Welcome to the third edition of the RPS 100: Readers Edition. This annual tradition invites you, the readers of RPS, to voice where our selections may have missed the mark in our yearly effort to compile a list of the 100 best PC games of all time.
The following list reflects your votes, showcasing the games favored by your fellow readers.
This year, to avoid seeing multiple entries from the Football Manager series occupy several of your 100 slots, I have combined entries from the same series. This approach creates additional openings for other games, allowing for a broader representation of your preferences. I’ve included the detailed vote breakdown, so you can see which title from each series garnered the most support.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in the voting process, and an even bigger thank you to those who elaborated on their choices. Reading your insights has been a true delight. Every game in the top 100 has accompanying notes, turning this list into a genuine celebration of your passions. Many titles listed here have sparked my interest to revisit them based on your comments, so I appreciate your contributions.
As in previous years, I will unveil 20 games daily until the entire 100 is revealed. If you notice a game missing, be sure to return for updates—it may still be on the way.
Without further delay, let’s delve into the first selections from your RPS 100: Readers Edition (2025).
100. X series
- X3: Albion Prelude – 8 points
- X4: Foundations – 16 points
TheGreatOneSea – X4: Foundations
While X4 may not be the most objectively outstanding game, it is unique in allowing players to take on the roles of various engaging characters—from a mercenary to an architect to a pirate.
Jovian09 – X4: Foundations
The X series embodies a rich, fully realized economy, offering the chance to pilot everything from nimble fighters to colossal capital ships while your choices influence the universe at large.
99. Hardspace: Shipbreaker
Dglenny
This game has captivated me in ways few others have, offering a tranquil yet engaging experience through the meticulous disassembly of spaceships.
Bahumat
The zen-like flow while dismantling large vessels in space is incredibly rewarding.
NCD
Its clever mechanics, seamlessly integrated into the narrative, craft a compelling game design.
Phuzz
With elements reminiscent of other games I cherish, Hardspace commits to a relaxing yet engaging experience of ship breaking that has kept me playing far beyond its credits.
98. Horizon Zero Dawn
Random squiggle
A visually stunning world, combined with a compelling narrative centered around battling giant robotic creatures.
Neminem88
The story resonates with me, filled with hope and expertly crafted gameplay.
97. Oxygen Not Included
Sockmoxy
This game has instilled a sense of resilience and problem-solving in me, demonstrating that small, incremental steps are vital to achieving larger goals.
NCD
Despite my lack of progress, no game in my library rivals the hours I’ve spent in this title, which speaks volumes.
96. What Remains of Edith Finch
H3rz0g_zw31
A remarkable game that successfully achieves its objectives.
I_have_no_nose_but_I_must_sneeze
A potentially somber theme is infused with vibrant exuberance, turning it into a must-play for newcomers.
95. Alan Wake 2
RAC41
Woven with intricate lore, Alan Wake 2 offers an engaging survival horror experience.
Feature highlights include innovative connections to Remedy’s broader universe.
OmegaJak
A masterful blend of horror and narrative, reminiscent of classics while forging new paths.
94. Planescape: Torment
Plato_Karamazov
Reflects on time and existence in a compelling narrative.
Drygear
A game that leaves a lasting impression, filled with unexpected twists and moral implications.
93. Terraria
Caff
Terraria continues to offer immense enjoyment, enhanced by frequent updates from its developers.
Shay Linio
This enduring indie classic remains accessible and enjoyable for players of all ages.
92. Overwatch series
- Overwatch – 26 points
- Overwatch 2 – 2 points
Garfieldsam
Overwatch managed to balance accessible gameplay with depth, fostering a community that thrived on positivity and engagement.
Gaspacho
It stands out for its thoughtful design and distinct hero mechanics.
91. Baba Is You
Shay Linio
One of the top puzzle experiences available.
Thrownfootfalls
The game transforms commonly frustrating puzzle mechanics into a delightful and engaging experience.
90. Chrono Trigger
Soberbandana
A timeless classic, combining exceptional music, narrative, and gameplay.
Elazul
Chrono Trigger is a hallmark of the RPG genre, with gameplay that has aged gracefully.
89. Heaven’s Vault
Cpt_freakout
Explores themes of history and memory through engaging language puzzles.
Rincechicken
Built around the remarkable concept of deciphering a lost language, it provides a rich narrative experience.
88. Jagged Alliance 2
Rince Wind
The wealth of character interaction and dialogue enhances the gaming experience significantly.
HyperTextHero (#8466)
Navigating the intricate balance of strategy and tactics poses a true challenge.
87. Star Control II: The Ur-Quan Masters
Pauleyc
Combines brilliant dialogue with engaging gameplay for an ideal space adventure.
86. Team Fortress 2
Marglark
Although I generally prefer other genres, Team Fortress 2 offers a unique blend of humor and cooperative gameplay.
Joel B
My memories of the game remain strong due to its distinctive art style and memorable experience.
85. The Long Dark
P53
Continuously providing unique experiences, this game remains a loyal companion in the survival genre.
84. The Stanley Parable
Caff
A thought-provoking and humorous experience that challenges player expectations.
Thrownfootfalls
Its unique approach to storytelling could resonate with players across various backgrounds.
83. Like A Dragon series
- Yakuza 5 – 6 points
- Yakuza 0 – 12 points
- Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth – 9 points
- Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii – 1 point
Wall Jump Games – Infinite Wealth
This series offers an incredible blend of storytelling and gameplay mechanics, making it a favorite among fans.
82. Football Manager series
- Football Manager – 15 points
- Football Manager 2012 – 2 points
- Football Manager 2017 – 9 points
- Football Manager 2020 – 1 point
- Football Manager 2024 – 1 point
Mackemforever – Football Manager 2017
For me, Football Manager encapsulates the thrill of managing virtual teams and players, offering countless memorable moments.
81. Call of Duty series
- Call of Duty – 5 points
- Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare – 14 points
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 – 9 points
Hiddencamel – Call of Duty (2003)
The original offered a cinematic single-player experience while its multiplayer was uniquely engaging.
Nathan A – Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
This title revolutionized online multiplayer, setting a high bar for the genre.
Join us again tomorrow for the next 20 selections.
How do you feel about the current picks? Are there any noteworthy games you believe should have been included in our top 100?
If you’re interested in more comprehensive lists, check out our rankings for the best PC games in 2024, 2023 (part 1, part 2), 2022 (part 1, part 2), and 2021 (part 1, part 2). Feel free to explore previous RPS 100 Reader Editions to compare how your preferences have evolved over the years, following polls conducted in 2023 and 2022.
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