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Ranked: The 25 Greatest Free-to-Play Games on Steam
Discover the top 25 free-to-play games on Steam. From MOBAs to battle royale and RPGs, these games offer engaging experiences for all types of gamers.
I don't know if you love playing games, or if you are a PC gaming enthusiast, or if you want to learn more about some of the best free games on Steam. Over the years, free games have become increasingly popular, and game developers have provided players with a variety of high-quality games without requiring them to purchase them in advance. Whether it's from dynamic MOBAs to immersive RPGs and thrilling battle royale games, everyone can find games that suit them. In this article, we will rank the top 25 free games on Steam, providing you with a comprehensive game list, and we believe there will certainly be games here that will offer you your own gaming experience.
The Allure of Free-to-Play Games
The emergence of free-to-play games not only provides high-quality games to a wider audience, but also completely changes the pattern of the game industry. These games often rely on microtransactions and in-game purchases to generate revenue, allowing developers to give them the base game for free. This model has proven successful in many games, and as a result, they have also built a large and dedicated player base. According to a report by Newzoo, the global free-to-play market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, and Steam is one of the main platforms driving this growth.
Ranking the Top 25 Free-to-Play Games on Steam
#1 Dota 2
Dota 2 is one of the most iconic MOBA games on Steam, and is considered one of the best free games on Steam. Developed by Valve, the game offers users an in-depth strategy gaming experience with hundreds of heroes to master. Each hero has unique abilities, ensuring a diverse and engaging experience for players. While Dota 2 can be challenging for newcomers, it's precisely because of its unique gameplay and competitive esports scene that it makes it a top choice for MOBA enthusiasts. And the game will also be updated regularly and have a thriving community, so you will feel very good about playing it.
Image From: PCMag
#2 Apex Legends
Apex Legends has quickly become one of the most popular battle royale games on Steam. It was developed by Respawn Entertainment, and it builds on the success of the Titanfall series, also known as Legends' unique cast of characters, because of the fast-paced combat that this game offers its users. Each character has different abilities and playstyles, catering to different preferences. The game's regular updates and continuous development also make users feel fresh and entice them to play again and again.
Image From: Epic Games
#3 Warframe
Warframe is a high-octane third-person shooter-RPG hybrid that has gained a large following on Steam. Developed by Digital Extremes, this game allows players to take on the role of a superhuman warrior equipped with advanced weapons and abilities. The game's co-op mode encourages teamwork, while its wide range of customization options allows players to customize their experience. With an ever-expanding universe and seasonal content, Warframe offers an endlessly immersive gaming experience.
Image From: Warframe
#4 Path of Exile 2
For fans of challenging and deep RPG experiences, Path of Exile is something they'll all try. Developed by Grinding Gear Games, this dark fantasy action-RPG immerses players in a vast and unforgiving world. The game's isometric cameras and Diablo-like gameplay provide a familiar and engaging experience. With Path of Exile 2 currently in development, there's never been a better time to dive into the original game that started it all.
You may also want to know about the PoE trade:
Image From: Path of Exile
#5 Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO)
If you're looking for a tactical first-person shooter with incredible depth and competitive gameplay, look no further than CS: GO. Developed by Valve, this legendary shooter has stood the test of time with its own objective-based races and strategic maps. Players can choose between terrorists and anti-terrorist units, each with different roles and strategies. The game's active community and professional esports scene have also allowed it to continue to receive lasting popularity.
Image From: Steam
#6 The Sims 4
The Sims 4 offers a unique and creative gaming experience where players can build a family, design a house, and explore a variety of activities in a variety of environments. And since the game was launched for free on Steam in 2022, it has attracted a large number of players. The game's rich simulation elements and endless possibilities also make it one of the best in the simulation genre.
Image From: Steam
#7 The Wizard's Son of the Card game
GWENT, one of the best free games on Steam, is a collectible card game based on the popular The Witcher 3 mini-game. Developed by CD Projekt Red, it offers the traditional CCG formula at its best, in three formats. However, if you play this game, you might want to learn it, as it requires a certain amount of deck management skills, resulting in intense and strategic gameplay. While some cards require real money, Gwent's generous free gifts for new players also make it accessible to all.
#8 Conqueror's Blade
Conqueror's Blade offers massive medieval warfare with tactical variations. Developed by Booming Tech, this MMO puts players in control of an entire army, providing the thrill of commanding troops in battle. The game's detailed combat system and siege mechanics create an immersive medieval experience. Premium memberships and paid DLC can enhance gameplay, but they are not necessary to enjoy the core experience.
Image From: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
#9 RuneScape / Old-school RuneScape
RuneScape and its Old School counterpart provide players with an expansive open-world adventure. Developed by Jagex, the two games also offer users a rich RPG experience with a wide range of skills, trees, quests and a vibrant community. The game's in-depth content and regular updates ensure that players have countless hours of engaging gameplay.
#10 Overwatch 2
Overwatch 2 is a hero shooter that features a diverse cast of characters and fast-paced gameplay. Despite the mixed reviews from users, the game has found its footing with regular updates and a free-to-play mode. The game's hero variety and team-based objectives make it a compelling choice for multiplayer FPS enthusiasts.
Image From: YouTube
#11 War Thunder
War Thunder is a highly detailed military MMO game that covers air, land, and sea battles. Developed by Gaijin Entertainment, the game allows players to fight using vehicles from different eras. While the paid DLC offers faster vehicle access, the base game offers enough depth to satisfy military simulation enthusiasts.
#12 Star Wars: The Old Republic
For Star Wars fans looking for an immersive MMO experience, Star Wars: The Old Republic is the go-to. Players can choose iconic characters such as Jedi Knight or Sith and begin a rich storyline. The game's vibrant community and regular expansions also keep the gaming experience fresh and engaging.
#13 Team Fortress 2
Team Fortress 2 is a classic first-person shooter, especially its cartoon style and diverse class style, both of which users really love. Developed by Valve, it offers engaging team-based gameplay, including modes such as capture-point and payload. Its active community and regular updates maintain its relevance in the competitive FPS landscape.
#14 Splitgate
Splitgate has introduced a creative twist to the FPS genre through its portal-based mechanism. Developed by 1047 Games, this game allows players to create portals for strategic moves and attacks. Its innovative gameplay and aggressive development make it a standout among shooting games.
Image From: Epic Games
#14 Final Fantasy XIV Trial
The trial version of Final Fantasy XIV has a wide range of knowledge about this popular MMO. Players have access to the base game and the Heavensward expansion, offering dozens of hours of content. While there are some limitations, the trial is broad enough to provide a meaningful experience for new players.
#15 Doki Doki Literature Club
Doki Doki Literature Club! It's a visual novel that started out as an addictive dating sim that slowly evolved into a mind-bending experience. It was developed by the Salvato team, and in particular, its twisty narrative pushes the boundaries of the genre. The game's unique approach makes it an unforgettable choice among visual novel lovers.
#16 War Thunder
War Thunder offers a diverse military experience of land, sea, and air combat. Developed by Gaijin Entertainment, it offers detailed simulations andlarge-scale battles. While some of the content needs to be paid, the free version also gives users enough depth to satisfy military simulation enthusiasts.
Image From: Steam
#17 Path of Exile 1
Path of Exile remains a top choice for RPG players looking for depth and challenge. Its extensive skill system and regular updates ensure that players have a rich and engaging experience. As Path of Exile 2 evolved, the original game remained a cornerstone of the free-to-play RPG genre.
#18 The Sims 4
The Sims 4 allows players to create and manage virtual lives with endless possibilities. The game's detailed character customization and world-building tools provide hours of creative fun. Its regular updates and new content provide a fresh experience for simulation enthusiasts.
The Wizard's Son of the Card game
Gwent offers a strategic twist on the CCG genre with its best three formats. Developed by CD Projekt Red, this game offers a deep card game experience with regular updates and new mechanics. The game's free-to-play mode and generous starting gifts make it accessible to new players as well.
#19 Paladins
Paladins is a free-to-play hero-shooter developed by Hi-Rez Studios. Similar to Overwatch, the game features a diverse cast of Champions, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. For example, Ying is a support Champion who can create illusions to heal her allies, while Viktor is a damage-dealing Champion with a powerful minigun and the ability to deploy a shield.
The game offers a variety of game modes, including the popular "Siege" mode, where one team must attack and capture two objectives while the other team defends. Paladins also has a card-based loadout system, which allows players to customize their Champions' abilities further. This adds an extra layer of strategy to the game, as players can choose the cards that best suit their playstyle and the needs of their team. With its colorful art style and engaging gameplay, Paladins is a great choice for fans of hero shooters.
Image From: Epic Games
#20 Eternal Return: Black Survival
Eternal Return: Black Survival is a free royal campaign game with a unique turning point. The game is set on an isolated island, with a roster of characters, and each character has their own background story and ability. What distinguishes it from other Clash Royale games is its attention to character development and craftsmanship, making it one of the best free games on Steam.
When fighting other players, players must search for resources, make items and upgrade their role level. For example, a character can make a powerful weapon or object and give themselves an advantage in battle. The game also has a cycle of day and night, which affects the gameplay. At night, some areas on the island become more dangerous, but they also provide more valuable resources. Eternal Return: Black's strategic depth of survival and unique game mechanics make it stand out in the crowded royal campaign genre.
#21 Rogue Company
Rogue Company is a free third-person shooter game developed by First Watch Games. The feature of this game is that there are all kinds of thieves, and everyone has their own unique gadgets and abilities. For example, Lancer is a thief who can deploy shields to protect himself and his team, while Trench is a sniper who can penetrate walls for a short time.
The game provides a variety of game modes, including a fast-paced "showdown" mode, in which two teams composed of four players compete for the last place. Thief companies also attach great importance to teamwork, because players must coordinate with their teammates in order to effectively use thieves' abilities. With its smooth gameplay, regular updates and fascinating characters, Rogue Company is an excellent choice for fans of third-person shooter games.
#22 Splitgate
Splitgate is a free first-person shooter which combines the fast-paced action of traditional shooters and the unique elements of portals. Developed by 1047 games, the game allows players to create and manipulate portals to gain an advantage in combat. For example, players can use the portal to quickly outflank the enemy, escape from dangerous situations, or surprise their opponents with unexpected attacks.
Image From: Epic Games
The game has a variety of weapons and game modes, including the popular "rule" mode, and the team must capture and control points. Splitgate's unique game mechanism attracts a large number of enthusiastic players, and the game is well-received for its smooth control and balanced gameplay. With its regular updates and growing e-sports scenes, Splitgate is a game that can be watched in the free FPS field.
#23 Forever track and field country
Racing Fanatic Country is always a free racing game developed by Nadeo. There are all kinds of tracks in this game, whether from high-speed tracks or challenging cross-country tracks, you can choose according to your own preferences. What makes TrackMania Nations unique is its track creation tool, which allows players to create their own customized tracks and share them with the community.
The game also has a huge and active online community, which regularly hosts competitions and tournaments. Players can compete in different game modes, such as time trial and elimination. TrackMania Nations Forever's arcade-style game, combined with its creative track construction options, makes it the favorite of racing game fans. Whether you want to race against time or compete with other players, TrackMania Nations always has something for everyone.
#24 Unturned
Unturned is a free survival game developed by Smartly Dressed Games. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world, and the game requires players to survive against zombies, other players and the natural environment. The game features various environments, from small towns to big cities, and players must find resources, build shelters and make weapons to survive.
Unturned also has a powerful multiplayer component that allows players to team up with friends or join the server with other players. The game's simple and fascinating graphics and easy-to-learn gameplay make it acceptable to the majority of players. With its regular updates and a large modification community, Unturned provides rich content and playability. Whether you are a fan of survival games or just looking for an interesting and challenging multiplayer experience, Unturned is worth a try.
#25 The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited
The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited is a free massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG). Developed by ZeniMax Online studio, the game allows players to create their own characters, explore the vast open world, complete tasks, and participate in battles.
Image From: Reddit
This game is characterized by a variety of races, occupations, and skills, allowing a high degree of customization. Players can also join different factions and participate in large-scale PvP battles. The Elder Scrolls Online regularly publishes new content, including the expansion of new areas, tasks, and features. For example, the "Ellsville" expansion has introduced a new area, new tasks, and a new dragon-riding function. With its immersive world, profound legends, and continuous updates, The Elder Scrolls Online is the first choice for MMORPG fans.
Conclusion
These 25 best free games on Steam represent the essence of Steam's free games. From the strategic depth of Dota 2 to the immersive world of RuneScape and the adrenaline that Apex Legends brings you instantly, there will always be a game that can satisfy your preferences. If one doesn't work, try different games. Whether you are a fan of MOBAs, battle royale, or RPGs, these games can provide you with a high-quality experience, and you don't need to spend money to buy them in advance. So, why not start playing these games now and explore the vast and exciting free game world on Steam?
Check out the articles below for more engaging games on other platforms:
Written by
Kimmy
Published on
Jul 2, 2025
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