by theygamesScreenshot: PC Invasion (via Smilegate RPG, Square Enix, HoYoverse)
While there are a plethora of games hidden behind paywalls, there are still quite a few that are free-to-play. So what are the best free PC games to play in 2024?
It’s hard to narrow down this list to just a few, since there are so many good ones to choose from. But if you want the best of the best, these are the free games you should check out first.
10 best free-to-play PC games in 2024
Valorant
One of the most exciting first-person tactical hero shooters out there right now is Valorant. Created by Riot Games, their success and talent from League of Legends has spilled over into this game.
Completely free-to-play, I continue to play Valorant often and still find it exciting. You don’t have to pay a dime to enjoy this game, either casually or competitively. You can even unlock the Valorant agents overtime without having to pay for anything.
Honkai: Star Rail
From the creators of Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail is a more recent hit that you can play for free. This gacha sci-fi JRPG with turn-based combat is playable on not just PC, but mobile and PS5 as well.
Although you’re free to spend money on warps for the chances of unlocking more characters, the game gives you a ton of high-quality team members for free. With continuous updates to the story, this game is still growing in popularity and updates.
Apex Legends
Shadow-dropped randomly in 2019, Apex Legends is a hit game based in the Titanfall universe. It’s an exciting Battle Royale including incredible Legends with unique kits.
The cool thing about Apex is now only how it’s free, but you can unlock cosmetics through free loot boxes. Even when I didn’t pay for the battle pass, I unlocked some amazing skins just from playing the game. New maps and Legends release often, so it’s still an exciting game to get into.
Fortnite
Fortnite has transformed immensely over the past few years. What was once ridiculed for being a silly Battle Royale game is now a game that allows you to play a LEGO Fortnite survival mode, a racing game, and even a Rock Band-type mode.
You don’t have to pull out your wallet to have fun in Fortnite, even if you just want to jump into the non-Battle Royale modes. There’s so much it has to offer, and it’s a game everyone should at least try once.
Genshin Impact
I couldn’t write this list with amazing free-to-play games without including Genshin Impact. HoYoverse created this beloved fantasy open world that continues to include vast new regions yearly.
It also continuously updates with new characters to unlock that anyone can get from banners without having to pay anything. You may have a lot to catch up to, but it’s worth the ride.
Related: 8 Games that absolutely deserve a sequel
Final Fantasy 14
Releasing as a dud to becoming a highly respected MMORPG, Final Fantasy 14 is still a great game to try out in 2024. While there are paid expansions, and you’re technically starting a free trial, it has a lot to offer for free.
If you end up falling in love with the free trial, then you may want to pay the subscription fee and purchase expansions for more. But you can still enjoy a lot of this game without having to pay anything.
Tower of Fantasy
Inspired by the likes of Genshin Impact, Tower of Fantasy in an open-world action game. Set in a more futuristic-fantasy world, you can create your own character while also unlocking other characters.
If you love Genshin Impact, you’re sure to enjoy Tower of Fantasy. It’s got an exciting adventure awaiting you, all for free.
Destiny 2
Now that Destiny 2‘s base game is free-to-play, it’s open to a whole new audience who may not have been interested beforehand. This sci-fi online FPS by Bungie has an adoring fanbase and plenty of paid expansions.
You don’t have to play any of the expansions to have fun, you can simply enjoy what you have with the free base game. There will be many things locked for paid players, but it’s still something you can try out before opening up your wallet.
Lost Ark
Created by Smilegate RPG, Lost Ark is a free action MMORPG allowing you to embark on a great adventure. Explore vast lands, engage in thrilling combat, and collect treasures.
It’s completely free, and is one of the most popular MMOs out currently. It’s quite new, and still has a long way to go, so why not try it out?
Counter-Strike 2
After recently replacing its original game, Valve has now put out Counter-Strike 2. Millions of gamers continue to play this online tactical FPS, especially now that it revamped into CS2.
With updated graphics and features, this game is even more enjoyable for 2024. Whether you’re playing it casually or competitively, you can still find it incredibly fun.
Now that you know about the best free PC Games in 2024, how about you check out the best casual games for non-gamers?