Game Recs

10 best free games you can play right now

Free-to-play is here to stay.

by Robin Bea
Updated: 
Originally Published: 

One of the best ways to stretch your gaming budget is by devoting time to free-to-play video games. They cost nothing to play but often incentivize in-game purchases.

With countless free-to-play games to choose from, here are our 10 favorites that you need to try ASAP.

10. Star Wars: The Old Republic (PC)

The Old Republic is a rare massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that actually has a story worth exploring, complete with separate Light and Dark side paths à la Knights of the Old Republic.

9. Among Us (mobile)

Maybe the most fun you can have while lying to your friends, Among Us became a much-needed social outlet over the past year, and it’s free on mobile.

8. Hearthstone (PC, mobile)

There's plenty of competition when it comes to free-to-play card games, but Hearthstone remains at the top of the deck with an approachable introduction and frequent expansions.

7. Path of Exile (PC, PS4, Xbox One)

Path of Exile distinguishes itself from other Diablo-like action role-playing games with a deep skill tree and regular updates that introduce transformative new game modes.

6. Dauntless (PC, PS4, Switch, Xbox One)

After reinventing itself several times, this free co-op take on Monster Hunter’s hunt-and-loot formula is the best it’s ever been.

5. Apex Legends (PC, PS4, Xbox One)

Apex Legends blends the best of the battle royale and hero shooter genres with just enough Titanfall references to keep fans hoping for a crossover some day.

4. Call of Duty: Warzone (PC, PS4, Xbox One)

Frequent updates and Call of Duty’s polished gunplay keep Warzone one of the most popular battle royale games in an extremely crowded field.

3. Destiny 2 (PC, PS4, Xbox One)

Destiny 2 has had its ups and downs, but its tight core gameplay and deep (some would say impenetrable) lore keep players coming back.

2. Final Fantasy XIV (PC, PS4)

FFXIV’s generous trial makes the entire base game and excellent first expansion free, giving you hundreds of hours to decide whether it’s worth full price.

1. Genshin Impact (PC, PS4, mobile)

Despite early criticism for its Breath of the Wild-inspired look, Genshin Impact won over players with its combo-based gameplay and huge cast of likeable characters.