While video game consoles are great for playing with friends and family, PCs are often the preferred choice for single-player games. This is partly because the keyboard and mouse combination offers more functionality than console controllers, and PCs are also upgradeable. In addition, gaming computers can be built to suit a range of budgets, and PC gamers also have access to mods.
With all that in mind, let’s take a look at the top 10 single-player games for PC that you should definitely check out. These titles offer immersive and engaging gameplay experiences that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a fan of action, role-playing, or adventure, there’s something here for everyone.
Table of Contents
Single-Player Games for PC
- Control
- Age of Empires IV
- Death Stranding
- Cyberpunk 2077
- Red Dead Redemption 2
- Halo
- Grand Theft Auto V
- Forza Horizon 5
- Elden Ring
- Cities Skylines
1. Control: A Surreal Single-Player Game That Defies Reality
Control is a unique and captivating single-player game that takes players into a world where reality doesn’t quite behave as expected. Featuring bizarre entities and other surreal characters, this game offers a rich and fascinating supernatural world to explore.
In Control, you play as Jesse Faden, a young woman searching for her missing brother, Dylan, who disappeared 17 years ago. As Jesse arrives at the Federal Bureau of Control (FBC) building, she finds that it is under lockdown due to an attack by extradimensional entities called The Hiss. Jesse must use her telekinetic powers to pick up heavy objects and throw them at The Hiss as she searches for Dylan and helps defeat the threat.
While Control may not have achieved blockbuster sales, selling over 2 million copies since its release in 2019, it is still a game that any gamer should not miss. With its unique setting and compelling gameplay, Control is an unforgettable gaming experience.
2. Age of Empires IV: A Highly Anticipated Single-Player PC Game
Age of Empires is a beloved franchise known for its high-quality, single-player PC games, and Age of Empires IV is the latest and most highly anticipated addition to the series. Set in the Middle Ages, this real-time strategy game puts players in the role of a ruler tasked with building and defending their own empire.
Players can recruit and train a variety of units, including knights, archers, and trebuchets, and use them to defend against enemy attacks and launch their own offensives. Researching new technologies is also an important aspect of the game, as it allows players to unlock new abilities and strengthen their empire.
Age of Empires IV provides a good challenge that has kept players engaged for hours on end, and it has also retained the look and feel of previous games in the series, adding a touch of nostalgia for long-time fans. Since its release, the game has sold over 25 million copies, and on its opening weekend, almost 74,000 people were playing it on the Steam game distribution platform. If you’re a fan of real-time strategy games, Age of Empires IV is a must-play.
3. Death Stranding: A Surreal, Single-Player Adventure from Hideo Kojima
Death Stranding is a unique and imaginative game from the mind of Hideo Kojima, the creator of the iconic Metal Gear franchise. Set in a surreal world filled with stunning landscapes, you’ll play as Sam, a porter played by actor Norman Reedus, who must navigate treacherous terrain and make deliveries to outposts.
But Sam’s job is made much harder by the presence of BTs, mysterious entities that threaten his safety and make his deliveries extremely dangerous. Despite the challenges, Death Stranding offers a rich and unusual storyline that keeps players engaged and coming back for more.
With more than 5 million copies sold, Death Stranding has been praised by many as a masterpiece and a must-play for fans of single-player games. So if you’re looking for a unique and immersive gaming experience, don’t miss out on Death Stranding.
4. Cyberpunk 2077: A First-Person Shooter Set in a Fictitious City
Cyberpunk 2077 is an action-packed first-person shooter set in the bustling, neon-lit Night City. Players take on the role of V, a mercenary trying to make ends meet in a world full of danger and intrigue. As V navigates the city’s criminal underworld, he begins to experience strange and unsettling occurrences.
It turns out that these experiences are caused by a cybernetic implant that threatens to take over V’s body and mind. The implant holds the personality of Johnny Silverhand, a former band member with a short fuse and a penchant for violence, played by actor Keanu Reeves. As V struggles to keep Johnny Silverhand at bay, he must also perform a series of missions to uncover the truth behind the implant and save himself from its deadly grip.
Cyberpunk 2077 is known for its impressive array of implants, which give characters like V and other NPCs special abilities and enhancements. These implants are a key feature of the game, allowing players to customize their characters and playstyle in a variety of ways. So if you’re a fan of first-person shooters with a futuristic twist, Cyberpunk 2077 is a game you won’t want to miss.
5. Red Dead Redemption 2: A Single-Player Shooter Set in the Wild West
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a critically acclaimed single-player shooter set in the wild west of 1899. Players take on the role of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw struggling with tuberculosis, as they explore beautifully designed towns, cities, and countryside.
Arthur’s goal is to help protect and provide for the rest of his gang, hoping to score a big payout that will allow them to retire and live a simpler life. But not all of Arthur’s companions can be trusted, and he must navigate a web of deceit and betrayal as he tries to stay one step ahead.
Red Dead Redemption 2 has been a massive success, selling over 44 million copies since its release. Developed by Rockstar Studios, the same team behind GTA V, this game is a must-play for fans of single-player shooters and the wild west genre.
6. Halo: A Timeless Single-Player Game with Stunning Graphics and Gameplay
Halo is a groundbreaking single-player game that took the gaming world by storm when it was first released in 2001. The Master Chief Collection is a compilation of six Halo games that offers players even more gameplay and value.
In Halo, players control Master Chief Petty Officer John-117, a skilled warrior tasked with fighting against The Covenant, an alien species that seeks to destroy human worlds. With its stunning graphics and immersive gameplay, Halo remains one of the best single-player games on PC.
While no sales figures are available specifically for the Master Chief Collection, the first Halo game alone sold over 5 million copies. If you’re a fan of single-player games and haven’t played Halo yet, you’re in for a treat.
7. Grand Theft Auto V: A Highly Successful Single-Player Game Set in a Fictional City
The Grand Theft Auto franchise is one of the most successful single-player games ever released on PC, and Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) is no exception. In this open-world game, players explore the fictional city of Los Santos as they control three different characters, each with their own unique objectives.
As criminal masterminds, these characters are always looking for ways to make more money and gain power. Players can engage in shootouts with the police or other NPCs, complete missions, and use a wide variety of vehicles (including BMX bikes and tow trucks) to navigate the city.
With over 165 million copies sold, GTA V ranks as the second best-selling PC game of all time, just behind Minecraft, which has sold a staggering 240 million copies worldwide. If you’re a fan of open-world games and high-stakes criminal activity, GTA V is a must-play.
8. Forza Horizon 5: A Fun and Fast-Paced Racing Game for Single Players
Forza Horizon 5 is an arcade-style racing game that puts the focus on fun and excitement. While players can compete in races against other players, the game can also be enjoyed at your own pace.
In Forza Horizon 5, you’ll have the chance to take control of a wide variety of vehicles, from everyday sedans and off-road trucks to the latest and greatest supercars. You’ll also race against planes and other vehicles as you complete challenges and explore the stunning scenery of Mexico. With hundreds of cars to choose from, including classic vehicles to discover, there’s always something new to try in Forza Horizon 5.
Just two months after its release, Forza Horizon 5 had sold over 15 million copies, outpacing its predecessor, Forza Horizon 4, which has sold over 10 million copies. If you’re a fan of racing games and want a fun and fast-paced single-player experience, Forza Horizon 5 is a must-play.
9. Elden Ring: A Fantasy Role-Playing Game with a Vast World to Explore
Elden Ring is a popular role-playing game that transports players to a world of magic and fantasy. In this vast and immersive world, you’ll encounter a wide range of interesting characters who may become allies or enemies as you progress through the game.
As Tarnished, a customizable character on a quest to become the new Elden Lord, you’ll have control over a variety of magic spells and weapons for defense and offense. Crafting skills will also be crucial to your success, as you’ll need to create potions and other tools to aid you on your journey.
Since its release, Elden Ring has sold over 13 million copies, making it the best-selling title for its developer, Bandai Namco. If you’re a fan of role-playing games and want to explore a world filled with magic and mystery, Elden Ring is a must-play.
10. Cities Skylines: A Detailed and Impressive City-Building Game
Cities Skylines is a city-building game like no other, offering a level of detail and impressive graphics that surpasses previous games in the genre, like SimCity. Players can add incredible amounts of detail to their cities, sometimes making it difficult to distinguish screenshots from the game from real life.
If you enjoy building and managing cities, Cities Skylines is a must-play. You’ll build buildings by assigning zones to districts and automatically constructing the buildings, but you’ll also have a say in how many buildings are developed by providing the necessary services to your citizens. You’ll also need to deal with traffic and design your transportation network to minimize congestion.
Since its release, Cities Skylines has sold over 22 million copies, with 250,000 sold in the first week alone. If you’re a fan of city-building games, don’t miss out on this impressive and detailed title.
Discover Your Favorite Single-Player Game for PC
With so many single-player games available for PC, it can be difficult to decide which one is best for you. Different gamers tend to prefer different genres, so the best game for you will largely depend on your personal preferences.
Whether you enjoy simple kids’ games or more complex titles for adults, there are plenty of solo games to choose from in a wide range of genres. It’s always a good idea to research a game before making a decision, to get a sense of what it’s all about and whether it’s right for you.
Regardless of your preferences, you’ll have no shortage of single-player games to choose from for your PC, with new titles being released all the time. So take some time to explore the options and discover your new favorite game.
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Common FAQs: –
- What are the best single-player games for PC?
There are many great single-player games for PC, but some popular choices include Red Dead Redemption 2, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Control, Halo, and Forza Horizon 5.
- Can you play single-player games on a console?
Yes, many single-player games are also available on console platforms such as Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.
- Are single-player games still popular?
Yes, single-player games are still popular and continue to be released by developers. Many players enjoy the immersive and engaging storylines and gameplay that single-player games offer.
- How do I find single-player games for PC?
There are many ways to find single-player games for PC, including browsing online game stores like Steam, checking out recommendations from friends or gaming websites, and looking for popular titles in your preferred genre.
- Are single-player games cheaper than multiplayer games?
It’s not necessarily true that single-player games are cheaper than multiplayer games. Prices can vary depending on the game, its developer, and its popularity.
- Do single-player games have a replay value?
Many single-player games have a replay value, as players may want to play through the game multiple times to experience different outcomes or try different playstyles. Some games also offer multiple endings or branching storylines that add to their replay value.
- Can you play single-player games offline?
Yes, many single-player games can be played offline, although some may require an internet connection for certain features or updates.
- Do single-player games require a high-end PC?
The requirements for single-player games can vary, and some games may require a higher
