The June 2025 Steam Hardware & Software Survey reveals a shifting dynamic in the world of PC processors: Intel remains the top CPU brand among Steam users, holding 59.29% of the market, but AMD is steadily narrowing the gap, now powering 40.71% of systems. It’s a subtle yet telling shift that reflects deeper trends in hardware performance, pricing, and gamer preferences over the past year.
While Intel has long been the dominant force in gaming PCs, AMD’s consistent momentum—fueled by the Ryzen 7000 and early Ryzen 8000 series—shows that Steam’s massive user base is more willing than ever to switch allegiances for the right performance-to-price ratio.
How AMD Caught Up: Performance Where It Matters
AMD’s progress hasn’t come from flashy marketing—it’s come from real-world gaming value. With Zen 4 and Zen 5 CPUs delivering high core counts, strong single-thread performance, and competitive pricing, many gamers have found AMD’s offerings irresistible—especially those building or upgrading midrange rigs.
Ryzen chips like the 7600X, 7800X3D, and 8600 have made waves for their gaming-first design. The 7800X3D, in particular, became a go-to for enthusiasts seeking top-tier frame rates without paying flagship prices. Its 3D V-Cache technology continues to deliver exceptional performance in CPU-bound games like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Counter-Strike 2.
Meanwhile, Intel’s 13th and 14th Gen Core processors (like the i5-13600KF and i7-14700K) continue to dominate the charts due to their strong hybrid core design and widespread presence in prebuilt systems. But the numbers suggest AMD’s offerings are convincing more DIY builders and price-conscious upgraders.
The Budget Battle: AMD’s Real Advantage
One of AMD’s key strengths in this resurgence has been the strength of its low- to mid-tier CPUs. Chips like the Ryzen 5 5600 and 5700X are often bundled with budget motherboards in upgrade kits that undercut Intel’s entry-level offerings. With Steam users often running games at 1080p or 1440p where CPU bottlenecks are more visible, these cost-effective AMD parts are delivering a compelling experience.
Moreover, AMD’s continued support for AM4 (alongside the newer AM5 platform) allows users to reuse existing hardware, which appeals to a segment of the gaming population trying to stretch their dollars further without sacrificing performance.
Intel Still Reigns—for Now
Despite AMD’s gains, Intel still leads by a solid margin—and for good reason. The company’s CPUs remain ubiquitous in prebuilt gaming desktops and laptops sold by major OEMs. Intel’s hybrid architecture, especially in the 14th-gen Core lineup, has proven excellent for both gaming and multitasking. Its lead in integrated graphics on non-gaming systems also gives it a visibility advantage in Steam’s broad survey base.
Intel’s desktop CPUs also pair well with DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 motherboards, technologies that are now more affordable and common in 2025 than ever before. Many gamers still associate Intel with plug-and-play reliability and consistent performance across generations, giving the brand staying power even as competition tightens.
What’s Next? The Core vs Core War Heats Up
With AMD’s Zen 5-based Ryzen 9000 series expected to hit mass availability later this year, and Intel preparing its next-gen Arrow Lake architecture, the battle is far from over. If AMD can continue offering more cores, better gaming efficiency, and longer platform support at the same price—or less—it could continue to chip away at Intel’s lead.
The Steam numbers don’t lie: AMD has gone from a niche pick to a serious contender. And in a market where gamers are more informed, benchmarks are shared in real time, and hardware lifecycles matter, that momentum could carry far into 2026 and beyond.
For now, Intel stays on top—but the trend line is clear. AMD’s rise isn’t slowing down, and the CPU market has never been more competitive for PC gamers.
Best Games to Play on PC
PC gaming offers a vast world of entertainment with countless options to explore. From action-packed adventures to strategic challenges, there’s something for every type of player to enjoy. The best PC games combine engaging gameplay, impressive graphics, and memorable experiences that keep players coming back for more.
Finding the right games can be tricky with so many choices available. Popular titles like Baldur’s Gate 3, Cyberpunk 2077, and Elden Ring often top the lists, but many free-to-play options like Fortnite and Valorant also attract millions of players. The PC platform continues to grow, giving gamers more choices than ever before.
1. Baldur’s Gate 3
Baldur’s Gate 3 has earned its place as the top PC game according to many gaming publications. It recently took the crown in PC Gamer’s Top 100 list, a significant achievement that places it among legendary titles.
This RPG stands out for its incredible depth of choice and consequence. Players can approach quests in numerous ways, with each decision creating ripples that affect the story. The game responds to player choices in ways few other titles manage to accomplish.
Combat in Baldur’s Gate 3 follows Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition rules, offering tactical depth without becoming overwhelming. Battles require thought and planning, especially at higher difficulty levels.
The character creator lets players craft their perfect hero with many options for race, class, and background. Each companion brings their own storyline and personality to the journey. These characters feel like real people with complex motivations and reactions.
The world of Faerûn is brought to life with stunning visuals and attention to detail. From the squalid streets of cities to lush forests, each area feels distinct and lived-in.
Some players consider it the best PC game ever made, though others still prefer classics like Dragon Age: Origins for its origin stories or Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous for its mechanical depth.
What makes Baldur’s Gate 3 special is its blend of storytelling freedom and technical achievement. The game rewards creativity and continues to appear on lists of top PC games in 2025.
Players who approach it as more than just a video game often get the most enjoyment. Understanding that failure can lead to interesting outcomes helps appreciate what makes this game exceptional.
2. Disco Elysium: The Final Cut
Disco Elysium: The Final Cut stands as a groundbreaking role-playing game that breaks from traditional RPG formulas. Players step into the shoes of a troubled detective tasked with solving a crime in a richly detailed urban setting.
What sets this game apart is its unique skill system and narrative approach. Instead of combat-focused gameplay, Disco Elysium emphasizes dialogue, investigation, and character development through an extensive array of choices.
The Final Cut version enhances the original game with full voice acting, making the already impressive writing even more impactful. Every character and interaction comes to life through quality performances that add depth to the already complex world.
Players can shape their detective in countless ways through skill points and dialogue choices. Your decisions affect not just the case but also your character’s personality and worldview.
The game excels in storytelling and characterization, offering a mature narrative that touches on politics, philosophy, and human nature. The writing quality ranks among the best in gaming, with sharp humor and profound moments throughout.
Visually, Disco Elysium features a distinctive painted art style that creates a somber yet captivating atmosphere. The fictional city of Revachol feels lived-in and authentic, with each district telling its own story.
For PC players, the game runs smoothly and offers an experience unlike anything else on the platform. Its text-heavy nature means it doesn’t demand high-end hardware to enjoy.
Those who missed it on other platforms will find the PC version offers the definitive way to experience this unique title. The interface works particularly well with mouse and keyboard controls.
Replay value is substantial since different character builds and choices lead to vastly different outcomes and revelations. No two playthroughs feel the same.
3. Half-Life 2
Half-Life 2 remains one of the most influential first-person shooters ever created. Released by Valve in 2004, this game changed how we think about storytelling and physics in video games.
The game follows scientist Gordon Freeman as he fights an alien occupation on Earth. Its seamless world-building pulls you in from the start. You feel like you’re really there.
What makes Half-Life 2 special is how it blends action, puzzles, and story without breaking immersion. There are no cutscenes – you stay in Freeman’s perspective the whole time.
The gravity gun changed gaming forever. This innovative weapon lets players pick up and throw objects in the environment. No game had done physics quite like this before.
City 17, the main setting, feels like a real place with its mix of Eastern European architecture and alien technology. The dystopian atmosphere creates tension throughout the game.
Characters like Alyx Vance feel like real people with their natural dialogue and animations. This was groundbreaking for 2004 and still holds up today.
Many players consider it the best game of all time, praising its immersive qualities and revolutionary gameplay. The experience flows naturally from start to finish.
The game features exhilarating combat and unprecedented physics that still impress nearly two decades later. Each weapon feels unique and satisfying to use.
If you enjoy linear shooters with compelling stories, Half-Life 2 delivers an unforgettable experience. Its pacing strikes a perfect balance between action sequences and quieter moments.
Even now, Half-Life 2 runs well on most modern PCs. The Source engine scales nicely, making this classic accessible to players with various hardware setups.
4. Elden Ring
Elden Ring stands as one of the most acclaimed video games in recent years. Many players consider it one of the greatest video games ever made, with good reason.
The game blends open-world exploration with challenging combat that FromSoftware is known for. Players can explore the vast Lands Between however they want, discovering hidden dungeons, bosses, and treasures at their own pace.
What sets Elden Ring apart is its accessibility compared to previous FromSoftware titles. New players can summon help or explore elsewhere if they get stuck on a difficult boss. Veterans can tackle challenges head-on for a traditional Souls experience.
The PC version offers impressive visual fidelity and performance options. With the right hardware, players can experience the haunting landscapes and massive structures in stunning detail. Some consider it the best PC game ever made, combining technical achievement with artistic vision.
Combat feels responsive and rewarding, with numerous weapons and magic styles to try. The build variety lets players approach challenges in countless ways, from nimble assassins to powerful sorcerers.
For those who enjoy Elden Ring, similar games like Dark Souls Remastered, The Witcher 3, and Sekiro might appeal. Each offers unique takes on action RPG gameplay but with their own distinct flavor.
The massive Shadow of the Erdtree expansion has added even more content to an already huge game. New areas, enemies, and equipment give players fresh challenges to overcome.
Online features enhance the experience through messages, bloodstains, and cooperative play. Seeing another player’s ghost or reading their warning creates a sense of shared adventure despite playing alone.
With its combination of freedom, challenge, and discovery, Elden Ring has earned its place as a must-play PC game. It has replaced longtime favorites in many players’ personal top games lists.
5. Minecraft
Minecraft has secured its place as one of the best PC games of all time. This sandbox game gives players unlimited freedom to build, explore, and survive in a blocky world limited only by imagination.
The PC version of Minecraft offers the most complete experience. Java Edition is generally preferred for redstone mechanics, which many technical players appreciate. Bedrock Edition runs on more devices, but serious players often choose the PC platform for its versatility.
What makes Minecraft special is its simplicity mixed with depth. Players can build simple dirt houses or create massive automated farming systems. The game grows with your skills and interests.
The modding community keeps Minecraft fresh years after its release. PC players can access thousands of mods that add new creatures, items, and entire gameplay systems. This extends the life of the game far beyond its base content.
Multiplayer adds another dimension to the experience. Friends can work together on ambitious builds or compete in player-created mini-games. Many popular servers offer unique gameplay without requiring any technical setup.
Even after more than a decade, Minecraft continues to receive updates with new content. The developers regularly add biomes, mobs, and blocks that keep exploration exciting for veteran players.
The game teaches problem-solving and creativity in an engaging way. Players must manage resources, plan structures, and overcome obstacles like hostile mobs and challenging terrain.
Minecraft’s open-ended nature means there’s no “right way” to play. Some focus on building architectural wonders, others on surviving harsh conditions, and some enjoy exploring the procedurally generated landscapes.
For new PC gamers, Minecraft provides an accessible entry point that can grow in complexity as skills develop. Its simple controls mask deep systems that reward continued play.
6. Fortnite
Fortnite has become one of the most popular free-to-play games on PC since its release. This battle royale game offers players a unique mix of shooting, building, and strategic gameplay that keeps millions coming back daily.
The game features a colorful, cartoonish art style that appeals to players of all ages. Unlike more realistic shooters, Fortnite’s vibrant world creates a fun atmosphere while still maintaining competitive elements.
What makes Fortnite stand out is its constant evolution. The developers regularly update the game with new seasons, each bringing fresh content like weapons, map changes, and gameplay mechanics. This keeps the experience feeling new even for longtime players.
Beyond its famous Battle Royale mode, Fortnite offers Creative mode where players can build their own games and environments. This has spawned thousands of player-created experiences ranging from team deathmatches to escape rooms.
The social aspect of Fortnite cannot be overlooked. The game makes playing with friends easy and enjoyable, whether teaming up in duos and squads or meeting in Creative mode to try something completely different.
Fortnite has also pioneered virtual events within gaming. The platform has hosted concerts, movie premieres, and special limited-time events that transform the game space into something entirely new.
Best of all, Fortnite is completely free-to-play. While it offers cosmetic items for purchase, none affect gameplay, making it accessible to everyone with a PC capable of running it.
The game runs well on a wide range of computer specifications, making it a good choice even for those without high-end gaming PCs. This accessibility has helped fuel its massive player base.
For anyone seeking a dynamic multiplayer experience that balances competition with creativity, Fortnite delivers consistently entertaining gameplay that has maintained its popularity for years.
7. BioShock
BioShock stands as one of the most iconic first-person shooters ever created. Set in the underwater city of Rapture, this game masterfully blends horror, action, and storytelling in a way few games have matched.
The gameplay lets you use both conventional weapons and special powers called plasmids. These plasmids give you abilities like shooting electricity or fire from your hands, adding a unique twist to combat.
What makes BioShock truly special is its atmosphere. The art deco design of Rapture creates a distinct visual style that makes exploring every corner worthwhile. The eerie ambiance keeps you on edge throughout your journey.
The story tackles complex themes about power, free will, and human nature. The famous “Would you kindly?” twist remains one of gaming’s most shocking moments, even years after release.
According to fan surveys, 48% of players consider the original BioShock the best in the series, with BioShock Infinite following closely behind at 40%. The game’s impact on storytelling in video games can’t be overstated.
BioShock was also technically impressive, running without the bugs that plague many modern releases. Many fans note they could play it completely without getting bored or feeling forced to continue.
The game’s setting and atmosphere are frequently cited as its strongest elements. Few games create such a compelling world with environmental storytelling that reveals the tragedy of Rapture’s fall.
For PC gamers, BioShock offers excellent performance and visual options that still hold up well today. The remastered version brings improved graphics while maintaining the core experience that made the original so memorable.
8. Grand Theft Auto V
Grand Theft Auto V is one of the most popular PC games ever made. Released by Rockstar Games, this open-world action game lets players explore a massive fictional city and its surroundings.
The game follows three criminals with different backgrounds and motivations. Players can switch between these characters at almost any time, experiencing unique storylines and missions.
GTA V‘s world is huge and packed with activities. You can race cars, play tennis, hunt animals, or just cause chaos in the city. The freedom to do what you want makes this game stand out from others.
Many gamers consider GTA V among the best PC games because of its detailed graphics and gameplay. The PC version looks especially good with enhanced graphics features.
The PC version includes ray tracing features like ambient occlusion and global illumination. It also supports AMD FSR and NVIDIA DLSS technologies that make the game run smoothly on different hardware.
GTA V also comes with Grand Theft Auto Online, a multiplayer mode where you can play with friends or strangers. Some stores even offer the Criminal Enterprise Starter Pack to help new players get started.
For newcomers to the series, GTA V is perfect because it’s simple, flashy, and modern. The controls are easy to learn, and the story pulls you in from the start.
The game runs well on most modern PCs. While it needs decent hardware for the highest settings, you can adjust graphics options to match your computer’s capabilities.
Despite being released years ago, GTA V still receives updates and new content. This keeps the game fresh and gives players reasons to keep coming back.
9. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Skyrim stands as one of the most iconic open-world RPGs ever created. Released by Bethesda, this fantasy adventure gives players the freedom to explore a vast northern province filled with mountains, forests, and ancient ruins.
The game’s main story follows the player as the Dragonborn, a person with the soul and power of a dragon. You can follow this main quest or simply wander off to join various factions like the Thieves Guild or the mage-focused College of Winterhold.
Character creation is flexible, allowing players to choose from several races and customize their appearance. There’s no rigid class system – your character develops based on how you play, whether that’s as a stealthy archer, powerful mage, or brutal warrior.
The Special Edition version offers improved graphics with remastered art, volumetric lighting, and enhanced visual effects. These upgrades make the already beautiful world even more impressive.
Skyrim’s modding community is massive. Thousands of player-created modifications can transform almost any aspect of the game, from minor tweaks to complete overhauls of gameplay systems.
The soundtrack deserves special mention. The orchestral music perfectly complements your journey, growing intense during dragon battles and softening during peaceful exploration moments.
For players who enjoyed Skyrim, its predecessor Oblivion is often recommended as a natural next step. Many fans consider it the closest in feel to Skyrim among the Elder Scrolls games.
Even years after its release, Skyrim remains popular for good reason. The combination of freedom, immersion, and adventure creates an experience that keeps players coming back for hundreds of hours.
10. Valorant
Valorant is a free-to-play tactical shooter from Riot Games that launched in 2020. It combines precise gunplay with unique character abilities in a 5v5 format that rewards both skill and strategy.
Each match pits attackers against defenders on various maps. Players select from a roster of agents, each with distinct powers that can block sight lines, reveal enemy positions, or deal damage.
The game has gained popularity for its competitive nature and accessible learning curve. Many players appreciate Valorant’s focus on tactical gameplay rather than just quick reflexes.
For PC gamers looking for alternatives to games like Counter-Strike, Valorant offers a fresh experience. The clean visual style makes it run well even on modest hardware.
Regular updates keep the game feeling fresh with new agents, maps, and gameplay adjustments. Riot Games maintains an active esports scene with professional tournaments offering significant prize pools.
When taking breaks from the competitive grind, many Valorant players enjoy other games like Final Fantasy XIV, Hearthstone, and single-player story games. The community remains active across social media platforms and Discord servers.
The game can be downloaded from the Epic Games Store or directly through Riot’s launcher. It continues to attract new players with its balanced gameplay and regular content updates.
For anyone who enjoys competitive multiplayer games that reward teamwork and strategy, Valorant delivers a compelling package. The combination of gunplay fundamentals with character abilities creates matches that rarely play out the same way twice.
Gaming Hardware Requirements
Getting the right PC hardware is key to running games smoothly. Your computer needs to meet certain specifications for the best gaming experience, with some parts being more critical than others.
Essential PC Specifications
For most modern games, you need a decent CPU to handle game mechanics and physics. Ryzen 5 or Intel i5 processors are generally sufficient since many games rely on single core processing power.
RAM is another vital component. While 8GB RAM can run most games at low settings, 16GB is becoming the standard for a better experience, especially if you plan to stream.
Storage also matters. SSD storage provides faster loading times than traditional hard drives. For a balanced gaming PC, these specifications are recommended:
- CPU: Intel i5/Ryzen 5 or better
- RAM: 12-16GB
- Storage: SSD with at least 500GB capacity
Graphics Card Importance
The graphics card often makes the biggest difference in gaming performance. For 1080p gaming at medium settings, cards like the GTX 1060 (6GB) or RX 580 (8GB) meet minimum requirements for most titles.
VRAM matters too – 6GB is becoming the baseline for newer games. More demanding titles like graphically intensive open-world games need stronger hardware.
Some of the most graphically demanding PC games require at least a GTX 1070 just to run at 1080p/30fps, and that’s an optimistic estimate. For 1440p or 4K gaming, you’ll need even more powerful cards.
Before buying a game, it’s smart to check if your PC meets the requirements. Tools like PCGameBenchmark can analyze your system and tell you which games will run well on your setup.
Popular Game Genres on PC
PC gaming offers various genres that appeal to different types of players. The platform’s versatility makes it perfect for immersive role-playing adventures and action-packed shooter experiences.
Role-Playing Games (RPGs)
RPGs give players control over characters in rich, story-driven worlds. Games like Skyrim remain popular years after release due to their massive open worlds and character customization options.
The RPG genre has evolved into several sub-types. Western RPGs focus on choice and consequences, while Japanese RPGs often feature turn-based combat and linear storytelling.
Some top RPG titles include:
- The Witcher 3: Known for its complex narrative and moral choices
- Mass Effect 2: Blends action with deep character relationships
- Baldur’s Gate 3: Brings tabletop RPG mechanics to digital form
RPGs typically offer the most hours of gameplay per dollar spent. Many players enjoy adventure and role-playing games for their immersive worlds and character progression systems.
First-Person Shooters (FPS)
FPS games put players directly behind the gun with a first-person perspective. This genre dominates PC gaming, with titles ranging from realistic military simulators to sci-fi adventures.
The shooter genre generates significant revenue on PC, attracting both casual and competitive players. Games like Counter-Strike and VALORANT have thriving esports scenes with professional tournaments.
Key FPS games include:
- Half-Life 2: Revolutionary for its physics and storytelling
- DOOM: Fast-paced action with simple but satisfying gameplay
- Call of Duty: Annual releases focusing on multiplayer competition
FPS games often feature both single-player campaigns and multiplayer modes. Modern titles frequently use live service models with seasonal content updates to keep players engaged for years.
Most competitive FPS games are played with mouse and keyboard for precision aiming. This control scheme gives PC an advantage over consoles for this particular genre.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gaming on PC offers incredible variety, from stunning AAA titles to indie gems. Players often have specific questions about which games deserve their time and money.
What are the top-rated PC games currently available?
Currently, Baldur’s Gate 3 stands as one of the highest-rated PC games. This RPG has won numerous awards for its deep storytelling and complex character development.
Elden Ring continues to receive praise for its challenging gameplay and expansive open world. FromSoftware’s masterpiece combines exploration with tight combat mechanics.
The Witcher 3 remains a top-rated game years after release, with its compelling storylines and morally complex characters.
Which PC games have the best graphics quality?
Cyberpunk 2077 showcases some of the most impressive graphics on PC, especially with ray tracing enabled. Night City’s neon-lit streets and detailed character models push hardware to its limits.
Microsoft Flight Simulator offers photorealistic environments using satellite imagery and real-time weather data. The visual fidelity when flying over accurately recreated cities is unmatched.
Red Dead Redemption 2 continues to impress with its detailed natural environments and lighting effects. The attention to detail in everything from muddy trails to snowy mountain peaks remains exceptional.
What are some highly recommended free-to-play PC games?
Dota 2 ranks among the most popular free-to-play games, offering deep strategic gameplay that keeps millions engaged. Its competitive scene remains vibrant and well-supported.
Valorant provides a tactical shooter experience that’s accessible yet difficult to master. The free-to-play model focuses on cosmetic items rather than gameplay advantages.
Path of Exile gives action RPG fans a free alternative with incredible depth in its character building systems. Regular expansions add new content without charging players.
Where can I find a comprehensive list of PC games by genre?
GameFAQs offers extensive categorization of games by genre, with user reviews and guides for each title. Their database includes both new releases and older classics.
Steam’s store page provides powerful filtering tools to browse games by genre, tags, and player reviews. The platform’s recommendation algorithm also suggests similar games based on your library.
Metacritic organizes PC games by genre while providing critical consensus through their scoring system. This helps identify the most acclaimed titles in each category.
What are some classic PC games that still hold up today?
Half-Life 2 continues to impress with its physics-based puzzles and atmospheric storytelling. The game’s innovations still influence modern FPS design.
StarCraft remains a perfectly balanced real-time strategy game with an active competitive scene. Its distinct factions and tight gameplay mechanics haven’t aged a day.
Minecraft has evolved from a simple building game to a cultural phenomenon. Its limitless creativity and regular updates keep it relevant for players of all ages.
Which PC games are considered must-plays by the gaming community?
Disco Elysium: The Final Cut stands out for its unique approach to RPG mechanics and narrative depth. The detective story explores complex themes through exceptional writing.
Portal 2 combines clever puzzle design with sharp humor in a way few games have matched. Its co-op mode adds another dimension to the physics-based challenges.
The Mass Effect Legendary Edition brings the beloved sci-fi trilogy to modern PCs with improved visuals. The series remains unmatched in character development and player choice impact.
