The best Steam games shine when you play them on your computer but many of them also perform very well when played on the go with the Steam Deck. This selection spans a range from mouse-and-keyboard CRPGs to timeless console favorites that have seamlessly transitioned. Our compilation ensures the inclusion of the absolute best in PC and Steam titles.
It’s important to mention that some of our top picks for the best free Steam games also work well with the Steam Deck. And we highly recommend a few for in this situation.
Considering the extensive array of games available on Steam’s digital distribution platform, it’s unsurprising that we’ve incorporated top-tier battle royale games alongside the likes of GTA 5, strategic roguelikes, Metroidvanias, management simulations and more. Several of these titles also double as some of the premier games for laptop gaming, irrespective of whether you possess an advanced gaming PC. There truly is something here for every gamer, regardless of their genre preferences. Continue reading to explore the paramount Steam games ready for exploration.
Best Steam games
1. Persona 4 Golden
Developer: Atlus
It’s clear that Persona 4 is a highly cherished JRPG. Which arrived on Steam in 2020, This offered a chance to enjoy the game without the need to possess it on Sony’s Playstation Vita or the original Persona 4 on PS2. This launch highlights the significant advancement of Japanese RPGs on the PC platform, underscoring that the genre reaches far beyond the domain of Final Fantasy.
In Persona 4 Golden is a seamless supernatural element is a philosophical exploration of inner desires. The backdrop of typical high school life and a captivating crime thriller narrative unfold. This intricate combination not only functions harmoniously but also introduces characters that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. Furthermore, Persona 4 boasts one of the most distinctive soundtracks in the gaming world. For enthusiasts of Japanese RPGs, this game stands as an essential experience that should not be overlooked.
2. Cities Skylines
Developer: Colossal Order Ltd
The city-building genre stands as one of the foundational pillars of PC gaming, alongside CRPGs and real-time strategy. Many city-building game series were more popular in the past but then Paradox Interactive tried creating a city-builder similar to classics like SimCity. The timeless idea of enjoying yourself by creating a big city still works.
But now, Cities Skylines is the most popular game in this city-building genre. When we say ‘big,’ we mean it’s really huge. You can make it even more interesting with different DLCs that let you grow your city and experience different seasons. If you just want to focus on building and taking care of a city without dealing with managing the people (ew!), Cities: Skylines is the best game for that.
3. Total War: Warhammer 3
Developer: Creative Assembly
Concluding the epic fantasy strategy trilogy, Total War: Warhammer 3 brings us back to the Realm of Chaos for another quest towards victory. It not only stands out as one of the top games currently available on Steam but also potentially emerges as the finest title within the Warhammer series. If the horror-infused horde shooter Darktide didn’t appeal to your preferences, and you lean towards a more thoughtful approach in your battle tactics, giving Total War: Warhammer 3 a try is definitely worthwhile.
4. Monster Hunter World
Developer: Capcom
In this game, you explore a captivating world in search of colossal, dinosaur-like monsters to hunt. The enthralling loop from tracking down these creatures, engaging in battles, and investing in new equipment is what contributes to the game’s undeniable allure.
There’s a peculiar thrill in encountering a monster, observing its interactions with the environment, and preparing yourself for the impending epic battle, especially when playing with friends. It’s more than just a simple hack-and-slash; you must acquaint yourself with your chosen weapon, as each type handles differently. Understanding the move set of your opponent before taking it on adds a layer of complexity, making the experience akin to a genuine hunt.
5. Death Stranding
Developer: Kojima Productions
Death Stranding is not like any other game which makes it fascinating. Basically, Hideo Kojima is the mind behind Metal Gear Solid which is a game entirely focused on hiking.While occasional combat sequences are present, Death Stranding primarily revolves around a character who, all by himself, delivers items strapped to his back.
This approach not only imparts the lesson that walking with a substantial load can be both meditative and perilous but also narrates a distinctive kind of post-apocalypse. Unlike scenarios involving zombies or marauding gangs, Death Stranding presents a unique narrative. It’s a one-of-a-kind game that truly requires firsthand experience to grasp its appeal.
6. Crusader Kings 3
Developer: Paradox
Many strategy games focus on winning territory and becoming a ruler, but Crusader Kings 3 introduces a unique social layer that revolves around your character maintaining stability. Diplomacy takes on the drama of a soap opera, and you’ll enjoy sharing tales of how your empire and family unfolded in unexpected ways.
Crusader Kings 3 mirrors life in medieval times – an era characterized by war, intrigue, and scheming, particularly in the lives of the nobility. While you can get quite creative in designing your own alternate history, it’s a testament to the game’s profound simulation depth.
7. Vampire Survivors
Developer: Poncle
If you’re into pixel games and roguelites, Vampire Survivors is worth checking out. It’s a strangely relaxing shoot-’em-up where you navigate your character to eliminate enemies, which, oddly enough, aren’t vampires. You don’t need to do much more than that, as your character automatically attacks all enemies in its path, aiming to clear each round within time constraints.
While Vampire Survivors lacks the realistic graphics and expansive open worlds of many other games on this list, its remarkable popularity speaks volumes about its appeal among the best Steam games.
8. GTA 5
Developer: Rockstar North
GTA 5 stands as a game that has significantly influenced PC gaming through its open-world design and storytelling, often as shallow yet simultaneously enjoyable as a blockbuster movie. The narrative alone adds value to the gameplay, given its exaggerated and trippy nature. However, GTA 5’s enduring appeal lies in the inevitable distractions like side missions, stealing beautiful cars, or simply exploring what lies beyond the next turn.
Everything within GTA 5, from its online multiplayer to its heists, thrives in its expansive, well-crafted open world – a place that beckons exploration. Few games have presented such a compelling open-world experience, especially within a metropolitan setting.
