PC gaming has never been more vibrant and diverse than it is today. From the latest blockbuster releases to beloved indie darlings, there is something for every type of gamer on the PC platform. In this article, we’ll be taking a deep dive into the 10 best PC games you can play right now.
Whether you’re in the mood for an epic open-world adventure, a tense competitive shooter, or a cozy narrative experience, this list has got you covered. We’ve carefully curated this selection to showcase the breadth and quality of the current PC gaming landscape.
So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the 10 best PC games to play right now!
Elden Ring
Arguably the biggest and most acclaimed release of 2022, Elden Ring is an absolute must-play for any PC gamer. Developed by the legendary From Software, this action-RPG masterpiece is the spiritual successor to the acclaimed Dark Souls series, but set in the sprawling, open-world realm of the Lands Between.
Elden Ring’s stunning visual design, deep and challenging combat, and complex, interconnected world have earned it widespread critical praise. Players are tasked with navigating the perilous Lands Between, battling fearsome demigods, and uncovering the secrets of the titular Elden Ring.
With its unforgiving difficulty, rewarding exploration, and vast array of customization options, Elden Ring is a game that will keep PC gamers engrossed for hundreds of hours. If you’re a fan of challenging, atmospheric, and deeply rewarding experiences, Elden Ring is an absolute must-play.
Horizon Zero Dawn
Horizon Zero Dawn is a captivating open-world action-RPG that made the leap from PlayStation to PC in 2020, and has since become one of the best-selling PC games of the past few years.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where nature has reclaimed the Earth and robotic creatures roam the land, Horizon Zero Dawn follows the story of Aloy, a skilled hunter and archer who embarks on a journey to uncover the secrets of her past and the origins of the mysterious “Machines” that dominate the world.
With its stunning visuals, engaging combat, and immersive world-building, Horizon Zero Dawn is a true standout in the PC gaming landscape. The game’s expansive open world is a joy to explore, filled with ancient ruins, lush forests, and towering mountains, all of which are teeming with a diverse array of robotic fauna to study and hunt.
Horizon Zero Dawn’s combination of fluid traversal, tactical combat, and a compelling narrative make it an essential experience for any PC gamer looking for a captivating and polished open-world adventure.
Microsoft Flight Simulator
For PC gamers with a passion for aviation, Microsoft Flight Simulator is an absolute must-play. This stunning simulation game, which was rebooted in 2020, offers an unparalleled level of realism and attention to detail, allowing players to pilot a wide range of aircraft across a meticulously recreated representation of the entire planet.
Powered by Bing Maps data and cutting-edge graphics technology, Microsoft Flight Simulator delivers a breathtaking visual experience, with photorealistic landscapes, dynamic weather systems, and intricate aircraft models that feel authentic to the core.
Whether you’re an aspiring pilot looking to hone your skills, or simply a fan of aviation with a desire to explore the world from the cockpit, Microsoft Flight Simulator provides an unparalleled level of immersion and attention to detail that sets it apart in the PC gaming landscape.
With regular content updates, a thriving modding community, and an ever-expanding range of aircraft and destinations, Microsoft Flight Simulator is a game that can captivate players for years to come.
Apex Legends
In the highly competitive world of battle royale games, Apex Legends stands out as one of the best PC games to play right now. Developed by Respawn Entertainment, the studio behind the acclaimed Titanfall series, Apex Legends offers a unique spin on the genre, with a focus on team-based gameplay, diverse character abilities, and fast-paced, high-octane combat.
With a roster of colorful and distinctive Legends, each with their own unique set of skills and abilities, Apex Legends encourages players to work together and utilize the strengths of their team to outmaneuver and outgun their opponents.
The game’s fluid movement, responsive gunplay, and dynamic map design make for an exhilarating and highly replayable experience, as teams of three battle it out to be the last squad standing.
Apex Legends also benefits from regular content updates, with new Legends, weapons, and game modes being added on a consistent basis. This, combined with its slick presentation, engaging lore, and seamless integration with other platforms, makes it an essential PC gaming experience for fans of the battle royale genre.
Total War: Warhammer III
For strategy game enthusiasts, Total War: Warhammer III is undoubtedly one of the best PC games to play right now. This epic installment in the long-running Total War series blends the franchise’s signature grand-scale campaign gameplay with the rich and fantastical lore of the Warhammer universe.
Featuring a massive, sprawling campaign map that encompasses the Realm of Chaos, Total War: Warhammer III offers players the chance to lead one of several diverse factions, each with their own unique mechanics, units, and playstyles, as they vie for control of the Realms of the Chaos Gods.
The game’s blend of large-scale tactical battles, deep strategic empire management, and the incorporation of Warhammer’s iconic fantasy elements make for a truly engrossing and rewarding experience. Whether you’re marshaling the forces of the Kislev Tzardom, leading the Daemon Prince to the embrace of Chaos, or commanding the undead legions of the Cathay Dynasty, Total War: Warhammer III delivers a level of depth and replayability that few other strategy games can match.
With its stunning visuals, robust multiplayer features, and ongoing post-launch support, Total War: Warhammer III is a must-play for any PC gamer with a passion for epic strategy experiences.
Stray
In a year filled with high-profile blockbuster releases, the indie gem Stray emerged as one of the most delightful and unique PC gaming experiences of 2022. Developed by Bluetwelve Studio, Stray follows the story of a curious stray cat who finds itself lost in a dystopian, cyberpunk-inspired city inhabited by robots.
What sets Stray apart is its charming feline protagonist and the way it seamlessly integrates the cat’s natural behaviors and movements into the core gameplay. Players must navigate the game’s detailed environments, solve environmental puzzles, and interact with the robot denizens of the city, all while experiencing the world from the perspective of a curious, agile, and often mischievous cat.
Stray’s atmospheric world-building, captivating story, and endearing protagonist have resonated with players, making it one of the breakout PC gaming hits of the year. With its unique premise, relaxed pace, and stunning visual design, Stray offers a refreshing and delightful experience that PC gamers of all stripes are sure to enjoy.
Overwatch 2
The long-awaited sequel to the hugely popular team-based shooter, Overwatch 2 has firmly established itself as one of the best PC games to play right now. Building upon the solid foundation of the original, Overwatch 2 introduces a wealth of new content, including additional heroes, maps, and game modes, while also refining and improving the core PvP experience.
One of the standout features of Overwatch 2 is its emphasis on team-based gameplay, with players needing to work together to secure objectives and overcome their opponents. Each hero in the game’s diverse roster brings a unique set of abilities and playstyles to the table, allowing for a high degree of strategic depth and tactical flexibility.
Overwatch 2’s vibrant, colorful visuals, smooth and responsive controls, and engaging, fast-paced combat make it a joy to play, whether you’re a seasoned Overwatch veteran or a newcomer to the series. The game’s ongoing content updates, diverse game modes, and thriving competitive scene ensure that there is always something fresh and exciting to experience for PC gamers.
Disco Elysium
For PC gamers seeking a deep, narrative-driven experience, Disco Elysium is an absolute must-play. This critically acclaimed RPG from ZA/UM Studio takes players on a gripping journey of self-discovery and investigation in the aftermath of a brutal murder.
Set in the gritty, noir-inspired world of Revachol, Disco Elysium offers an unparalleled level of player agency and freedom, with an extensive skill system that allows players to shape the protagonist’s personality and approach to problem-solving in myriad ways.
The game’s rich dialogue, detailed world-building, and thought-provoking themes have earned it widespread acclaim from critics and players alike, cementing its status as one of the best PC games to play right now.
Disco Elysium’s unique blend of detective work, political intrigue, and philosophical exploration make it a standout experience that will linger in the minds of players long after the credits have rolled.
Halo Infinite
The latest installment in the iconic Halo franchise, Halo Infinite, has firmly established itself as one of the best PC games to play right now. Developed by 343 Industries, Halo Infinite delivers a thrilling, open-world campaign that offers a fresh take on the series’ beloved first-person shooter gameplay.
Set on the vast and mysterious Zeta Halo, the game follows the journey of the Master Chief as he battles to reclaim humanity’s lost ground and uncover the secrets of the Forerunners. Halo Infinite’s expansive, nonlinear level design, combined with its fluid and responsive combat, make for an exhilarating and highly replayable experience.
In addition to its captivating campaign, Halo Infinite also features a robust and competitive multiplayer mode, which has been praised for its balanced gameplay, diverse map selection, and seamless integration with the overall Halo experience.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer to the Halo universe, Halo Infinite is a must-play PC game that showcases the series’ enduring appeal and the developer’s commitment to delivering a high-quality, feature-rich experience.
Forza Horizon 5
For PC gamers with a passion for open-world racing games, Forza Horizon 5 is undoubtedly one of the best titles to play right now. Developed by Playground Games, this latest installment in the acclaimed Forza Horizon series takes players on a breathtaking tour of Mexico, showcasing the country’s diverse and stunning landscapes.
Forza Horizon 5 offers an unparalleled level of visual fidelity, with meticulously crafted car models, dynamic weather effects, and a vibrant, living world that serves as the perfect backdrop for the game’s exhilarating driving experiences.
But Forza Horizon 5 is more than just a pretty face; it also delivers an exceptionally well-crafted and engaging open-world racing experience. The game’s vast and varied map is filled with a wealth of activities, challenges, and events, each of which contributes to a sense of endless exploration and discovery.
Whether you’re hurtling through the lush jungles, navigating the dusty desert roads, or carving your way through the snowy mountain passes, Forza Horizon 5 offers a level of immersion and adrenaline-fueled thrills that few other racing games can match.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the current PC gaming landscape is brimming with an exceptional array of games that cater to a wide range of player preferences and interests. From the epic open-world adventures of Elden Ring and Horizon Zero Dawn to the precision-driven thrills of Forza Horizon 5 and Apex Legends, this list of the 10 best PC games to play right now showcases the depth and diversity of the platform.
Whether you’re a fan of challenging, atmospheric experiences, captivating narratives, or endlessly replayable multiplayer mayhem, there is something for everyone to discover and enjoy among these top-tier PC gaming titles. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in and start exploring the very best that the PC gaming world has to offer!