With thousands of games available on Steam, Epic Games Store, and other platforms, getting started in PC gaming can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re diving into gaming for the first time or switching from console to PC, choosing the right games is crucial to having a great experience.
This guide is for beginners and casual gamers looking to explore the best PC games that are fun, beginner-friendly, and highly rated. We’ll break down different genres, highlight top titles, and give you tips to help you find your next favorite game.
You’re faced with many purchasing options upon booting Epic Games Store, Steam, Xbox Game Pass, or any other digital PC game marketplaces. Do you feel like whipping fascists? Check out Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. Want to pummel your friends with fireballs and uppercuts? Give Street Fighter 6 a try.
What Are PC Games?
PC games are video games that are played on a personal computer rather than a gaming console. They span a wide range of genres—shooters, role-playing, simulation, strategy—and often feature better graphics, mod support, and customization than console versions.
Analogy:
Think of a PC as a buffet of games—you get more variety, flexibility, and options than a fixed menu like consoles offer.
Why PC Games Matter
PC gaming offers a versatile and immersive experience. You can fine-tune your graphics settings, use mods to expand gameplay, or join massive online communities.
“PC gaming isn’t just a platform—it’s a culture.” – PC Gamer
Stat:
According to Statista, there are over 1.8 billion PC gamers globally as of 2024, and PC gaming continues to dominate esports and competitive scenes.
How to Get Started with the Best PC Games
Step 1: Pick a Genre You Love
Here are a few beginner-friendly genres and top picks:
Action/Adventure
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The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Epic fantasy RPG with rich storytelling
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Tomb Raider (Reboot series) – Action-packed with puzzles and exploration
First-Person Shooters
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Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) – Tactical, competitive shooting
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Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II – High-octane and cinematic
Strategy
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Age of Empires IV – Historical real-time strategy
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Civilization VI – Turn-based empire building
Simulation/Life
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The Sims 4 – Create lives, build homes, and tell stories
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Stardew Valley – Farming meets friendship in this relaxing classic
Open World/Sandbox
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Minecraft – Endless creativity with survival or creative mode
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Grand Theft Auto V – Massive open world with story and online play
Step 2: Use Trusted Platforms to Buy or Download
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Steam – Largest PC game library, frequent sales
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Epic Games Store – Free weekly games
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GOG.com – DRM-free classics and indie gems
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Xbox Game Pass for PC – Subscription service with 100+ games
Step 3: Check System Requirements
Before downloading:
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Make sure your PC meets minimum requirements
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Use Can You Run It to test compatibility
Pro Tip: For smooth gameplay, aim for recommended specs, not just minimum.
Step 4: Start Small, Then Explore
Start with one or two beginner-friendly games and gradually branch into more advanced genres or multiplayer titles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Ignoring system requirements
➤ Always check specs before buying -
Jumping into competitive multiplayer right away
➤ Start with single-player to build skills -
Overlooking indie games
➤ Some of the best experiences come from smaller studios (like Hades, Celeste, or Hollow Knight) -
Buying too many games at once
➤ Play what you buy first to avoid backlog fatigue
Examples of Best PC Games in Action
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Elden Ring – Blends open-world exploration with intense boss battles (Game of the Year 2022)
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Valorant – Competitive FPS that’s beginner-accessible but deep
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Red Dead Redemption 2 – One of the most graphically stunning open worlds ever made
Watch streamers like Shroud or Valkyrae to see gameplay and strategies in action.
Additional Resources for PC Gaming
Websites
YouTube Channels
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Gameranx – “Before You Buy” series
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Digital Foundry – Performance breakdowns
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ACG – Honest game reviews
Tools
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SteamDB – Track discounts and trends
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Nexus Mods – Safe mod downloads
Whether you’re into fast-paced action or relaxing simulations, PC gaming has something for everyone. By starting with highly rated, beginner-friendly titles, you’ll ease into the world of gaming while having a ton of fun.
You don’t need a supercomputer to enjoy great games—just curiosity and the willingness to try something new.
