When it comes to PC games, Steam is arguably one of the top storefronts, and of course, we had to pick fifty of our favorite best games from there. From the likes of Dishonored, Dying Light, and the Batman Arkham collection to Hotline Miami and Hades, among many others, we have a stellar collection of Steam games here for you. So, without further ado, let’s look at the best Steam games that you should play in 2025.
Remember that I have considered various criteria before adding Steam games to this list. With Steam sales happening periodically throughout the year, you should know which games to add to your wishlist or get right now. While one game might rank higher for you, it might not for me. Another thing to consider is that graphics are an afterthought while making the list. As long as the game is fun to play, they deserve a spot on this list. With that said, let’s dive right in!
1. Black Mesa
- Released: March 6, 2020
- Developer(s): Crowbar Collective
- Genre: FPS
Half-Life by Valve changed gaming in a turbulent way. While the second Half-Life and its episodes paved the way for features like realistic game physics, the first Half-Life gave us the gift called the GoldSRC engine. Unfortunately, the original Half-Life never got a Source engine treatment by Valve. Crowbar Collective, a group of modders turned developers banded together to remake the first Half-Life. And well, that resulted in Black Mesa.
As mentioned above, Black Mesa is a source engine remake for the first Half-Life, adding every feature that the engine brings with itself. Black Mesa also deviated from the original game by making subtle level design choices, giving a unique spin to it while not losing the Half-Life identity. So, this is worth picking up if you never played Half-Life. Or, if you have played it before, why not replay it again?
2. Fallout: New Vegas
- Released: October 22, 2010
- Developer(s): Obsidian Entertainment
- Genre: RPG
While Bethesda’s Fallout 3 gained a polarising reception among the fans, Fallout: New Vegas, a standalone spin-off, gained critical fame. And for good reasons. While the gameplay of first/third-person shooting remains the same, and most of the features from Fallout 3 are there, its writing sets this game apart. Fallout: New Vegas puts you in the shoes of a courier in the Mojave desert, searching for answers after they get ambushed and shot in the head by a mysterious group of people.
What ensues is them getting entangled in a civil war between two factions and venturing into the oddities in a post-nuclear Vegas. The game’s brilliant writing and exploration make it a must-play title in our best Steam games list. This is also undeniably the best Fallout game in my experience of all the post-apocalyptic world.
3. Hades
- Released: September 17, 2020
- Developer(s): Supergiant Games
- Genre: Roguelite
Hades is a roguelike action game that puts you in the shoes of Zaegreus, the son of Hades, as he tries to escape the underworld realm. Battle your way through a changing labyrinth filled with mythological creatures, powerful weapons, and divine abilities. While Hades 2 keeps the elements and rich story, the original has a special place in my heart.
Furthermore, the original rich narrative and stunning visuals will enamor you while playing Hades for the first time. Hades has become a universally loved videogame and for the right reasons. There is hardly anything to complain about, and the gameplay loop is satisfying to ensure that you return to it very often.
4. Dishonored
- Released: October 8, 2013
- Developer(s): Arkane Studios
- Genre: Action-adventure
Stealth-action game with immersive sim features, Dishonored puts you in the shoes of Corvo Attano, a falsely accused bodyguard of an Empress in a distant European isle country. An island nation suffering from the rat plague and a supposed coup, Corvo becomes a masked assassin, taking out people responsible for falsely framing him. He also uses the supernatural powers given by the elusive Outsider, allowing him to traverse the world in various ways.
Dishonored lets you decide on the approach, giving you multiple tools to experiment and have fun with. This results in two people having different gameplay experiences from each other. Furthermore, if you want to play the game like a traditional stealth game, then do not opt into the Outsider’s powers and boons. The sheer choice the game provides you makes Dishonored a great title.
5. Disco Elysium
- Released: October 15, 2019
- Developer(s): ZA/UM
- Genre: RPG
Disco Elysium has a lot of drama revolving around how the original creators were ousted by investors. Regardless, we cannot deny that this is a work of art in the form of video game. An open-world CRPG, Disco Elysium puts you in the shoes of a detective unraveling a murder mystery in a gritty city plagued by corruption and decay.
You navigate a dystopian world, engage in deep conversations, and influence your character’s morality, skills, and sanity. With a thought-provoking narrative and beautiful art style, Disco Elysium is a masterpiece.
6. Dying Light
- Released: January 26, 2015
- Developer(s): Techland
- Genre: Survival Horror
While Dying Light 2 is a galore of mixed reviews, Dying Light original deserves every bit of attention now that the development for the game has wrapped up. Players get to explore two locations in the fictional city of Harran, overtaken by a zombie outbreak. Utilize agility and combat skills to survive, scavenge, and parkour during the day.
By night, brace yourself for a battle against supercharged predators. With its tense gameplay, intense atmosphere, and dynamic day-night cycle, Dying Light deserves a playthrough. We also suggested the game in our Best Steam Deck Games article.
7. Batman: Arkham Collection
- Released: November 28, 2018
- Developer(s): Rocksteady Studios
- Genre: Action-adventure
The collection of three critically acclaimed trilogy of games, Batman Arkham Collection, puts you in the shoes of the eponymous DC Comics character. Each game happens in three locations, starting with Batman Arkham Asylum, where players fend off Joker’s trap in Arkham Asylum of Gotham.
In the next installation, the story shifts to the open world of a closed-off section of Gotham in Batman: Arkham City, where Batman tries to unearth a conspiracy theory. Finally, explore the entirety of Gotham Islands and try to thwart the plans of Scarecrow in Batman: Arkham Knight.
Each title has an addictive beat-em-up gameplay, utilizing iconic Batman gadgets, and with each successive sequel, the gameplay improves. Arkham Knight also introduces a fully drivable Batmobile. Play the games, and become Batman. Not literally.
8. Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen
- Released: January 15, 2016
- Developer(s): Capcom
- Genre: RPG
Embark on a fantasy adventure in Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen, an action RPG made by the brains behind Devil May Cry. In this game, players venture into a vast world filled with mythical creatures and treacherous landscapes. With satisfactory customization for the Arisen nail-biting real-time battles, they are utilizing a deep and dynamic combat system.
With its rich lore, thrilling quests, and the ability to recruit AI companions known as Pawns, Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen is a must-play for fans of action RPGs. Although there is a sequel, I can guarantee you Dragon’s Dogma 2 does not reach the level of the original.
9. Hotline Miami 1 & 2
- Released: October 23, 2012
- Developer(s): Devolver Digital
- Genre: Action
The game that popularized the sub-genre of music synth-wave, Hotline Miami 1 and 2 puts players in the shoes of multiple people through 80s Miami. Dive into a psychedelic world of violence, wearing animal masks as you unleash top-down shooter action. With its soundtrack by the likes of Carpenter Brut, challenging gameplay, and a head-scratching narrative, Hotline Miami 1 and 2 delivers an adrenaline-fueled experience that will hook you to the last bullet.
The game also got a homage recently in the action movie John Wick: Chapter 4, so why not give it a try? Especially seeing that the game goes for cheap during the Steam sales.
10. Hitman: The World of Assassination
- Released: January 20, 2022
- Developer(s): IO Interactive A/S
- Genre: Action
Hitman: The World of Assassination combines the three new Hitman games by I/O Interactive into one single pack. Offering a vast sandbox to explore, take control of Agent 47, the world’s deadliest assassin, and travel to stunning international locations to eliminate your targets.
With enhanced gameplay, fun level design, & a serviceable storyline, this game takes assassination to new heights. You need to plan, adapt, and become the ultimate assassin in this gripping experience.
11. Dark Souls: Remastered
- Released: May 24, 2018
- Developer(s): QLOC, FromSoftware
- Genre: Souls-like
The remastered release of the original Dark Souls game, Dark Souls: Remastered fixes the critically acclaimed action RPG, providing an enhanced experience for everyone. Journey through the interconnected world of Lordran, filled with challenging enemies, intricate level design, and atmospheric storytelling.
This version of the game comes with better visuals, performance, and fixed online. It brings the punishing yet rewarding gameplay of the original Dark Souls to a newer audience, solidifying its status as a modern classic. Dark Souls is not only one of the hardest games of all time, but it also gives you the perfect stepping stone to enter the Souls genre.
12. Resident Evil 4 Remake
- Released: March 24, 2023
- Developer(s): CAPCOM
- Genre: Survival Horror
The original Resident Evil 4 is a generational title that popularized numerous gameplay features. Given its rich legacy, many expected Capcom to fumble while making the remake. However, it doesn’t seem to be the case. The remake tastefully recreates the 2005 original for modern gamers, introducing a new gameplay system. The writers also went ahead to rewrite numerous sections of the game. And while that should be a red flag, it isn’t the case. The rewrites give this game a new, yet familiar identity. That alone allows this game to stand beside the original on equal footing.
13. Slay The Spire
- Released: January 23, 2019
- Developer(s): Mega Crit
- Genre: Roguelike Deckbuilder
Slay the Spire is an addictive deck-building roguelike game. It sends you on a journey through the Spire, facing off enemies and collecting cards to build a unique deck. With its blend of turn-based combat, strategic decision-making, and procedurally generated levels, Slay the Spire provides replayability and a sense of progression. Prepare to face countless challenges and discover strategies as you conquer the Spire and claim victory
14. Stardew Valley
- Released: February 26, 2016
- Developer(s): ConcernedApe
- Genre: Simulator
Stardew Valley is a charming farming simulation game that mesmerizes players with its beautiful gameplay and heartwarming storytelling. Escape the city and embrace the simple countryside life. Cultivate your farm, engage in rewarding activities, build relationships with the townsfolk, and uncover the valley’s secrets.
Additionally, there is a new co-op mode, where you and your friend or partner can team up and create the best farm. With its beautiful pixel art and comforting soundtrack, Stardew Valley offers a peaceful escape into a vibrant virtual world.
15. Baldur’s Gate 3
- Released: August 3, 2023
- Developer(s): Larian Studios
- Genre: RPG
One of the surprising launches of 2023 also inadvertently became one of the best RPG games of all time. Baldur’s Gate 3 is the sequel to the age-old tabletop CRPG games made by BioWare. It takes place in the Dungeons & Dragons universe, specifically Faerun, and follows a band of adventurers infected by a parasitic tadpole.
The reason why this game gained its recognition and won Game of The Year in 2023 is because of its memorable characters, and impressive amount of player agency available throughout the experience. How you approach a situation is totally on you, and there are multiple outcomes to a situation. A must-try for gamers who enjoy choices in their gaming experience.
16. Left 4 Dead 2
- Released: November 17, 2009
- Developer(s): Valve
- Genre: FPS
When it comes to the best Steam games article, you know we have to add this game. One of the most popular co-op shooters to grace the earth, Left 4 Dead 2 is the sequel to the equally satisfying Left 4 Dead. It is a cooperative first-person shooter that drops players into a world infested with hordes of zombies.
Team up with friends or AI companions to fight for survival and battle waves of the undead. With its intense gameplay, dynamic AI director that changes the level of difficulty based on the team’s performance, and diverse weapons and characters, Left 4 Dead 2 is the best way to spend your weekend with friends.
17. Hollow Knight
- Released: February 24, 2017
- Developer(s): Team Cherry
- Genre: Metroidvania
The next game for our best Steam games list is one of the critically acclaimed modern Metroidvania platformers. Hollow Knight lets you control the silent knight, who dives into the depths of the ancient kingdom of Hallownest wielding a nail as your weapon. Explore intricate and interconnected caverns, battle challenging foes, and uncover the secrets of a lost civilization.
With simplistic albeit challenging combat, rewarding exploration, and deep lore, Hollow Knight offers an unforgettable journey through a beautiful and melancholic realm. As the Hollow Knight Silksong release date is still unknown, you would not want to miss out on such a masterpiece before the sequel arrives.
18. Sleeping Dogs
- Released: October 8, 2014
- Developer(s): United Front Games, Feral Interactive
- Genre: Action
Sleeping Dogs launched during an era when first-person shooters were gaining a lot of traction. Amidst such a landscape, this game managed to pull off certain things with a lot of style and personality. For one, it presented a beautiful recreation of mainland Hong Kong, that still holds to this date.
While it does not have the interactivity you’d expect from an open-world game, it makes up through its hard-boiled crime drama story of an undercover cop Wei Shen trying to thwart the powerful Sun-On-Yee Triad. Along with the story, the combat, and the soundtrack also elevates the experience to create a game that you’d visit once every year.
19. Doom (2016)
- Released: May 12, 2016
- Developer(s): id Software
- Genre: FPS
When 2016 was full of first-person shooters populating the market, DOOM appeared out of nowhere. And, while everyone expected the game to be another generic shooter, it thwarted everyone’s expectations. For once, DOOM approached the idea of a minimal storyline in favor of environmental storytelling and doubled down on the gore and gameplay.
Be it the glorious “glory kills,” the fast-paced shooting, or the head-banging soundtrack, DOOM helped contribute to the resurgence of old-school shooters alongside the indie darling Dusk. With DOOM Dark Ages coming, you might want to get a taste of the world of chaos.
20. Red Dead Redemption 2
- Released: December 5, 2019
- Developer(s): Rockstar Games
- Genre: Adventure
Rockstar Games might not launch games frequently like the other studios, but you can expect it to be a generational experience when they launch a game. Red Dead Redemption 2 is no different, where the studio showcased its technological prowess in full glory.
A prequel to Red Dead Redemption, it follows the final years of the Van Der Linde gang, putting you in the shoes of Arthur Morgan. Red Dead Redemption 2 is a great showcase of Rockstar’s technological knowledge, providing a brilliant Hope County map to explore and impressive gameplay.
Before ending the list, there are a few honorable mentions you must not miss out on Steam. Dota 2 is one of the top-rated MOBA games on Steam, made by Valve. It promises you solid competitive gameplay if you love that adrenaline rush. If you love Dragon’s Dogma or RDR 2, you can also give Black Myth Wukong and Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 a must-try. For the fans of ARPG, Diablo 4 and Path of Exile 2 (review) in recent times are good. But they still do not make our best games list; yet.
These are our picks for some of the best Steam games you can play in the current year. I know, there are more titles that we could’ve picked. And that is where you people come in. What are your favorite games of all time? What should be added to this list? Let us know in the comments below. Meanwhile, you can also check our list of the best free Steam games that you can play right now.
