20 Best Single Player PC Games of All Time [2022]

The seemingly endless stream of PC games can make it hard for players to choose which one to play. There are so many options nowadays that it almost feels overwhelming. However, whether you are an avid gamer or a casual fan, there is always a PC game for you to enjoy. Here are the best single-player PC games to play, arranged in alphabetical order.

 

1. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

Ubisoft is one of the best single player PC games took a pause in their production back in 2016 to reassess the franchise and where they wanted to go next with the series. Then, in 2018, out came “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey.” This entry in the Assassin’s Creed franchise really stepped up. It boasts an impressively massive open-world adventure with the backdrop of the beautiful Hellenic peninsula. You will really appreciate the attention to detail and the delicate design of Greek architecture.

In addition, the story really makes it a compelling play. And, the way it blends history and myth together is truly an expert. “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” also improved upon past gameplay, particularly when it comes to level-based enemies and ship-sailing. All this and more make it one of the best single player games to date. If you want a role-playing game that is worth your time and money, this is the one for you.

 

2. BioShock Infinite

“BioShock Infinite” is arguably one of the best computer games thanks to its captivating story that draws you in from beginning to end. The first-person shooter game also boasts a beautiful setting and a magnificent visual art design. Upon its release back in 2013, critics hailed it as innovative and took the entire shooter genre a step forward. Regardless of the platform, everyone loved the game.

Set in 1912, “BioShock Infinite” follows protagonist Booker DeWitt, an ex Pinkerton agent, as he searches for a young woman named Elizabeth. In the process, he and Elizabeth become embroiled in the war between the Founders of Columbia and the Vox Pupli, underground rebels seeking to overthrow the elite. Secrets unfold and Booker eventually learns that Elizabeth is key to the city’s past.

If the story alone has piqued your interest, you are in for a world of expert storytelling and stunning visuals once you play the game. Despite being released some time ago, “BioShock Infinite” is definitely one of the best single player PC games of all time.

 

3. Call of Duty: Warzone

Widely touted as one of the finest battle royale games in recent memory, Infinity Ward’s “Call of Duty: Warzone” is anything but tame. The game is very new, having only been released in March earlier this year. Originally intended as a multiplayer game, pitting 150 players against each other in a fictional setting called Verdansk, it did not take long before Infinity Ward introduced a single player mode as well.

Although “Warzone” is part of the 2019 game, “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare,” you do not need to have the latter to download this first-person shooter game. It is a separate download entirely, and a free one at that. “Call of Duty: Warzone” certainly came at an opportune time, as the coronavirus crisis ramps up worldwide. Gamers who must stay home have something new to preoccupy themselves with. And, the best part is, it will not even cost you a single dollar.

 

4. Celeste

Released back in January 2018 on a multitude of platforms, “Celeste” is one of the best single player PC games game created and designed by one man — Matt Thorson. Originally developed as a prototype during a game jam, “Celeste” evolved into something so much more.

Story-wise, “Celeste” is truly unique. It tackles mental health issues in a way that speaks to players. In the game, players control the protagonist, Madeline, as she tries to climb Celeste Mountain and reach the top. Throughout her journey, she meets a fellow traveler, Theo, and comes face-to-face with her deepest insecurities personified. She also encounters her autonomous reflection, who is initially antagonistic towards her.

“Celeste” received universal acclaim upon its release, with many praising its story and the method in which it is mixed with the gameplay. It also received numerous awards.

 

5. Disco Elysium

If you are looking for a non-traditional role-playing game with impeccable art design, “Disco Elysium” is it. Set in a city still picking up after a war that took place decades before the start of the game, players control an amnesiac detective who must solve a murder. Throughout the game, the protagonist recalls past memories and uncovers the secrets of the city.

“Disco Elysium” is particularly distinct in that it features no combat at all. Instead, players go through events using skill checks and dialog trees. Players also get a “Thought Cabinet,” which represents the character’s personality traits and ideologies, which you can either support or suppress. This unique system made “Disco Elysium” stand out among the rest, with critics hailing it as a revolutionary single player game that draws inspiration from tabletops. Plus, its visuals, which uses a watercolor aesthetic, is immensely gorgeous.

 

6. Dishonored 2

Arkane Studios improved upon the first “Dishonored” game and released “Dishonored 2” in 2016. Despite being almost four years old, “Dishonored 2” remains one of the best PC games of all time. This is, in large part, due to its great challenges and puzzles, as well as nonlinear gameplay. It also features a voice cast of top A-list stars such as Sam Rockwell, Rosario Dawson, Pedro Pascal, and Vincent D’Onofrio.

Set in the fictional city of Karnaca, players can control either Emily or Corvo Attano, Emily’s father, and protector. The story is long and winding, though never boring. And, as you navigate through a seemingly endless stream of tasks using supernatural powers, you will eventually come to one of many possible endings. Because there are a multitude of ways you can play the game (and multiple possible endings), “Dishonored 2” has a high replayability rate.

 

7. Divinity: Original Sin II

First released in 2017, “Divinity: Original Sin II” is a role-playing single player game that garnered critical acclaim for its complexity and interactivity. In the game, players control either a pre-made character or one they build on their own in the fictional world of Rivellon. Highly touted as one of the best RPG games ever published, “Divinity: Original Sin II” was also commercially successful.

With its intricate stories, superb quests, and impressive tactical combat, the response it got came as no surprise. The visual design and art direction have been described as nothing short of stunning. And its ambitious feat paid off in the end. If you find yourself bored on a Saturday afternoon, this is the game to play. Not only will you find it aesthetically pleasing, but it will also challenge your strategy skills.

 

8. Hollow Knight

“Hollow Knight” was a crowdfunded 2017 game that was so successful, it spawned a sequel. The game is in 2D, but it boasts a stunning art design that many critics have praised. Apart from its visuals, players and critics alike loved the overall vibe of the game, as well as its sound and music. All this and more make “Hollow Knight” undoubtedly one of the top PC games in history.

Story-wise, “Hollow Knight” offers no shortage of interest. It follows an insectoid knight on a journey to discover the secrets of the long-abandoned insect kingdom of Hallownest. What lies ahead is an intricately woven story with haunting details. The game is nonlinear, which makes it all the more challenging.

 

9. Nier: Automata

When talking about PC gaming, it is hard not to mention “Nier: Automata.” Released in 2017, this action RPG game by Square Enix won numerous awards and received praise from players and critics. And, judging by its story and execution, it is easy to see why.

Set in the post-apocalyptic Nier where a war between man-made androids and alien-made machines is taking place, players control combat androids through multiple playthroughs. The game expertly blends elements of role-playing with hack-and-slash techniques. It also features a bevy of video game genres like text adventure and shoots ‘em up, which is all part of its charm. This constant switching, impeccable art design, and gripping story make “Nier: Automata” justifiably one of the most fun computer games to date.

 

10. Opus Magnum

When Zachtronics first published this puzzle-based programming game back in 2017, it quickly gained worldwide recognition. Many publications hailed it as the best puzzle game of the year, with some even going as far as to award it the best indie game and best PC game of 2017. That comes as no shock, though, seeing as “Opus Magnum” has everything — from design to story — going for it.

In the game, players control an alchemist who must build a machine to complete tasks. This machine is no cakewalk to build either. It requires the use of a selection of tools that the player must then program to accomplish alchemy-related tasks. Imagination is your limit, and the game ranks players based on how fast their machine can complete each task. Other factors, such as the lowest cost of materials and the smallest occupied area, are also taken into account.

 

11. Ori and the Will of the Wisps

Developed by Moon Studios, “Ori and the Will of the Wisps” is more than just a game that is hard to pronounce. As a direct sequel to the universally acclaimed “Ori and the Blind Forest,” many expected a lot from “Will of the Wisps.” Thankfully, it delivered.

“Ori and the Will of the Wisps” is a platform-adventure game where players once again take the role of Ori, a white guardian spirit. Moving through each stage of the game requires puzzle-solving skills, slowly uncovering the world using Metroidvania. Similar to the first iteration, “Will of the Wisps” also received wide acclaim, particularly when it came to the visuals, story, and combat. Many critics also appreciated its soundtrack, which has been described as “breathtaking.”

All in all, “Ori and the Will of the Wisps” is an excellent single player game. So, if you run out of things to do or play, you can always try this mythical adventure out.

 

12. Red Dead Redemption 2

Before the release of this highly anticipated sequel, “Red Dead Redemption 2” was the subject of many rumors. Fans eagerly awaited any scrap of news even remotely related to it, and it is easy to see why. “Red Dead Redemption 2,” produced by Rockstar Games, features a vast and interactive open world where players could roam free. It adopts both first and third-person points of view, which only adds to its appeal.

Story-wise, the game is set in 1899 in a fictionalized version of Western, Southern, and Midwestern America. In it, players assume the role of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw, and member of the Van der Linde gang. Arthur has many enemies, and his life is made all the more difficult with the impending decline of the Wild West. The player then controls John Marston, the protagonist of the first game, from the epilogue onwards.

The game received universal acclaim and was one of the most popular video games of 2018. It had everything going for it — from the rich story, the fully formed characters, and the gameplay to the open-world design, music, and combat.

 

13. Resident Evil 2 Remake

If you are a horror fan with nothing better to do, 2019’s remake of “Resident Evil 2” should take the top of your priority list. In the game, players control Leon S. Kennedy, a rookie police officer, and Claire Redfield, a student, as they fight through a zombie apocalypse and try to get out of Raccoon City.

Capcom remade the first “Resident Evil” game, which got great reviews from players and critics alike. They followed it up with a remake of “Resident Evil 2,” which also proved to be fruitful since it received universal acclaim for its gameplay and presentation. In fact, people loved it so much that it even outsold the original version of the game.

 

14. Slay the Spire

First released in 2017, “Slay the Spire” is a roguelike single player deck-building game developed by American MegaCrit. In the game, players choose to play one of four characters and try to climb up a spire composed of multiple floors. Players must defeat enemies through a collectible card game-based system. More cards can be earned through combat and other ways.

“Slay the Spire” was not an immediately popular game. For a while, American MegaCrit was looking at abysmal sales. However, through a Chinese streamer, the game gained traction and eventually became the second highest-sold game on Steam. Aside from impressive sales, “Slay the Spire” received good reviews from critics and players alike. Thanks to its success, it inspired many other games that adopted the roguelike deck-building scheme.

 

15. Stardew Valley

If you like farming games such as “Harvest Moon” and “FarmVille,” then you should also take “Stardew Valley” for a spin. Here, players assume a character who takes over their grandfather’s run-down farm in the hopes of escaping the fast-paced city life. The character moves to Stardew Valley to restore the farm through various means.

You can basically do anything you want, from raising livestock and growing crops to selling produce and crafting goods. You can even socialize with townsfolk, get married, and have children. Get a Stardew Valley scarecrow to ward off crows and prevent them from destroying your crops.

Critics have described “Stardew Valley” as a compelling game in which you can spend hours playing. It is the perfect way to kill time and virtually live the life of a humble farmer. Find the best Stardew Valley mods here to give you an upper hand.

 

16. The Sims 4

Just about everyone knows what “The Sims” is. With four main games to its name, “The Sims” is a life simulation video game from the creators at Maxis. The most recent version, “The Sims 4,” has 8 expansion packs, 8 game packs, and a whopping 16 stuff packs. It also improves upon all three previous games in terms of visuals and design. Gameplay has also changed, with a variety of new interactions available.

If you are bored out of your mind, “The Sims” is one of the best single-player PC games with great series to occupy yourself with. You can create a Sim and have them live like you, basically leading a second life of sorts. On the other hand, some players prefer to create Sims that are vastly different from them. Whatever your play style is, you can do just about anything in this virtual world. It starts with creating a Sim, dressing them up, building a house, earning money, and so on.

 

17. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Despite being released almost five years ago, “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” remains one of the best single-player PC games of all time. It is an ambitious game that pushes the boundaries and is grand in scale. While playing it, you will lose yourself in a totally immersive experience.

In the game, players control Geralt of Rivia, a Witcher or monster slayer who is in search of his missing adopted daughter. His daughter is on the run from the Wild Hunt, an otherworldly force intent on catching her and using her powers for their own benefit.

“The Witcher 3” took three and a half years to complete, which certainly paid off in the end. Critics have hailed this game for its realistic writing, visual design, and gameplay.

 

18. Total War: Warhammer 2

For strategy game enthusiasts, “Total War: Warhammer 2” is the game for you. This game uses real-time tactics and turn-based strategy as players move armies around the map and battle factions. Combat is not the only solution, though, as players can also choose to diplomatically settle issues. “Total War: Warhammer 2” received plenty of nominations, ranging from “Best Strategy Game” to “Best PC Game.” Critics have given it generally favorable reviews, praising it for its gameplay and story. If you need something to distract you for a good few hours, this is the game to play.

 

19. What Remains of Edith Finch

If you are in the mood for some adventure and mystery rolled into one, “What Remains of Edith Finch” fits the bill. Released in 2017, this game follows Edith, the protagonist, who is a member of the Finch family. Curiously, the Finch family is cursed so that, in every generation, only one member survives while everyone else dies in strange ways.

Upon Edith’s return to Washington, she uncovers the deaths of her family members by visiting their individual bedrooms. Each room is designed as a mini-experience of its own, played out in an anthological manner. If the story and gameplay have piqued your interest, then you should definitely give this game a try.

 

20. XCOM 2

 

Another one of the best single player PC games, “XCOM 2” focuses on a military organization struggling to rebel against aliens who have occupied the Earth since the first game. It features strategy elements and relies on a turn-based system for combat.

When it was first released in 2016, “XCOM 2” received favorable reviews from critics and players alike. Players loved that the game improved upon the tactical gameplay of its predecessor without sacrificing quality. It has also been singled out for its rewarding gameplay and satisfying new system. So, if you want to truly be impressed, “XCOM 2” is the game for you.

 

Gaming Alone Can Be Fun

Video games act as an escape for most people and a medium with which to hone their strategy and coordination skills. However, whether you are new to the PC gaming scene or have been an avid gamer for years, these best single player PC games should serve you well. Even if you are just looking for something to do, playing video games can do the trick.