Must-Play PC Games, Reddit? An Expert’s Definitive Guide

Alright, you typed “Must-Play PC Games” into Reddit and landed here. Let’s cut to the chase. The definitive answer is: it depends on your taste. But, if you want a curated list of landmark titles, the games that pushed boundaries and defined genres, offering experiences every PC gamer should have under their belt, then here’s my take, honed from decades in the trenches: Half-Life 2, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Divinity: Original Sin 2, Disco Elysium, DOOM (2016), Portal 2, Elden Ring, Minecraft, Stardew Valley, Deus Ex, Cyberpunk 2077 (post-patch, of course), and Total War: Warhammer III. These aren’t just games; they’re experiences, benchmarks, and narratives that will stay with you.

The Pantheon: Why These Games?

We’re not just throwing names at a wall here. Each game on this list represents something significant, a particular achievement in game design, storytelling, or technical prowess. Let’s break down why they are considered essential.

Half-Life 2: The FPS Revolution

Half-Life 2 isn’t just a first-person shooter; it’s a masterclass in environmental storytelling. The physics-based gameplay was revolutionary, allowing for emergent gameplay situations that felt both natural and utterly thrilling. Ravenholm still haunts my nightmares. This title raised the bar for immersion and narrative in the genre.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: Narrative Grandeur

CD Projekt Red crafted a world teeming with life in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. It’s not just the sprawling open world or the captivating monster hunts, it’s the morally grey choices and the deeply human stories that unfold within it. The Bloody Baron quest alone is a masterclass in video game storytelling. This is RPG storytelling at its finest.

Divinity: Original Sin 2: Tactical Freedom

Divinity: Original Sin 2 lets you break the rules, and it encourages it. The turn-based combat is incredibly deep and rewarding, allowing for creative solutions to every encounter. The environmental interactions and the sheer freedom of choice make this one of the best RPGs ever made.

Disco Elysium: The Anti-RPG RPG

Forget heroic knights and epic quests; Disco Elysium casts you as a broken, amnesiac detective in a city drowning in misery. The dialogue is sharp, the writing is phenomenal, and the choices you make have real consequences. It’s a narrative masterpiece that redefined what an RPG could be.

DOOM (2016): Pure, Unadulterated Carnage

Sometimes, you just need to rip and tear. DOOM (2016) delivered exactly that, with a blistering pace, a killer soundtrack, and a relentless onslaught of demons. It’s a masterclass in game feel and a glorious celebration of ultraviolence. It successfully rebooted the legendary franchise.

Portal 2: Puzzle Perfection

Portal 2 is more than just a puzzle game; it’s a witty and engaging narrative experience. The puzzles are ingenious, the humor is sharp, and the relationship between Chell and GLaDOS is genuinely compelling. It’s a perfect example of how to blend gameplay and storytelling seamlessly.

Elden Ring: The Open World Redefined

FromSoftware took their signature punishing combat and intricate world design and applied it to an open world in Elden Ring. The result is a sprawling, challenging, and utterly captivating experience that rewards exploration and perseverance. It’s a modern masterpiece and a contender for the greatest game of all time.

Minecraft: Limitless Creativity

Minecraft is more than just building blocks; it’s a blank canvas for your imagination. The possibilities are endless, from simple shelters to complex redstone contraptions. It’s a game that has captivated generations and continues to evolve.

Stardew Valley: Comfort and Community

Stardew Valley is a deceptively simple farming simulator that hides a deep and rewarding experience. It’s about building a community, tending to your farm, and finding peace in a simple life. It’s a perfect escape from the stresses of modern life.

Deus Ex: Cyberpunk Intrigue and Choice

Deus Ex blends cyberpunk themes, conspiracy theories, and player choice to create a truly immersive experience. The game allowed for multiple approaches to objectives, encouraging players to explore different playstyles and engage with the world. It’s a foundational title for immersive sims.

Cyberpunk 2077 (Post-Patch): Redemption Achieved

While the launch was rocky, CD Projekt Red has put in the work to transform Cyberpunk 2077 into the game it was always meant to be. Night City is a stunningly realized open world, and the narrative is compelling. The game has seen numerous updates and expansions that greatly improved its performance and content. It’s a cautionary tale, but also a testament to perseverance.

Total War: Warhammer III: Epic Scale Strategy

Total War: Warhammer III delivers grand-scale battles and intricate empire management in a fantastically realized Warhammer setting. The diversity of factions, the depth of the strategic layer, and the sheer spectacle of the battles make this a must-play for strategy fans.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Alright, I know you have more questions. Let’s dive into some of the common queries I get about PC gaming.

FAQ 1: What specs do I need to play these games?

It varies greatly! Half-Life 2 will run on a potato, while Elden Ring and Cyberpunk 2077 demand a decent modern rig. Check the minimum and recommended system requirements on Steam or GOG before purchasing. A good starting point for modern gaming is an RTX 3060 or RX 6600, 16GB of RAM, and a modern CPU.

FAQ 2: Where’s [Insert Game Title]? Why isn’t it on the list?

This list is subjective! There are countless amazing PC games, but these are my personal must-plays. Your favorites might differ, and that’s perfectly fine. Gaming is a personal experience.

FAQ 3: I’m new to PC gaming. Where do I start?

Start with something accessible like Stardew Valley or Minecraft. They’re easy to pick up and offer a lot of depth. Then, work your way up to more demanding titles. Don’t be afraid to experiment with genres!

FAQ 4: What are the best PC gaming platforms?

Steam is the king, offering a vast library and a robust community. GOG is great for DRM-free games and older titles. Epic Games Store offers free games regularly. Xbox Game Pass for PC is an excellent value, providing access to a rotating library of games for a monthly fee.

FAQ 5: What’s the best way to find new PC games?

Read reviews from trusted sources, watch gameplay videos, and ask for recommendations from friends or online communities. Steam’s discovery queue can also be helpful.

FAQ 6: Should I build my own PC or buy a pre-built one?

Building your own PC offers more customization and often better value, but it requires more technical knowledge. Pre-built PCs are more convenient but can be more expensive. Do your research and weigh the pros and cons.

FAQ 7: What are the essential PC gaming peripherals?

A good mouse, keyboard, and headset are essential. A high-refresh-rate monitor and a comfortable gaming chair are also worthwhile investments. Consider a dedicated gamepad for games that play better with one.

FAQ 8: What about VR gaming on PC?

VR gaming is a rapidly evolving space. Games like Half-Life: Alyx are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. However, VR headsets are still relatively expensive, and the hardware requirements are high.

FAQ 9: How can I improve my PC gaming performance?

Update your graphics drivers, close unnecessary background programs, and adjust your in-game settings. Overclocking your CPU and GPU can also improve performance, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Monitor your temperatures carefully!

FAQ 10: What’s the deal with PC game modding?

Modding can significantly enhance your gaming experience, adding new features, content, or even entirely new games. Check out resources like Nexus Mods for a vast library of mods for various games. Always download mods from trusted sources!

FAQ 11: What are some upcoming PC games to watch out for?

Keep an eye on titles like S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, Avowed, and Grand Theft Auto VI (eventually). Gaming news sites and trailers are your friends here.

FAQ 12: Is PC gaming dying?

Absolutely not! PC gaming is thriving. It offers unparalleled customization, a vast library of games, and a dedicated community. The technology is constantly evolving, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Long live the PC!

This is just a starting point, of course. The world of PC gaming is vast and ever-changing. Dive in, explore, and discover your own must-play titles. Happy gaming!