More games are added toSteamin a day than anyone could reasonably play, let alone afford. Even if you narrow down your search to free-to-play games, the selection is still intimidating. Just because a game is free doesn’t mean it’s worth your time. In fact, with the glut of “free” games filling the digital shelves, which only exist to sell you microtransactions, finding a quality game can feel like navigating a minefield.
There’s no easy way to separate the trash from the treasure in Steam’s free games catalog, which is why I’ve done the dirty work to present you only the best games on Steam that don’t cost a dime to play. We’ve made sure to include games from as many genres and styles as possible, such as shooters, card games, and indies, so that you’re able to find a game tailored to your specific tastes. These will all work perfectly on PC, but make sure you check to see if they are verified for yourSteam Deckif you want to take them on the go.
While all the games listed are free to download and play, some may offer in-game microtransactions.
How to get a refund on Steam games: Tips to get your money back
Steam is a fantastic digital platform because it gives you the option to refund a game, even if you’ve played a bit of it.
Hardcore MOBA action
We’re starting out with a game for the hardcore players out there. DOTA 2 is neck-and-neck with League of Legends as the most popular MOBA on the market. For those unfamiliar, MOBAs are team-based games where two groups of heroes fight it out in an attempt to destroy the opposition’s base. It sounds simple on paper, but with the hundreds of heroes, team compositions, skills, items, and strategies, DOTA 2 is one of the most in-depth and intense multiplayer games on PC. If you get addicted, prepare to lose countless hours to this game. Best of all, all the heroes are free, so the only temptation to spend real money comes from cosmetics.
2Overwatch 2
Evolving hero shooter
Overwatch 2
While it was a controversial move to override the original Overwatch when Overwatch 2 launched, the one benefit most could agree on was that it went free-to-play. As it stands, Overwatch 2 is the most fleshed-out and fully featured hero shooter on the market. Currently, there are over 30 unique heroes to choose from, each with their own personalities, abilities, and roles to learn. New heroes, maps, and unique modes are constantly being added to keep the game fresh and engaging.
3Cry of Fear
Classic horror experience
Cry of Fear
Originally released as a mod for Half-Life, Cry of Fear became so popular and fleshed out that it was released as a standalone title. Yes, I know this isn’t the best-looking game in terms of graphics, but its dark, rough, and grungy appearance only adds to the atmosphere the game presents. Truly great horror games are already hard to find, and that list shrinks even more if you limit it to free ones. If you’re looking for some powerful horror that doesn’t rely on jump scares, Cry of Fear is more than worth your time.
4Gwent: The Witcher Card Game
Card battling bliss
If you, like us, found yourself playing more Gwent in The Witcher 3 than the main game, you already know you’ll love Gwent: The Witcher Card Game. This game takes the core card game and rebalances and expands it into its own full release, yet those same strategies of building your deck, smart placement of cards, and bluffing still apply. Since it’s been out for a while, there are already tons of cards and decks to collect, but the newest releases are initially restricted to those willing to pay.
5Destiny 2
Outstanding gunplay and co-op FPS design
Destiny 2 has experienced its share of highs and lows, but there’s a consensus that its core FPS gameplay is unparalleled. It’s challenging to find other shooters, whether paid or free, that offer the same satisfying gameplay as Destiny 2. This alone makes it worth trying, even if the world and lore don’t initially grab your interest. As a persistent online experience, Destiny 2 is best enjoyed with friends. you may engage in PvP, embark on various story missions, or tackle raids that demand precise coordination and skill to complete.
Space-ninja action
If you want to feel like an unstoppable tornado of death, spraying bullets and slicing through aliens with ease, Warframe is the power fantasy you need in your life. Don’t get us wrong; the action is top-notch, but you need to enjoy the grind when playing Warframe. This game is all about running missions to collect resources, crafting new weapons and suits (frames), and then repeating the process. Thankfully, the grind never feels too repetitive, thanks to the slick and gratifying movement mechanics that are immensely satisfying to master.
7Marvel Snap
Casual card collector
Marvel SNAP
Trust me, I understand how daunting most collectible card games (CCGs) can be. They often feature hundreds of cards, each with numerous effects that interact and change depending on the context, making the learning curve steep and mastery seem unattainable. Marvel Snap simplifies the complexity of CCGs into an accessible format that’s easy to pick up and play while still retaining the enjoyment factor. The cards feature well-known Marvel heroes and villains, and matches last only about 5 minutes at most, so there’s no need to commit to lengthy games.
8EVE Online
Hardcore space sandbox
EVE Online
EVE Online isn’t for everyone. In fact, it’s suitable for a relatively niche audience, but those who get into it often become lifelong devotees. This space sandbox has gained notoriety over the years for evolving into a sort of miniature nation, complete with player-operated businesses, a fully functioning economy, and wars that unfold dynamically based on player interactions. Engaging with EVE Online means not only mastering its gameplay mechanics but also understanding the politics among different player factions that control various map sections. Even if it’s just out of curiosity, it’s one of the most unique games ever created and is worth trying to see if it captivates you.
9Counter-Strike 2
Sweaty competitive FPS
Counter-Strike 2
An upgrade to 2012’s CS:GO, Counter-Strike 2 is Valve’s definitive multiplayer first-person shooter. Created using the Source 2 engine, the 2023 release includes improved maps, audio, and visuals.
Counter-Strike 2 is probably the sweatiest multiplayer FPS on the market, yet it’s also one of the most popular. The basic concept is simple: two teams buy weapons and equipment to clash in a series of rounds. What makes CS2 so intense is the combination of the lethality of the guns, which can take down players with just one or two well-aimed shots, and the necessity for precise aiming. This isn’t a game where you can simply spray in the general direction of your opponent and expect to hit your target. CS 2 is a slow-paced, methodical, and tense game where strategy is just as important as quick reflexes.
10Apex Legends
A Battle Royale with legends
Apex Legends
Apex Legends is a free-to-play battle royale game made by Respawn. In this shooter, players take up the mantle of a Legend — one of the playable characters — and form a squad with other players. The game is set in the same universe as the Titanfall series and the two franchises have had many crossovers.
The battle royale genre tends to be dominated by Fortnite, but Apex Legends has been holding strong in the background for years now. Unlike others that followed the trend after Fortnite made its splash, Apex didn’t immediately follow with a copy-and-paste clone. Respawn took its time and created something fresh by incorporating the smooth and dynamic movement system from Titanfall 2 and unique characters from a hero shooter. The result is a highly addictive and unique take on the genre that stands on its own. It’s the perfect game to squad up with your friends for a night.
