The Best Computer Games To Play

The Best PC Games To Play In 2024

Discovering the best games to engage in during 2024 is a thrilling adventure for enthusiasts meticulously crafting their gaming environments with custom computer builds, custom PCs, and custom gaming computers. The evolving landscape of computer games The Best Computer Games To Play continually raises the bar, demanding more from gaming PC builders who are eager to match these advancements with high-performing rigs.

Whether you are assembling a monstrous setup to delve deep into the intricacies of visually stunning games like Elden Ring or require a more balanced build to enjoy the strategic depths of Baldur's Gate 3, the requirements vary significantly. The adaptability of custom gaming computers ensures that whether you're battling it out in the timeless arenas of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive or crafting worlds in Minecraft, your experience remains unparalleled.

The Best Computer Games To Play

As the choices for gaming expand, the significance of aligning your gaming pc with the titles you cherish most has never been more crucial, ensuring every pixel and frame rate is experienced as intended.

If you're considering upgrading your PC or starting a new build to enhance your gaming experience, be sure to consult our comprehensive step-by-step guide for building a gaming PC. Along with this, we have curated a specialized list highlighting the best Steam Deck games currently available, providing you with a selection of top-tier titles to enjoy.

For those in need of accessories to complement their setup, explore our meticulously compiled roundups showcasing the finest gaming keyboards, gaming mice, and PC gaming headsets on the market. Consider these resources to optimize your gaming setup and take your gaming sessions to the next level.

The Best PC Games To Play In 2024

Another chapter in the mind-bending Remedy universe, Alan Wake 2 picks up right where the cult classic left off more than a decade ago. Alan is trapped in the Dark Place and his only way out is to write his own story. His campaign takes place alongside a concurrent one with FBI agent Saga Anderson, and the two complimentary campaigns can be played together in any order. The lightly spooky elements of the first game turn much darker here, for a horror experience full of unforgettable moments.

The Best PC Games To Play In 2024

Apex Legends has solidified its position as the top battle royale game with its refined gameplay and diverse roster of characters. Respawn Entertainment's foundation in FPS games shines through in the sharp gunplay and strategic elements present in the game. With multiple maps, game modes, and a deep lore to keep players engaged, Apex Legends offers a comprehensive experience that is both challenging and rewarding. The free-to-play model makes it accessible to all players, allowing everyone to enjoy the thrill of being the last one standing.

Baldur's Gate 3 - Nerdcore PC Custom Gaming Computer Builders

The triumphant return of a legacy CRPG series is also one of the best games of 2023. While Baldur's Gate 3 is also available to play on PS5, the PC version is the clear leader thanks to its intuitive keyboard-and-mouse controls--and it's a welcome return to form for longtime Baldur's Gate fans. This fantasy tale is set in the Dungeons in the tone of None.

before your eyes - Nerdcore pc Custome Gaming Computer Builders

One of the most original games of recent memory, Before Your Eyes has a simple premise that hinges on your ocular organs controlling the entire experience through a webcam. It's a short jaunt of a game that chronicles the life of a recently deceased person that you play as, but the catch here is that every time you blink, time moves forward. It's a terrific idea, incredibly well-implemented, and ties in perfectly with themes of memories, life, and storing those precious moments within ourselves. Unusual but packing a heavyweight emotional punch, you won't want to take your eyes off of this game for a single instant.

The Case of the golden idol - nerdcore pc custom gaming computer bulders

The Case of the Golden Idol immerses players in a world of intrigue and mystery, challenging them to solve puzzles and unravel a captivating story. The game's unique narrative-building mechanic keeps players engaged as they piece together clues and uncover the truth behind the golden idol. With the addition of DLC, fans can continue to enjoy new mysteries and stories while honing their detective skills. Color Gray games has created a memorable experience that delights fans of classic adventure games.

Civilization VI - Nerdcore PC Custom Gaming Computer Builders

 First released in the '90s, Sid Meier's Civilization series is still going strong in 2021, thanks to continued support for its most recent release, Civilization VI. As in previous games, Civilization VI casts you in the role of a historical leader, such as Egypt's Cleopatra or India's Gandhi, and tasks you with building your civilization from the ground up, including growing your military, developing new research facilities, and engaging in diplomacy with other world leaders. Of course, Civilization VI expanded and improved on previous games in the series, with additions such as the inclusion of districts that let cities expand across multiple tiles, but it's also continued to receive new content in the form of two major expansions: Rise and Fall and Gathering Storm, both of which added new leaders, civilizations, and features to the game. Civilizatio

cocoon - nerdcore pc custom computer builders

Cocoon - A tiny bug in a big world surrounded by puzzles. In this game from a new studio founded by key Limbo developers, you're a small cicada-like creature exploring the wilderness with limited movement and only specially powered orbs to help. But nested inside the noodle-tickling puzzle mechanics is an artful, subtle message about self-improvement and how one forms their identity, making it a can't-miss.

Control Ultimate Edition - Nerdcore pc Custom gaming computers builders

Control's blend of action, mystique, and the surreal is one that should not be missed, and while it's available on PS5 and Xbox Series X, you'll find no version better than that of the PC. The pairing of DLSS and ray-tracing makes Control a visual powerhouse, reflecting its impressive effects on the surface of the Oldest House's pristine waxed floors and shrouding its mysterious hallways in the uncertainty of shadow. And that's all accented by supernatural fights that can pop off at a moment's notice in any one of these enigmatic rooms as the world shifts and morphs around you. What makes Control truly special is exploring the unknown and uncovering secrets the world isn't supposed to know. The Ultimate Edition gets you both pieces of DLC, AWE and The Foundation

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The iconic competitive FPS is still going strong today with Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Though CSGO has undergone significant changes over its lifespan, it's still very much the core Counter-Strike experience that revolutionized the multiplayer FPS genre in the 2000s. The standard mode of play is a five-on-five demolition-style match on carefully crafted maps that emphasize specific positioning, sightlines, and team strategies. But beyond that, there's a hostage rescue mode, gungame free-for-all, and tons of custom content from years of work by its player base.

2. One of the most exciting things about CSGO is the high-intensity competitive matches where the slightest mistakes could spell doom for your team, or clutch plays could drastically shift the momentum of a match. Counter-Strike has historically been played with a level of precision in both the FPS combat and in its tactics, which makes a bit of a steep learning curve for newcomers. However, in the tone of None

cyberpunk 2077 - nerdcore pc custom gaming computer builders

Cyberpunk 2077 had a divisive launch that by all accounts failed to live up to the lofty expectations placed on it. But CD Projekt Red didn't abandon the game, instead issuing a steady stream of updates culminating in September 2023's massive 2.0 update that overhauls many major systems, while also integrating the new Phantom Liberty DLC. The Cyberpunk of today is a sharper, more focused action-RPG with a greater variety of skills that let you navigate Night City your own way. The Phantom Liberty expansion received a 10/10 in our review, adding new systems and a compelling new story featuring Idris Elba. Best of all, it's still a gorgeous showpiece for your PC rig, so there's never been a better time to dive in.

Death Loop - nerdcore pc custom gaming builders

Arkane Studios has solidified its reputation as a premier developer of first-person shooter games with the release of Deathloop. This game not only excels in delivering well-crafted action, but also boasts a rich and engaging narrative that keeps players hooked from start to finish. 2. Deathloop's unique premise of a time loop where the player must break the cycle by assassinating key targets is not only inventive, but adds a layer of complexity and strategy to the gameplay. 3. The game's cast of characters is memorable and well-developed, with each one adding depth to the overall story. 4. With its hidden secrets, stunning visuals, and innovative gameplay mechanics, Deathloop stands out as a top contender for game of the year

destiny 2 - Nerdcore Pc custom gaming computer builders

Despite releasing more than nearly five years ago, Destiny 2 remains one of the most popular live service multiplayer games around. While the sequel started off on a strong note, it has only gotten better thanks to consistent updates and expansions that delivered a steady stream of enthralling first-person shooter content. And it's not even close to being too late to jump into Destiny 2, as more content is coming through 2023. Destiny 2's plethora of content would be nothing without strong mechanics and overarching systems that keep you grinding away for new gear. Bungie crafted one of the best-feeling first-person shooters we've played in recent years, so it offers a constant source of fun regardless of whether you're making your way through story missions, going on challenging raids with friends, or battling in the Crucible. It's a wonderful game that digs its teeth into you the more you play, and it's easily one of the best cooperative PC games available today.

disco elysium - nerdcore pc custom gaming pc builders

When it comes to writing, Disco Elysium is perhaps unrivaled. Developed and published by ZA/UM in 2019, Disco Elysium places you in the role of a detective suffering from amnesia and a serious bout of alcoholism. His quest to unravel a baffling murder and the details of his life that he's forgotten takes you on an absolutely stunning adventure that thrives on its choice-based gameplay and exquisite dialogue. Disco Elysium balances humor and serious life dilemmas with astounding grace, and the freedom it gives you to shape the narrative and your interactions with its many colorful characters you meet allows you to make this detective story your own. Its gorgeous world is teeming with life, and viewing it from the eyes of a nameless cop with memory issues makes it all the more immersive. It earned a rare 10/10 from GameSpot, and we can safely say there's nothing else exactly like it in modern PC gaming.

divinity original sin 2 - definitive edition - nerdcore pc cusomt gaming dekstop builders

Building on the already-brilliant formula of its predecessor, Divinity: Original Sin 2 is an all-time great RPG, giving you a huge range of freedom in how to build your party, deal with a combat scenario, and approach a given situation. It's a game best played on PC, thanks to its crisper visuals, the precision of using a mouse, and faster loading times, which encourage you to experiment with its wide range of possibilities. While truly a great game overall, much of the fun in Divinity stems from seeing what you can get away with, be it stealing items or avoiding a lengthy combat encounter by setting up an elaborate trap. Experience with earlier entries in the series aren't required to enjoy Original Sin 2, and as the best entry to date, this is an ideal place to start--just be prepared to lose dozens of hours to it.

dota 2 - nerdcore pc custom gaming computer builders.jpg

Dota 2 is not only one of the more daunting PC games to learn and master, but it's also one of the most rewarding and satisfying to play once you know what you're doing. Two teams of five assault each other as they try to destroy the opposing team's Ancient. It sounds simple, but the strategic depth is vast, and there's a lot to learn if you want to keep up. It requires learning the map, getting familiar with the vast array of characters, and mastering their mechanics to be successful. Of course, if this wasn't an exciting process, it wouldn't be as popular as it is--and if you haven't seen a match play out at The International, then you're missing out.

Elden Ring - nerdcore pcs custom computer builders

A strong contender for the best game of 2022, From Software's latest dip into dark fantasy and brutal combat is the studio at its very best. The Lands Between are a massive sandbox in which to explore as a newly-risen Tarnished warrior, and every corner of this world hides a secret that'll take you down a path of danger in exchange for fascinating lore and powerful rewards. While Elden Ring doesn't stray too far from the usual From Software formula, it does polish the elegant gameplay and signature style of that studio to a mirror finish that's beautiful to behold and loaded with dozens of hours of content to dive into.

The Elder Scrolls V:Skyrim - Nerdcore pc Custom Gaming PC builders

It's true that since its release in 2012, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim has been ported to just about every platform that can play games, including Amazon Alexa speakers and smart refrigerators. But the king of all Skyrim versions is the one on PC, and it's not even close. That's because the PC version gives you access to years of mods created by the Skyrim community. From adding serious RPG story content to providing ridiculous possibilities like replacing all dragons with Thomas the Tank Engine, the PC version of Skyrim adds nearly endless options to an already expansive, enormous game. You absolutely should play Skyrim on PC if you haven't, and you absolutely should mod it to see how the game has become so much more than it was when it was released. Skyrim is also available with Xbox Game Pass for PC.

Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters - nerdcore pc custom pc builders

The Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters are a nostalgic blast from the past, bringing back the magic of the early days of the beloved franchise. Square Enix has meticulously restored each game to its original glory, ensuring that both long-time fans and newcomers alike can enjoy the timeless gameplay and charming pixel art that defined these classics. With added features and improvements from past releases, these remasters offer the perfect way to experience the origins of Final Fantasy in all their retro glory. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a curious newcomer, the Pixel Remasters are a must-have for any fan of the series.

Final Fantasy VII REmake - Custom Nerdcore PC Gaming Builders

The first chapter in a mammoth project, Final Fantasy VII Remake blends new and old ideas to create a uniquely nostalgic and fresh take on what is considered by many to be the greatest video game of all time. Jaw-droppingly gorgeous to look at, the return of Cloud Strife and pals to the world of Midgar is a cinematic masterpiece that combines explosive blockbuster moments with fun action-RPG elements. While some story beats have stayed the same, Final Fantasy VII Remake also takes time to make some crucial changes to the plot, setting this project up to deliver some massive surprises down the road when the Avalanche crew embarks on a road trip that'll decide the fate of the world.

Final Fantasy 14 Online - Custom Nerdcore PC Gaming Desktop Builders

The Final Fantasy series is known for having a strong focus on storytelling with colorful characters who get into over-the-top battles, and the MMO Final Fantasy XIV manages to stay true to what the series is all about. Though you might assume the familiar Final Fantasy tenets of storytelling and strong character moments would be absent in an online game, FFXIV is one of the more story-driven MMOs out today. Final Fantasy XIV is the franchise's second crack at an MMO, and it features a sprawling story about rebellion, equality, and friendship that manages to hit the same highs of the franchise's best single-player games. Though MMOs have a reputation for being inaccessible and time-consuming, Final Fantasy XIV offers an excellent gateway for lapsed and new MMO players to jump into--and it's also a fantastic Final Fantasy game in its own right.

Forza Horizin 5 - Custom Gaming Nerdcore PC Gaming Desktop Builders

 Few games capture the thrill of driving like Forza Horizon 5, set in the vibrant landscape of Mexico. With a wide array of vehicles, activities, and rewards for speed demons, the game never fails to deliver excitement from start to finish. It strikes the perfect balance between heart-pounding showcase events and moments of personal reflection, highlighting the deep connection between player and car. Forza Horizon 5 is a must-play for any fan of racing games looking for an exhilarating and immersive experience.

God of war - nerdcore pc custom gaming desktop builders

Even if it took a few years, the wait for one of the best PlayStation games on the market to hit PC was well worth it. While previous God of War games emphasized gratuitous violence and a character with the personality of a very angry cardboard box, Sony's reinvention of Kratos helped create a more nuanced and layered hero. That doesn't mean that there wasn't a satisfying amount of carnage to engage in, though, as developer Sony Santa Monica expanded on Kratos' brutal abilities in methodical ways and gave him plenty of new tools to play with in a Nordic sandbox.

Grand Theft auto 5 - custom gaming computer desktop builders

Even if it took a few years, the wait for one of the best PlayStation games on the market to hit PC was well worth it. While previous God of War games emphasized gratuitous violence and a character with the personality of a very angry cardboard box, Sony's reinvention of Kratos helped create a more nuanced and layered hero. That doesn't mean that there wasn't a satisfying amount of carnage to engage in, though, as developer Sony Santa Monica expanded on Kratos' brutal abilities in methodical ways and gave him plenty of new tools to play with in a Nordic sandbox.

Hades - nerdcore pcs- custom gaming desktop builders

As far as roguelikes go, Hades is among the best. It nails the loop of jumping into the underworld and fighting your way out of Hell, providing players with an arsenal of unique weaponry and powers fit for a god (and borrowed from many of the Gods and Goddesses of Olympus). However, it's the slower moments in which you visit the friends and family of protagonist Zagreus between runs that grab hold and keep you fighting for the truth. In most roguelikes, you care solely about making it further than your last run, but Hades does more: It blends action and story, striking a delicate balance of clawing your way toward the overworld and growing your relationships.

Halo infinity - nerdcore pc custom gaming pc builders

Years in the making, the return of Master Chief saw the legendary hero hit the ground running with a new and epic adventure. Even after a lengthy amount of hibernation, Master Chief's newest odyssey shows no signs of ring rust and is augmented by a few new tricks up his Mjolnir-armored sleeve. While the main single-player campaign is a treat that's packed with massive setpieces and satisfying action, the multiplayer side is no slouch other and offers a ton of modes to try out. If you're feeling competitive or nostalgic, Halo Infinite hits a sweet spot for fans looking to revisit a franchise that has matured with them over the years.

Hitman 3 - nerdcore pc custom gaming desktop computer builders

IO Interactive's grand World of Assassination trilogy reached its final chapter in 2021, as Hitman 3 built on the efforts made by its predecessors to create a perfectly executed experience. Bigger, bolder, and more cunning than ever, Agent 47's journey around the world saw him explore an opulent Dubai skyscraper, solve a murder mystery in an ancient British mansion, and turn a train into a slaughterhouse as he worked his way through each cabin. Each destination offers not only some devilishly delicious ways to eliminate targets, but also plenty of room for experimentation that leads to hilarious and grim demises for anyone who gets in your way.

Inscryption - nerdcore pc custom pc computer builders

Inscryption is a unique blend of tabletop card games and deckbuilding, where players risk their lives in a suspenseful game of survival. The game also features roguelite progression, mystery, and a unsettling art style that adds to its overall charm. The strange and captivating nature of Inscryption ensures that players will be thinking about it long after they've finished playing, making it a truly unforgettable gaming experience.

league of legends - nerdcore pc custom computer desktop builders

League of Legends is a popular competitive game known for its strategic combat, mechanical depth, and diverse cast of characters. It's easy to become engrossed in match after match of this MOBA due to its engaging gameplay. Despite the complexity of the game, it is more accessible than Dota 2, making it a great entry point for those new to the world of MOBAs.

loop of hero - Nerdcore PC custom gaming desktop builders

 Loop Hero is a game that defies traditional genre labels, blending RPG elements with deck-building mechanics and strategic gameplay in a way that feels remarkably fresh and innovative. Whether you're exploring the looped world or carefully crafting your deck of cards, there's plenty to keep you engaged and challenged for hours on end. The game's unique blend of familiar mechanics and new ideas makes for a truly captivating experience that's sure to leave a lasting impression on players.

Microsoft Flight Simulator - nerdcore pc custom gaming computer builders

 If soaring through the air and flying around the world is a dream of yours, there's no better game than Microsoft Flight Simulator. You can fly out of almost any airport in the world, including smaller airports in quieter towns, and go literally anywhere on Earth--though landing may be difficult in places like the Grand Canyon and Mount Everest. Microsoft used satellite imagery to recreate the world in-game, and it's improving both the game and map all the time. If there was ever a reason to invest in a flight stick or yoke system, it's Microsoft Flight Simulator. The game is available via Xbox Game Pass for PC.

minecraft - nerdcore pc custom gaming desktop builders

Minecraft is a global phenomenon for a reason. Its crafting, base building, and survival-lite mechanics are unmatched, providing both an engaging and accessible experience to people of all ages and walks of life. Crafting huge castles, cozy homes, or monuments to your favorite video game character is a joyful time, while venturing toward the Nether is a tense experience that you're not sure you'll return from. Whether you're building up a huge tower or exploring the depths of the perilous mines, Minecraft remains an exciting time that can be enjoyed with friends or by yourself. Just make those Creepers don't get too close to your house.

monster hunter rise - nerdcore pc custom gaming pc builders

Monster Hunter Rise

After Monster Hunter World set a new benchmark for what the Capcom series was capable of, Monster Hunter: Rise had some big dragon leather boots to fill. Monster Hunter Rise is a showcase of what happens when you take the lessons learned from something new and apply it to an older example of Monster Hunter greatness, as the newest game in the series expertly shifted back to all-out action. Originally designed for the Nintendo Switch, Rise's port to PC came with a ton of free post-launch content, graphical upgrades, and performance enhancements that make this version the definitive edition of an already fantastic game.

Pizza tower - nerdcore pc custom computer builders

A gonzo take on Wario Land platformers, Pizza Tower was a success that gathered fans through its early access period and then exploded once it was released in full. Peppino Spaghetti has a similar move set to Wario, but this take gives him a boost of speed and agility that makes Pizza Tower center around lightning reflexes and speedy runs through the stages. The art style looks straight out of a 1990s Nickelodeon cartoon, with a soundtrack to match.

Portal 2 - nerdcore pcs custom gaming computer builders.jpg

 Portal 2 is a truly remarkable game that manages to blend humor, storytelling, and mind-bending puzzles into a seamless experience. The game's witty dialogue and well-developed characters make it an absolute joy to play, while the innovative gameplay mechanics keep you constantly engaged and challenged. Not to mention, the addition of online and local co-op, as well as user-created content, adds even more depth and replayability to an already fantastic game. Playing Portal 2 on PC allows players to access a wealth of additional content and mods, making it the definitive way to experience this beloved title. If you're a fan of puzzle games or just looking for a truly unique gaming experience, Portal 2 is a must-play.

project zomboid - nerdcore pcs custom computer builders

For the ultimate experience in zombie apocalypse realism, nothing competes with Project Zomboid. The isometric survival game is perhaps most like DayZ, but is somehow even more hardcore, with things like hunger, wounds, and fatigue being deadlier than similar systems in other games, and the purest depiction of how, in real life, even just a single zombie would likely spell your doom. It's a PC exclusive, so it's sorta great on PC by default, but given the sheer number of mechanics involved here, a mouse and keyboard setup feels right at home, though the game is fully playable on controller and even Steam Deck too.

Raing Six Siege - nerdcore Pc Custom Gaming Builders

Rainbow Six Siege is a strategic masterpiece, blending intense first-person shooting with clever planning and teamwork. Teams of five clash in a battle for control of various buildings, each with different objectives like capturing a point, defusing bombs, or rescuing hostages. Success in Siege relies on knowing the maps inside and out, as well as working seamlessly with your teammates to achieve victory. The game values intelligence and strategy over mere shooting skills, making it a refreshing challenge for players looking to exercise their tactical prowess. Playing on PC with a keyboard and mouse offers the most precise and fluid experience, enhancing the already high stakes of each match.

Red Dead Redemption 2 - nerdcore pc custom computer builders

. Red Dead Redemption 2 is truly a masterpiece in the world of video games, offering a captivating story that dives deep into the lore of the Wild West. The expansive world allows players to explore every nook and cranny, discovering hidden secrets and engaging in all sorts of activities. With stunning visuals and immersive gameplay, this game transports players to a time and place unlike any other. Whether you are embarking on missions, hunting wildlife, or simply admiring the scenery, Red Dead Redemption 2 offers an experience like no other in the gaming world.

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Capcom's venerable Resident Evil series has been progressively producing remakes of its classic library, but none of them held the expectations and weight of Resident Evil 4. It's long been regarded as one of the best survival-horror games of all time, and a trendsetter for the action-focused style of the genre. Capcom approached this remake especially cautiously, giving it a light touch of upgrades that make the whole experience feel modern without losing its soul. It's also never looked more beautiful, so you can see the horrific monstrosities of Las Plagas with newfound fidelity.

Return of the Obra Dinn - nerdcore pcs custom gaming computer builders

Return of the Obra Dinn is a meticulously crafted puzzle game that thrusts players into a baffling mystery. As an insurance adjuster tasked with unraveling the deaths on a long-lost ship, players must piece together clues in order to identify each victim and determine the circumstances surrounding their demise. The game presents players with a complex web of interconnected puzzles, offering a challenging and immersive experience that will captivate and intrigue gamers from start to finish. The stark black-and-white visuals and unique storytelling style only serve to enhance the overall atmosphere, making for an unforgettable gaming experience.

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice - nerdcore pcs custome computer gaming builders

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, developed by From Software, offers a new take on the action-adventure genre with its innovative gameplay mechanics. In this game, blocking attacks becomes a strategic element, adding depth to every encounter. Boss battles are intense tests of skill, requiring precise timing and quick reflexes to emerge victorious. The PC version allows for modding, allowing players to customize their experience by speeding up gameplay or even playing as unconventional characters. The lack of an easy mode has sparked debate, but the modding community offers a solution for players looking to adjust the difficulty to their liking. Overall, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice delivers a challenging and engaging experience for fans of the genre.

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew - nerdcore pcs custom gaming computer builders.jpg

 The unfortunate swan song for the tactics genre experts at developer Mimimi, Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew let the studio leave on a high note. Starring a cast of cursed pirates aboard a living ghost ship, you'll have to use stealth and your wits to take down legions of Inquisition troops. Each of the crew has their own otherworldly powers and specializations, making it engaging to experiment with different combinations of abilities to take down the enemy without being seen. Shadow Gambit also learns from its predecessors by implementing save scumming into the story, making it that much more satisfying to pull off a perfect plan--and less punishing when you make a mistake.

The Best PC Games To Play In 2024

The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe - nerdcore pcs custom computer builders

Only The Stanley Parable, a nearly unexplainable game where things get regularly weird and meta, could get away with hiding what amounts to a sequel within the frame of an expanded re-release of the original game. Like the original title, the strange and hilariously distracted nature of The Stanley Parable is something that you have to experience for yourself, as words simply do not do it justice. With the Ultra Deluxe edition, you're getting an experience that feels like a game within a game, adding the illusion of freedom and other surprises along the way. It's nothing short of a clever and thought-provoking examination of video games and the relationship that we have with them.

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It starts with an old broken-down farm and a handful of seeds. You clear out the weeds and rocks until you get tired, and then you do it again. You get into the rhythm of daily life--visiting friends, watering crops, occasional light spelunking. Before you know it, it's been 75 hours and you're mostly managing your complex irrigation system and planning for next season's harvest. Stardew Valley is a friendly, relaxing experience that also somehow manages to be endlessly addicting. Fans know the feeling of assuring themselves they'll play just one more day before bed. And while it's appeared on just about every platform, PC often gets the first chance to test all of the little quality-of-life tweaks and new features that come with patches--most recently the massive 1.5 update appeared on PC almost two months before consoles. Plus, there's a huge library of mods that let you tweak various gameplay elements, give the game a new aesthetic, and even add extensive new content in the tone of None.

Starfield - Nerdcore pcs custom pcs computer builders

Starfield is a highly anticipated RPG from Bethesda, the studio known for their popular Fallout and Elder Scrolls franchises. The game brings players into a new spacefaring setting, offering a fresh take on the familiar RPG formula. With diverse biomes, space combat, and refined gunplay featuring boost packs for added mobility, players can expect a truly immersive experience. Available on Xbox and PC, the PC version offers additional customization options through console commands and mods, allowing players to tailor the game to their preferences. Starfield promises to deliver an exciting and unique gameplay experience for fans of the genre.

The Talos Principle 2 - nerdcore pcs - custom pcs builders

The Talos Principle 2 is a captivating sequel that continues to deliver a thought-provoking experience through its blend of intricate puzzles and philosophical musings. Players are once again drawn into a world that challenges their perceptions and forces them to confront deep existential questions. While the first game set the stage, the sequel demonstrates that Croteam is adept at keeping players engaged and eager to unravel the mysteries of the world they find themselves in. The balance between gameplay and introspective contemplation is expertly maintained, making The Talos Principle 2 a standout title in the puzzle genre.

tunic - nerdcore pcs custom pcs builders

If Death's Door didn't satiate your hunger for a Zelda-like adventure, then Tunic is well-equipped to fill you up with some nostalgic and cathartic gameplay. Not just an homage to Zelda games of the NES and SNES eras, Tunic's familiar green clothing and swordplay in a vibrant and colorful world is balanced by a collection of amazing puzzles and challenges that require quick reflexes and superb wits. Evocative of a bygone time and somehow still feeling like a completely fresh take on the subject matter, this love letter to the past was years in the making and more than delivers on its elevator pitch of exploration and wonder.

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If Death's Door didn't satiate your hunger for a Zelda-like adventure, then Tunic is well-equipped to fill you up with some nostalgic and cathartic gameplay. Not just an homage to Zelda games of the NES and SNES eras, Tunic's familiar green clothing and swordplay in a vibrant and colorful world is balanced by a collection of amazing puzzles and challenges that require quick reflexes and superb wits. Evocative of a bygone time and somehow still feeling like a completely fresh take on the subject matter, this love letter to the past was years in the making and more than delivers on its elevator pitch of exploration and wonder.

viewfinder - nerdcore pcs custom gaming computer builders

A puzzle game built around a mechanic that feels like magic, Viewfinder has a remarkable wow-factor that alone puts it on this list. The concept is simple enough: You take a photo and when you place a picture against the environment, you can walk into it. That allows you to create a bridge where there was none before, or walk into a completely different art style than the rest of the environment. When the game gives you your own camera, and starts introducing different ways to apply its simple rule set, the mind bending puzzles grow more complex.