You don’t need to spend $60 or more on a new game to find something good to play. Thanks to in-app purchases and the ability to offer both a trial version and a full-featured version, there are plenty of excellent games available that won’t cost you anything. Quality has never been higher across mobile, PC, and consoles, so no matter which platform or device you prefer, there are numerous great free games to enjoy. Here’s our list of the best free games you can start playing right now—consider this your no-credit-card-required starting point.

Figure 1. Top Free Games.

Genshin Impact

When Genshin Impact was first released, many of us initially thought it was a Zelda: Breath of the Wild clone with stunning anime graphics and little else. However, it turned out to be a unique action RPG by miHoYo, featuring over 50 playable characters and a rich, diverse world. Remarkably, it has found a large audience on smartphones, despite being a free-to-play game. Figure 1 shows top free games.

While battling foes is a significant part of the gameplay, much of the enjoyment comes from customizing your roster of characters, collecting loot, and enhancing their abilities. Although the game includes a microtransaction system, a substantial portion of it can be played—and enjoyed—without spending any money. And did we mention how visually stunning it is?

Overwatch 2

Despite Blizzard's efforts to improve the learning curve for new players, Overwatch 2 remains challenging to master. However, perseverance rewards players with an immersive team shooter experience. The game's objective is straightforward—capture or defend objectives—but executing it is complex, requiring teamwork and strategy.[1]

With a reduced team size and character tweaks, gameplay is faster-paced and more enjoyable than its predecessor. Individual impact is emphasized, but cooperation is crucial for success. Featuring a diverse roster of over 30 heroes, each with unique abilities, players can find characters to connect with. The game offers new heroes and customizable skins, enhancing the experience. Blizzard's attention to detail ensures that Overwatch 2 looks and sounds impressive, providing an engaging visual and auditory experience for players.

Fortnite Battle Royale

Fortnite is not just a game; it's a social space where iconic characters from various franchises come together. Whether it's Spider-Man mimicking John Cena's taunt or Indiana Jones dancing to a Dua Lipa song, Fortnite offers unique interactions alongside its gameplay. As a battle royale game, the objective is simple: be the last player or team standing. Epic Games made Fortnite more accessible with the introduction of Zero Build mode, leveling the playing field for new players by eliminating the need for complex building structures.

Fall Guys

Fall Guys offers a unique twist on the battle royale genre, focusing on platforming challenges inspired by shows like MXC or Takeshi’s Castle. Players compete in obstacle-laden rounds, aiming to qualify until only one remains. It's known for its goofiness and pure enjoyment, where winning isn't necessary to have fun. Despite occasional player interference, the game rarely feels malicious. With regular updates adding new levels and cute cosmetics, Fall Guys stays fresh and exciting with each return.

Apex Legends

Apex Legends, from the creators of Titanfall, is a 60-player deathmatch where teams of three compete to be the last squad standing in Kings Canyon. Player’s loot and fight using unique characters like Octane, who can deploy jump pads for tactical advantage. While the majority of characters are accessible for free, certain content like weapon skins and new characters require purchases. If you prefer a more action-packed experience over the cartoonish style of Fortnite and enjoy the gameplay of Titanfall, Apex Legends is a top choice.

Dota 2

Dota 2 boasts one of the most challenging learning curves in gaming. It takes hundreds upon hundreds of hours to grasp the intricate mechanics, learn over 100 unique characters, and master team strategies in this five-on-five MOBA. However, the steep challenge makes big plays and hard-fought victories incredibly satisfying. The game's high skill ceiling ensures there's always more to learn, and reaching the professional ranks could potentially turn a tournament win into overnight millionaire status.

Pokémon Go

When Pokémon Go launched in 2016, it had some notable omissions like trading and player-versus-player trainer battles. Over the years, almost every issue and missing feature has been addressed. While the game isn't perfect, its core activities—walking outdoors, spinning PokéStops, and catching Pokémon—offer a uniquely beneficial experience for Pokémon fans. Daily "research" quests and timed events that increase the appearance of specific Pokémon provide great reasons to log in regularly. Niantic also continues to expand the Pokédex, ensuring that your collection is always evolving and never quite finished.[2]

Call of Duty: Warzone

Fortnite's dominance among younger players was challenged by Call of Duty: Warzone, which gained popularity during the pandemic and has since surpassed 100 million players. The free-to-play battle royale game continues to evolve with new maps, game modes, and weapons. Players drop in solo or as part of a team, scavenging for weapons and items while avoiding a closing gas circle. Warzone introduces unique mechanics like the 'Gulag,' where downed players can fight for a chance to redeploy, and a system for teammates to buy back fallen comrades. The game received a major overhaul with the release of Modern Warfare 2, including a new, expansive map called Al Mazrah and changes to the loadout system.

Rocket League

Rocket League is a simple yet incredibly engaging game where you control a car and aim to score in the opponent's goal while defending your own. Each match is a dynamic experience where players improvise and calculate trajectories in real time. Despite the challenging controls, achieving a well-executed goal feels like a small revelation. Now in its eighth year, Rocket League continues to provide thrilling gameplay that combines strategy with moments of grace and excitement.

Reference:

1. https://www.engadget.com/best-free-games-163045609.html

Cite this article:

Gokila G (2024), Top Free Games In 2024 That You Can Start Playing Right Now, AnaTechMaz, pp.23