Theworld of PC gamingis a vast and diverse one, full to the brim with a host of titles from different genres that can range from downright appalling to extremely interesting. Whether it be underrated indie gems or high-budget AAA titles, there’s no denying thatthe PC gamingmarket has a ton of great selections to choose from.
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However, amidst a ton of games that hog the spotlight, there are some underrated gems that never really get the recognition they deserve. This is especially sad if the games are PC exclusives that aren’t available on other platforms where they might garner an audience. Keeping this in mind, here are ten PC exclusive titles released in the last five years that are extremely underrated.
10RimWorld
RimWorldis a game that blends elements of construction, management, and survival into one extremely addictive top-down package. The end result is a wonderful experience where players will find themselves lost in this simulated world for hours.
Managing the needs of colonists and ensuring their survival is not an easy task in the slightest. However, it’s the admirable manner in whichRimWorldweaves player losses and failures into its gameplay that makes it such a unique and satisfying bag of tricks.
9Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord
Speaking of games that seem small but have huge scopes, it would be impossible to not mentionthe legendary stature of theMount & Bladeseries. Most players talk at length when it comes to the surprising depths of this game’s mechanics and the immense possibilities of its role-playing.
WhileMount & Blade 2: Bannerlordmight only be available in Early Access right now, initial impressions have been mostly positive across the board. The general consensus is that once all the kinks are ironed out, thenBannerlordcan establish itself as one of the most engaging strategy-action role-playing games around.
8ARMA 3
Arealistic tactical shooterthat requires the player to use their tactical intellect as much as their gaming prowess,ARMA 3is not a forgiving game in the slightest. However, players who understand the intricate systems of this game will find themselves having a wildly enjoyable time indeed.
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The game might not be for everyone, but fans ofARMA 3will swear by its engaging combat and satisfying tactical engagements. It’s a great game for PC players to sink their teeth into.
7Factorio
It’s funny how a game that’s mostly about setting up factories is one of the most engaging games around.Factoriomight not be the most popular game around, but its dedicated fanbase speaks volumes when it comes tothe brilliance of this title.
Couple this experience with the vast hordes of mods available for this title, and it’s easy to see why so many people absolutely adoreFactorio. The game is extremely challenging and can be a chore early on, but learning its systems allows players to enjoy one of the most complex simulation games around.
6Black Mesa
Black Mesa’s achievements aren’t talked about enough, which is a shame. People would assume thata full-blown remake of the firstHalf-Lifewould be on the tips of everyone’s tongues to this day.
The sheer amount of work put into this amazing remake should definitely be commended, with the additional work put into the latter half of the game being a high point of this remake. PC players who have found it challenging to get into the legendaryHalf-Lifeseries will findBlack Mesato be the perfect starting point.
5Crusader Kings 3
Paradox Interactive has created some of the greatest grand strategy games of all time. However, most of these titles were incredibly challenging to get into… that is, before the launch ofCrusader Kings 3.
All of a sudden, players had the perfect opportunity to jump into this popular medieval grand-strategy title, coupled with a new engine and beginner-friendly changes that madeCrusader Kings 3one of the most accessible games around. Players can easily find themselves investing hundreds of hours into their dynasties, hoping for the breakthrough moment where they can create their own religion, unlock a major dynasty upgrade, or anything else along the same lines!
4Total War: Three Kingdoms
Speaking of grand strategy games, it’s impossible to not mention theTotal Warseries. Of course, the series does have as much of a focus on actual warfare and tactics as it has on actual governance.
The latest game in the series,Total War: Three Kingdoms, is the most refined formula the series has presented to date. The mechanics might be complex, but players who get over this early hurdle will enjoy one of the deepest and most enjoyable strategy games around.
3Escape From Tarkov
It seems thatmost realistic first-person shootersmostly have a home on PC. That being said, the inherent toughness of such games prevents them from truly breaking into the mainstream.
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This is perhaps why most multiplayer aficionados don’t really rateEscape from Tarkov, mainly because they have no idea what the game’s about. However, the close-knit community of this title absolutely loves the realistic gameplay of this excellent title.
2Command & Conquer Remastered Collection
TheCommand & Conquerseries is one of the greatest RTS games ever made, and fans were elated at the prospect of a remaster of the first two games that started it all.Command & Conquer Remastered Collectiondefinitely doesn’t disappoint in this regard.
The faithful remakes of these classic titles were a blast to play through. The modern conveniences brought about in this remaster also made these games extremely accessible for the masses.
1Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire
Whenever most people talk aboutthe resurgence of CRPGs,Divinity: Original Sinis the first name that comes to the mind of any fan of this genre. However, there’s another excellent CRPG that most people don’t really take into account, and that isPillars of Eternity.
The first game was pretty great in its own right, and the sequel improved upon this formula even more. Players who enjoy good CRPGs with memorable stories will feel right at home while playingPillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire.
