While consoles like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch continue to dominate living rooms, PC gaming offers a level of flexibility that consoles cannot match. PC players gain access to exclusive titles, free online play, and frequently superior audio and visual fidelity. A strong modding community further extends the value and longevity of many games. Steam remains the primary hub for PC gamers, providing thousands of titles across genres, from action and RPGs to indie experiments and strategy games.
Sorting through the sheer number of games on Steam can be daunting, but this guide highlights standout titles recognized by editors for quality, gameplay, and overall experience. For players on Windows PCs, installing these games is straightforward, while Steam Deck users should check Valve’s compatibility list. Games marked with a green check are fully verified, while yellow checks indicate titles that are playable but may require additional setup. Games that rely heavily on online connectivity might not provide the best experience on-the-go without a reliable Wi-Fi connection.
Role-Playing Games That Stand Out
Baldur’s Gate 3 has become a benchmark for tabletop-inspired RPGs, offering nearly limitless player choices and a detailed adaptation of Dungeons & Dragons mechanics. Its branching narratives, polished visuals, and mature themes make it a title that can easily demand over 60 hours of playtime. Similarly, Disco Elysium – The Final Cut combines thoughtful political storytelling with robust RPG mechanics, asking players to explore societal issues while navigating an intricately crafted world.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade brings the beloved franchise to PC with expanded storylines and refined combat systems. Persona 5 Royal also stands out for its combination of turn-based battles, life-sim elements, and nearly 100 hours of gameplay. Meanwhile, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt remains a go-to RPG thanks to its vast world, intuitive combat, and compelling narrative, solidifying its reputation as one of the best role-playing experiences on PC.
Action and Adventure Games
PC gamers have access to action and adventure titles that rival their console counterparts. Diablo IV continues the franchise’s loot-driven combat and expansive zones, providing varied character builds and replayability. Doom: The Dark Ages reimagines the classic series with medieval influences, combining improvisational combat with the franchise’s trademark fast-paced action. Red Dead Redemption 2 delivers a cinematic open-world experience, immersing players in the final days of the American Old West, while Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered offers a sprawling urban playground with fluid traversal and narrative depth.
Resident Evil 4’s remake continues to define survival horror on PC, delivering refined controls, updated visuals, and tense encounters. Returnal and South of Midnight provide unique experiences in roguelike and action-adventure gameplay, challenging players with dynamic environments and combat systems. Trek to Yomi offers cinematic side-scrolling combat inspired by Akira Kurosawa, combining a black-and-white visual style with precise gameplay.
Fighting and Competitive Titles
Fighting games have maintained a strong presence on PC. Street Fighter 6 modernizes the franchise with new mechanics and accessibility options while maintaining depth for veterans. Tekken 7 concludes its longstanding narrative with new combat systems, rollback netcode for online play, and refined mechanics. Guilty Gear Strive simplifies its complex systems for newcomers while retaining the series’ artistic style, and The King of Fighters XV combines classic 2D combat with modern graphics and multiplayer features.
Strategy, Simulation, and Multiplayer Games
PC remains a strong platform for strategic and multiplayer-focused games. Dota 2 is a cornerstone of competitive MOBAs, offering over 100 heroes and highly strategic team play. Gears Tactics adapts the Gears of War franchise into turn-based combat while preserving series hallmarks. Super Mega Baseball 3 captures the strategic depth of the sport alongside engaging arcade-style gameplay, and Fire Pro Wrestling World delivers one of the most comprehensive wrestling simulations available with robust creation tools and online support.
Indie Games and Unique Experiences
Indie titles continue to thrive on PC with creative concepts and polished gameplay. Hades II builds on the original with magic-based combat and multiple replay paths. Ori and the Will of the Wisps showcases family-friendly platforming with precise level design and visual polish. UFO 50 offers an anthology of retro-inspired indie games, providing a variety of gameplay experiences under a single collection. Vampire Survivors delivers surprisingly addictive gameplay despite its minimalistic presentation.
Steam Deck and PC Port Considerations
Many Steam games are compatible with the Steam Deck, though performance can vary. Verified games are fully optimized, while playable titles may require manual setup. Players should also consider online connectivity requirements, as mobile play is limited without Wi-Fi. Both Windows PCs and Steam Deck devices offer the chance to explore the extensive Steam library, whether for single-player adventures, competitive online gaming, or indie experiments.
Make sure to check out our articles about top games to play in 2026:
Most Anticipated Games of 2026
Best Nintendo Switch Games for 2026
Best First-Person Shooters for 2026
Best PlayStation Indie Games for 2026
Best Multiplayer Games for 2026
Most Anticipated Games of 2026
Top Game Releases for January 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best way to start gaming on PC?
Steam is the most popular platform for PC gaming, offering thousands of titles across all genres. New players should start by creating a Steam account, exploring popular titles, and checking system requirements for each game.
Are these games compatible with Steam Deck?
Many of the listed games are Steam Deck verified, meaning they run well without extra configuration. Others are playable but may require additional steps. Players can consult Valve’s compatibility list for details.
Do I need an internet connection for all Steam games?
Not all Steam games require an internet connection, but many online multiplayer or live-service games do. Single-player games can generally be played offline once installed.
Can I mod games on PC?
Yes. One of the main advantages of PC gaming is access to mods. Games like The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, The Witcher 3, and Baldur’s Gate 3 benefit from extensive mod communities.
Are all these games available on Windows?
Yes, all the games mentioned are available for Windows PCs. Some, like those verified for Steam Deck, are also optimized for Valve’s handheld device running SteamOS.
Here is a complete list of all the games mentioned in the order they appeared:
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Baldur’s Gate 3
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Black Myth: Wukong
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Diablo IV
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Disco Elysium – The Final Cut
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Doom: The Dark Ages
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Dota 2
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The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered
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Fire Pro Wrestling World
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Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
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Gears Tactics
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Guilty Gear Strive
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Hades II
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The King of Fighters XV
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Marvel Cosmic Invasion
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Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered
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Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
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Ori and the Will of the Wisps
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Persona 5 Royal
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Monster Hunter World
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Monster Hunter Rise
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Red Dead Redemption 2
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Resident Evil 4
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Sackboy: A Big Adventure
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Returnal
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Silent Hill f
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South of Midnight
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Street Fighter 6
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Super Mega Baseball 3
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Tekken 7
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Trek to Yomi
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UFO 50
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The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
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Vampire Survivors