When it comes to PC games, Steam is definitely one of the top stores, so naturally we had to pick our favorite 50 best games from there. We have a great collection of Steam games here, from Dishonored, Dying Light, the Batman Arkham collection to Hotline Miami and Hades, and many more. Steam sales happen regularly throughout the year, so it’s important to know which games to add to your wishlist and which games to get right away. So without further ado, let’s take a look at the 30 best Steam games to play in 2024.
Remember that we considered various criteria before adding games to this list. One game might rank high for you, but it might not for me. Another thing to consider is that graphics should be an afterthought when creating lists. As long as the games are fun to play, they deserve to be on this list. So, let’s jump right in! 
1. Black Mesa
Valve’s Half-Life changed gaming in seismic ways. While the second Half-Life and its episodes paved the way for features like realistic game physics, the first Half-Life gave us a gift called the GoldSRC engine. Unfortunately, the original Half-Life didn’t get the Source engine treatment from Valve. Crowbar Collective is a group of modders-turned-developers who banded together to remake the first Half-Life. And as a result, Black Mesa was born.
As mentioned above, Black Mesa is a remake of the original Half-Life’s source engine , adding all the features of the engine itself. Black Mesa also deviated from the original game by making subtle level design choices that put a unique spin on the game without losing its Half-Life identity. So this is worth picking up even if you’ve never played Half-Life. Or, if you’ve played it before, why not play it again?
Buy Black Mesa ( $19.99 )
2.Ryu ga Gotoku 0
Yakuza 0 is an action fighting game, legitimately the first in a long-running series by SEGA. The film features two of the series’ staples, Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima, in a captivating story set in bubble-filled 80s Japan. The game includes fun combat , various side activities, and quirky side quests. Furthermore, “Ryu ga Gotoku 0” also includes the popular karaoke song “Bakatai.” In my opinion, that alone makes this title worth playing. We had to add Yakuza 0 to our list of best games on Steam because of its fun gameplay and engaging story.
Buy Yakuza 0 ( $19.99 ) 
3.XCOM2
A tactical strategy game, XCOM2 is the sequel to the acclaimed XCOM: Enemy Unknown. Where the previous game put players in the shoes of a commander of a secret organization fighting an alien invasion, XCOM 2 puts you in control of the same organization. Only this time, aliens are taking over Earth and you and XCOM are on the run. The game has an active timer system and most missions are time sensitive. Additionally, the game has permanent death for characters, which adds a sense of urgency to the gameplay.
XCOM 2 is a top-notch title worth playing, and the Steam game that got me hooked on tactical turn-based combat titles.
Buy XCOM 2 ($23.93 )
4. Fallout: New Vegas
While Bethesda’s Fallout 3 received polarizing reviews among fans, its standalone spinoff Fallout: New Vegas achieved critical acclaim. There’s a good reason for that. The first-person/third-person shooter gameplay is the same and most of Fallout 3’s features remain, but the writing is what sets this game apart. Fallout: New Vegas puts you in the shoes of a deliveryman in the Mojave Desert, searching for answers after being ambushed and shot in the head by a mysterious group.
They then become embroiled in a civil war between two factions and find themselves in the strange world of post-nuclear Las Vegas. The game’s great writing and exploration make it a must-play title on Steam’s best games list. However, like other Bethesda titles, this game requires mods to run properly. Therefore, before exploring the Mojave Desert, we recommend that you follow this guide to fix your game.
Buy Fallout: New Vegas ( $9.99 ) 
5. Deep Rock Galactic
Rock and stone! This phrase will become very familiar once you start teaming up with friends and completing multiple mining expeditions in Deep Rock Gaoptic, a co-op tactical mining shooter. The goal of this game is simple. Choose a job, assemble a team of dwarves, complete a mining expedition, and drink beer if you succeed. You can choose from four unique classes before each journey and step into a fully destructible procedurally generated cave system.
Deep Rock Galatic has garnered a lot of goodwill over the years. Anyone who enjoys co-op games will tell you that this is the go-to title if you have friends willing to spend some time mining. Don’t worry if you don’t, because this game has one of the most helpful communities.
Buy Deep Rock Galactic ( $29.99 )
6.Hades
Hades is a roguelike action game in which Zaegreus, the son of Hades, attempts to escape from the realm of the underworld. Fight your way through a changing labyrinth filled with mythical creatures, powerful weapons, and divine abilities.
Plus, its rich story and stunning visuals will keep you hooked the first time you play Hades. Hades has become a beloved video game around the world, and for good reason. There’s little room for complaints, and the gameplay loop is satisfying enough to keep you coming back often.
Buy Hades ($24.99 )
7. Dishonor
Dishonored, a stealth action game with immersive sim features, puts you in the shoes of Corvo Attano, a man framed as an empress’s bodyguard on a remote European island nation. Corvo, an island nation suffering from a rat plague and what appears to be a coup, becomes a masked assassin and eliminates the perpetrators who lied about him. He also uses supernatural powers given to him by the elusive Outsider , which allows him to traverse the world in various ways.
Dishonored lets you decide your approach and gives you multiple tools to experiment and have fun. As a result, two people will have different gameplay experiences from each other. Additionally, if you want the game to play like a traditional stealth game, don’t opt in to any outsider powers or boons. The sheer choice the game offers makes Dishonored a great title.
Buy Dishonored ( $19.99 )
8. Devil May Cry: HD Collection
Take on the role of Dante, the protagonist of Devil May Cry: HD Collection, as you battle hordes of supernatural enemies in stylish hack-and-slash combat. This version of the game comes with three classic games remastered for modern platforms, delivering epic demon-slaying action, stunning visuals, and a devilishly fun time. Oh, and just to be clear, you can skip Devil May Cry 2.
Buy Devil May Cry: HD Collection ( $29.99 )
9. Darkest Dungeon
A 2D roguelike RPG, Darkest Dungeon lets you assemble a team of flawed heroes and lead them through a diabolical dungeon filled with deadly creatures and traps. Manage their sanity, fight their fears, and make tough decisions in this nail-biting turn-based game. With its haunting atmosphere, strategic depth, and punishing difficulty, Darkest Dungeon will test your courage and sanity.
Buy Darkest Dungeon ( $24.99 )
10. Disco Elysium
Disco Elysium has a lot of drama revolving around how the original creators were forced out by investors. Either way, there’s no denying that this is a work of art in the form of a video game. Disco Elysium, an open-world CRPG, puts you in the shoes of a detective solving murder mysteries in a run-down city plagued by graft and corruption. You navigate a dystopian world, have deep conversations, and influence your characters’ morals, skills, and sanity. With its thought-provoking story and beautiful art style, Disco Elysium is a masterpiece.
Buy Disco Elysium ( $39.99 )
11. Dying Light
Dying Light 2 has been updated and improved over time, but now that the game has finished development, Dying Light is remarkable in every way. Players explore two locations in the fictional city of Harran, which has been hit by a zombie outbreak. Use your agility and combat skills to survive, scavenge, and do parkour during the day.
At night, be prepared to battle supercharged predators. With its tense gameplay, intense atmosphere, and dynamic day/night cycle, Dying Light is definitely worth playing. We also suggested this game in our Best Steam Deck Games article.
Buy Dying Light ( $29.99 )
12. Batman: Arkham Collection
A collection of three critically acclaimed game trilogies, Batman: Arkham Collection puts you in the shoes of the DC Comics character of the same name. Each game takes place in three locations, starting with Batman: Arkham Asylum, where players fend off the Joker’s traps in Gotham’s Arkham Asylum.
In the next installation, the story moves to the open world of Batman: Arkham City ‘s closed-off section of Gotham, where Batman attempts to debunk a conspiracy theory. Finally, explore the entire Gotham Islands and try to thwart Scarecrow’s plans in Batman: Arkham Knight.
Each title features addictive fighting gameplay that utilizes Batman’s iconic gadgets, and the gameplay improves with each sequel. Arkham Knight also introduces a fully drivable Batmobile. Play the game and become Batman. Not literally.
Buy Batman Arkham Collection ( $59.99 )
13. Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen
Embark on a fantasy adventure with Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen, an action RPG from the minds behind Devil May Cry. In this game, players will explore a vast world filled with mythical creatures and dangerous landscapes. Arisen utilizes a deep and dynamic combat system with satisfying customization for nail-biting real-time combat.
With rich lore, thrilling quests, and the ability to recruit AI allies called pawns, Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen is a must-play for fans of action RPGs.
Buy Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen ( $29.99 )
14. Hotline Miami 1 & 2
Hotline Miami 1 and 2, the games that popularized the musical synthwave subgenre, allow players to step into the shoes of multiple people in 80s Miami. Don your animal mask and dive into a world of psychedelic violence and unleash top-down shooting action. With a soundtrack by the likes of Carpenter Brut, challenging gameplay, and a mind-bending story, Hotline Miami 1 and 2 provide an adrenaline-fueled experience that will keep you hooked until the last bullet.
Recently, the action movie John Wick Chapter 4 paid homage to this game, so why not give it a try? Especially when you see games being sold cheaply during Steam sales.
Buy Hotline Miami 1 ( $9.99 ) Buy Hotline Miami 2 ( $14.99 )
15. Hitman: World of Assassinations
Hitman: The World of Assassination combines three new Hitman games from I/O Interactive into one pack. Explore a vast sandbox and take control of Agent 47, the world’s deadliest assassin, as you travel through beautiful locations around the world to eliminate your targets.
With enhanced gameplay, fun level design, and a practical story, this game takes assassination to new heights. This engaging experience requires you to plan, adapt, and become the ultimate assassin.
Buy Hitman: World of Assassination ( $69.99 )
16. Dark Souls: Remastered
A remastered release of the original Dark Souls game, Dark Souls: Remastered modifies the acclaimed action RPG and provides an enhanced experience for everyone. Journey through the interconnected world of Lordran filled with challenging enemies, intricate level design, and atmospheric storytelling. This version of the game has improved visuals, performance, and online fixes. It brought the harsh yet challenging gameplay of the original Dark Souls to new audiences and cemented its status as a modern classic.
Buy Dark Souls: Remastered ( $39.99 )
17. Resident Evil 4 Remake
The original Resident Evil 4 was a generational title that popularized numerous gameplay features. Given its rich heritage, many expected Capcom to fail when making a remake. But that doesn’t seem to be the case. This remake tastefully recreates the 2005 original for modern gamers and introduces new gameplay systems. The writers also proceeded to rewrite many sections of the game. That should be a red flag, but it isn’t. The rewrite gave the game a new, yet familiar identity. That alone puts the game on equal footing with the original.
Buy Resident Evil 4 ( $59.99 )
18. Va-11 Hall A
Dive deep into the cyberpunk world of Va-11 Hall-A , a visual novel and bartending simulator . In this game, you play the role of a bartender at the Va-11 Hall-A bar, mixing drinks for the cast as you listen to their stories and overcome their struggles. Featuring gorgeous pixel art, captivating storytelling, and branching narratives, Va-11 Hall-A offers a thought-provoking experience that explores themes of identity, technology, and the human condition.
Buy Va-11 Hall-A ( $14.99 )
19. Slay the Spire
Slay the Spire is an addictive deck-building roguelike game. Send you on a journey through the spire, face off against enemies, and collect cards to build unique decks. With its blend of turn-based combat, strategic decision-making, and procedurally generated levels, Slay the Spire offers replayability and a sense of progression. Get ready to face countless challenges and discover strategies as you conquer spiers and emerge victorious
Buy Slay the Spire ( $24.99 )
20. Dead Space Remake
Dead Space Remake does everything the Resident Evil remake did. We’ve remade the game with a new engine and subtly rewritten the story to deliver the same bone-chilling experience as the original. Developed by EA Motive, Dead Space Remake tells the story of Isaac Clarke aboard the abandoned mining ship USG Ishimura. Attacked by bloodthirsty necromorphs, Isaac tries to survive while finding the location of his girlfriend Nicole. If you like creepy horror games, these changes alone are worth playing.
Buy Dead Space Remake ( $59.99 )
21.Mortal Kombat 1
Mortal Kombat has become a traditional fighting game series that has succeeded in attracting a casual audience. And Mortal Kombat 1 is no exception. A soft reboot and continuation of the storyline introduced in MK9, Mortal Kombat 1 features a new timeline rewritten by Liu Kang, who became the Timekeeper and God of Fire. The game features new backstories for existing characters, new alliances, and an entirely new storyline that is honestly a step up from its predecessor. Other than that, Mortal Kombat 1 features an all-new fighting game system where you can summon cameo fighters to assist you during matches, regular fighting game systems, and all-new fatalities. If this is your first Mortal Kombat game or you’re an existing fan, you should definitely give it a try.
Buy Mortal Kombat 1 ( $69.99 )
22. Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is a captivating farming simulation game that captivates players with beautiful gameplay and heartwarming storytelling. Escape from the city and enjoy the simple life in the countryside. Farm your farm, take part in challenging activities, build relationships with the townspeople, and uncover the valley’s secrets. Plus, there’s a new co-op mode where you can team up with friends and partners to create the best farm. Stardew Valley offers a peaceful escape into a vibrant virtual world with beautiful pixel art and a soothing soundtrack.
Buy Stardew Valley ( $14.99 )
23. Baldur’s Gate 3
One of the surprising releases of 2023 accidentally became one of the best RPG games of all time. Baldur’s Gate 3 is a sequel to the classic tabletop CRPG game created by BioWare. It takes place in the world of Dungeons & Dragons, specifically Faerûn, and follows a group of adventurers infected with a parasitic tadpole. The game earned its reputation because of its memorable characters and impressive player agency throughout the experience. How you deal with the situation is completely up to you and there are multiple outcomes to the situation. This is a must-try game for gamers who want to enjoy more options in their gaming experience.
Buy Baldur’s Gate 3 ( $59.99 )
24. Return of Obra Dinn
Another indie title from Papers Please’s Lucas Pope, Return of the Obra Dinn is a puzzle adventure game that challenges players to uncover the truth behind a ship’s tragedy. Step into the shoes of an insurance investigator with a magical pocket watch that lets you relive the ship’s final moments. With a captivating story, unique visuals, and detective gameplay, Obra Dinn offers a thrilling experience that will keep players hooked until the last piece of information is revealed.
Buy Return of the Obra Dinn ( $19.99 )
25. Left 4 Dead 2
When it comes to best Steam games articles, you know we have to include this game. One of the most popular co-op shooters to grace the planet, Left 4 Dead 2 is the equally satisfying sequel to Left 4 Dead. It’s a cooperative first-person shooter that drops players into a world infested with zombie hordes.
Team up with your friends and AI companions to fight for survival and battle waves of undead. With intense gameplay, a dynamic AI director that changes difficulty based on your team’s performance, and a wide variety of weapons and characters, Left 4 Dead 2 is a great way to spend a weekend with friends.
Buy Left 4 Dead 2 ( $9.99 )
26. Hollow Knight
The last game on our list of best games on Steam is one of the highly acclaimed modern metroidvania platformers. Hollow Knight puts you in control of a silent knight armed with nails as he dives deep into the ancient kingdom of Hallownest. Explore intricate caverns, battle formidable enemies, and uncover the secrets of a lost civilization. With simple yet challenging combat, rewarding exploration, and deep lore, Hollow Knight offers an unforgettable journey through a beautiful and melancholy realm.
Buy Hollow Knight ( $7.49 )
27. Sleeping Dogs
Sleeping Dogs was released at a time when first-person shooter games were getting a lot of attention. In that context, this game was able to achieve certain things with a lot of style and personality. For one, it presented a beautiful recreation of mainland Hong Kong that remains to this day. While it doesn’t have the interactivity you’d expect from an open-world game, it does craft a hard-boiled crime drama story about Wei Shen, an undercover detective trying to stop the powerful Sun-On-Yi Triad. Along with the story, combat, and soundtrack, the experience has also been improved, creating a game you’ll want to visit at least once every year.
Buy Sleeping Dogs ( $19.99 )
28. Doom (2016)
In 2016, when the market was flooded with first-person shooter games, DOOM came out of nowhere. And everyone expected this game to be another popular shooter, but it disappointed everyone. DOOM prioritizes environmental storytelling, approaching the idea of a minimal storyline for the first time and doubling down on gore and gameplay. With glorious Glory Kills, fast-paced shooting, and a head-pounding soundtrack, DOOM joins indie darling Dusk in helping to bring back classic shooters.
Buy DOOM ( $19.99 )
29. Red Dead Redemption 2
Rockstar Games may not release games as often as other studios, but when they do, you can expect it to be an experience for generations. Red Dead Redemption 2 was no exception, and the studio really showed off its technical excellence. A prequel to Red Dead Redemption, it depicts the later years of the Van der Linde gang and puts you in the shoes of Arthur Morgan. Red Dead Redemption 2 is a great showcase of Rockstar’s technical knowledge, offering a great Hope County map to explore along with impressive gameplay.
Buy Red Dead Redemption 2 ( $59.99 )
30. Street Fighter 6
Street Fighter is one of those classic series that has stood the test of time. Over the generations, we have witnessed multiple entries. While Street Fighter 5 was a failure, Street Fighter 6 solved many of the problems of the fifth game and reached whole new heights. The sixth entry fixes almost all of the problems of the previous entry while celebrating the franchise’s heritage. Additionally, we are introducing a new game system and fun battle system that everyone can enjoy. If anything, the future of the franchise is bright from here.
Download Street Fighter 6 ( $59.99 )
These are our picks for some of the best Steam games you can play this year. Of course, there were other titles to choose from. That’s where everyone comes in. What is your favorite game of all time? What should we add to this list? Let us know in the comments below. Meanwhile, check out our list of the best free Steam games you can play right now.
