5 Great Games You Can Play for Free
Play these games when you‘re low on cash (or you simply want to give something a risk-free shot)
You put together a crazy gaming PC, but you spent so much money, you can’t afford to put any games on it. Not to worry! With little or no budget, you can fill your PC with plenty of fantastic games that will keep you busy for hours on end.
Heck, I’m a game collector and my most played time is on Heroes of the Storm, Blizzard’s free-to-play MOBA. However, free-to-play also comes with the stigma that while you can play the game, you might not be able to have any fun unless you’re paying for the content.
I’m here to navigate you to 5 of the best free-to-play games available right now. These games will span multiple genres, and provide you with options you might not have known are available to you.
As a disclaimer, these opinions are my own. I have not been paid or sponsored for any of the games I’ve selected.
Let’s begin.
Guild Wars 2
Yes, this is a 9-year-old game. Yes, you should play Guild Wars 2.
If you’re an MMO junkie like I am, this will definitely scratch that itch. The original Guild Wars was released as a pay-to-play minus the subscription, and Guild Wars 2 began the same way. However, it switched to a free-to-play model shortly thereafter, and only the expansions (as well as a few premium items) will cost you anything.
The playstyle is similar to any tab-targeted MMO, making it easy to dive in. Character creation is fairly extensive and the story is quite deep. You’ll find yourself getting lost for hours in Guild Wars 2, or having a try in stellar PvP play.
If you’re looking to satisfy that MMO yearning, Guild Wars 2 will certainly remedy the situation!
World of Warships
I love battleships. I love seeing them in person, in movies, in games, and in shows. World of Warships allows me to experience these awesome machines for free, and if you’re looking for fast-paced shooting action, you can get that too!
When you log in, you’re given a few different warships that can eventually be upgraded, and with enough experience, you can purchase other ships (however, you typically need to own the preceding ship in a tech tree). I currently own a variety of destroyers, cruisers, and battleships from all sorts of countries.
Matches are fairly quick, usually taking 10 minutes, and if you’re sunk, you’re free to leave the match at any point. The only downside is that you can’t use that ship until the match ends. This makes it useful to own multiple ships.
While the premium items are pretty expensive, I’ve put over 90 hours into the game and I can say that you can enjoy yourself with the player-earned ships.
If you’re looking for fast-paced naval action, World of Warships does not disappoint.
Heroes of the Storm
My love for Heroes of the Storm is well-documented, but it seems to be having a resurgence lately. A MOBA containing some of the most beloved Blizzard characters was certainly going to turn some heads. If you’re interested in a full description, check out my previous story here.
New players logging in are given 3 heroes for free and are able to earn more through the loot box system, as well as earning “gold” and other in-game currency from winning matches. There is also a weekly rotation of free heroes that allows players to try something new.
For a limited time, all heroes are available to try out, so get in there and play as anyone.
Heroes of the Storm will provide hours (for me, years!) of enjoyment, if it’s excellent team-based action you’re looking for.
Call of Duty: Warzone
A free battle-royale that isn’t Fortnite? When it comes to shooters, I prefer the first-person point-of-view, as well as modern weaponry. Warzone definitely delivers that look and feel of a gritty, yet responsive FPS battle-royale.
While the menu is less than perfect, the gameplay speaks for itself. The ability to customize “perfect” load-outs and earn cosmetic rewards and rank will keep you coming back.
Warzone is the perfect experience for anyone wanting to try their hand at a battle-royale that is free and doesn’t include a building section.
Dissidia Final Fantasy NT
Dissidia NT is an excellent 3D fighter that allows you to control some of your favorite Final Fantasy characters. The music keeps you in the moment, and the tight controls make it easy to fight.
When I traveled to Japan a couple of years ago, Dissidia Final Fantasy NT was everywhere in arcades. I played a bunch of games and had a blast. I came home and bought the game. Shortly thereafter, it went free-to-play with a rotation of free characters. You can’t go wrong by jumping in the game and trying it out.
If you were hoping for a fighting game on this list, I’ve got your back. Check out Dissidia Final Fantasy NT for that free fighting experience!
Honorable Mention: Genshin Impact
I didn’t include Genshin Impact, because I wanted to expand the list. Otherwise, this would at the top. This action RPG-style anime game has really taken off and is incredibly fun to play. The furious pace of combat, as well as the beautiful visuals really make for a great experience.
There you have it, 5 (well, really 6) of the best free games available for you to play right now. Whatever your favorite type of game, one of these games will keep your attention, and make that new PC shine!
Did I miss a free game you love? Let me know in the comments!
