Top Free PC Games 2022: Must-Play Picks
In recent years, the popularity of free-to-play games has skyrocketed. With the rise of digital distribution platforms like Steam and Epic Games Store, players now have access to a wide variety of high-quality games without having to spend a dime. This has led to an explosion of free PC games, making it easier than ever for gamers to find something they enjoy without breaking the bank.
In 2022, free PC games are particularly popular for several reasons. First and foremost, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has forced many people to spend more time at home. With limited entertainment options available, gaming has become a go-to activity for many individuals looking to pass the time. Free PC games offer a cost-effective way to stay entertained without having to invest in expensive hardware or software.
Additionally, the quality of free PC games has improved significantly in recent years. Developers have recognized the potential of the free-to-play model and have invested more time and resources into creating engaging and immersive experiences. This means that players can now enjoy high-quality games without having to spend a dime.
Furthermore, the accessibility of free PC games is another reason for their popularity. Unlike console gaming, which often requires a significant upfront investment in hardware, PC gaming can be enjoyed on a wide range of devices, from high-end gaming rigs to budget laptops. This means that almost anyone with a computer can jump into the world of free PC gaming.
Key Takeaways
- Free PC games are popular in 2022 due to their accessibility and affordability.
- Some of the best free PC games to play in 2022 include Apex Legends, Warframe, and Destiny 2.
- Action-packed PC games to try in 2022 include Doom Eternal, Resident Evil Village, and Far Cry 6.
- Adventure games to explore on your PC include The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and Horizon Zero Dawn.
- Strategy games to test your skills include Civilization VI, Total War: Warhammer II, and Crusader Kings III.
The Best Free PC Games to Play in 2022
1. Apex Legends
Apex Legends is a free-to-play battle royale game developed by Respawn Entertainment. Set in the Titanfall universe, Apex Legends offers fast-paced gameplay and intense gunfights. Players can choose from a diverse roster of characters, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. The game also features regular updates and seasonal events, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting.
2. Warframe
Warframe is a free-to-play cooperative third-person shooter developed by Digital Extremes. In the game, players control members of the Tenno, a race of ancient warriors who have awoken from centuries of cryosleep to find themselves at war with different factions. Warframe offers a deep and complex gameplay experience, with a focus on fast-paced combat and character customization. The game also features regular updates and expansions, introducing new missions, weapons, and Warframes for players to enjoy.
3. Dota 2
Dota 2 is a free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed by Valve Corporation. In Dota 2, two teams of five players compete to destroy the enemy’s Ancient while defending their own. The game features a vast roster of heroes, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. Dota 2 is known for its deep strategic gameplay and high skill ceiling, making it a favorite among competitive gamers.
Action-Packed PC Games to Try in 2022
1. War Thunder
War Thunder is a free-to-play vehicular combat game developed by Gaijin Entertainment. In the game, players can pilot a wide variety of aircraft, tanks, and ships from different eras of military history. War Thunder offers a realistic and immersive gameplay experience, with detailed graphics and accurate physics simulations. The game also features a robust multiplayer mode, allowing players to team up with friends or compete against other players from around the world.
2. Path of Exile
Path of Exile is a free-to-play action role-playing game developed by Grinding Gear Games. Set in the dark fantasy world of Wraeclast, players take on the role of an exile who has been banished to the forsaken continent. Path of Exile offers deep character customization and a complex skill system, allowing players to create unique builds and playstyles. The game also features a vast and ever-expanding world to explore, with regular updates and expansions adding new content and challenges.
3. Destiny 2
Destiny 2 is a free-to-play online multiplayer first-person shooter developed by Bungie. In the game, players assume the role of a Guardian, protectors of Earth’s last safe city. Destiny 2 offers a compelling blend of fast-paced shooting and deep RPG elements, with a focus on cooperative and competitive multiplayer gameplay. The game also features a rich and immersive sci-fi world to explore, with regular updates and expansions adding new story missions, raids, and activities for players to enjoy.
Adventure Games to Explore on Your PC
| Game Title | Developer | Release Date | Metacritic Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | CD Projekt Red | May 19, 2015 | 93 |
| Assassin’s Creed Odyssey | Ubisoft Quebec | October 5, 2018 | 83 |
| Subnautica | Unknown Worlds Entertainment | January 23, 2018 | 87 |
| Firewatch | Campo Santo | February 9, 2016 | 81 |
| Life is Strange | Dontnod Entertainment | January 30, 2015 | 83 |
1. Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact is a free-to-play action role-playing game developed by miHoYo. Set in the fantasy world of Teyvat, players take on the role of the Traveler, a mysterious being who embarks on a journey to search for their lost sibling. Genshin Impact offers a vast and beautiful open world to explore, with a rich storyline and engaging characters. The game also features a unique elemental combat system, allowing players to combine different abilities to unleash devastating attacks.
2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Game of the Year Edition
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Game of the Year Edition is an action role-playing game developed by CD Projekt Red. In the game, players assume the role of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter known as a Witcher. The Witcher 3 offers a massive open world to explore, with rich storytelling and complex characters. The game also features deep RPG mechanics, allowing players to customize Geralt’s abilities and playstyle.
3. Subnautica
Subnautica is an open-world survival game developed by Unknown Worlds Entertainment. In the game, players find themselves stranded on an alien planet covered mostly by water. As the lone survivor, players must explore the depths of the ocean, gather resources, and build a base to survive. Subnautica offers a unique and immersive underwater world to explore, with stunning visuals and a compelling storyline.
Strategy Games to Test Your Skills
1. League of Legends
League of Legends is a free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed and published by Riot Games. In the game, two teams of five players compete to destroy the enemy’s Nexus while defending their own. League of Legends offers a deep and strategic gameplay experience, with a focus on teamwork and coordination. The game features a vast roster of champions, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles.
2. Hearthstone
Hearthstone is a free-to-play digital collectible card game developed and published by Blizzard Entertainment. In the game, players build decks of cards representing different creatures, spells, and abilities and use them to battle against other players. Hearthstone offers a strategic and tactical gameplay experience, with a focus on deck building and resource management. The game also features regular updates and expansions, introducing new cards and mechanics for players to explore.
3. Total War: Arena
Total War: Arena is a free-to-play real-time strategy game developed by Creative Assembly. In the game, players command armies in large-scale battles set in different historical periods. Total War: Arena offers a deep and immersive gameplay experience, with a focus on strategic planning and tactical decision-making. The game also features a variety of different factions to play as, each with their own unique units and abilities.
Racing Games to Get Your Adrenaline Pumping
1. TrackMania Nations Forever
TrackMania Nations Forever is a free-to-play racing game developed by Nadeo. In the game, players race against the clock on insane tracks filled with loops, jumps, and other obstacles. TrackMania Nations Forever offers a fast-paced and adrenaline-fueled gameplay experience, with precise controls and addictive gameplay. The game also features a robust multiplayer mode, allowing players to compete against other racers from around the world.
2. Asphalt 9: Legends
Asphalt 9: Legends is a free-to-play arcade racing game developed by Gameloft Barcelona. In the game, players can race against AI opponents or compete against other players in real-time multiplayer races. Asphalt 9 offers a high-speed and action-packed gameplay experience, with stunning graphics and intense races. The game also features a wide variety of cars to unlock and upgrade, as well as a robust customization system.
3. iRacing
iRacing is a subscription-based online racing simulator developed by iRacing.com Motorsport Simulations. In the game, players can compete in realistic and immersive races against other players from around the world. iRacing offers a highly realistic and authentic gameplay experience, with accurate physics simulations and detailed car models. The game also features a wide variety of different racing disciplines to choose from, including NASCAR, Formula 1, and dirt track racing.
Simulation Games to Immerse Yourself In
1. Microsoft Flight Simulator
Microsoft Flight Simulator is a flight simulation game developed by Asobo Studio. In the game, players can pilot a wide variety of aircraft and explore detailed and realistic recreations of real-world locations. Microsoft Flight Simulator offers an incredibly immersive and realistic gameplay experience, with stunning graphics and accurate flight physics. The game also features real-time weather conditions and live air traffic, adding to the authenticity of the experience.
2. Euro Truck Simulator 2
Euro Truck Simulator 2 is a truck simulation game developed by SCS Software. In the game, players take on the role of a truck driver and embark on a journey across Europe, delivering cargo and building their own trucking empire. Euro Truck Simulator 2 offers a relaxing and immersive gameplay experience, with stunning landscapes and realistic truck physics. The game also features a wide variety of trucks to choose from, as well as a robust modding community that adds new content and features.
3. Cities: Skylines
Cities: Skylines is a city-building simulation game developed by Colossal Order. In the game, players take on the role of a mayor and build and manage their own city. Cities: Skylines offers a deep and complex gameplay experience, with a focus on urban planning and resource management. The game also features a wide variety of different buildings and infrastructure options, allowing players to create unique and vibrant cities.
Puzzle Games to Challenge Your Mind
1. Portal
Portal is a puzzle-platform game developed by Valve Corporation. In the game, players control a character equipped with a portal gun, which can create portals on certain surfaces. Players must use these portals to navigate through a series of increasingly challenging puzzles. Portal offers a unique and mind-bending gameplay experience, with clever level design and witty dialogue. The game also features a compelling storyline and memorable characters.
2. The Witness
The Witness is a puzzle video game developed by Thekla, Inc. In the game, players explore an open world filled with intricate puzzles that must be solved to progress. The Witness offers a challenging and thought-provoking gameplay experience, with over 500 puzzles to solve. The game also features stunning visuals and a beautiful island setting to explore.
3. Baba Is You
Baba Is You is a puzzle video game developed by Hempuli Oy. In the game, players manipulate the rules of the game by pushing words around on the screen. By changing the rules, players can solve puzzles and progress through the game. Baba Is You offers a unique and innovative gameplay experience, with challenging puzzles and a clever twist on traditional puzzle mechanics.
Role-Playing Games to Get Lost In
1. Elder Scrolls Online
Elder Scrolls Online is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed by ZeniMax Online Studios. Set in the fantasy world of Tamriel, players can explore a vast and immersive world, complete quests, and engage in player-versus-player combat. Elder Scrolls Online offers a deep and engaging gameplay experience, with a rich storyline and complex character customization options.
2. Neverwinter
Neverwinter is a free-to-play MMORPG developed by Cryptic Studios. Set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe, players can create their own character and embark on epic quests in the city of Neverwinter. Neverwinter offers a rich and immersive gameplay experience, with a focus on cooperative multiplayer gameplay and deep character customization options.
3. Star Wars: The Old Republic
Star Wars: The Old Republic is a free-to-play MMORPG developed by BioWare. Set in the Star Wars universe, players can create their own character and choose to align themselves with either the Sith Empire or the Galactic Republic. Star Wars: The Old Republic offers a compelling storyline and immersive gameplay experience, with a focus on player choice and narrative-driven quests.
Multiplayer Games to Play with Friends and Family
1. Among Us
Among Us is an online multiplayer social deduction game developed by InnerSloth. In the game, players work together to complete tasks on a spaceship while trying to identify and eliminate impostors among them. Among Us offers a fun and engaging gameplay experience, with a focus on communication and teamwork. The game also features cross-platform play, allowing players to connect with friends and family members on different devices.
2. Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout
Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout is an online multiplayer party game developed by Mediatonic. In the game, players compete in a series of wacky and chaotic challenges, with the goal of being the last one standing. Fall Guys offers a fun and lighthearted gameplay experience, with colorful visuals and addictive gameplay. The game also features cross-platform play, allowing players to compete against friends and family members on different platforms.
3. Rocket League
Rocket League is a free-to-play vehicular soccer game developed by Psyonix. In the game, players control rocket-powered cars and compete in a high-octane game of soccer. Rocket League offers a fast-paced and competitive gameplay experience, with precise controls and addictive gameplay. The game also features cross-platform play, allowing players to team up with friends and family members on different platforms.
In conclusion, free PC games have become increasingly popular in 2022 due to their accessibility, quality, and variety. Whether you’re looking for action-packed gameplay, immersive adventures, strategic challenges, high-speed racing, realistic simulations, mind-bending puzzles, engaging role-playing experiences, or multiplayer fun with friends and family, there are plenty of free PC games available to suit your preferences. With the rise of digital distribution platforms and the dedication of developers to create high-quality free-to-play games, there has never been a better time to dive into the world of free PC gaming. So grab your keyboard and mouse, download some free games, and get ready for hours of entertainment without spending a dime.
FAQs
What are the best free games for PC in 2022?
The article lists several free games for PC that are considered the best for 2022.
Are these games completely free?
Yes, all the games listed in the article are completely free to play.
Do I need a high-end PC to play these games?
It depends on the game. Some games may require a high-end PC to run smoothly, while others may run on lower-end systems.
Can I play these games with my friends?
Yes, many of the games listed in the article have multiplayer modes that allow you to play with friends.
Do I need an internet connection to play these games?
Most of the games listed in the article require an internet connection to play, but there are a few that can be played offline.
Are these games safe to download?
The games listed in the article are from reputable sources and are generally safe to download. However, it’s always a good idea to use caution when downloading anything from the internet.
Can I play these games on other platforms besides PC?
It depends on the game. Some of the games listed in the article may be available on other platforms, such as consoles or mobile devices.
