The second half of the year brought with it a wave of major PC releases, and most of them were excellent. It's been over a year since our last update to the Best PC Games section but now seems like the perfect time to explore several standout titles that you should be playing.
Our picks include a mix of big-budget blockbusters, smaller indie gems, multiplayer-focused experiences, and even a few expansions.
Of course, no list of games would be complete without at least one controversial pick, because what's a list without a bit of debate?
It's also worth noting that these latest recommendations don't invalidate our previous picks from 2023 and 2022. Many of these are excellent games that are now available at significant discounts, making them worthy of your attention.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
Here's a confession: Before Black Ops 6, I hadn't played a Call of Duty game since 2009's Modern Warfare 2. But the latest entry in the series has been getting rave reviews, and is considered by many to be the perfect re-entry point for former players like me. Best of all, the series is now available on PC Game Pass.
The campaign features the usual cinematic content, with CIA agents, the Gulf War, international terrorists, and the obligatory weapon of mass destruction. Solo mode offers an interesting variety of play styles, from Hitman-style stealth missions with multiple approaches to an open-world mission.
The customizable safe house, full of secrets to uncover, is a particularly nice touch.
Multiplayer in Black Ops 6 is being hailed as a return to normality, with much of the praise going to the new Omni movement system. This feature allows players to run, slide, and dash in any direction, adding a whole new dimension to the game. The classic prestige level system is also making a welcome return. When it comes to Zombies, many are calling it the featured mode, which offers a return to turn-based gameplay and some excellent new maps.
Of course, there are some familiar complaints, especially about multiplayer. Hackers, scammers, and a lack of significant innovation compared to previous years remain sticking points. Many players aren't fans of the smaller maps, and technical issues and bugs have led to several negative reviews on Steam.
Hopefully, some of these issues will be addressed, as Black Ops 6 has plenty to offer both returning players, newcomers, and long-time fans of the series. And if you're not sold on it, there's always the option to cancel your Game Pass subscription.
Black Myth: Wukong
The world gasped in awe when the first clips of Black Myth: Wukong appeared online, with many claiming that a game couldn't possibly look this good. But the Journey to the West-based title arrived this year with an impressive level of depth and immersion both visually and mechanically.
Powered by Unreal Engine 5, Black Myth is stunning, with stunning environments and imaginative, carefully designed characters that will captivate players throughout.
There has been much debate over whether Black Myth is Soulslike. It certainly has many elements in common with the genre: clever evasion and well-timed attacks to master, tough bosses, checkpoints where enemies respawn, and an upgradeable bottle that refills at those checkpoints. However, its more forgiving combat and stamina mechanics, along with linear maps, have also drawn comparisons to Jedi: Survivor and God of War.
Combat is a standout feature, allowing players to seamlessly switch between physical attacks, magic, and transformations.
Sun Wukong's ability to transform into different forms and creatures adds a layer of strategy, and each transformation brings unique powers and weaknesses.
There's very little that people don't like about Wukong. But while it doesn't have the same level of frustration as most Soulslikes, some say it's still too difficult. And there are some performance complaints. Ultimately, though, this is one of the best-reviewed games on the platform, with an overwhelmingly positive rating on Steam (96% positive out of over 716,000 reviews).
Helldivers 2
Few games have been as big a revelation as Helldivers 2. Heavily inspired by Starship Troopers, this co-op squad shooter combines intense strategic gunfights with a darkly humorous sci-fi story.
Helldivers 2's missions are designed for four-player human cooperation, encouraging players to specialize in different roles and work together. Communication and coordination are essential, especially with the game's infamous friendly fire mechanic - one wrong move and you could accidentally wipe out your squad.
The arsenal of weapons and "strategies" (powerful uses like airstrikes and supply drops) are incredibly satisfying, giving players a wide range of tactical options. Whether calling in a mech suit, deploying a turret, or using a supply beacon, players must strategize their loadout based on the mission and alien threats they face. The variety of enemies and biomes keeps the gameplay fresh, requires different tactics, and gives each mission a sense of uniqueness.
Graphically, Helldivers 2 impresses with detailed alien environments and explosive effects that make every fight immersive. However, difficulty spikes can be relentless, and some players may find the challenge frustrating without a well-coordinated team. Plus, there are still some technical issues.
Helldivers 2 is a challenging, addictive, and immersive experience that rewards teamwork and strategy. With its blend of tactical depth, humor, and explosive action, it's a must-play for fans of the genre and a game that continues to get better with time.
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
The Warhammer 40,000 universe has inspired countless games over the decades, but only a few truly capture the grim darkness of the far future. Titles like Dawn of War 1 and 2, Rogue Trader and Darktide stand out, but if you're looking for the true experience of playing as a superhuman warrior monk, try Space Marine 2.
The original Space Marine still holds a place in the hearts of Games Workshop fans. The 13-year wait for the sequel was a long one, but even without Mark Strong reprising his role as Captain Titus, it was well worth it.
Like its predecessor, Space Marine 2 puts players in the shoes of the Ultramarine Titus, now demoted to Lieutenant, as he charges into battle, shooting, slashing and spectacularly destroying the xenos.
You can feel the size and power of the Marines as they burst across the landscape and tear apart the Emperor's enemies. The whole game is very heavy and emotional, like Gears of War without the cover mechanics.
Graphically, Space Marine 2 is stunning. The planets, skies, space, and architecture look amazing, but nothing can compare to the sight of hundreds of Tyranids invading the landscape. Warhammer 40K's iconic weapons are a joy to wield and just as devastating as the tabletop versions suggest. Some larger enemies are impressive, and the dodging and parrying system is almost like Dark Souls.
Once the campaign is over, which actually happens too soon, the co-op Operations mode can be just as fun, if not more so, as you can play through different missions (each around an hour long) with three other people. There are six Space Marine classes, each with their own loadouts and special abilities. There's also the Eternal War PvP mode.
As good as the campaign is, it's not very long. The biggest complaint about Space Marine 2 is that it feels like a multiplayer game first and a single-player title second, even if it's an excellent one. But even if you're someone like me who normally avoids multiplayer games, the optional co-op mode in Operations is hugely fun and has hardly any negative qualities.
Silent Hill 2
It's best to have a spare set of underwear handy when playing Silent Hill 2. The game doesn't use cheap, easy jump scares like others in the horror genre - there are rarely any ear-splitting noises or loud screams accompanying a jump scare. You'll end up nervously searching every hidden corner of the room for a hidden mannequin monster waiting to jump out and give you a heart attack.
A lot of people weren't thrilled when they heard that Bloober Team was tackling a remake of Silent Hill 2. The studio has a few duds in its back catalogue and not everyone was impressed with The Medium, leaving fans of the brilliant 2001 horror classic worried that the remake wouldn't live up to the legacy of the original. Thankfully, they've silenced the skeptics by delivering a fantastic new incarnation of Silent Hill 2.
The remake addresses two of the biggest criticisms of the original - that it was too short and the combat too easy. It also got the obligatory visual makeover, making everything look a lot better (and a lot grosser).
The new over-the-shoulder third-person perspective, which replaces the original's fixed cameras, is arguably the best addition.
The difficulty of puzzles and combat can be changed, a welcome feature. It also has multiple endings, plenty of secrets, collectibles and Easter eggs, plenty of filters, and a New Game Plus mode (with a chainsaw!) so the replayability is there.
It's hard to find much to fault with. Some sections seem to drag on too long, especially the hospital. And maybe don't play it if you're depressed. Ultimately, Silent Hill 2 is a remake almost on par with the impressive 2023 version of Resident Evil 4, which is high praise indeed.
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
It would be a crime to overlook Shadow of the Erdtree, even though it's been out for a while now. From Software delivers an experience that builds on everything players loved about the original game and introduces several interesting new elements.
One of Shadow of the Erdtree's main draws is its fascinating world, from spooky forests and mysterious ruins to towering landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see.
The whole is visually stunning - the level of detail and ambient lighting make each area look like a work of art. Each location is packed with secrets and lore that incentivize exploration and reward players who go off the beaten path.
A Souls like is all about combat, and Shadow of the Erdtree doesn't disappoint. It introduces new weapon types, spells, and abilities that make combat feel fresh and dynamic.
Improved enemy AI makes encounters even more challenging, while the expansion's bosses are particularly well-designed, forcing players to master the game's combat mechanics and giving them a real sense of accomplishment when they win.
As with other Souls likes, including Elden Ring, the difficulty level is the biggest hurdle for players. Shadow of the Erdtree is generally considered to be even harder than the base game, so it will likely be too much for those who don't have the time or desire to improve. It's a shame because it's a fantastic game and the hours of practice and yelling "you died" at the screen are well worth it.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard
There was quite an outcry when the first trailer for Veilguard appeared, showing what looked more like a Disney game than the dark and often heartbreaking Dragon Age series we know and love. While it looks undeniably different, it also looks undeniably good. This is an incredibly vibrant and colorful game, especially when played on HDR OLED displays.
While Dragon Age: The Veilguard has plenty of good reviews, it may still be the most controversial entry on the list (yes, even more so than Black Ops 6). However, we think it deserves a spot.
In terms of gameplay, Veilguard is neither Baldur's Gate 3 nor the first Dragon Age game with its tactical stylings. Combat, and several other elements, are more like Final Fantasy XVI: real-time battles with AI opponents who you can issue skill commands to, either on the fly or through a pause menu. Combined with a ton of different timed attacks, spells, dodges, and blocks, the fighting is a lot of fun and one of the best elements of the game.
Despite the changes, Veilguard still captures the essence of what makes Dragon Age memorable: compelling characters, meaningful decisions, and a richly layered world. Fan favorites like the Grey Wardens, Templars, and (a redesigned) Morrigan return alongside new allies. The narrative is well-crafted and the maps are filled with story-filled environments and hidden secrets waiting to be discovered.
Choice and consequence play the usual leading roles, there are plenty of quests, and you can customize your character to suit your playstyle via classes, skills, armor, weapons, and more. There's plenty here to keep you entertained for a long time.
Despite its strengths, a lot of people hate The Veil guard. The biggest complaint is that it goes too far in its push for inclusion and diversity, which can feel rather artificial at times. Some people can't get over the cartoonish style, the fact that it's so different from previous Dragon Age games, or that you only directly control the main protagonist. Despite dividing opinions and having its flaws, Veil guard is still a very entertaining RPG, with excellent combat and it looks great. Try not to compare it too much to previous Dragon Age games.
Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred
If you're like me, a more casual Diablo IV player who lost interest after defeating Lilith and couldn't muster the enthusiasm to return for new seasons, rejoice: the release of Vessel of Hatred makes the ARPG worth revisiting.
Vessel of Hatred picks up the cliffhanger ending and continues Neyrelle's story as she brings the demon lord Mephisto to Nahantu.
While many players don't focus as much on the plot, this game stands out for its memorable characters, disturbing events, and of course, the obligatory brutal cutscenes.
The new jungle region of Nahantu is a refreshing addition to the sprawling Sanctuary, packed with new enemies, dungeons, and more. It's also nice to see some green amongst all the brown. But probably the best element of the expansion is the new Spiritborn class, which offers a flexible approach to combat with its animal-based magic and melee weapons.
Experimenting with the Jaguar, Gorilla, Centipede, and Eagle spells and synergies is a lot of fun.
VoH also sees the return of mercenaries from Diablo 2 and 3. These come in the form of permanent companions or by calling them in for help when performing certain skills. Having one with you at all times is perfect for misanthropes who want to try out some co-op action—you can even level up your computer-controlled friends.
There’s a wealth of new things to experience in Vessel of Hatred, including the excellent co-op raid-like mode Dark Citadel and Return of the Runes. Common criticisms concern the relatively short length of the campaign, the $40 price tag of the expansion, and the bugs, which will hopefully be addressed in future updates. Whether you’re looking to get back into Diablo IV or diving in for the first time, Vessel of Hatred makes the immersion worthwhile.
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