Steam offers a vast library of games for PC gamers. The platform hosts titles across various genres, from popular shooters to indie gems. Players can find both AAA blockbusters and unique, niche experiences.
Steam’s top-rated games showcase the diversity of its offerings. Titles like Stardew Valley, Hades, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt consistently receive high praise from users. These games stand out for their engaging gameplay, impressive art styles, and compelling narratives.
Best Steam Games to Play Right Now (December 2024)
Steam is a treasure trove of amazing games, with thousands of titles spanning every genre imaginable. But with so many options, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are some of the best Steam games you can play right now:
Rank | Name | Peak Players |
---|---|---|
1 | Counter-Strike 2 | 1,573,901 |
2 | Path of Exile 2 | 539,149 |
3 | Dota 2 | 797,599 |
4 | Call of Duty® | 263,402 |
5 | Rust | 186,280 |
6 | PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS | 796,001 |
7 | Banana | 446,433 |
8 | Grand Theft Auto V | 196,707 |
9 | Delta Force | 108,784 |
10 | Baldur’s Gate 3 | 107,633 |
11 | THRONE AND LIBERTY | 141,042 |
12 | Crosshair X | 87,928 |
13 | Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege | 72,816 |
14 | Team Fortress 2 | 68,400 |
15 | Stardew Valley | 116,789 |
16 | Apex Legends | 224,664 |
17 | Wallpaper Engine | 142,248 |
18 | War Thunder | 103,138 |
19 | Crab Game | 54,229 |
20 | Football Manager 2024 | 68,295 |
21 | DayZ | 68,748 |
22 | Sid Meier’s Civilization VI | 71,148 |
23 | Factorio | 98,901 |
24 | EA SPORTS FC 25 | 85,326 |
25 | S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl | 120,960 |
26 | Farming Simulator 25 | 135,883 |
27 | Hearts of Iron IV | 93,196 |
28 | VRChat | 52,932 |
29 | Warframe | 76,455 |
30 | PAYDAY 2 | 38,640 |
31 | Cyberpunk 2077 | 59,022 |
32 | Satisfactory | 55,414 |
33 | Dead by Daylight | 68,157 |
34 | Left 4 Dead 2 | 64,114 |
35 | The Sims™ 4 | 43,773 |
36 | The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition | 37,095 |
37 | Euro Truck Simulator 2 | 57,242 |
38 | Red Dead Redemption 2 | 53,300 |
39 | Project Zomboid | 40,813 |
40 | ELDEN RING | 45,231 |
41 | Valheim | 45,375 |
42 | Once Human | 72,963 |
43 | Destiny 2 | 53,135 |
44 | Total War: WARHAMMER III | 34,504 |
45 | Terraria | 61,068 |
46 | HELLDIVERS™ 2 | 53,621 |
47 | 7 Days to Die | 41,726 |
48 | The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth | 49,231 |
49 | Rocket League | 31,057 |
50 | Spacewar | 62,682 |
51 | FINAL FANTASY XIV Online | 35,733 |
52 | Garry’s Mod | 35,672 |
53 | Phasmophobia | 45,706 |
54 | Overwatch® 2 | 56,607 |
55 | RimWorld | 28,616 |
56 | tModLoader | 47,809 |
57 | Cats | 25,021 |
58 | ARK: Survival Evolved | 40,477 |
59 | Palworld | 40,501 |
60 | Lost Ark | 27,866 |
61 | ARK: Survival Ascended | 24,944 |
62 | NARAKA: BLADEPOINT | 317,932 |
63 | Monster Hunter: World | 104,488 |
64 | Crusader Kings III | 29,187 |
65 | MIR4 | 20,268 |
66 | Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition | 30,067 |
67 | Don’t Starve Together | 70,580 |
68 | Enshrouded | 42,477 |
69 | The First Descendant | 26,227 |
70 | Lethal Company | 25,636 |
71 | Geometry Dash | 23,434 |
72 | Sid Meier’s Civilization V | 21,771 |
73 | New World: Aeternum | 37,638 |
74 | BeamNG.drive | 25,201 |
75 | Fallout 4 | 21,872 |
76 | Balatro | 20,995 |
77 | Hogwarts Legacy | 26,281 |
78 | Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel | 37,125 |
79 | Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord | 30,628 |
80 | Stellaris | 23,945 |
81 | Europa Universalis IV | 21,989 |
82 | Sons Of The Forest | 37,631 |
83 | Soundpad | 20,338 |
84 | Killing Floor 2 | 17,348 |
85 | Warhammer 40,000: Darktide | 22,520 |
86 | Arma 3 | 20,660 |
87 | Unturned | 22,660 |
88 | THE FINALS | 20,336 |
89 | NBA 2K25 | 33,239 |
90 | Brawlhalla | 19,165 |
91 | SCUM | 27,230 |
92 | Squad | 22,537 |
93 | Black Desert | 17,212 |
94 | Fallout 76 | 15,276 |
95 | The Elder Scrolls Online | 15,752 |
96 | No Man’s Sky | 20,709 |
97 | SUPERVIVE | 47,774 |
98 | Dragon Age™: The Veilguard | 60,656 |
99 | Cookie Clicker | 12,855 |
100 | Crosshair V2 | 22,197 |
New Releases
- The Rise of the Golden Idol (87% on PC Gamer): This point-and-click adventure game has garnered rave reviews for its clever puzzles, witty writing, and captivating story.
- Stalker 2 (83% on PC Gamer): This long-awaited sequel to the cult classic S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl delivers a thrilling and atmospheric open-world experience in a post-apocalyptic setting.
- Factorio: Space Age (92% on PC Gamer): This expansion for the acclaimed factory-building game Factorio takes the gameplay to new heights, literally, with off-world expansion and new challenges.
Recent Hits
- Baldur’s Gate 3: This critically acclaimed RPG from Larian Studios offers a deep and immersive Dungeons & Dragons experience with stunning visuals, engaging combat, and a captivating story.
- Vampire Survivors: This addictive roguelite has taken the gaming world by storm with its simple yet satisfying gameplay loop and endless replayability.
- Elden Ring: FromSoftware’s latest masterpiece is a must-play for fans of challenging action RPGs. Its vast open world, intricate lore, and rewarding combat make it an unforgettable experience.
Timeless Classics
- Grand Theft Auto V: Still going strong after all these years, GTA V offers a massive open world, a compelling story, and endless opportunities for mayhem and fun.
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: This epic RPG from CD Projekt Red is a masterpiece of storytelling, world-building, and character development.
- Stardew Valley: This charming farming and life simulator offers a relaxing and rewarding escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Hidden Gems
- Wildermyth: This unique RPG blends procedural storytelling with tactical combat and character-driven narratives.
- Inscryption: This mind-bending horror game combines card game mechanics with escape room puzzles and psychological twists.
- Hades: This stylish roguelite from Supergiant Games features fast-paced action, compelling characters, and a captivating story inspired by Greek mythology.
For Steam Deck
- Vampire Survivors: Perfect for quick sessions on the go, this addictive roguelite is a great fit for the Steam Deck.
- Hades: The Steam Deck’s controls are well-suited for Hades’ fast-paced action and satisfying combat.
- Slay the Spire: This deck-building roguelite is another excellent choice for the Steam Deck, offering strategic depth and endless replayability.
Choosing the Right Game for You
With so many great games available on Steam, the best choice for you depends on your preferences and interests. Consider factors like genre, playstyle, and desired experience when making your selection.
Steam’s Features and Benefits
Steam is more than just a digital storefront. It offers a variety of features that enhance your gaming experience:
- Massive Library: Steam boasts a vast library of games, from AAA blockbusters to indie darlings.
- Community Features: Connect with friends, join groups, and participate in discussions with Steam’s community features.
- Cloud Saves: Access your game saves from any computer with Steam Cloud.
- Automatic Updates: Keep your games up-to-date with automatic updates.
- Sales and Discounts: Take advantage of frequent sales and discounts on games.
- Steam Workshop: Download and install mods to enhance your favorite games.
Steam offers a vast and diverse library of games to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking for the latest releases, timeless classics, or hidden gems, there’s something for everyone on Steam. With its user-friendly interface, community features, and regular sales, Steam is a must-have platform for any PC gamer.
2024 Gaming in Review
As 2024 draws to a close, it’s a good time to reflect on the gaming landscape and the trends that shaped the year. Here are some key takeaways:
AAA Games: A Mixed Bag
While 2024 saw some highly anticipated AAA releases, it also witnessed some notable failures. Games like Skull and Bones, Concord, and Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League failed to meet expectations, both critically and commercially. These disappointments highlight the challenges faced by AAA studios in a rapidly evolving industry. Factors like development costs, changing player preferences, and increased competition contribute to the risks involved in AAA game development.
Indie Games Continue to Shine
In contrast to some AAA struggles, 2024 was a strong year for indie games. Titles like Balatro, Nine Sols, and Factorio: Space Age garnered critical acclaim and captured the attention of players. These successes demonstrate the creativity and innovation thriving in the indie game development scene. With lower development costs and more freedom to experiment, indie developers often deliver unique and engaging experiences that resonate with players seeking something different.
The Remake and Remaster Renaissance
2024 saw a wave of successful remakes and remasters, including Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Silent Hill 2, Persona 3 Reload, and Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door. These reimagined classics offer nostalgic experiences for longtime fans and introduce beloved games to new audiences. The popularity of remakes and remasters reflects a desire for comfort and familiarity in a rapidly changing world, as well as a renewed appreciation for classic games.
Genre Diversity and Player Choice
2024 offered a diverse range of games across various genres. From immersive RPGs like Baldur’s Gate 3 to addictive roguelites like Vampire Survivors and challenging action titles like Elden Ring, there was something for everyone. This diversity caters to a wide range of player preferences and ensures that there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
The Evolving Landscape of the Gaming Industry
The gaming industry is in constant flux, with new technologies, business models, and player expectations shaping its future. AAA studios face increasing pressure to deliver innovative and engaging experiences, while indie developers continue to push boundaries and capture the attention of players. The rise of remakes and remasters also reflects a desire for nostalgic experiences and a renewed appreciation for classic games. As we move into 2025, it will be interesting to see how these trends continue to evolve and shape the future of gaming.
Key Takeaways
- Steam provides a wide range of games for different tastes and preferences
- User reviews and ratings help identify popular and high-quality titles on the platform
- Steam’s library includes both major releases and innovative indie games
Access Denied Message
Steam users may encounter a “Sorry, you have been blocked” message when trying to access certain features. This error typically indicates a temporary restriction on account activities. The block can stem from various reasons, including suspicious behavior or violations of Steam’s community guidelines.
Users facing this issue should first verify their account security. Checking for unauthorized access and changing passwords is a good starting point. Steam Support may need to be contacted if the problem persists.
Some common triggers for account blocks include:
- Posting inappropriate content
- Using automation tools
- Engaging in market manipulation
To avoid future blocks, users should:
- Review Steam’s community guidelines
- Use only official Steam services
- Protect account credentials
Patience is key, as some blocks lift automatically after a set period. During this time, affected users can still access their game library and make purchases, but community features may be limited.
Blocked Access to PCMag Website
PCMag’s website is currently inaccessible. Users trying to visit pcmag.com may see an error message. This issue affects access to PCMag’s game reviews and recommendations. The problem could stem from various causes, including server issues or network problems. Readers seeking PCMag’s content may need to wait or find alternative sources temporarily. PCMag typically offers valuable insights on PC gaming and Steam titles. Their curated lists often highlight top games across genres. While the site is down, gamers can explore other reputable gaming news outlets for similar information.
Why Steam Blocks Accounts
Steam may block accounts for various reasons. Security measures often trigger these blocks to protect users and the platform. Submitting certain words, phrases, or SQL commands can prompt restrictions. Malformed data entries may also lead to blocking. These actions aim to prevent online attacks and maintain community safety. Users experiencing blocks should review their recent activities and Steam’s guidelines to understand and resolve the issue.
Resolving Access Issues
Contact the website administrator to report the blockage. Provide details about your activities when the error occurred. Include the Cloudflare Ray ID displayed at the bottom of the error page. This information helps identify and address the issue promptly.
Consider using a different internet connection or device to access the site. If the problem persists, check for any browser extensions or VPNs that might interfere with access. Clearing browser cache and cookies can also sometimes resolve such issues.
Common Questions About Steam Games
Top Steam Games by Player Count
Steam’s most-played games change frequently. As of November 2024, popular titles include Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, and PUBG: Battlegrounds. New releases and updates can quickly shift these rankings. Check Steam’s official stats page for the latest data on current player numbers.
Best Free Games on Steam
Several high-quality free-to-play games are available on Steam:
- Dota 2 (MOBA)
- Path of Exile (action RPG)
- Warframe (sci-fi shooter)
- Team Fortress 2 (team-based FPS)
- Destiny 2 (MMO shooter)
These games offer extensive content without upfront costs, though optional in-game purchases are available.
Top-Rated Narrative Games
Steam users highly rate these story-driven games:
- Red Dead Redemption 2
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
- Disco Elysium
- What Remains of Edith Finch
- Firewatch
These titles offer compelling narratives, rich character development, and immersive worlds.
Steam Games for Low-End PCs
Players with older hardware can enjoy these less demanding games:
- Stardew Valley
- Terraria
- FTL: Faster Than Light
- Undertale
- Celeste
These games offer engaging gameplay without requiring high-end graphics cards or processors.
Rising Steam Games of 2024
New releases gaining traction in 2024 include:
- Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty (expansion)
- Starfield
- Baldur’s Gate 3
- Hades II
- Hollow Knight: Silksong
Player interest in these titles has increased due to positive reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations.
Multiplayer Games for Online Fun
For gaming with friends, consider these options:
- Valheim (survival crafting)
- Phasmophobia (co-op horror)
- It Takes Two (co-op adventure)
- Sea of Thieves (pirate adventure)
- Among Us (social deduction)
These games support online play and offer varied experiences for different group sizes and preferences.