The Best PC Games of All Time

Age of Mythology

With its unique unit action/fighting loops and God powers. Age of Mythology is a seriously fun game to experience. Introducing you to the worlds Mythology and entertaining you with its satisfying strategy & resource gathering elements.

Pray to the many Gods mortal!

[low-spec PC games]

Medieval II: Total War

Need to know what it feels like to run an empire? This game has you covered. With its low graphical requirements and deep and intricate map and real-time combat system. There is much to learn about this game. It really helps you understand some elements of the human past and why we fought so much over lands and resources. While understanding the mindset and tactical needs of conquest, defense and the importance of moral.

[low-spec PC games]

Shogun 2: Total War

Shogun TW is a modernised version of Medieval 2 engine that enhances and improves in many ways. Definitely worth at least one campaign for any total war fan. The games Japanese influence and feel is so well done and it does a great job of engaging with that time period and history. There are two expansions that are available for the game: Rise of the Samurai and the Fall of the Samurai which the latter seems to be a cult favorite and a standalone expansion.

Company of Heroes

Company of Heroes was both the most tactical RTS game I ever played and also the most emotional. By the end of the campaign, I was closer to understanding what the soldiers went through and the true cost of victory. Besides the sentiment, there is something about seeing enemy tanks get destroyed by your well placed landmines that cannot be explained. This game though old, is graphically intensive and not Low-Spec. But definitely worth multiple plays through the difficulties.

Sid Meier’s Civilization V

The best of both worlds, advance graphics + gameplay performance in combination to what makes the series so enjoyable and challenging. Pick Civilization V as your go to title, you won’t go wrong.

Best PC Adventure Games

Oddworld: Abyss Odysee & Exodus

My first PS1 game, and what a game it was.. Abyss Odysee is a difficult and emotionally rewarding platform adventure game, with a simple, yet intelligent design. Hand painted backgrounds that bring beauty into a dystopian world and some of the best humor going around. Completing it as a kid, I knew very well the meaning and value of what I had experienced and so will you. Make sure to play them in order.

This game is sacred, so be prepared

[low-spec PC games]

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons

A short, yet breath taking story of two brothers searching for a cure. Set in an enchanting world that draws in young & old. This game is a must play with a very important message behind it. Something that can only be experienced when those we love, leave our world.. Another special title that you’ll experience when the time is right. PC controller is a must.

[low-spec PC games]

Steam | GoG

Gun

Gun was the first western style action adventure game that we played with well executed horse riding mechanics. It is well designed and does many things right, with satisfying gun controls to exciting missions and a decent enough story to go with. The game had high replayability due to its solid combat and wouldn’t be suprised if you played it multiplie times.

[low-spec PC games]

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Game of the Year 2019 – Sekiro is the perfect game for those looking for a challenge and who enjoy a little mystery. There are so many layers to this game, so much to learn and uncover. Leaving you feeling rewarded for your time spent learning its ways and uncovering its secrets. Definitely should be on your list, if it isn’t already.

Read my Sekiro: Spoiler Free Beginners Guide

Tomb Raider

Always loved a good action-adventure, and Tomb Raider (2013) doesn’t disappoint. If you’re into stealth, bows, guns and running around in search of mysteries and treasure. Then look to further. It’s a beautifully put together game that will have stop and look around more than once.

Hollow Knight

Adventure through a stunning ruined kingdom, filled with interesting characters and enemies. Hollow Knight is a hand crafted world, that will not only capture your imagination, but your soul. With its beautiful hand drawn art to its captivating soundtrack. This challenging little title is a must have for those looking for the timeless gems in our gaming history.

Read my Hollow Knight Starter Guide

Steam | GoG

Dishonored

Not sure why it took me so long to play this game, it’s truly a masterpiece.. Amazing combat, great story and well constructed characters and environments. It’s really a must play. You can get hours and hours of gameplay out of this, simply because there are so many ways of doing the same thing and you can’t but help replay it and experiment. This is by far my favorite stealth action-adventure game.

[low-spec PC games]

Best RPG Games

Fable

Fable 1 was one of the first advanced RPGs we were able to experience. Not only was it set in a highly polished and lively world, its gameplay and mechanics offered the player a great deal of replayability. The best way to describe this game would be enchanting. A must play for all RPG fans.

The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt

Witcher 3 has managed to take the world by storm and has pushed many of the limits previously set on RPGs. Great lore, story telling and one of the funnest and most challenging combat systems in RPG format. If you haven’t played it yet, then it should definitely be one on your list.

Dragon Age: Origins

Critically acclaimed, tactical group based RPG with changeable stories and great gameplay. Not only does it offer players multiple classes, sub-classes and races to play, but allows the full control of the all Heroes. Plus tactical pauses and AI behavioural customisation for further depth.

Gameplay changes with the console. Therefore, the PC is recommended for the player seeking a challenge to accompany the great story.

[low-spec PC games]

Diablo II & Lord of Destruction

The worlds favourite hack and slash RPG, is still being played after 16 years since release. D2 has received a spike in players since the rumours of Diablo 2 Remastered. It’s a classic and the fact that it’s still being played today is a sentiment to it’s timeless design, gameplay and complexity.

[low-spec PC games]

Blizzard | Amazon

Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning

This game has been often overlooked and lost in the noise. However, after having the chance to play it. It became very clear that it deserved much more attention that it received. A unique world and lore, that’s beautiful, rich and well thought out. The highlight of this game though, is it’s unique class system /flexibility & the ridiculously fun combat when you have a PC controller as your input.

[low-spec PC games]

Hyper Light Drifter

The favourite indie Action-RPG, this minimalist little game is beautiful, engaging and difficult to master. Highly replayable and one of those games that needs the PC controller for maximum user experience. It’s great value, and with the recently added co-op game function, deserves multiple playthroughs.

[low-spec PC games]

Steam | GoG

Mass Effect 2

The go to Sci-fi RPG, Mass Effect 2 has so many things going for it. Made by the same makers as Dragon Age: Origins, it’s strengths lie in its story, depth, character development, challenging combat and high flexibility in class paths. It uses the same formula as DA:O to engage the audience for hours.

The console versions are currently recommend because the PC port doesn’t have native PC controller support which really kills it in many ways. In saying that, there are a number of third-party solutions.

[low-spec PC games]

Borderlands 2

The epitome of a loot shooter, BL2 doesn’t disappoint. Superb gameplay, timeless graphics, engaging story and great quests and missions. This game has it all, and thousands of players years of is release still agree. There is a lot of value in this title, with its range of classeses, playstyles and loot. Every playthrough is different and there is always something new to learn to uncover while playing. And I haven’t even mentioned the social/co-op aspects of this game yet!

Read my Borderlands 2 Guide

[low-spec PC games]

Fallout 3

Who knew running around in a post-apocalyptic world fighting for your survival was so damn fun. Fallout 3 & New Vegas are the highlight of the series for many and offer players hours of engaging gameplay. Something about the graphic standards of its time enhances its dark and dystopian atmosphere and vibe. Fallout’s one of the deepest RPGs around with a highly charged FPS element.

[low-spec PC games]

BUY THE FALLOUT ANTHOLOGY

DarkSouls

Cringe, rage and repeat. One of the first brutal RPGs to test players patience and resilience, built on a solid foundation of dark myth and lore. Once you get a hang of things and learn that you can’t hack and slash mindlessly like other games. You’ll be suddenly surprised how much fun you’re having dying and learning more with every death. Classed with Witcher 3 on Death March, this is a must for adernaline junkies and hardcore gamers.

[low-spec PC games]

Skyrim

The lastest in the series of open-world Action RPGs developed by Bethesda. Set in the new continent of Skyrim, it offers players much of what they love about the series while giving them new environments and new game mechanics to explore and enjoy. With its new remastered edition, this is a must play RPG for those seeking the higher graphics.

Oblivion

Oblivion being my personal favourite of the open-world series offers much of the same as its preceding title. But in a different world that is based in Cyrodiil—a province of Tamriel. The main story follows the death of the Emperor and the threat of the Gates of Oblivion. Graphically less intensive than Sykrim, makes it the better option for low-spec gamers. Though with the huge modding community behind the titles all three games are highly modifiable.

[low-spec PC games]

Morrowind

Set in the alien homeland of the Dunmer (Dark Elves). Morrowind though the oldest of the three still offers some great story and plot to follow and enjoy. And with the official Morrowind Overhaul dramatically changing the graphics of the game. It’s definitely worth a playthrough if you’re a fan.

This one is mechanically different from the other two and more complex.

[low-spec PC games]

Dragons Dogma: Dark Arisen

This game is unlike the other rpgs on this list. And that is because it’s JRPG by Capcom. Set in a unique open world, who am I kidding. The main thing that makes this game stand out is its combat system & customisation. In addition to the unique pawn system which you will quickly get acquainted with. This game is damn fun and really brings back a sense of adventure, especially if you’re travelling in the night. And has a decent story and lore to boot.

Middle Earth: Shadow of War

Which is the second title after the famed Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor. Is in many ways an improved and expanded game with many of the similarities of its predecessor. The best way I could describe it to you is a really good orc killing and slaughtering simulator. Which has enough challenge to have you sweating on the higher difficulties. And often questioning your decisions and moves when taking on pivotal missions. Don’t want to give out too much. If you’re a fan of the Lord of the Ring universe and like your actions rpgs, then give it a go.

Best PC Shooter Games

Half Life 2 + Episodes One & Two

HL2 was one of the best-first person shooters we ever played and it set the standards. Both in terms of graphical performance, efficiency, story, characters and the enjoyable gameplay. An excellent example of the capabilities of the Steam engine. The game was so well done, that we couldn’t put a fault on it. Until we played the episodes and understood that there is always room for improvement. These titles are a must play for all PC gamers. Grab yourself a PC controller and enjoy the ride, the combine are calling..

[low-spec PC games]

BioShock

The original BioShock which gave rise to preceding titles, is truly a work of art. The world building, the charm and its unique combat system is something that stays with you. A perfect balance between creepy and fun, it tells a story of its strange world one step at a time. One of the best shooters I’ve ever played and will likely ever play. Recently remastered for a much smoother overall experience.

[low-spec PC games]

Battlefield 1

Being a fan of the original Battlefield 1942, Battlefield 1 has a soft spot in my heart. I was originally late to the boat, but the game is still kicking strong. Great modern graphics, smooth gameplay and expansive maps and combat. In addition to everything else that makes battlefield games so great. This is definitely my go to shooter fix when in the mood for some intense tactical warfare.

Origin | Amazon

Battlefield: Bad Company 2

If you can’t get into the WW1 theme for whatever reason and still want the BF experience, Bad Company 2 is the perfect choice. Still graphically stunning, rewarding class system, non-origin client; making it the best Battlefield game that I feel comfortable recommending to you. It’s a solid choice with a small but strong community of players behind it, who can only grow bigger and stronger.

Counter Strike: Source

The hours we spent playing CS:S is unprecedented. And the strangest part was we were happy playing the same few maps, for hours on end. The first taste of clan warfare, the importance of nimble fingers and quick eyes. CS:S is the perfect balance between CS:1.6 difficulty and CS:GO graphics. Highly recommended to the players seeking a Low-Spec multiplayer shooter to hoon their skills with.

[low-spec PC games]

Counter Strike: Global Offensive

Looking something more modern and graphically impressive? Then CS:GO is you go to title. With much of what we loved about CS:Source, CS:GO brings around many of the old maps, in addition to some new ones. Plus other quality of life features and mechanics. Similar gameplay, improved graphics, gun customisation, skins and competitive modes and tournaments.

Now Free to Play

Day of Defeat: Source

The poor mans BF1? No, far from it. Day of Defeat: Source is a special game and I can’t help but smile when I play or think about playing. It attracted a more mature and serious crowd than CS:S. Hard to say why, but one hit kills and the more strategic mechanics of the game might have something to do with it. It’s the most fun I’ve had in an online first-person shooter and the community had much to do with it. Perfect low-spec alternative if you need some World War vibes.

[low-spec PC games]

Hotline Miami

No need to sell you on this game, because you’ve already had people tell you how great it is. But one thing that I should add is that this game is a great way to channel your stress, frustration and anger and not allow it to turn into destructive rage. To be angry in this time period is very healthy, though learning how to channel it is crucial to our survival and success.

[low-spec PC games]

Best PC Horror Games

Deadspace

Never been interested in the horror genre? What is considered horror to many, does nothing for others. However, playing Deadspace during the night, alone. Definitely had me frightened and in fight or flight mode a few times. The games combat, weapons and problem solving mechanics are great fun to go along with the finely selected ambience and atmospher.

[low-spec PC games]

The Thing

The Thing was an underrated game and went under the radar. However, it offered some advance mechanics that were unseen at the time in addition to incredibly creepy story. It introduced a squad based system that offered some interesting experiences and outcomes. The game is still playable and highly challenging, especially if it’s your first time.

Word of advice, keep a steady mind.. and fear no thing.

[low-spec PC games]

Amazon

Best PC Competitive Games

Dota 2

The classic MOBA franchise that would create a chain of similar modeled games, Dota 2 is the go to MOBA. More difficult and complex than League of Legends and completely free to play with no limitations, Dota 2 is the smart gamers choice. Deaths are to be avoided and you better understand tactics and strategic maneuvers if you want to win. When seeking the combative high adrenaline experience, why not go to the source?

Its recent changes make it more beginner friendly and simplified, but don’t be fooled, you’ll need a hard skin and commitment to constantly improvement.

[low-spec PC games]

Magic The Gathering: Arena

MGT is great card game. And the highs of winning can really be rewarding, especially when you’ve put together your own deck. But thing is, there is a lot of rules and regulations and a high barrier to entry. That’s why Magic The Gathering: Arena is such a great game. All that you love about the card game, put together in a light-weight and well designed client, with great features, graphics, sound and UI. They really went all out on this one and you can just feel the love they have for their players. The game is also generous and if you’re half-decent you’ll be stacking in new decks and card packs in no time. However, don’t expect them to teach you how to play. There is very little hand holding.

[low-spec PC games]

Hearthstone

This games simple intuitive design, quick games and ease of entry. Not to mention its beautiful art style and feel make it a go to competitive card game, giving both casual and serious gamers hours of enjoyment. Works on multiple platform/devices and ever expanding and changing.

[low-spec PC games]

Blizzard

Valorant

This game is so hot right now. And will likely stay that way. Created and ran by Riot Games, the company behind League of Legends. It is a cross between Counterstrike & Overwatch. This 5v5 tactical FPS as a multi generational player base, an overall friendly and welcoming community and does many things right that it definitely has the potential to stick around for the long-haul. Only time will tell, but my money is on this one once the iron out a few kinks.

Fortnite

Everyones heard of battle royals these days and may be curious. I’d seen many people play Fortnite but didn’t get it. Until I gave it a go for myself. The game runs much better than PUBG, the graphics are visually stunning and the game is very well put together. But I believe the best part is that the main game mode is co-op. 50 vs 50 and whichever sides reaches 150 kills first, wins. This gets people working together which is preferable. And if you get killed you just get respawned, no need to waste time starting all over again.

Quake Arena

Though the game is quite old, it has taken nothing away from how fun and challenging it can really be. It’s great for LAN parties (who has these now days?) or if you play with a group of friends online, giving you hours of entertainment. It’s faced paced, light-weight and will build your reflexes better than any other game that I know. Excellent place to build your FPS muscle memory.

[low-spec PC games]

Best MMORPGs

Checkout the extended list of the best MMORPGs.

Guildwars 1

There is a lot to choose from when it comes to MMORPGs, but my go to game is Guildwars 1 and has remained so over the years. The game is matured, has a great community, complex and challenging mechanics while giving you a tone of content to play through and explore. Read more on Why Guildwars 1 is Still Worth Playing.

[low-spec PC games]

ArenaNet | Steam

World of Warcraft Classic

With its return, comes many from far and wide. Possible the most played MMORPG ever. WOW classic is definitely worth having checking out. The experience and fuzzy feelings while playing can often be unmatched and the strong community of people behind it is something to experience. However, only time will tell if it will survive and maintain it’s popularity.

[low-spec PC games]

Official Site

Oldschool Runescape

For many of us this was our first online game and my god, was it a good little adventure. Years have passed and Oldschool Runescape is still being played today, which is a clear testament to it’s longevity. It’s casual, can be played and enjoyed anywhere and it’s fun for some strange reason? This game taught me a lot. To help others out, don’t beg for money (work for it) and the basics of buying low and selling high for profit. Perhaps there are even more lesson to be had.

[low-spec PC games]