The possibilities are endless in the world of PC gaming, and the range of titles available is vast. While some exclusive titles are not playable on custom gaming PCs, like Nintendo titles, many exceptional games remain to explore. Whether you’re unboxing your new desktop PC, or you’re a seasoned PC gaming enthusiast, these PC gaming titles are must-haves in your library.
1. Skyrim: A PC Gaming Classic
PC Gaming enthusiasts knew this was coming. Released in 2011, the 5th installment in the Elder Scrolls franchise cemented itself as one of the greatest games of all time and is absolutely a necessity in terms of a title you must own. The modding scene for this game alone makes it a must. It is a staple game that has been ported to everything under the sun and re-released several times under “updated” title names. The story isn’t top-tier, but the gameplay and exploration are what really make this game an all-time classic.
2. Grand Theft Auto 5: PC Gaming Excellence
PC Gaming enthusiasts probably knew this was coming as well. Released back in 2013, Grand Theft Auto 5 was an instant hit (surprise, surprise). Just like Skyrim, this game is cemented as one of the greatest games of all time, with its innovative gameplay and AI implementations. There are comparisons to GTAV still to this day, as it has mechanics that are better than some current games today! While I am not a big fan of the multiplayer, it is still incredibly popular. There is also a vibrant modding scene, with one of the biggest mods being FiveM – custom online servers. Add this game to your library if you don’t already have it.
3. Elden Ring: A PC Gaming Masterpiece
While From Software titles aren’t for everyone due to their difficulty and lack of “handholding” throughout the game, this title is one that everyone should try at least once and push through to beat. It is such a rewarding game from start to finish, with many character builds, a beautiful open world just begging to be explored, and bosses that are some of the best in the From Software catalog. Winning Game of the Year in 2022, this game has made itself known as one of the decade’s games, if not all time. Even if you find it too difficult, there is an excellent mod you can install that will allow you and several friends to play the game side by side, start to finish. If you want to keep it vanilla, there is a summoning mechanic for friends to assist with bosses. We are all looking at you, Malenia.
4. Stardew Valley: PC Gaming at Its Finest
I cannot say enough good things about this game. From its simplicity to the beautiful music to the depths of the mine below, Stardew Valley is honestly one of the best games I have ever played. It is full of activities that will keep you busy for hours, and this is one of those games where it feels like you have been playing for an hour, but when you look at the clock, it has been 6 hours. Developed entirely by one person, this game puts you in the shoes of a farmer from the big city who inherited your family’s farm. From there, the story is entirely in your hands. With a thriving town full of mystery and a world full of mystery, something new and fresh will happen. Definitely add this title to your library. You won’t regret it.
5. Counter-Strike 2: PC Gaming Thrills
While this game was on my top F2P games blog, which you can read here (add hyperlink), this is a title you must download. Not only is it free, but it is also a load of fun as well. From community servers to a thriving competitive scene, there is no lack of content in this game. The community in-game can be a little toxic, but that is the online world for you these days. Not to mention, the gun skin market is always booming. They were doing NFTs before NFTs were a thing. But most importantly, it is one of the most genre-defining FPS titles to date. You have to play it. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s roll.
Building a custom PC for PC gaming
There are so many essential games out there that I would be writing all day. These are just several titles I feel, and strongly recommend, you add to your library for your custom desktop PC experience. It is hard to choose what deserves your time and what doesn’t. I hope this list provides some clarity. For those considering a gaming tower or mini gaming PC, now is an opportune time to explore the market. Instabuilder, our user-friendly PC builder tool, can tailor a PC to your gaming needs effortlessly. Whether you have a clear vision or require guidance, our exceptional sales team is available to walk you through every step toward acquiring your dream gaming PC, custom mini PC, or workstation PC.