There was a time when free-to-play games were often low quality and hardly worth the download. However, those days are long gone, and now, some of the most popular games are entirely free to play. As these games need to generate revenue, expect them to feature microtransactions and loot boxes.
For those looking for free entertainment, below are our top picks for the best free games. These titles are free to download and play, with many not requiring any spending to enjoy—unless you want to support the developers.
The games are listed in alphabetical order.
Apex Legends
This free-to-play battle royale comes from Respawn Entertainment and Electronic Arts. With a diverse cast of heroes known as Legends, Apex Legends is set in the Titanfall universe, merging fast-paced action with strategic squad-based gameplay. Players dive into a sci-fi world, scavenging for weapons and equipment and battling to be the last team standing within constantly shrinking play zones. Apex Legends is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC.
Apex Legends is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC.
Call of Duty: Warzone
There’s a reason why the Call of Duty franchise is one of the most successful in the world. Its free-to-play battle royale game, Call of Duty: Warzone, was originally released in 2020. Since its initial release, Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 has been launched, introducing additional features and modes to the game. One unique feature of Call of Duty: Warzone is the Gulag, a small-scale arena where players are sent upon their first death in a Battle Royale (before the final circle collapses). Winning a battle in the Gulag grants players a second chance in the Battle Royale match. Expect Call of Duty: Warzone to continue evolving, especially after Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
Call of Duty: Warzone is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Counter-Strike 2
It seemed as if a sequel would never come, but Counter-Strike 2 became a surprising reality in September 2023. Building on decades of Counter-Strike legacy, the sequel enhances objective-focused gameplay with the addition of global and regional leaderboards, upgraded and overhauled maps, game-changing smoke grenades, tick-rate-independent gameplay, and redefined visual effects and audio. For those who, like me, spent their college years playing de_dust, Counter-Strike 2 is undoubtedly worth downloading.
Counter-Strike 2 is available on PC.
Dauntless
While Dauntless is officially billed as a “massively multiplayer action RPG,” the best way to describe it is a game that is heavily inspired by the Monster Hunter series. We won’t go so far as to call it a clone, as it does do some things differently, but the overall gameplay loop is similar. Since its initial beta launch in May 2018, Dauntless has evolved significantly, with ambitious plans as it enters 2024. As of this writing, the developers plan to introduce 21 weapons, offering options to suit a variety of playstyles. Although it’s been some time since I last played Dauntless, I remember being impressed with its initial launch and am pleased to see its continued success.
Dauntless is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC.
Destiny 2
It’s fair to say that the original Destiny was among the most anticipated games of all time, serving as Bungie’s follow-up to its wildly successful and genre-defining Halo series. Some might argue that Destiny started the industry’s shift toward focusing on live service games. Now, Destiny 2 is a free-to-play title, though the complete experience requires purchasing the latest expansions. Nevertheless, it offers a substantial amount of free content. If you appreciate Bungie’s trademark gunplay and enjoy collecting loot, Destiny 2 is worth trying.
Destiny 2 is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Doki Doki Literature Club!
Explaining the appeal of Doki Doki Literature Club! without spoiling the game is a challenging task. So, you’ll just have to trust me when I say it’s a game everyone should experience at least once. Doki Doki Literature Club! epitomizes the adage “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” Don’t be fooled by its anime, visual novel aesthetics, this game offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else. While the experience is short, heed its warning seriously: This game is not suitable for children or those who are easily disturbed.
Doki Doki Literature Club! is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, macOS, and PC.
Dota 2
What started off as a custom Warcraft 3 map called Defense of the Ancients has become one of the largest esports titles in the world. The original Dota pioneered the MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena) genre, and Dota 2 remains one of the biggest, despite plenty of competition. With over 120 heroes in the game at the time of writing, no two matches are ever the same. The team-based, PvP game is constantly evolving, and although it will take a few matches to learn, you can do so against bots.
Dota 2 is available on macOS and PC.
EVE Online
EVE Online has affectionately earned the nickname “Excel simulator” over the years, as many of its most dedicated players spend more time creating custom formulas in spreadsheets than playing the actual MMO. The giant space sandbox is one of the biggest games you can play, and although it can feel daunting to learn, those who love sci-fi will find a lot to enjoy. The game was originally released in May 2003, and over 20 years later, it’s still going strong with one of the most dedicated fanbases, creating some of the most epic and talked-about space battles in the world.
EVE Online is available on macOS and PC.
Fall Guys
Although it’s not as popular as when it originally released in 2020, Fall Guys can still offer hours of fun, put-a-smile-on-your-face entertainment. This obstacle course game puts an entertaining spin on the battle royale genre, involving up to 40 players who try to survive various minigames. Developed by Mediatonic, Fall Guys features a cheerful and colorful aesthetic that gives it a lighthearted feel. It’s one of those games where even losing can be fun, if not outright hilarious. It’s a great casual game to play with friends.
Fall Guys is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC.
Final Fantasy XIV
This remains one of the best games I’ve ever played and is quite possibly my all-time favorite. Final Fantasy XIV, an MMORPG, overcame one of the most disastrous launches in video game history to become one of the most successful subscription-based games ever. The game recently wrapped up its first major story arc with the Endwalker expansion, delivering one of the most memorable stories I’ve ever experienced. Naturally, it caters more to Final Fantasy fans, paying homage to virtually every game in the series in some way, shape, or form. Even if you’ve never played a single Final Fantasy title, I highly recommend the Final Fantasy XIV free trial. There’s a good reason it sparked a meme: “Have you heard of the critically acclaimed MMORPG Final Fantasy XIV with an expanded free trial which you can play through the entirety of A Realm Reborn and the award-winning Stormblood expansion up to level 70 for free with no strictions on playtime?”
Final Fantasy XIV is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, macOS, and PC.
Fortnite
At this point, Fortnite really needs no introduction. Originally, Fortnite began as a cooperative PvE game blending elements of survival, tower defense, and third-person shooting in its Save the World mode. However, it wasn’t until the introduction of Battle Royale that Fortnite truly skyrocketed in popularity. According to a recent Newzoo study, Fortnite was the top game of 2023 by average monthly active users (MAU) across all major platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch. Now, Fortnite has evolved beyond a mere game; it’s a platform featuring LEGO Fortnite, Rocket Racing, and Festival Main Stage. That’s just the beginning too, as the expansion continues with confirmed plans for Disney franchises, including Marvel and Star Wars, to join Fortnite.
Fortnite is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, Android, iOS, macOS, and PC.
Genshin Impact
If you live in the U.S. or Canada, it’s challenging to grasp the popularity of Genshin Impact until you visit an Asian country. In cities such as Hong Kong and Tokyo, Genshin Impact artwork adorns entire buildings, and Genshin Impact merchandise is available at every turn. Originally released in 2020, this open-world action RPG has redefined the mobile gaming genre. In fact, several clones have emerged, such as Tower of Fantasy, and others like Wuthering Waves are on the horizon, attempting to get a piece of Genshin Impact’s pie. Although it relies heavily on gacha for monetization, the game is quite generous, offering a solid experience for free.
Genshin Impact is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Android, iOS, and PC.
Guild Wars 2
Another popular free-to-play MMORPG, Guild Wars 2, has been captivating players since 2012. Set in the fantasy world of Tyria, Guild Wars 2 shares a story-driven approach to its narrative, similar to Final Fantasy XIV. The game continues to receive strong support, with the most recent addition being The Realm of Dreams, released as part of the Secrets of the Obscure expansion. There are two more unnamed expansions currently planned, one for 2024 and one for 2025.
Guild Wars 2 is available on PC.
Gwent
Originally a minigame in The Witcher 3, Gwent has evolved into one of the most popular standalone card games. The game features a duel between two players, with each match determined by the best two out of three rounds. Gwent distinguishes itself from other collectible card games by emphasizing skill and strategy over luck, though RNG still influences gameplay as is common in all card games. Unfortunately, support for Gwent began to wind down at the end of 2023, with the game entering maintenance mode starting in 2024. However, it’s still worth playing, especially since it’s free.
Gwent is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Android, iOS, macOS, and PC.
Hearthstone
For more than five years, Hearthstone was a daily part of my life, and I mostly enjoyed my time with it. Also, the game holds a special place in my heart for helping to launch this site back in 2013. Unfortunately, as the game became increasingly expensive, my interested waned. Although I still follow its expansions, nothing has enticed me to return to the game. However, it’s worth mentioning that the game has evolved to include new modes like Mercenaries, which bears resemblance to an auto-battler.
Hearthstone is available on Android, iOS, macOS, and PC.
Honkai: Star Rail
The wild success of Genshin Impact has enabled miHoYo to expand, resulting in the debut of Honkai: Star Rail in 2023. This is the developer’s first turn-based game, featuring parties of up to four and incorporating open-world and dungeon exploration elements from Genshin Impact. Contrasting with Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail introduces a science-fantasy world, with the developers acknowledging Persona 5 as their inspiration for its turn-based gameplay. For those who prefer turn-based combat to Genshin Impact’s action-oriented battle system, Honkai: Star Rail is worth a try.
Honkai: Star Rail is available on PlayStation 5, Android, iOS, and PC.
League of Legends
League of Legends joins Dota 2 on this list as another popular free-to-play MOBA, arguably becoming the more popular of the two, thanks to the recent success of the Arcane animated series on Netflix. The developer, Riot Games, has also expanded the League of Legends universe with spinoff games and has even more in the pipeline. With over 140 champions in its roster, League of Legends has achieved massive success since its original 2009 launch. Similar to Dota 2, there’s a steep learning curve for those without any prior MOBA experience.
League of Legends is available on macOS and PC.
Lost Ark
I’m somewhat reluctant to admit I’ve spent over 1,000 hours in Lost Ark, but there it is. Upon its release in 2022, I found myself completely absorbed by every aspect of the game, especially its engaging gameplay loop. I thoroughly enjoyed its combat and class variety, including the PvP aspect. I eventually stepped back due to realizing the extensive daily time commitment required to manage all my in-game goals. Still, I would never hesitate to recommend the game to others. It provides numerous hours of entertainment for free, even for those just playing through the campaign and ignoring the end-game content.
Lost Ark is available on PC.
Marvel Snap
Another card game I played daily for over a year since its beta is Marvel Snap, known for its quick and engaging matches. The game’s well-designed location system ensures that no two matches ever feel the same. The “snap” mechanic, involving cubes, introduces a gambling element that adds thrill to each match. Combine all this with iconic Marvel characters, and it’s easy to see why Marvel Snap quickly rose in popularity.
Marvel Snap is available on Android, iOS, macOS, and PC.
Naraka: Bladepoint
As battle royale games gained popularity, they mostly shared one common feature: they were shooters. Naraka: Bladepoint shook up the formula by creating a battle royale experience focused on melee combat. Originally launched in 2021, Naraka: Bladepoint now features 17 heroes as of the time of publishing, so you’re likely to find one that fits your playstyle. If you love the concept of battle royales but are looking for something without guns, consider downloading Naraka: Bladepoint.
Naraka: Bladepoint is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Overwatch 2
Overwatch 2 is one of the few games on this list that needs no introduction. You’ve likely heard of the game either as the sequel to one of the most popular team-based shooters of all time or because its launch on Steam was one of the most disastrous in the platform’s history. Unlike the original game, Overwatch 2 adopted a free-to-play model and shifted from 6v6 to 5v5, a choice with which much of the community disagreed. As a live service game that’s constantly evolving, it may not be as popular as it once was, but it remains one of the best free-to-play titles available.
Overwatch 2 is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC.
PUBG: Battlegrounds
Many consider PUBG: Battlegrounds the first truly popular battle royale game. Given Fortnite’s growing popularity, it’s understandable if some fail to understand just how influential PUBG: Battlegrounds once was. It holds the record as the most played game on Steam, having reached a peak of 3,257,248 players at one time. Despite its 2017 release, PUBG: Battlegrounds still achieves over 500,000 concurrent players on most days. Very few games have reached such an achievement, let alone maintained it for so many years.
PUBG: Battlegrounds is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Android, iOS, and PC.
Path of Exile
Over the years, the term “action RPG” has evolved to include games by FromSoftware and other soulslike titles within this category. However, old-school gamers may recall a time when action RPGs were essentially Diablo and its imitators. If you’re looking to play a robust, feature-rich action RPG without spending a dime, Path of Exile is calling out to you. Drawing heavy inspiration from genre greats like Diablo, Path of Exile delivers complexity and build variety unmatched by most games. While you might eventually consider spending a few dollars on stash tabs, the game is entirely free to play, allowing you to decide if it’s worth the investment.
Path of Exile is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, macOS, and PC.
Roblox
When Roblox was first introduced, many considered it a Minecraft clone. However, Roblox is significantly different, as it serves as a global platform enabling players to create and share their own interactive experiences. Originally launched in 2006 for PC, Roblox has evolved considerably, now supporting consoles, mobile devices, and even VR platforms. Using its proprietary engine, Roblox Studio, players can create and share their own games on the platform. Given all the different experiences available on Roblox, it’s clear why millions of players immerse themselves in the platform each month.
Roblox is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Meta Quest, Android, iOS, macOS, and PC.
Rocket League
Who would have thought combining soccer with vehicular mayhem would be a recipe for success? Well, the team at Psyonix did, which led to the wildly successful game, Rocket League. Launched in July 2015, the game quickly became an overnight success with its simple yet addictive gameplay concept. Essentially, players control rocket-powered cars inside an oversized dome, attempting to hit a giant ball into their opponent’s goal. It’s one of those games that is very easy to pick up but very difficult to master. Epic Games acquired Psyonix in 2019, leading to the launch of the developer’s Rocket Racing within the Fortnite platform.
Rocket League is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, macOS, and PC.
RuneScape
If you’re looking to experience an MMORPG that has been around for over two decades, RuneScape is your go-to option. Originally released in 2001, the version now available for free on Steam is technically RuneScape 3. Throughout its history, RuneScape has amassed over 270 million installations, indicating that hundreds of millions of people have explored the world of Gielinor. The current version offers cross-play on PC and mobile, enabling players to take their adventure on the go. Although free to play, RuneScape also offers an optional membership that unlocks eight additional skills, more than 120 extra quests, full access to the game map, and more.
RuneScape is available on Android, iOS, macOS, and PC.
Star Wars: The Old Republic
Yet another MMORPG on this list, Star Wars: The Old Republic, originally developed by BioWare, was launched in 2011. Recently, the game’s support has shifted to Broadsword, a company now committed to its maintenance and updates. It stands as the sole free-to-play MMORPG that offers a chance to live out your Star Wars fantasies, whether that’s being a Jedi, Sith, Bounty Hunter, or another iconic Star Wars role. The narrative unfolds more than three thousand years before the classic films, and, given its origins with BioWare, features a solid story campaign. Explore more than 20 unique Star Wars planets, engaging in eight distinct narratives and 16 combat styles in Star Wars: The Old Republic.
Star Wars: The Old Republic is available on PC.
Team Fortress 2
Team Fortress 2 is described on its product page as the highest-rated free game of all time and one of the most popular online action games of all time. The truth is, both claims hold up, with Team Fortress 2 amassing over one million user reviews on Steam since its original release in October 2007. Featuring nine distinct classes, Team Fortress 2 offers a variety of game modes, such as Capture the Flag, Control Point, Payload, Arena, King of the Hill, and more. Some consider this game the original inspiration for Overwatch, although Overwatch doesn’t have hundreds of weapons and hats to collect—just loot boxes that cost hundreds of dollars to buy.
Team Fortress 2 is available on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, macOS, and PC.
Teamfight Tactics
As I write this, I actually have Teamfight Tactics playing on my other monitor. To me, it’s the perfect game to play while I work, so that working doesn’t feel like, well, working. The game only requires my full attention for a few minutes per match—typically when I’m near death—while offering plenty of entertainment. Teamfight Tactics is part of the auto battler or auto chess craze, but it’s one of the very few that has received continued support since its initial launch (RIP Dota Underlords). By tapping into a large roster of characters from League of Legends, Teamfight Tactics continually evolves with each set, making it one of the best free-to-play games out there. I’d hate to know how many hours I’ve spent playing Teamfight Tactics over the years.
Teamfight Tactics is available on Android, iOS, macOS, and PC.
The Finals
The Finals is a team-based, first-person shooter that officially launched in December 2023 and quickly became popular thanks to its added twist: destructible environments. In fact, players are encouraged to use the dynamic environment on the maps to their advantage. Game modes feature two, three, or four teams competing in a free-for-all competition. Developed by Embark Studios, The Finals takes inspiration from The Hunger Games and Gladiator, unfolding in a fictional VR combat game show.
The Finals is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
The Lord of the Rings Online
If you’ve been following along with every game on this list, you’ve probably noticed something about MMORPGs that launched in the early 2010s: most are now free to play. Launched in 2012, The Lord of the Rings Online is another game on the list, immersing players in J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendary Middle-earth. The game offers seven races, 11 classes, 10 professions, seven vocations, along with over 1,000 titles, skills, and traits. Having been around for over a decade, the current level cap is 140, offering plenty of entertainment without having to pay any monthly fees.
The Lord of the Rings Online is available on macOS and PC.
The Sims 4
Nearly a decade old, The Sims 4 is an extremely popular free-to-play social simulation game with an extensive list of DLC and expansions. The base game, however, is free and its free-to-play model has helped it become the most popular game in the franchise with over 70 million players worldwide as of 2023. Although The Sims 5 is in development, support for The Sims 4 is ongoing, with the latest expansion pack released in December 2023. If you’re in the mood to create a unique world of Sims and craft their life stories, prepare to get lost in The Sims 4—at least until The Sims 5 is released.
The Sims 4 is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, macOS, and PC.
Valorant
The developers for two other games on this list, League of Legends and Teamfight Tactics, make it a trifecta with Valorant. Inspired by Counter-Strike, this free-to-play tactical hero shooter was released in 2020 and features Agents that have unique abilities, similar to characters in Overwatch. The game currently offers 24 Agents, each with distinct backgrounds and cultures from around the world. Agents are categorized into four roles—Duelists, Sentinels, Initiators, and Controllers—offering a range of playstyles and team compositions.
Valorant is available on PC.
Warframe
My first memory of Warframe is of it being the only genuinely fun game available at the original launch of the PlayStation 4. Although it was available on PC in 2013, I didn’t spend time with the game until it was available on PlayStation 4. It’s a third-person shooter with action RPG elements, and although it didn’t have the greatest launch, it has truly come into its own after years of continued support. Right now, it has over 550,000 user reviews on Steam with a Very Positive rating, and developer Digital Extremes is also working on an upcoming fantasy MMORPG called Soulframe.
Warframe is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, iOS, and PC.
World of Tanks
For something completely different from any other game on this list, there’s World of Tanks. It’s a warfare-themed multiplayer online game that was originally released in 2010. It focuses on PvP gameplay with players controlling, well, you guessed it, tanks. The team-based shooter continues to expand its roster with historical vehicles and new locations, currently boasting over 600 tanks and military vehicles.
World of Tanks is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, Android, iOS, macOS, and PC.
