Here in the digital age, entertainment trends seemingly come and go in a matter of months, but there’s one sector that we’ll never fall out of love with: gaming. For decades now, playing video games has been the number one way to stay entertained for millions of enthusiasts all over the world — for a fortunate few, it’s also a legitimate professional career path. And, if there’s one platform that the global gaming community stays faithful to, it’s the PC.
Sure, there have been some incredible advances made in console gaming technology throughout the decades, and there’s nothing as convenient as being able to play games on the go thanks to the sophistication of modern day smartphones. Nevertheless, the PC (or laptop) remains the most widely accessible way to play video games, since the same machine can be used for both work and play — and with a laptop you already get a built-in monitor to play games with.
If you’re a die hard PC gaming devotee looking to rediscover some classic gems, or a console cadet just getting started with gaming on the PC, read on for the top ten greatest of all time games.
Doom (1993)
It’s back to the 90s for our first entry and to this day, Doom remains one of the most revolutionary PC games in history. In this first person shooter, players assume the role of a space marine battling hordes of demons unleashed from Hell on the moons of Mars. Developed by id Software, the game’s fast-paced action, incredible graphic design and iconic soundtrack have made it a classic of the medium.
StarCraft (1998)
Another PC classic, StarCraft, developed by Blizzard Entertainment has since become a staple of competitive gaming (alongside its sequel, StarCraft 2). Set in a distant future where three factions (Terranas, Protoss and Zerg) battle for intergalactic supremacy, this RTS game is known for its intense multiplayer matches.
Sid Meier’s Civilization VI (2016)
Sticking with the strategy genre, our next entry is Civilization VI from Firaxis Games. This turn-based game sees players build and manage their own civilizations from ancient times to the modern era. Thanks to regular updates, no two playthroughs of the game are ever the same.
World of Warcraft (2004)
Blizzard’s World of Warcraft was one of the original massively multiplayer online role playing games of the early noughties, and still ranks as a phenomenally successful and influential title. WoW’s popularity stems from its immersive fantasy setting, compelling gameplay, and social aspects.
Whether it’s joining guilds, raiding with friends, or engaging in player-versus-player combat, it offers gamers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Deus Ex (2000)
A pioneer in immersive sim gaming, Ion Storm’s Deux Ex changed the state of play on its release in the year 2000. This cyberpunk-themed action RPG features a deep, branching narrative and offers a high degree of player choice to ensure immersive world-building.
Wild Card – Rich Wilde and the Book of the Dead
We interrupt proceedings to bring you a “Wilde” card entry in the form of Rich Wilde and the Book of the Dead. Online casino games have become increasingly popular with PC gamers, especially the remote slots vertical, and the Book of the Dead is one of the most popular titles available at digital platforms. Developed by iGaming specialists Play’N Go, this game blends classic 5-reel slots action with an Ancient Egyptian theme.
Minecraft (2011)
Developed by Mojang Studios, Minecraft is a sandbox game that allows players to build and explore virtual worlds made entirely of blocks. Offering infinite possibilities for creativity and exploration, Minecraft has become a global phenomenon and is even considered a precursor to the Metaverse.
Portal 2 (2011)
Portal 2 is a platform puzzle game from the stable of Valve Corporation (the same Valve behind Steam). Despite its seemingly simple gameplay, players must navigate their way through increasingly complex chambers using the titular portal device, this title has garnered significant critical acclaim and still has a dedicated following in the global gaming community.
Half-Life 2 (2004)
Another Valve game, Half-Life 2 is a groundbreaking FPS that sees gamers take on the role of Gordon Freeman, a physicist thrown into a dystopian world. With innovative, physics-based gameplay and cinematic design, the game was cutting edge for the time and still impresses to date.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)
The Witcher franchise is a bona fide part of pop culture. When it comes to PC games, Witcher 3: Wild Hunt created by CD Projekt Red is undeniably a GOAT.
Based on Andrzej Sapkowski’s source novels, this action RPG places gamers into the shoes of Geralt of Rivia. The game’s expansive open world format teems with life, and it’s earned plenty of acclaim for its mature storytelling.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011)
Choosing the number one greatest PC game of all time will always be subjective, but there’s a general consensus among PC gamers that Skyrim rightly deserves the top spot. An open-world RPG developed by Bethesda, the fifth installment in The Elder Scrolls series sees players assume the role of the Dragonborn. Skyrim is a gorgeous game with rich lore to dive into and an expansive world in which to explore.
