Most Underrated PC Games

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There are tons of PC games available, but many great ones don’t get the attention they deserve. Big, popular games tend to get all the publicity, while smaller, more creative projects often fly under the radar. These hidden gems usually offer fresh gameplay and compelling stories that are different from what you typically see. Finding and playing these underrated games lets you experience the rich history of PC gaming and the willingness of developers to try new things.

‘Alpha Protocol’ (2010)

Okay, so in ‘Alpha Protocol,’ you play as Michael Thorton, basically a secret agent trying to figure out this huge global conspiracy. What’s really cool is that your choices matter. Like, seriously matter. They change how countries see you and how people react to you throughout the game. It’s a mix of sneaking around and straight-up action, all set in this modern spy world. People really love it because of how deep the role-playing is, and how every decision feels like it has an immediate impact. It’s not just a story, it’s your story, shaped by what you do.

‘Singularity’ (2010)

Okay, so I’m playing this game where I’m stranded on this weird island, and it turns out the Soviets were messing around with some crazy powerful stuff that totally broke time. Luckily, I found this device – they call it the ‘Singularity’ – that lets me age or repair things around me. It’s a first-person shooter, so there’s plenty of action, but it’s not just shooting. I’m solving puzzles using the environment and this time-bending ability, which is really cool. The whole vibe is super creepy, like a mix of Cold War spy movies and sci-fi horror – think abandoned labs and a really unsettling atmosphere.

‘Binary Domain’ (2012)

Binary Domain is a futuristic action game set in Tokyo, where robots are nearly indistinguishable from people. You play as a member of a squad sent to investigate a serious international issue. What makes the game different is how your teammates respond to your actions and conversations – they’ll react realistically to how you play. The combat is fast-paced and centers around strategically damaging robotic enemies by targeting their limbs. The story dives into questions about artificial intelligence and the very definition of humanity.

‘Remember Me’ (2013)

‘Remember Me’ is set in a futuristic Paris where people can record and sell their memories using a brain implant. You play as Nilin, a skilled ‘memory hunter’ who can enter people’s minds and change what they remember. The game is visually stunning and has a cool feature where you can alter past events to affect the present. In combat, you can create custom attack combos that also give you health benefits or extra damage.

‘Sleeping Dogs’ (2012)

In ‘Sleeping Dogs,’ you play as Wei Shen, an undercover cop tasked with taking down Hong Kong’s Triad gangs. The game focuses on intense hand-to-hand combat and using the environment to your advantage, rather than relying on guns. The vibrant open world offers plenty to do, from street racing to karaoke, making the city feel alive. Ultimately, it’s a gripping story about where the line between right and wrong gets blurred when loyalty is tested.

‘The Saboteur’ (2009)

‘The Saboteur’ is an open-world game set in Nazi-occupied Paris. You play as an Irish race car driver who joins the French Resistance. As you liberate parts of the city, the game visually transforms them from black and white to vibrant color. Gameplay focuses on stealth, parkour, and sabotaging German operations to both weaken their hold and rally the Parisian people. The game combines a large, explorable world with a personal story of revenge set during World War II.

‘Spec Ops: The Line’ (2012)

‘Spec Ops: The Line’ tells the story of Captain Martin Walker and his Delta Force team as they venture into a Dubai devastated by a massive sandstorm. The game isn’t a typical action shooter; it deliberately breaks down the genre to examine the mental impact of war. Players face tough ethical dilemmas with disturbing consequences, and the environment itself – constantly shifting sands – plays a role in combat, allowing them to trap or eliminate enemies in unique ways.

‘Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning’ (2012)

Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning is a large-scale fantasy role-playing game built with contributions from renowned creators R.A. Salvatore and Todd McFarlane. It stands out for its fast-paced and smooth combat, which feels more engaging than many similar games. Players have a lot of freedom to create unique characters, blending different classes through a versatile character progression system. The game boasts a vast world filled with rich stories and varied, magical environments.

‘Mad Max’ (2015)

‘Mad Max’ puts you in the role of a driver in a ruined world, piloting a customized vehicle called the Opus Magnum. Gameplay centers around fighting in and with vehicles, and raiding enemy bases for supplies and improvements. Close-quarters combat is impactful and relies on timed button presses, while the game’s large desert landscapes successfully recreate the bleak and perilous feel of the ‘Mad Max’ movies.

‘Titanfall 2’ (2016)

Titanfall 2’s story centers on the close relationship between a soldier and a powerful, experienced Titan mech. The game is well-known for its creative level designs, which include unique elements like time travel and challenging platforming sections. Its fast-paced multiplayer mode combines quick movement with intense mech battles, setting it apart from other first-person shooters. Despite receiving positive reviews, the game didn’t sell as well as expected when it was first released.

‘Tyranny’ (2016)

In the role-playing game ‘Tyranny,’ you don’t play the hero – you play a powerful figure in the army that won. The game centers around enforcing the rules of a conquering overlord and navigating conflicts between different groups. Magic is highly customizable thanks to a unique sigil crafting system. ‘Tyranny’ really focuses on the impact your decisions have as someone in a position of authority – a judge and executioner with real political power.

‘ELEX’ (2017)

ELEX is a challenging science fantasy role-playing game set on a planet recovering from a massive meteor impact. Players join one of several factions, each relying on either futuristic technology or ancient magic to thrive. The game features a fully open world that encourages exploration, and a jetpack helps you get around. It’s known for being difficult and having quests that are intricately connected to each other.

‘Vampyr’ (2018)

I’m really excited about this game, ‘Vampyr’! It’s set in a dark, gothic London during the 1918 Spanish Flu, and you play as a doctor who’s become a vampire. The cool part is you have to choose who to feed on to get stronger, but everyone in the city is a real person with their own life and role in the community. The combat looks awesome too – it’s a mix of old-fashioned weapons and spooky vampire powers. It sounds like a tough balancing act between surviving and trying to find a cure for the plague!

‘Kingdom Come: Deliverance’ (2018)

Kingdom Come: Deliverance is a deeply immersive game that realistically recreates life in medieval Bohemia. Unlike many historical games, it avoids fantastical elements and focuses on authentic details, such as layered armor and challenging, realistic combat. Players take on the role of Henry, a blacksmith’s son driven by a quest for revenge after his village is raided. The game also emphasizes survival, requiring players to maintain their health by eating and sleeping, all while getting caught up in the political conflicts of the time.

‘GreedFall’ (2019)

GreedFall is an action RPG set in a fantastical 17th-century colonial world. Players venture to a newly found island where magic and mythical creatures meet the age of gunpowder and swords. The game centers around building relationships and negotiating peace between colonists and the island’s native people, who are deeply connected to their land. You can develop your character in many ways, letting you play with tactics like setting traps or using powerful magic.

‘Pathologic 2’ (2019)

Pathologic 2 challenges players to save a remote town from a mysterious and deadly plague, but they only have twelve days to do it. It’s a tough survival game where time is critical, and every decision comes with a cost – you’ll have to balance your own well-being with the needs of the sick. The game’s strange, dreamlike world and thought-provoking story create a truly disturbing and unforgettable experience.

‘Arx Fatalis’ (2002)

‘Arx Fatalis’ is a first-person adventure game set in a dark, underground world after the sun has gone out. What makes it special is its unique magic system – you cast spells by actually drawing symbols with your mouse. The game also lets you interact with almost everything, allowing you to cook and craft items in a very hands-on way. It was the first game created by a development team that would later become well-known for creating complex and immersive adventure games.

‘Jade Empire’ (2005)

Jade Empire is an action RPG rooted in Chinese mythology and martial arts. Players can choose how they fight, using both physical attacks and magical abilities. The game’s story explores themes of morality through two contrasting philosophies, the Way of the Open Palm and the Way of the Closed Fist, and features a compelling narrative with mythical beasts and historical political conflicts.

‘Call of Juarez: Gunslinger’ (2013)

In ‘Call of Juarez: Gunslinger’, you experience a wild west arcade shooter through the hazy recollections of an aging bounty hunter telling tales in a saloon. The game boasts a unique, cartoon-like visual style and quick, action-packed gunfights. You’ll face off against legendary outlaws, but be warned – the storyteller isn’t always truthful and constantly alters his account! Gameplay centers around achieving high scores and accurate shooting, all within a straightforward, movie-like adventure.

‘Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy’ (2004)

‘Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy’ is a shooter where you play in third-person and use psychic powers as your main weapons. You can move objects with your mind and even set enemies ablaze. The game’s physics system lets you find unique and clever ways to fight and solve puzzles. It’s still popular with fans for seamlessly blending psychic abilities into a realistic military world.

‘Second Sight’ (2004)

‘Second Sight’ is a suspenseful, story-focused thriller about a man who wakes up with amnesia and discovers he has psychic powers. The game jumps between two timelines – his present-day imprisonment and the events of a past mission that caused his memory loss. Players are encouraged to use stealth and creatively employ abilities like taking control of others or projecting their consciousness. Critics have especially praised the game’s complex story and how well it manages its dual-timeline structure.

‘Stubbs the Zombie in Rebel Without a Pulse’ (2005)

In ‘Stubbs the Zombie in Rebel Without a Pulse,’ you play as a zombie roaming a 1950s-inspired city. The main goal is to eat brains and turn people into your own zombie followers. The game is funny and features modern bands performing popular songs from the 1950s. It offers a fresh take on action games by letting you play as the monster instead of the hero.

‘The Sexy Brutale’ (2017)

In ‘The Sexy Brutale’, you investigate a murder mystery within a grand, masked mansion where each day repeats. You’ll need to watch the other guests carefully to save them from being killed and collect their masks to gain new abilities. The game is visually striking with a lively art style, and features a cool jazz soundtrack. To succeed, you’ll have to master precise timing and learn everyone’s routines.

‘Hard Reset’ (2011)

‘Hard Reset’ is a fast-paced, first-person shooter set in a cyberpunk city. Unlike many modern shooters, it doesn’t rely on hiding behind cover. Instead, players battle hordes of robots with two customizable weapons that can be switched up for different attacks. The game features environments you can destroy, along with dangerous electrical traps to use against your enemies. It’s designed as a tribute to older, challenging shooters, emphasizing fast movement and a high level of difficulty.

‘E.Y.E: Divine Cybermancy’ (2011)

E.Y.E: Divine Cybermancy is a unique and immersive sci-fi role-playing game known for its incredible freedom. Players can deeply customize their characters with cybernetic enhancements and psychic powers. While the story is complex and can be hard to follow, it creates a truly atmospheric and unforgettable experience. You can play the game alone or team up with others in a dark, futuristic world.

‘Project Snowblind’ (2005)

In ‘Project Snowblind,’ you play as Nathan Frost, a soldier equipped with cutting-edge cybernetic enhancements. The game lets you use a variety of high-tech tools and biological modifications to sneak into enemy locations and take down security. Expect fast-paced fighting in city environments, and the freedom to complete objectives in different ways. The game started as an idea connected to a well-known immersive sim franchise.

‘Anachronox’ (2001)

I recently got into ‘Anachronox,’ and it’s seriously cool! It’s a sci-fi RPG where you battle in turns, kind of like the old console games I grew up with. You play as a detective named Sylvester Boots who’s having a rough time, and he ends up traveling all over the galaxy. What really grabbed me was how clever the writing is and the characters are so unique – there’s even a planet that’s alive! The different alien worlds are amazing, and the game uses these awesome cinematic cutscenes that really made it stand out when it came out.

‘Giants: Citizen Kabuto’ (2000)

This game offers a fresh experience by blending action-packed gameplay with strategic decision-making across three distinct campaigns. You’ll command three unique factions: a team of space explorers, a mystical sea nymph, and a giant monster called Kabuto. Each faction plays very differently, with features like constructing bases and gathering resources. Players also praise the game’s funny conversations and colorful, tropical settings.

‘Armed and Dangerous’ (2003)

Okay, so ‘Armed and Dangerous’ is this super fun third-person shooter. It’s all about crazy comedy and even crazier weapons – I’m talking guns that shoot land sharks and gadgets that literally flip the world upside down! You play as part of a rebel group called the Lionhearts, and we’re on a mission to steal this magical book. It’s basically a hilarious take on all those typical fantasy stories, but with a ton of fast-paced action. Honestly, it’s a blast!

‘Sacrifice’ (2000)

Sacrifice is a strategy game played from a third-person view, putting you in the role of a wizard leading battles. Instead of collecting wood or gold, you gain power by collecting the souls of defeated units to create new ones. Each unit is different and dedicated to one of five gods, each with a unique style and theme. The game offers a story with multiple paths and takes place in strange, visually impressive alien worlds.

‘Enclave’ (2002)

Enclave is a dark fantasy action game with two distinct storylines: one where you fight for the forces of Light, and another for Darkness. You can choose to play as different character types, like knights, wizards, or assassins. The game’s battles are tough, so you’ll need to carefully manage your gear and how you move. Each level is detailed and full of hidden areas and challenging boss fights.

‘Chrome’ (2003)

Chrome is a fast-paced, first-person shooter where players use futuristic cybernetic enhancements to gain an edge in battle. You’ll complete missions on diverse alien worlds, often relying on stealth or long-distance combat. Managing your energy is key, as powerful abilities like super speed and thermal vision require it. The game boasts expansive open worlds and a range of high-tech vehicles.

‘Project I.G.I.’ (2000)

In this action-packed shooter, you play as agent David Jones on a mission to find a stolen nuclear warhead. ‘Project I.G.I.’ is famous for its large, open levels and challenging gameplay – you can’t save mid-mission, so careful planning is key. Players need to use tools like binoculars to watch enemy movements and approach each situation strategically, relying on realistic weapons and tactics.

‘Advent Rising’ (2005)

Advent Rising is an ambitious science fiction game designed as the first part of a larger story. Players experience fast-action combat with both weapons and psychic abilities, using a unique aiming system. The game’s narrative centers on humanity’s discovery of its legendary status within the universe, and features a dramatic, large-scale story told across various planets, accompanied by a powerful orchestral soundtrack.

‘Omikron: The Nomad Soul’ (1999)

Omikron: The Nomad Soul is a unique adventure game set in a sprawling futuristic city, combining exploration, combat, and a compelling story. It’s well-known for featuring music by and an in-game appearance from David Bowie. A key gameplay element allows players to switch between the bodies of different characters to solve a mystery. The game delves into thought-provoking themes like reincarnation and what it means to be conscious in a digital world.

‘Shadowrun: Dragonfall’ (2014)

Shadowrun: Dragonfall is a tactical RPG set in a futuristic cyberpunk world where magic has reappeared. You command a group of mercenaries in the chaotic, lawless city of Berlin, controlled by powerful corporations and even dragons. The game is known for its compelling story and characters with complex motivations. Battles require strategic thinking, using cover effectively, and combining magic with technology.

‘The Surge’ (2017)

‘The Surge’ is a sci-fi action RPG set in a crumbling industrial world. Players control an exosuit that can be improved by collecting parts – specifically, by strategically disconnecting limbs from robotic enemies. This unique system lets you carefully gather the equipment and upgrades you need. The game’s levels are designed with shortcuts and tell a story through their environment, painting a picture of a dark, corporate-controlled future.

‘Clive Barker’s Jericho’ (2007)

Okay, so I’m really excited about this new horror shooter! You play as a team of specialists who hunt down supernatural stuff, and they’re investigating this crazy tear in time. What’s cool is you can switch between seven different characters, and each one has their own weapons and special powers. I’ve seen some previews, and the monsters look genuinely terrifying – seriously creepy designs! Plus, a really famous horror author wrote the story, which is a huge plus. From what I understand, the combat is really challenging and you have to work as a team, using everyone’s unique skills to take down these ancient, powerful enemies. It sounds intense!

‘Dark Sector’ (2008)

In ‘Dark Sector’, you play as an agent infected with a virus that gives him the Glaive, a deadly blade weapon. You can throw the Glaive to defeat enemies or use its fire and electricity powers to solve puzzles. The game is dark and intense, combining shooting while taking cover with close-quarters combat. As the virus progresses, your character unlocks new abilities and evolves.

‘Zeno Clash’ (2009)

Zeno Clash is a unique first-person fighting game set in the strange and imaginative world of Zenozoik. Players battle enemies and competing groups using both hand-to-hand combat and simple guns. The game’s art style is inspired by classic paintings, giving it a distinctive look. At its heart, Zeno Clash tells a personal story about family and staying alive in a dangerous place.

‘Mirror’s Edge’ (2008)

I’m so excited about this game! You play as Faith, a runner in this beautiful but controlled city, and your job is basically delivering messages while trying to stay hidden from the authorities. It’s not about fighting, though – it’s all about how smoothly and quickly you can move, maintaining your momentum as you navigate the environment. And the way it looks is amazing! It’s got this really clean, minimalist style with these bright, striking colors that make the city feel totally unique. It’s less about action and more about the feeling of freedom and flow.

‘Bulletstorm’ (2011)

Bulletstorm is a fast-paced, action-packed first-person shooter where players earn points for taking down enemies in imaginative and over-the-top ways. You can use a special leash and powerful kick to pull foes into dangerous surroundings like cacti or electrical wires. This ‘Skillshot’ system rewards skillful kills, letting you upgrade your weapons. The game is known for its rough humor and takes place on a vibrant alien resort planet.

‘Gothic’ (2001)

Gothic is an open-world RPG set in a prison colony sealed off by magic. What makes it special is its realistic world – characters have their own daily lives and respond to what you do. To get ahead, you’ll need to join one of several competing factions and learn skills from their teachers. The game is known for being tough, so every achievement feels well-deserved.

‘Two Worlds II’ (2010)

‘Two Worlds II’ immerses players in a vast fantasy world with a remarkably detailed and creative magic system. Instead of just learning spells, you build them yourself by combining effect cards, letting you create one-of-a-kind elemental attacks. The game also has a robust crafting system for gear, and gives you a lot of freedom to tackle quests and develop your character however you choose.

‘Risen’ (2009)

‘Risen’ puts you in the role of a shipwreck survivor on a strange island with old ruins and dangerous creatures. It’s a role-playing game in the style of classic European RPGs, where you join a side and gradually become more powerful. Battles aren’t about frantically pressing buttons – they require careful timing and skillful blocking. The island is full of hidden treasures and secrets, so thorough exploration is highly rewarding.

‘Beyond Good & Evil’ (2003)

In ‘Beyond Good & Evil,’ you play as Jade, a reporter investigating a huge secret involving aliens taking over a planet. The game combines sneaking around, action, and driving, and you’ll even use photography as a key part of how you play. People love the game’s characters and story for being heartwarming and meaningful. The world, called Hillys, is full of interesting creatures and has a fantastic soundtrack.

‘Psychonauts’ (2005)

‘Psychonauts’ tells the story of Raz, a young boy who goes undercover at a summer camp for aspiring psychic spies. The game is well-known for its incredibly creative levels, which take players inside the minds of various characters where they confront personal struggles. Each mind is a unique world that mirrors the character’s personality and anxieties. It’s a fun mix of skillful jumping and puzzle-solving, a funny story, and a distinctive visual style.

‘The Evil Within 2’ (2017)

The latest installment in this survival horror series offers a more open and exploratory experience compared to its predecessor, letting players roam larger areas at their own speed. In ‘The Evil Within 2’, you play as Sebastian Castellanos, who dives into a virtual world to rescue his daughter. You’ll need to carefully manage supplies, create useful items, and decide when to fight or sneak past frightening creatures. This game’s story is more intimate and character-driven than the first one.

‘Prey’ (2017)

‘Prey’ is a thrilling, immersive game set on a space station invaded by aliens that can change their form. You have a lot of freedom to play how you want, and can even gain alien powers yourself – like the ability to disguise as objects or move things with your mind. The Talos I station is one big, connected space where clever thinking and making the most of what you find are key. Expect a gripping, suspenseful experience with a story that explores themes of who you are and what’s right and wrong.

‘Enslaved: Odyssey to the West’ (2010)

This exciting action game is a fresh, futuristic take on a famous Chinese story, taking place in a world after a major disaster. Players play as Monkey, tasked with protecting a girl named Trip as they journey through the ruins of old cities reclaimed by nature. The game highlights the bond between Monkey, Trip, and their robotic allies. Battles are quick, visually impressive, and rely on working together and using the surroundings to your advantage.

Please share your favorite hidden gems in the comments.

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2026-02-12 07:21