Top PC Games Of 2020: A Definitive List
What's up, gamers! 2020 was a wild year, right? But hey, amidst all the chaos, we got some absolutely epic PC games that kept us glued to our screens. Seriously, if you're a PC gamer, you probably felt like a kid in a candy store with all the amazing releases. We're talking groundbreaking graphics, mind-bending stories, and gameplay that just pulled you in and didn't let go. So, buckle up, grab your favorite snacks, and let's dive into some of the absolute best PC games that 2020 had to offer. We're going to break down why these titles stood out, what made them so special, and why they're still worth playing today. Whether you're a seasoned veteran looking to relive some glory or a newcomer trying to figure out what all the fuss was about, this list is for you. Get ready to add some serious contenders to your backlog!
The Must-Play Titles of 2020
Alright guys, let's get straight to the good stuff. When we talk about the absolute best PC games of 2020, a few titles immediately spring to mind. These aren't just good games; they're great games that pushed boundaries and set new standards. Think about Hades, for example. This rogue-like dungeon crawler wasn't just a hit; it was a phenomenon. The way it blended fast-paced, incredibly satisfying combat with a compelling narrative and character development was just chef's kiss. Every run felt different, every death taught you something new, and the story unfurled in such a natural, engaging way. The art style is gorgeous, the music is killer, and the voice acting? Top-notch. It’s the kind of game that you can easily sink hundreds of hours into without even realizing it, always chasing that next upgrade, that next piece of lore, or that next witty retort from Zagreus. And it wasn't just critical acclaim; players absolutely loved it. It’s a testament to how indie developers can create experiences that rival, and sometimes even surpass, the biggest AAA productions. Its accessibility for a rogue-like also deserves a shout-out, making it a gateway game for many who might have been intimidated by the genre before. The progression system is so well-tuned that you always feel like you're making meaningful progress, even in failure. This dedication to player experience is what truly elevates Hades to legendary status among the top PC games of 2020.
Then there's DOOM Eternal. Oh man, DOOM Eternal. If you like your action loud, fast, and brutally satisfying, this was the game for you. Building on the incredible foundation of its 2016 predecessor, Eternal cranked everything up to eleven. The combat was more intricate, the enemy variety was insane, and the sheer scale of the battles was breathtaking. It demanded a level of skill and strategic thinking that few other shooters could match. You weren't just shooting demons; you were dancing with them, using a ballet of chainsaw glory kills and flame-belching tactics to stay alive. The sheer adrenaline rush you got from mastering its mechanics was unparalleled. The lore was surprisingly deep too, expanding the DOOM universe in ways that fans had only dreamed of. Exploring hellish landscapes, jumping between platforms, and ripping and tearing through hordes of demons felt incredibly empowering. It's a masterclass in first-person shooter design, proving that relentless, high-octane action can still be incredibly smart and rewarding. The way id Software managed to innovate on a beloved franchise while staying true to its roots is remarkable. For sheer visceral thrill and impeccably designed combat loops, DOOM Eternal is an undeniable contender for one of the best PC games released in 2020.
And we can't forget Cyberpunk 2077. Okay, look, I know, I know. The launch was... rocky. But let's put the technical issues aside for a moment and talk about the game that was promised and, in many ways, delivered. Night City is one of the most immersive and detailed open worlds ever created. The atmosphere, the neon-drenched streets, the sheer density of the environment – it was stunning. The storytelling, especially the main quests and many of the side stories, was compelling, featuring memorable characters and mature themes. V's journey through this dystopian metropolis was often captivating, filled with tough choices and unexpected twists. The character customization was deep, and the potential for role-playing, even with its limitations, was there. Despite the bugs, the core experience of exploring Night City, engaging in its narrative, and customizing your character was a unique and ambitious undertaking. CD Projekt Red aimed for the stars, and while they stumbled on the landing, the ambition and the raw potential of Cyberpunk 2077 were undeniable, making it a significant, albeit controversial, entry in the PC game releases of 2020.
Diving Deeper: Hidden Gems and Unexpected Hits
Beyond the big blockbusters, 2020 was also a fantastic year for some incredible, maybe slightly less mainstream, but equally brilliant PC games. You guys know what I'm talking about – those titles that might not have had the massive marketing budgets but delivered unforgettable experiences. One such gem is Crusader Kings III. Now, this is a grand strategy game, so it might not be for everyone, but for those who get bitten by the bug, it's pure addiction. It’s all about dynasty, intrigue, and medieval power struggles. You're not just controlling armies; you're managing families, arranging marriages, plotting assassinations, and trying to ensure your lineage survives for centuries. The sheer depth of simulation is astounding, creating emergent stories that are often more dramatic than anything you could script. The level of freedom and the complex web of relationships you weave make every playthrough unique. It’s a game where you can start as a humble count and end up ruling an empire, or conversely, watch your glorious kingdom crumble due to a succession crisis or a well-placed poison. The interface was also a huge improvement over its predecessors, making this complex beast much more accessible to newcomers. For anyone interested in deep simulation and emergent storytelling, Crusader Kings III is a must-play and a standout among the best strategy games of 2020.
Another title that deserves a massive spotlight is Ghost of Tsushima. While primarily a PlayStation exclusive at its initial release, its impact on the gaming landscape was undeniable, and it's the kind of game that PC gamers were desperately hoping would make its way over. This open-world action-adventure game set in feudal Japan was a visual masterpiece. The art direction was breathtaking, making the island of Tsushima feel alive and vibrant. The combat system was a perfect blend of samurai precision and stealthy assassination, allowing players to approach situations in multiple ways. Whether you were engaging in a tense one-on-one duel or silently taking down Mongol invaders, the gameplay was fluid and deeply satisfying. The story of Jin Sakai's transformation from a noble samurai to the "Ghost" was powerful and emotionally resonant. The world felt authentic, rich with detail and steeped in Japanese culture. Even without a PC release in 2020, its influence and the sheer quality of its execution made it a benchmark for open-world games, and it’s a title that many PC players were eagerly anticipating a port for, solidifying its place in the conversation of top-tier games from 2020.
And let's not forget Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout. Who saw this coming? This chaotic, colorful, and hilariously fun battle royale party game took the world by storm. It’s like Wipeout meets Mario Party. You control adorable little bean-shaped characters and compete in a series of absurd obstacle courses, aiming to be the last one standing. The simple yet addictive gameplay, combined with the unpredictable nature of the matches, made it incredibly entertaining for both players and spectators. It was the perfect antidote to the more serious tones of other games, offering pure, unadulterated fun. Its accessibility meant anyone could jump in and have a blast, and its constant stream of new levels and updates kept the community engaged. It became a cultural phenomenon, and for pure, lighthearted joy, Fall Guys was easily one of the most surprisingly fun PC games of 2020.
The Future is Now: Games That Pushed Boundaries
Some PC games from 2020 weren't just about polished gameplay or compelling stories; they were about looking forward, pushing the technological envelope, and exploring new frontiers in game design. Microsoft Flight Simulator is a prime example. This wasn't just a flight simulator; it was a digital twin of our entire planet. Using real-world satellite data and Bing Maps, it recreated Earth with astonishing accuracy. Flying over your own neighborhood, seeing iconic landmarks rendered in incredible detail, or navigating challenging weather conditions was an awe-inspiring experience. It was a technical marvel, showcasing the power of modern hardware and cloud computing. The level of detail in the aircraft models, the realistic physics, and the dynamic weather system created an unparalleled sense of immersion. It was a game that appealed not just to aviation enthusiasts but to anyone curious about experiencing the world from a new perspective. Its ambition in creating a truly global, living, breathing simulation is unmatched, setting a new benchmark for what simulation games can achieve and cementing its status as a groundbreaking title among the best simulation games of 2020.
Then we have Genshin Impact. This free-to-play action RPG took the gaming world by storm with its vibrant anime-inspired art style, expansive open world, and surprisingly deep combat system. While it adopted a gacha model for character acquisition, the core gameplay experience was incredibly robust and enjoyable, even without spending money. Exploring the vast, beautiful world of Teyvat, uncovering its secrets, and battling a wide array of enemies felt refreshing and engaging. The elemental combat system, which allowed for creative combinations and strategic depth, was particularly noteworthy. It offered a AAA-level experience for free, which was a bold move that paid off handsomely. Its cross-platform play and accessibility across various devices further broadened its appeal, making it a truly global phenomenon. For its sheer scope, visual fidelity, and accessible yet deep gameplay, Genshin Impact was a major highlight and a strong contender for top free-to-play PC games of 2020.
Finally, let's talk about Valorant. Riot Games entered the tactical shooter arena with a bang. Valorant managed to blend the precise gunplay of games like Counter-Strike with unique character abilities, creating a fresh and highly competitive experience. The game's focus on tactical team play, crisp gun mechanics, and a robust anti-cheat system made it an instant hit in the esports scene and among casual players alike. The character designs were distinct, and their abilities added layers of strategic depth to the familiar shooter formula. Riot's commitment to polishing the game and supporting its competitive integrity was evident from day one. It quickly established itself as a major player in the crowded FPS market, offering a highly replayable and engaging experience for those who love strategic, skill-based combat. Its clean aesthetic and performance optimization were also key factors in its rapid rise. Valorant proved that there was still room for innovation in the tactical shooter genre, and it quickly became a staple for many PC gamers, earning its spot among the most impactful PC game releases of 2020.
The Verdict: What Made 2020 Special?
So, what’s the takeaway, guys? 2020 was a year of incredible diversity and quality in PC gaming. We saw established franchises deliver stunning sequels, indie darlings capture our hearts, and ambitious new IPs redefine genres. Whether you were looking for intense action like in DOOM Eternal, deep RPG elements like in Cyberpunk 2077 (despite its flaws), strategic depth in Crusader Kings III, or pure fun in Fall Guys, there was something for everyone. The best PC games of 2020 showcased a remarkable range of creativity, technical prowess, and sheer fun. They challenged us, immersed us, and provided countless hours of entertainment during a time when we all needed it most. From the rogue-like perfection of Hades to the planetary simulation of Microsoft Flight Simulator, the year proved that PC gaming is a vibrant, ever-evolving landscape. Keep these titles in mind, maybe pick one up if you missed it, and get ready for what's next!
