Top PC Games 2010-2015: The Best of the Best
PC gaming has come a long way since its inception in the 1970s. What started as simple text-based games has evolved into a multi-billion dollar industry that rivals console gaming. The early years of PC gaming were marked by games like Pong and Space Invaders, which laid the foundation for what was to come. As technology advanced, so did the capabilities of PCs, leading to more complex and immersive games.
In the 1990s, PC gaming saw a significant shift with the release of games like Doom and Quake, which popularized the first-person shooter genre. These games showcased the power of PCs and their ability to deliver fast-paced, action-packed gameplay. The introduction of 3D graphics and improved sound technology further enhanced the gaming experience.
The 2000s brought even more advancements in PC gaming, with the release of games like World of Warcraft and The Sims. These games introduced the concept of online multiplayer and virtual worlds, allowing players to connect and interact with each other in ways never before possible. The rise of digital distribution platforms like Steam also made it easier for gamers to access and play a wide variety of games.
Key Takeaways
- PC gaming has evolved significantly over the past decade, with advancements in graphics, storytelling, and gameplay mechanics.
- Some of the best PC games from 2010-2015 include titles like Portal 2, The Witcher 3, and Grand Theft Auto V.
- Games like Minecraft, League of Legends, and Fortnite have defined the decade in terms of popularity and cultural impact.
- The best single-player PC games include titles like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Bioshock Infinite, and Dark Souls.
- The best multiplayer PC games include games like Overwatch, Rainbow Six Siege, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.
- PC games with impressive graphics and visuals include titles like Crysis 3, Metro Exodus, and Red Dead Redemption 2.
- The best PC games for storytelling include games like Life is Strange, The Last of Us, and Disco Elysium.
- Games with exceptional gameplay mechanics include titles like DOOM (2016), Celeste, and Hollow Knight.
- The future of PC gaming looks bright, with advancements in virtual reality, cloud gaming, and artificial intelligence set to revolutionize the industry.
The Best PC Games of 2010-2015
The period from 2010 to 2015 saw the release of some truly groundbreaking PC games. These games pushed the boundaries of what was possible in terms of graphics, gameplay, and storytelling. Here are some of the top PC games released during this period:
1. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011) – This open-world RPG set in a fantasy world captivated players with its immersive gameplay and vast, detailed world. Players could explore dungeons, complete quests, and customize their character to their heart’s content.
2. Minecraft (2011) – This sandbox game took the gaming world by storm with its simple yet addictive gameplay. Players could build and explore their own virtual worlds, making it a hit with both casual and hardcore gamers.
3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015) – This action RPG set in a dark fantasy world is widely regarded as one of the best games of all time. With its rich storytelling, complex characters, and stunning visuals, it set a new standard for open-world games.
4. Portal 2 (2011) – This puzzle-platformer game challenged players with its mind-bending puzzles and witty dialogue. It was praised for its innovative gameplay mechanics and clever level design.
5. Bioshock Infinite (2013) – This first-person shooter combined stunning visuals with a thought-provoking story set in a dystopian city in the sky. It was praised for its immersive world-building and engaging gameplay.
PC Games That Defined the Decade
There were several games released during the past decade that had a significant impact on the gaming industry as a whole. These games not only pushed the boundaries of what was possible in terms of graphics and gameplay but also changed the gaming landscape in profound ways. Here are some of the games that defined the decade:
1. Fortnite (2017) – This battle royale game took the gaming world by storm with its free-to-play model and addictive gameplay. It popularized the battle royale genre and introduced cross-platform play, allowing players on different devices to compete against each other.
2. PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (2017) – This game was one of the first to popularize the battle royale genre, where players fight to be the last person standing. It paved the way for games like Fortnite and Apex Legends, which would go on to dominate the genre.
3. Minecraft (2011) – This sandbox game revolutionized the gaming industry with its open-ended gameplay and user-generated content. It inspired countless imitators and showed that games didn’t have to be about violence or competition to be successful.
4. The Walking Dead: Season One (2012) – This episodic adventure game from Telltale Games redefined storytelling in video games. It put players in control of the narrative, allowing them to make choices that would affect the outcome of the story.
5. Overwatch (2016) – This team-based first-person shooter introduced a diverse cast of characters and emphasized teamwork and strategy. It became a cultural phenomenon and spawned a thriving esports scene.
The Most Popular PC Games of the Decade
| Game Title | Release Year | Genre | Number of Copies Sold (in millions) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds | 2017 | Battle Royale | 70 |
| Minecraft | 2011 | Sandbox | 200 |
| Grand Theft Auto V | 2013 | Action-Adventure | 110 |
| Fortnite | 2017 | Battle Royale | 350 |
| League of Legends | 2009 | MOBA | 115 |
The past decade saw the release of several games that were not only critically acclaimed but also incredibly popular among gamers. These games captured the attention of millions of players and became cultural phenomena in their own right. Here are some of the most popular PC games of the decade:
1. Minecraft (2011) – This sandbox game has sold over 200 million copies worldwide and has a dedicated fanbase that continues to grow. Its simple yet addictive gameplay and endless possibilities for creativity have made it a hit with players of all ages.
2. Fortnite (2017) – This free-to-play battle royale game took the gaming world by storm and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. With its colorful graphics, fast-paced gameplay, and regular updates, it has attracted millions of players from around the world.
3. League of Legends (2009) – This multiplayer online battle arena game has become one of the most popular esports titles in the world. With its strategic gameplay and constantly evolving meta, it has captivated millions of players and spawned a thriving competitive scene.
4. World of Warcraft (2004) – This massively multiplayer online role-playing game has been a staple of PC gaming for over a decade. With its immersive world, rich lore, and addictive gameplay, it has attracted millions of players and continues to be one of the most played MMOs of all time.
5. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (2012) – This team-based first-person shooter has a dedicated fanbase and a thriving esports scene. With its fast-paced gameplay and emphasis on teamwork and strategy, it has become one of the most popular competitive games in the world.
The Best Single-Player PC Games
While multiplayer games often dominate the headlines, there are still plenty of great single-player experiences to be had on PC. These games offer immersive worlds, compelling stories, and memorable characters that can be enjoyed at your own pace. Here are some of the best single-player PC games:
1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015) – This open-world RPG is widely regarded as one of the best games of all time. With its rich storytelling, complex characters, and stunning visuals, it offers a truly immersive single-player experience.
2. Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018) – This open-world action-adventure game takes players on an epic journey through the American frontier. With its detailed world, compelling story, and realistic gameplay mechanics, it offers a truly immersive single-player experience.
3. Fallout: New Vegas (2010) – This post-apocalyptic RPG is set in a vast open world filled with interesting characters and quests. With its branching narrative and multiple endings, it offers a truly immersive single-player experience.
4. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011) – This open-world RPG allows players to explore a vast, detailed world filled with quests, dungeons, and dragons. With its immersive gameplay and endless possibilities for customization, it offers a truly immersive single-player experience.
5. Bioshock Infinite (2013) – This first-person shooter combines stunning visuals with a thought-provoking story set in a dystopian city in the sky. With its immersive world-building and engaging gameplay, it offers a truly immersive single-player experience.
The Best Multiplayer PC Games
PC gaming has always been known for its multiplayer experiences, and the past decade was no exception. From competitive shooters to cooperative adventures, there were plenty of great multiplayer games to choose from. Here are some of the best multiplayer PC games:
1. Overwatch (2016) – This team-based first-person shooter emphasizes teamwork and strategy. With its diverse cast of characters and fast-paced gameplay, it offers a highly competitive multiplayer experience.
2. Rainbow Six Siege (2015) – This tactical first-person shooter focuses on teamwork and communication. With its destructible environments and intense firefights, it offers a highly strategic multiplayer experience.
3. Rocket League (2015) – This vehicular soccer game combines fast-paced action with skill-based gameplay. With its addictive gameplay and competitive matchmaking, it offers a highly competitive multiplayer experience.
4. Dota 2 (2013) – This multiplayer online battle arena game is one of the most popular esports titles in the world. With its strategic gameplay and constantly evolving meta, it offers a highly competitive multiplayer experience.
5. Apex Legends (2019) – This battle royale game combines fast-paced action with unique character abilities. With its dynamic gameplay and regular updates, it offers a highly competitive multiplayer experience.
The Best PC Games for Graphics and Visuals
PC gaming has always been at the forefront of graphical fidelity, and the past decade was no exception. With advancements in hardware and software, developers were able to create stunningly realistic worlds and characters. Here are some of the PC games that stood out for their graphics and visuals:
1. Crysis 3 (2013) – This first-person shooter pushed the boundaries of what was possible in terms of graphics and visual effects. With its stunningly realistic environments and detailed character models, it set a new standard for graphical fidelity.
2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015) – This open-world RPG is known for its breathtaking visuals and attention to detail. From the lush forests to the bustling cities, every aspect of the game is beautifully rendered.
3. Metro Exodus (2019) – This post-apocalyptic shooter features stunningly realistic environments and atmospheric lighting. From the desolate wastelands to the underground tunnels, every location feels like a work of art.
4. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (2018) – This open-world action-adventure game is set in ancient Greece and features stunningly detailed landscapes and historical landmarks. From the sun-drenched beaches to the towering mountains, every location is a sight to behold.
5. Control (2019) – This supernatural action-adventure game features stunningly realistic environments and mind-bending visual effects. From the shifting architecture to the otherworldly creatures, every aspect of the game is visually stunning.
The Best PC Games for Storytelling
While gameplay and graphics are important, a great story can elevate a game to new heights. The past decade saw the release of several games that were praised for their compelling narratives and memorable characters. Here are some of the PC games that stood out for their storytelling:
1. The Last of Us (2013) – This post-apocalyptic action-adventure game tells the story of Joel and Ellie as they navigate a world ravaged by a fungal infection. With its emotional storytelling and complex characters, it is widely regarded as one of the best games of all time.
2. Life is Strange (2015) – This episodic adventure game follows the story of Max Caulfield as she discovers she has the ability to rewind time. With its branching narrative and relatable characters, it offers a truly immersive storytelling experience.
3. The Walking Dead: Season One (2012) – This episodic adventure game from Telltale Games puts players in control of the narrative, allowing them to make choices that will affect the outcome of the story. With its emotional storytelling and memorable characters, it is widely regarded as one of the best narrative-driven games of all time.
4. Disco Elysium (2019) – This isometric RPG puts players in the shoes of a detective as he investigates a murder in a dystopian city. With its deep and thought-provoking narrative, it offers a truly immersive storytelling experience.
5. Firewatch (2016) – This first-person adventure game follows the story of a fire lookout in the Wyoming wilderness. With its atmospheric storytelling and beautiful visuals, it offers a truly immersive storytelling experience.
The Best PC Games for Gameplay Mechanics
While graphics and storytelling are important, gameplay is what keeps players coming back for more. The past decade saw the release of several games that were praised for their innovative gameplay mechanics and addictive gameplay loops. Here are some of the PC games that stood out for their gameplay mechanics:
1. Dark Souls (2011) – This action RPG is known for its challenging gameplay and rewarding combat mechanics. With its deep and complex gameplay systems, it offers a truly immersive gameplay experience.
2. Celeste (2018) – This platformer game combines tight controls with challenging level design. With its precise platforming and addictive gameplay loop, it offers a truly satisfying gameplay experience.
3. Superhot (2016) – This first-person shooter features a unique time-bending mechanic where time only moves when the player moves. With its innovative gameplay mechanics and stylish visuals, it offers a truly unique gameplay experience.
4. Portal 2 (2011) – This puzzle-platformer game challenges players with its mind-bending puzzles and clever level design. With its innovative gameplay mechanics and witty dialogue, it offers a truly engaging gameplay experience.
5. Spelunky (2012) – This roguelike platformer features procedurally generated levels and permadeath. With its challenging gameplay and addictive gameplay loop, it offers a truly challenging gameplay experience.
The Future of PC Gaming: What to Look Forward To
As technology continues to advance, the future of PC gaming looks brighter than ever. With the introduction of new technologies like ray tracing and virtual reality, developers will be able to create even more immersive and realistic experiences. Here are some predictions for the future of PC gaming:
1. Ray tracing – This technology allows for more realistic lighting and reflections in games, creating a more immersive and visually stunning experience. As hardware becomes more powerful and affordable, we can expect to see more games utilizing this technology.
2. Virtual reality – While virtual reality has been around for a while, it is still in its early stages. As the technology improves and becomes more accessible, we can expect to see more games designed specifically for VR, offering a truly immersive gaming experience.
3. Cloud gaming – With the rise of streaming services like Google Stadia and Nvidia GeForce Now, we can expect to see more games being streamed directly to PCs, eliminating the need for expensive hardware. This will make gaming more accessible to a wider audience.
4. Artificial intelligence – As AI technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more games with intelligent NPCs that can adapt and respond to player actions. This will create more dynamic and immersive worlds for players to explore.
5. Cross-platform play – With the increasing popularity of multiplayer games, we can expect to see more games that allow players on different platforms to play together. Cross-platform play allows players on consoles, PCs, and even mobile devices to connect and compete against each other in the same game. This not only expands the player base and enhances the gaming experience, but also promotes inclusivity and breaks down barriers between different gaming communities. With advancements in technology and the growing demand for cross-platform play, it is likely that more game developers will embrace this feature in the future.
FAQs
What are the best PC games released between 2010 and 2015?
The article lists several games that are considered the best PC games released between 2010 and 2015.
What genres of games are included in the list?
The list includes games from various genres such as action, adventure, role-playing, strategy, and simulation.
Are these games still available for purchase?
Most of the games listed are still available for purchase on various online platforms such as Steam, GOG, and Origin.
Can these games be played on modern PCs?
Yes, most of the games listed are compatible with modern PCs. However, it is recommended to check the system requirements before purchasing and playing the games.
Are these games suitable for all ages?
No, some of the games listed are rated M for mature audiences and may contain violence, gore, and adult themes. It is recommended to check the game’s rating before purchasing and playing.
Can these games be played on consoles?
Some of the games listed are also available on consoles such as Xbox and PlayStation. However, the article focuses on the PC versions of the games.
Are there any multiplayer games on the list?
Yes, some of the games listed have multiplayer modes that allow players to play with others online or locally.
