1. Fortnite
Genre: Battle Royale / Creative Sandbox
Platform: PC (Epic Games Launcher)
Why It’s Popular:
Fortnite is more than a shooter—it’s a platform. With Creative Mode, Unreal Editor tools, and regular collabs (from LEGO to music events), this live-service game packs variety into every match. Expect seasonal maps, huge tournaments, and endless custom creations.
2. Apex Legends
Genre: Hero Shooter / Battle Royale
Platform: PC (Steam or EA App)
Why It’s Popular:
Fast, fluid, and team-focused—Apex blends unique playable Legends with tactical gunplay and movement. With each season offering new maps, characters, and lore expansions, Apex remains one of the finest free FPS options.
TechRadarGamesRadar+
3. Counter‑Strike 2 (CS2)
Genre: Tactical Shooter
Platform: PC (Steam)
Why It’s Popular:
The next-gen version of CS:GO using Source 2 engine, Counter‑Strike 2 delivers precision gameplay, competitive ranking, and a massive esports scene. Its refined feel and continuous updates keep core fans hooked.
PC GamerGameSpot
4. Warframe
Genre: Sci‑fi Action / Co‑op PvE
Platform: PC (Steam/Epic)
Why It’s Popular:
Warframe evolves constantly: space ninja combat, open-world zones, and cinematic quests. The depth of customization and PvE modes like Railjack and Plains of Elysium attract loyal players—even after years.
TechRadar+29meters+2
5. League of Legends
Genre: MOBA
Platform: PC (Riot Games Launcher)
Why It’s Popular:
A MOBA titan with 150+ champions, evolving meta, and one of the largest esports ecosystems. Whether you’re climbing ranked matches or exploring new questlines, LoL delivers competitive depth and constant updates.
en.wikipedia.orgTechRadar
6. Dota 2
Genre: MOBA
Platform: PC (Steam)
Why It’s Popular:
The other side of the MOBA coin—Dota 2 offers deeper mechanics, massive events like The International, and an unmatched complexity that rewards strategic mastery. Tons of free cosmetics and seasonal content keep players engaged.
9metersTechRadar
7. Rocket League
Genre: Sports / Racing
Platform: PC (Epic Games)
Why It’s Popular:
Soccer with cars—sounds wild, but Rocket League nails it. High-skill aerial mechanics, team play, and creative modes (Hoops, Hockey) make it endlessly replayable—and free to boot.
GameSpot
8. Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout
Genre: Platform / Battle Royale
Platform: PC (Steam, Epic)
Why It’s Popular:
Up to 32 players race through chaotic obstacle courses in adorable bean-shaped costumes. Silly physics, meme-able moments, and nighttime TV-friendly gameplay define its charm. Its free-to-play launch widened cross-platform availability in 2025.
digitaluin.com+1
9. Crusader Kings II (Free Version)
Genre: Grand Strategy
Platform: PC (Steam)
Why It’s Popular:
Get centuries of medieval drama for free. While expansions cost extra, the base CK2 lets players manage dynasties, forge alliances, and navigate betrayals. It’s complex, historic, and endlessly replayable.
GamesRadar+TechRadar
10. Strat‑per‑Arena Shooter (Straftat)
Genre: Arena FPS (Freeware)
Platform: PC (Steam or standalone)
Why It’s Popular:
A nostalgic throwback to Quake/CStrike-style maps with sliding, wall-running, and fast duels. Features dozens of maps, zero microtransactions, and polish worthy of genre classics. Fans praise its clean mechanics and tight controls.
en.wikipedia.org
Bonus Titles to Explore
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FragPunk: 2025’s hero shooter with shard cards and tactical team modes. Strong early popularity
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ENA: Dream BBQ: A surreal indie exploration game that drew a large audience on launch
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Cubic Odyssey: Sandbox survival meets sci-fi voxel world, released with free demo and positive reception