1. Dota 2

• Genre: MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena)
• Developer: Valve
• Why it’s great: One of the most successful esports titles, Dota 2 offers deep strategic gameplay with endless replayability and a massive community.

Dota 2 Game Details

• Dota 2 is a free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed and published by Valve Corporation. Released in 2013, it has become one of the most iconic and competitive titles in the esports world. In Dota 2, two teams of five players, known as the Radiant and the Dire, compete to destroy the opposing team’s Ancient, a large structure located in their base. Players choose from a roster of over 120 unique heroes, each with their own abilities, roles, and playstyles, ranging from powerful late-game carries to supportive healers and initiators. The game combines strategic depth, intense teamwork, and mechanical skill, with players needing to balance hero selection, item building, and in-game decision-making to outmaneuver their opponents. Dota 2 is renowned for its high skill ceiling and tactical complexity, offering dynamic matches where no two games are the same. The game’s esports scene is headlined by The International (TI), an annual tournament featuring the largest prize pool in esports history. With frequent updates, a vibrant community, and a robust in-game economy driven by cosmetic items, Dota 2 remains one of the most influential and enduring games in the competitive gaming world.”As of my last update, Dota 2 has accumulated over 15 million downloads on Steam alone. However, the exact number of downloads can fluctuate as the game continues to grow and evolve. For the most up-to-date statistics, you might want to check Steam’s official statistics or Valve’s announcements.”

2. League of Legends

• Genre: MOBA
• Developer: Riot Games
• Why it’s great: A leading esports title with an accessible learning curve, complex strategies, and a highly competitive scene.

League of Legends Game  Details

• League of Legends (LoL) is a free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed and published by Riot Games. Launched in 2009, it has grown into one of the most popular and influential games in the world, known for its fast-paced, strategic gameplay and thriving esports scene. In League of Legends, two teams of five players battle on a map called Summoner’s Rift, with the goal of destroying the opposing team’s Nexus, located in their base. Players choose from a large roster of champions, each with unique abilities and roles, such as powerful damage dealers, supportive healers, and durable tanks. The game emphasizes teamwork, coordination, and real-time tactics as players must outmaneuver their opponents in both small skirmishes and larger team fights. League of Legends is praised for its accessibility to new players, while offering a deep, skill-based experience for veterans. Its competitive scene is one of the biggest in esports, with the annual League of Legends World Championship drawing millions of viewers and featuring huge prize pools. With regular updates, new champions, and a diverse community, League of Legends remains a staple in the gaming world.**League of Legends** has surpassed 180 million downloads across all platforms. This figure includes downloads from various sources like the official Riot Games client and other platforms where the game is available. For the latest and most accurate numbers, checking Riot Games’ official announcements or industry reports would provide the most up-to-date information.

3. Fortnite: Battle Royale

• Genre: Battle Royale
• Developer: Epic Games
• Why it’s great: Fortnite revolutionized the battle royale genre with its building mechanics and unique art style, creating a cultural phenomenon.

Fortnite: Battle Royale Game Details

• Fortnite: Battle Royale is a free-to-play battle royale game developed and published by Epic Games, launched in 2017. It quickly became a global sensation due to its unique combination of fast-paced action, building mechanics, and vibrant, cartoonish art style. In Fortnite: Battle Royale, up to 100 players are dropped onto an island, where they must scavenge for weapons, resources, and equipment to survive and be the last person or team standing. What sets Fortnite apart from other battle royale games is its building system, which allows players to construct walls, ramps, and defensive structures on the fly, adding a dynamic layer of strategy and creativity to combat. The game’s frequent updates, seasonal content, and crossover events with pop culture icons keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. Fortnite has become a cultural phenomenon, not only due to its gameplay but also its in-game events, such as live concerts and story-driven experiences. With a massive player base and a thriving esports scene, Fortnite: Battle Royale remains one of the most influential and popular games in modern gaming.**Fortnite: Battle Royale** has achieved over 400 million downloads across all platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices. This number reflects its widespread popularity and success since its release. For the latest figures, checking Epic Games’ official announcements or industry reports would provide the most recent statistics.

4. Apex Legends

• Genre: Battle Royale
• Developer: Respawn Entertainment
• Why it’s great: A fast-paced and squad-based battle royale with excellent gunplay, unique hero characters, and deep lore.

Apex Legends Game Details

• Apex Legends is a free-to-play battle royale game developed by Respawn Entertainment and released in February 2019. Set in the same universe as the Titanfall series, Apex Legends offers a unique blend of fast-paced combat, character-driven abilities, and squad-based gameplay. In this game, players form teams of three and are dropped onto an expansive map, where they compete to be the last squad standing among 60 players. Each player selects from a diverse roster of Legends, each with unique abilities and roles, such as offensive, defensive, or support. Apex Legends is renowned for its innovative features, including a sophisticated ping system for communication and a respawn mechanic that allows eliminated teammates to return to the fray. The game emphasizes teamwork and strategic play, with a dynamic and ever-evolving meta influenced by regular updates and seasonal events. Apex Legends has garnered acclaim for its engaging gameplay, distinctive character designs, and impactful storytelling, making it a prominent title in the battle royale genre and a staple in competitive gaming. As of September 2024, **Apex Legends** has surpassed 250 million downloads across all platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices. This figure highlights the game’s significant popularity and growth since its release. For the most up-to-date numbers, checking recent official announcements from Respawn Entertainment or industry reports is recommended.

5. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS)

• Genre: FPS (First-Person Shooter)
• Developer: Valve
• Why it’s great: CS is one of the most iconic tactical shooters with a massive community and a thriving esports scene.

 Counter-Strike: Global Offensive Game Details

• Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS) is a free-to-play first-person shooter developed and published by Valve Corporation and Hidden Path Entertainment. Released in 2012, it is the fourth installment in the Counter-Strike series and has become one of the most iconic and enduring games in the FPS genre. In CS, players are divided into two teams—Terrorists and Counter-Terrorists and engage in various objective-based game modes, such as bomb planting and defusal, or hostage rescue. The game is known for its precise gunplay, strategic depth, and tactical team-based action, where players must work together to complete objectives or eliminate the opposing team. CS features a wide array of weapons, each with distinct characteristics and requiring skillful handling. Its competitive scene is renowned for its high-stakes tournaments and a strong esports presence, supported by a thriving community and regular updates that balance gameplay and introduce new content. With its deep tactical gameplay and significant impact on the FPS genre, CS remains a staple in both casual and professional gaming circles. As of 2024, **Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO)** has achieved over 40 million downloads on Steam. This figure includes the game’s free-to-play version, which was made available in December 2018. The exact number may vary with ongoing downloads, so for the most current statistics, checking Steam’s official statistics or Valve’s announcements would be advisable.

6. Warframe

• Genre: Action RPG / Looter Shooter
• Developer: Digital Extremes
• Why it’s great: Warframe offers fluid combat, cooperative gameplay, and endless customization options. Its regular updates keep the game fresh.

 Warframe Game Details

• Warframe is a free-to-play action RPG and looter shooter developed and published by Digital Extremes, first released in 2013. Set in a visually stunning science fiction universe, Warframe combines fast-paced, third-person combat with deep customization and cooperative gameplay. Players control the Tenno, ancient warriors equipped with powerful biomechanical suits known as Warframes, each offering unique abilities and playstyles. The game’s core mechanics revolve around completing missions across a variety of procedurally generated environments, gathering resources, as well as upgrading both Warframes and weapons. Warframe is celebrated for its fluid combat system, expansive universe, and regular content updates, which include new Warframes, weapons, and missions. Its vast and engaging lore is expanded through regular story-driven updates, and its cooperative gameplay allows players to team up with friends or other players to tackle challenging content. With its rich customization options and a continually evolving world, Warframe has built a dedicated player base and remains a prominent title in the online gaming landscape. As of 2024, **Warframe** has surpassed 70 million downloads across all platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices. This figure reflects the game’s broad reach and popularity in the gaming community. For the most recent statistics, checking official updates from Digital Extremes or industry reports would provide the latest information.

7. Team Fortress 2

• Genre: FPS
• Developer: Valve
• Why it’s great: Known for its humorous art style and characters, TF2 has been a fan favorite for years, offering team-based multiplayer action.

Team Fortress 2 Game Details

• Team Fortress 2 is a free-to-play first-person shooter developed and published by Valve Corporation, released in 2007 as part of the game bundle The Orange Box. Renowned for its distinctive cartoonish art style and humorous characters, the game pits two teams, the RED and BLU, against each other in a variety of objective-based game modes. Players choose from nine unique classes, each with specialized roles and abilities, including the versatile Soldier, the stealthy Spy, and the supportive Medic. Team Fortress 2 emphasizes team-based gameplay and cooperation, with each class contributing to the team’s overall strategy and success. The game features a range of maps and modes, from capturing control points to delivering briefcases, ensuring diverse and engaging gameplay experiences. With its iconic art design, lively community, and constant updates—including seasonal events and new content—Team Fortress 2 has remained a beloved and enduring title in the FPS genre. As of 2024, **Team Fortress 2** has accumulated over 50 million downloads on Steam. This number reflects the game’s long-standing popularity and its status as a classic in the FPS genre. For the most current statistics, checking Steam’s official statistics or Valve’s announcements might provide the latest information.

8. Hearthstone

• Genre: CCG (Collectible Card Game)
• Developer: Blizzard Entertainment
• Why it’s great: Hearthstone combines a card game’s depth with easy-to-understand mechanics, providing a fun and competitive experience.

Hearthstone Game Details

• Hearthstone is a free-to-play collectible card game developed and published by Blizzard Entertainment, first released in 2014. Set in the rich and expansive universe of Warcraft, Hearthstone allows players to build decks from a vast array of cards representing characters, spells, and abilities from the Warcraft series. In this turn-based game, players engage in strategic duels where they use their decks to summon minions, cast spells, and deploy powerful abilities, in a bid to reduce their opponent’s health to zero. The game is renowned for its approachable mechanics, which blend strategic depth with accessible gameplay, making it easy for newcomers to pick up while offering layers of complexity for experienced players. Regular updates, expansions, and themed events continually introduce new cards and strategies, keeping the game fresh and engaging. Hearthstone’s vibrant community, frequent tournaments, and competitive ladder system highlight its place as a leading title in the collectible card game genre. As of 2024, **Hearthstone** has surpassed 150 million downloads across various platforms, including PC, mobile devices, and tablets. This figure highlights the game’s widespread appeal and significant player base since its release. For the latest and most accurate numbers, checking official Blizzard Entertainment announcements or industry reports is recommended.

9. Path of Exile

• Genre: Action RPG
• Developer: Grinding Gear Games
• Why it’s great: Known as one of the best free-to-play action RPGs, Path of Exile offers complex character customization and a huge skill tree.

Path of Exile Game Details

• Path of Exile is a free-to-play action RPG developed and published by Grinding Gear Games, released in 2013. Set in the dark, gritty world of Wraeclast, the game is known for its deep and complex gameplay mechanics, which appeal to fans of the genre seeking a rich, immersive experience. Players create and customize characters from a diverse selection of classes, each with their own unique playstyle and skill tree. Path of Exile is renowned for its intricate passive skill tree, extensive item customization, and unique mechanics such as the skill gem system, which allows players to modify and enhance their abilities. The game features a robust endgame with challenging content, including maps, leagues, and boss encounters. Regular updates and expansions introduce new content and seasonal challenges, ensuring a continually evolving gameplay experience. With its focus on depth and customization, Path of Exile offers a compelling alternative to other action RPGs and maintains a dedicated player base and strong community. As of 2024, **Path of Exile** has surpassed 40 million downloads across all platforms, including PC and consoles. This figure reflects the game’s extensive reach and popularity within the action RPG genre. For the most up-to-date statistics, checking official updates from Grinding Gear Games or recent industry reports would be advisable.

10. Genshin Impact

• Genre: Action RPG / Gacha
• Developer: miHoYo
• Why it’s great: This open-world RPG combines stunning visuals, exploration, and action-based combat, making it one of the most popular free games in recent years.

Genshin Impact Game Details

• Genshin Impact is a free-to-play action RPG developed and published by miHoYo, launched in September 2020. Set in the expansive and visually stunning open world of Teyvat, the game invites players to explore a fantastical realm divided into distinct nations, each inspired by different real-world cultures and elements. Players assume the role of the Traveler, who is searching for their lost sibling while unraveling Teyvat’s mysteries. Genshin Impact features a dynamic combat system that combines melee and elemental magic, allowing players to switch between a party of characters with unique abilities and elemental affinities. The game is renowned for its high-quality graphics, engaging exploration, and fluid combat mechanics, as well as its gacha-based system for acquiring new characters and weapons. Regular updates introduce new story content, regions, and events, keeping the game fresh and immersive. With its blend of captivating visuals, deep gameplay, and ongoing support, Genshin Impact has rapidly become a significant title in the action RPG genre and a global phenomenon. As of 2024, **Genshin Impact** has achieved over 80 million downloads across all platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices. The game’s success is reflected in its widespread reach and popularity. For the most current figures, checking official announcements from miHoYo or recent industry reports is recommended.

11. Destiny 2

• Genre: FPS / MMO
• Developer: Bungie
• Why it’s great: While originally a paid game, Destiny 2’s free-to-play version offers vast content, including raids, PvP, and co-op missions in a rich sci-fi universe.

Destiny 2 Game Details

• Destiny 2 is a free-to-play online multiplayer first-person shooter developed and published by Bungie, originally released in September 2017. Set in a richly crafted sci-fi universe, the game features a compelling mix of PvE (player versus environment) and PvP (player versus player) content. Players assume the role of a Guardian, a protector of the Last City on Earth, who wields powerful abilities and advanced weaponry to defend against alien threats and dark forces. Destiny 2 is celebrated for its expansive open worlds, engaging storylines, and dynamic gameplay, which includes cooperative strikes, challenging raids, and competitive Crucible matches. The game’s rich lore is expanded through regular seasonal updates and major expansions, offering new content, quests, and environments. With its blend of cooperative and competitive elements, deep customization options, and an evolving narrative, Destiny 2 has cultivated a dedicated player base and a vibrant community, making it a prominent title in the FPS and MMO genres. As of 2024, **Destiny 2** has surpassed 50 million downloads across all platforms, including PC, consoles, and Stadia. The game’s continued popularity is evident in its large player base and ongoing updates. For the latest statistics, checking official announcements from Bungie or recent industry reports would provide the most current information.

12. Star Wars: The Old Republic

• Genre: MMORPG
• Developer: BioWare
• Why it’s great: With its deep narrative and story-driven quests, this MMORPG is one of the best Star Wars experiences in gaming.

Star Wars: The Old Republic Game Details

• Star Wars: The Old Republic is a free-to-play MMORPG developed by BioWare and released in December 2011. Set in the Star Wars universe, thousands of years before the events of the films, the game immerses players in an epic saga where they can choose to align with either the Galactic Republic or the Sith Empire. Players create their own characters from a range of classes, each with distinct abilities and storylines, and embark on a narrative-rich adventure full of branching dialogue options and meaningful choices. The game features a mix of traditional MMO elements, such as questing, crafting, and PvP, alongside an engaging storyline with fully voiced characters and cinematic moments. With expansive worlds to explore, challenging dungeons and operations to conquer, and a vibrant community, Star Wars: The Old Republic offers a deep and immersive experience for fans of the franchise and MMORPG enthusiasts alike. As of 2024, **Star Wars: The Old Republic** has reached over 10 million downloads across all platforms. This figure reflects the game’s enduring appeal within the MMORPG genre and its strong connection to the Star Wars universe. For the most up-to-date numbers, checking official updates from BioWare or recent industry reports would be advisable.

13. Paladins

• Genre: Hero Shooter
• Developer: Hi-Rez Studios
• Why it’s great: Often compared to Overwatch, Paladins offers hero-based team shooting with a wide range of characters and abilities, but for free.

Paladins Game Details

• Paladins is a free-to-play hero shooter developed and published by Hi-Rez Studios, first released in May 2018. Set in a vibrant fantasy universe, the game pits two teams of five players against each other in objective-based combat. Players choose from a diverse roster of champions, each with unique abilities and playstyles, such as damage dealers, tanks, and support roles. The game is known for its strategic depth, allowing players to customize their champions’ abilities through a robust card system that enhances and modifies their powers. Paladins features various game modes, including Siege and Team Deathmatch, where players must work together to achieve objectives and secure victories. Its blend of hero-based gameplay and tactical team dynamics, combined with regular updates and new content, has established Paladins as a popular alternative in the hero shooter genre. As of 2024, **Paladins** has accumulated over 60 million downloads across all platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices. This reflects the game’s popularity in the hero shooter genre and its widespread appeal. For the latest figures, checking official updates from Hi-Rez Studios or industry reports is advisable.

14. Valorant

• Genre: Tactical FPS
• Developer: Riot Games
• Why it’s great: A tactical shooter with hero-based abilities, Valorant combines the best aspects of CS and Overwatch, offering precise gunplay and competitive gameplay.

Valorant Game Details

• Valorant is a free-to-play tactical first-person shooter developed and published by Riot Games, officially launched in June 2020. Set in a near-future Earth, the game combines precise gunplay with unique agent abilities, creating a distinctive blend of strategic and fast-paced combat. Players form teams of five and compete in objective-based matches, where one side attacks and the other defends, with the primary goal often being to plant or defuse a bomb-like device called the Spike. Each agent in Valorant possesses special abilities that can turn the tide of battle, ranging from offensive and defensive tools to tactical utilities. The game is renowned for its emphasis on teamwork, strategic planning, and high skill ceiling, requiring both sharp shooting accuracy and smart use of abilities. Valorant’s competitive scene is bolstered by its ranked play and regular updates, which introduce new agents, maps, and features, ensuring a constantly evolving and engaging experience for players. As of 2024, **Valorant** has surpassed 50 million downloads across all platforms. This includes its launch on PC and any other distribution platforms it might be available on. The game’s popularity and substantial player base contribute to these impressive numbers. For the most current statistics, checking official announcements from Riot Games or recent industry reports would be beneficial.

15. Fallout Shelter

• Genre: Simulation
• Developer: Bethesda
• Why it’s great: A fun and addicting vault-building simulation game set in the Fallout universe, offering casual gameplay with strategic depth.

Fallout Shelter Game Details

• Fallout Shelter is a free-to-play simulation game developed and published by Bethesda Game Studios, first released in June 2015. Set in the post-apocalyptic Fallout universe, the game invites players to manage and build their own underground Vault, a fallout shelter designed to protect survivors from the harsh conditions of the outside world. Players are responsible for constructing various rooms, such as living quarters, power generators, and water treatment facilities, to ensure the well-being of their Vault dwellers. Each resident can be assigned different tasks and roles based on their skills, contributing to the efficient operation of the Vault. The game features a blend of resource management and strategic planning, as players must balance the needs of their dwellers, fend off occasional threats like raiders and radroaches, and expand their Vault while maintaining a stable environment. With its engaging mechanics, charming art style, and casual gameplay, Fallout Shelter offers a fun and addictive experience for fans of the Fallout series and simulation enthusiasts alike. Regular updates and events provide new content and challenges, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging. As of 2024, **Fallout Shelter** has achieved over 100 million downloads across all platforms, including mobile devices and PC. This widespread popularity reflects the game’s success and enduring appeal since its release. For the latest statistics, checking official announcements from Bethesda or recent industry reports would provide the most current information.

These games have stood the test of time or gained massive popularity, proving themselves as some of the greatest free PC games ever.