ring”

Elden Ring is an action role-playing game developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment.

Elden Ring has become one of the most popular video games of all time, with over 13 million copies sold in its first month of release. It has been praised by critics and players alike for its open world, its challenging gameplay, and its rich lore.

The Gameplay of “Elden Ring”

Elden Ring is an action role-playing game with a focus on exploration and combat. Players can create their own custom character and choose from a variety of classes and playstyles. The game features a vast open world that players can explore at their own pace. The world is full of enemies, bosses, and secrets to discover.

The Impact of “Elden Ring”

Elden Ring has had a profound impact on the gaming industry. It has been praised for its open world, its challenging gameplay, and its rich lore. Elden Ring has also been credited with helping to popularize the open-world action RPG genre.

8. “Portal 2”

The Uniqueness of “Portal 2”

“Portal 2” is a puzzle-platform game developed by Valve Corporation. With its mind-bending puzzles and witty dialogue, “Portal 2” offers a unique gaming experience.

The Gameplay and Co-op Mode

The game’s gameplay involves using a portal gun to solve a series of increasingly complex puzzles. The game’s cooperative mode also allows players to team up with a friend and solve puzzles together, adding an extra layer of fun.

The Impact of “Portal 2”

“Portal 2” has left a lasting legacy on the puzzle genre, with its innovative gameplay mechanics and clever level design influencing many games that came after it. Its unique blend of puzzle-solving and storytelling has also been widely praised, setting a high bar for future puzzle games.

9. “The Sims 3”

The Life Simulation of “The Sims 3”

“The Sims 3” is a life simulation game developed by Maxis. With its open-ended gameplay and endless possibilities, “The Sims 3” allows players to create and control virtual lives.

The Gameplay and Expansion Packs

The game’s gameplay involves managing your Sims’ needs, building their homes, and guiding them through their careers and relationships. The game’s expansion packs also add new features and content, keeping the experience fresh and exciting.

The Impact of “The Sims 3”

“The Sims 3” has had a profound impact on the simulation genre, popularizing the life simulation subgenre and influencing many games that came after it. Its success has also led to a number of sequels and spin-offs, expanding the Sims universe and offering new

10. “Bioshock”

The Masterpiece of “Bioshock”

“Bioshock” is a first-person shooter game developed by Irrational Games. With its immersive atmosphere, thought-provoking storyline, and unique gameplay mechanics, “Bioshock” stands out as a masterpiece in the genre.

The Gameplay and Setting

The game’s gameplay involves exploration, combat, and decision-making, with players’ choices having a significant impact on the game’s story. The game’s underwater city of Rapture is a hauntingly beautiful setting that adds to the overall experience.

The Impact of “Bioshock”

“Bioshock” has left a lasting legacy on the FPS genre, influencing many games that came after it. Its unique blend of shooter gameplay and narrative-driven design has been widely praised, setting a high bar for future FPS games.

11. “God of War”

The Epic of “God of War”

“God of War” is an action-adventure game developed by Santa Monica Studio. With its thrilling combat, captivating story, and stunning visuals, “God of War” is an epic in the genre.

The Gameplay and Setting The game’s gameplay involves fighting, puzzle-solving, and exploration, with players controlling the protagonist Kratos, a former Spartan warrior who is now the God of War. The game’s setting is based on Norse mythology, featuring a rich and diverse world of gods, monsters, and realms.

The Impact of “God of War”

“God of War” has been widely acclaimed as one of the best games of all time, winning numerous awards and accolades. Its innovative blend of action and narrative has been praised, setting a new standard for the genre. Its emotional and compelling story of father and son has also been lauded, creating a memorable and immersive experience for the players.

12. Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag

The Adventure of “Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag”

“Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag” is an action-adventure game developed by Ubisoft. With its thrilling naval combat, expansive open world, and engaging story, “Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag” is an adventure in the genre.

The Gameplay and Setting The game’s gameplay involves stealth, parkour, and combat, with players controlling the protagonist Edward Kenway, a pirate and assassin who is involved in the conflict between the Assassins and the Templars. The game’s setting is based on the Golden Age of Piracy, featuring a vast and diverse Caribbean world of islands, cities, and seas.

The Impact of “Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag”

“Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag” has been widely praised as one of the best games in the series, winning several awards and nominations. Its innovative blend of land and sea gameplay has been applauded, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for the players. Its captivating and humorous story of pirates and freedom has also been admired, creating a memorable and enjoyable adventure for the players.

13. “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild”

The Adventure of “Breath of the Wild”

“The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” is an action-adventure game developed by Nintendo. While primarily a console game, it can be played on PC through emulation. With its vast open world, immersive gameplay, and stunning visuals, “Breath of the Wild” offers a truly unforgettable experience.

The Gameplay and World

The game’s gameplay involves exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, with players given the freedom to explore the game’s vast world at their own pace. The game’s beautiful and diverse environments are a joy to explore, offering countless secrets and surprises.

The Impact of “Breath of the Wild”

“Breath of the Wild” has had a significant impact on the action-adventure genre, influencing many games that came after it. Its success has also led to a sequel, further expanding the Legend of Zelda universe.

14. “Half-Life 2”

The Revolution of “Half-Life 2”

“Half-Life 2” is a first-person shooter game developed by Valve Corporation. Released in 2004, this game revolutionized the genre with its innovative gameplay mechanics and immersive storytelling.

The Narrative and Characters

With its gripping narrative and memorable characters, “Half-Life 2” remains a must-play for any PC gamer. The game’s protagonist, Gordon Freeman, is an iconic figure in gaming, and his journey through the dystopian world of City 17 is one of the most memorable in gaming history.

The Impact of “Half-Life 2”

“Half-Life 2” has had a significant impact on the gaming industry, influencing countless games in the years since its release. Its physics-based gameplay and narrative-driven design have become standard features in many modern games.

15. “Forza Horizon 5″

The Adventure of “Forza Horizon 5”

“Forza Horizon 5” is a racing game developed by Playground Games and Turn 10 Studios. With its thrilling naval combat, expansive open world, and engaging story, “Forza Horizon 5” is an adventure in the genre.

The Gameplay and Setting The game’s gameplay involves driving, customizing, and racing hundreds of the world’s greatest cars, with players exploring the vibrant and diverse open world of Mexico. The game’s setting is based on the real-life geography and culture of Mexico, featuring a rich and varied world of deserts, jungles, cities, and volcanoes.

The Impact of “Forza Horizon 5”

“Forza Horizon 5” has been widely praised as one of the best and most popular racing games of all time, winning many awards and accolades. Its stunning graphics, immersive gameplay, and captivating story have been applauded, creating a dynamic and enjoyable experience for the players. Its dynamic seasons and weather events have also been admired, creating new and exciting challenges for the players.

16. “Roblox”

The Revolution of “Roblox”

“Roblox” is a unique online platform that allows users to create, share, and play games created by other users. It was initially released in 2006 and has since revolutionized the concept of user-generated content in gaming.

The User-Generated Content and Community

“Roblox” stands out for its emphasis on user-generated content. Players can use the platform’s game development tools to create their own games, leading to a vast and diverse library of player-created experiences. This approach has fostered a strong and creative community of developers, ranging from amateurs to professionals.

The Impact of “Roblox”

“Roblox” has had a profound impact on the gaming industry, particularly in the realm of user-generated content and online communities. It has introduced millions of players, including young aspiring developers, to game design and programming concepts. The platform’s virtual economy, which allows developers to monetize their creations, has also provided opportunities for individuals and small studios to turn their passion for game development into a livelihood.

17. “GTA Vice City” and “GTA San Andreas”

The Evolution of “GTA Vice City” and “GTA San Andreas”

Both “Grand Theft Auto: Vice City” and “Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas” are iconic open-world action-adventure games developed by Rockstar North. Released in 2002 and 2004, respectively, they represent significant milestones in the evolution of the open-world gaming genre.

Expansive Open Worlds

One of the defining features of both games is their expansive open-world environments. “Vice City” is set in a fictional 1980s Miami-inspired city, while “San Andreas” takes players to a fictional representation of California with three major cities and rural areas. These vast settings were groundbreaking at the time, offering players unparalleled freedom to explore and engage in various activities.

Cultural Impact

These titles left an indelible mark on the gaming industry and popular culture. “Vice City” captured the essence of the 1980s, complete with a nostalgic soundtrack, while “San Andreas” tackled social issues and cultural references of the 1990s. The memorable characters, music, and storytelling elements contributed to their lasting impact.

18. “World of Warcraft”

The Revolution of “World of Warcraft”

“World of Warcraft” (WoW) is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed by Blizzard Entertainment, originally released in 2004. It has significantly evolved the MMORPG genre, offering a vast virtual world, intricate lore, and groundbreaking online gameplay.

Expansive Virtual World

At the heart of “World of Warcraft” is the expansive and immersive world of Azeroth. Players can explore diverse continents, interact with a multitude of races and factions, and embark on quests that shape the game’s narrative. The scale and depth of the virtual world set new standards for the MMORPG genre.

The Impact of “World of Warcraft”

“World of Warcraft” has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry, setting the gold standard for MMORPGs. Its influence can be seen in the design of other online games and the lasting appeal of the MMORPG genre. With millions of subscribers worldwide, it remains one of the most iconic and enduring titles in the history of gaming.

19. “Age of Empires II”

The Legacy of “Age of Empires II”

“Age of Empires II” is a classic real-time strategy (RTS) game developed by Ensemble Studios and released in 1999. It has left an enduring legacy in the RTS genre, offering a rich historical experience and complex strategic gameplay.

Historical Depth and Cultural Exploration

“Age of Empires II” is celebrated for its historical accuracy and cultural exploration. Players can command civilizations from various time periods, such as the Byzantines, Mongols, and Vikings. The game not only provides entertainment but also serves as an educational tool by introducing players to different historical periods and civilizations.

Cultural Impact

The game has had a significant cultural impact, inspiring a dedicated fan base and a competitive esports scene. Its success paved the way for the development of subsequent “Age of Empires” titles and contributed to the popularity of the RTS genre.

20. “Prototype 2”

The Revolution of “Prototype 2”

“Prototype 2” is an action-adventure game developed by Radical Entertainment, released in 2012. It represents an evolution in the action-adventure genre, bringing unique gameplay elements and a darker narrative.

Dynamic Gameplay and Shapeshifting Abilities

One of the defining features of “Prototype 2” is its protagonist, James Heller, who possesses shapeshifting abilities. This allows players to transform their character’s body, gaining various powers and forms throughout the game. The dynamic gameplay and the freedom to switch between abilities make it a standout title in the action-adventure genre.

The Impact of “Prototype 2”

While “Prototype 2” may not have achieved the same level of mainstream success as some other titles, it has left its mark on the gaming industry. It pushed the boundaries of what players could expect from an action-adventure game, particularly in terms of character abilities and narrative complexity.

In conclusion, the list of the top 20 PC games of all time is a testament to the incredible diversity and innovation within the world of gaming. However, it’s crucial to remember that this list is by no means final. The world of PC gaming is vast, with an extensive array of titles catering to every conceivable preference and playstyle.

Ultimately, the best PC game is the one that resonates with you the most, the one that you’ve poured hours into, conquered challenges in, and created memories with. It’s about the exhilaration of a victory, the thrill of exploration, the camaraderie of multiplayer sessions, or the emotional connection to a captivating story.

Gaming is a deeply personal experience, and what matters most is the enjoyment and satisfaction it brings to each individual player.

So, while these top 20 PC games are celebrated for their excellence and impact on the industry, never forget that the best game is the one that brings you joy and excitement every time you boot it up.