Are you on the lookout for the best free to play games of 2024? If so, you are in luck as this comprehensive guide ensures that you're well-informed about outstanding games that won't cost you a penny.
The gaming landscape has evolved, and the allure of free-to-play titles continues to rise, offering players diverse experiences across various genres. From innovative battle royales and captivating RPGs to strategic multiplayer experiences, the free-to-play market is teeming with options that cater to every gaming palate.
But, with so many options, it can be tricky to figure out which game is right for you. Don't worry! We're here to help you find the perfect and free-to-play games.
What are the best free-to-play games?
Destiny 2
Remember the hype around the first Destiny? Destiny 2 isn't just riding that wave but challenging the benchmark set by its predecessor. Originally released in 2017 as a pay-to-play game, Destiny 2 is now fully free to avail from the respective online games store.
The central plot of Destiny 2 revolves around saving humanity from the invasion of extraterrestrial lifeforms. Players will assume the roles of Guardians, and they have the chance to compete in PvP and PvE modes along with various quests.
With each expansion, Destiny 2 continually evolves, adding layers to its narrative and keeping players engaged so far. Most importantly, the storytelling is rich, and world-building is immersive, making Destiny 2 not just a shooting game but kind a of space opera.
Destiny 2 is available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows.
Counter-Strike 2
Without a doubt, Counter-Strike is one of the most iconic and successful franchises in the first-person shooter genre. To be more specific, we are talking about Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, which recently received an updated version acknowledged as Counter-Strike 2, bringing lots of enhancements.
The gameplay remains largely the same, with two teams of five members each assuming the roles of terrorists and counter-terrorists in PvP mode. Besides random matchmaking, you can also play with your friends.
Notably, the game demands not only precision shooting skills but also a deep understanding of the game's economic system. While the game has been the subject of constant criticism regarding anti-cheat measures, in recent times, Valve has implemented various anti-cheat measures to maintain fair play.
Valorant
Developed and released in 2020 by Riot Games, Valorant became a first-person shooting sensation within a very short period. Initially assumed to be a direct competitor of Counter-Strike, Valorant managed to find a unique identity and player base by combining elements of tactical shooters with distinct hero-based gameplay.
Also, taking inspiration from Riot's own League of Legends, players can choose a particular agent from a diverse set to begin with. Each has their own abilities that give you a tactical edge over your opponent apart from gunfights. More or less, the gameplay is divided into two teams of 5 players each, attackers and defenders have to secure the rounds like Counter-Strike.
Valorant is free to download from the Epic Games Store or online site. Currently, it is available to play only on PC, while mobile and console versions are underway.
Fortnite
As we witness the continued evolution of gaming, Fortnite remains a beacon, and why not? After all, Fortnite entered the gaming scene during the surge in popularity of the battle royale genre in 2017. The game's Battle Royale mode, where 100 players fight to be the last one standing, appealed to both casual and competitive gamers.
Its colourful and cartoonish graphics, as well as its emotes and dances, resonated particularly well with younger audiences. The addition of a creative mode allows players to design their islands and in-game community.
Although it is free to play, there are various in-game purchases to enhance your avatar's aesthetics. Epic Games made sure to introduce constant events and collaborations to keep players engaged.
Fortnite is available to download on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC.
Rocket League
Rockets, cars, and a giant ball - yeah, Rocket League sounds weird, right? But trust me, this game is like a high-octane experience. Plus, the fast-paced action will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Players control rocket-powered cars, darting across an arena to score goals against an opposing team. The controls are intuitive, allowing players to accelerate, jump, boost, and execute flips with ease. You can either matchmake with randoms or invite your friends,
The game's basic mechanics are simple to grasp, allowing new players to have fun from the start.
Above all, Rocket League doesn't put stress on the system requirements. So, even if you own a mid-end setup, you are good to go.
Genshin Impact
A captivating open-world experience, with breathtaking visuals, and a fantasy RPG experience - this is what you are missing if you haven't heard about the Genshin Impact. Developed by Chinese game developer company miHoYo, Genshin Impact has taken the gaming world by storm.
Genshin Impact follows the story of a traveller searching for his sibilling-making companions in a magical world. The game character roster is equally impressive, featuring a diverse cast of playable characters, each with their elemental abilities and combat styles. There is also an ability to switch between characters seamlessly during battle.
From time to time there will be introductions of new story arcs, characters, and regions, keeping the gaming experience fresh.
Honourable mentions
We are not over here as this list is incomplete without mentioning a few more free-to-play titles:
Game | Platforms |
---|---|
Call of Duty: Warzone | PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S |
Apex Legends | PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, X|S, Nintendo Switch |
Dota 2 | PC, Mac |
Halo Infinite | PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S |
Overwatch 2 | PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch |
Honkai Star Rail | PC, PS5, Mobiles |
League of Legends | PC, Mac |
Smite | PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch |
That is all for the best free-to-play games of 2024. As you are already here you will love to check out our top 10 most-anticipated Soulslike games for 2024.