Revisiting the Best PC Games of 2020: A Look Back at Top Titles from the First Half

The first half of 2020 delivered a phenomenal array of experiences for PC gamers, truly showcasing the platform’s versatility and power. The accompanying video provides a quick glimpse into some of these standout titles, but it’s worth delving deeper into what made these selections the best PC games of 2020 during those initial months. From tactical shooters to grand strategy epics and nostalgic remasters, the gaming landscape offered something for every enthusiast, setting a high bar for the rest of the year.

This period was characterized by a fascinating mix of innovative new IPs pushing boundaries and beloved classics receiving modern makeovers. Many players found themselves torn between fast-paced competitive action and deeply immersive single-player narratives. However, one consistent theme was the sheer quality of content available, catering to diverse preferences across the gaming community.

Action-Packed Adventures and Immersive Worlds

Action games dominated many wishlists, offering adrenaline-pumping combat and compelling storylines. Titles like Doom Eternal epitomized the genre, delivering relentless, high-octane gameplay that pushed both player skill and graphical fidelity. Its combat loop, famously dubbed “push-forward combat,” demanded aggressive play, rewarding players for engaging enemies head-on rather than seeking cover.

Conversely, the Resident Evil 3 Remake provided a masterclass in survival horror, expertly blending action sequences with terrifying creature encounters. The reimagining of Jill Valentine’s escape from Raccoon City, pursued by the relentless Nemesis, captivated audiences with its updated graphics and tense atmosphere. While the original was a classic, the remake successfully brought its scares to a new generation while respecting the source material.

Revitalized Classics and Nostalgic Journeys

Remasters and remakes continued to prove incredibly popular, allowing players to revisit cherished memories with a fresh coat of paint. Saints Row 3 Remastered, for instance, took the chaotic open-world action of its predecessor and polished it for modern systems, enhancing visuals and performance. The game’s signature irreverent humor and over-the-top missions found new life, reminding players why it was a fan favorite.

Similarly, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Campaign Remastered offered a chance to relive one of gaming’s most iconic single-player campaigns with updated graphics and sound. Although it lacked the multiplayer component of the original, the narrative depth and unforgettable set pieces still resonated strongly with players. This remaster served as a powerful reminder of the impactful storytelling present in earlier Call of Duty titles.

Streets of Rage 4 also made a triumphant return, revitalizing the classic beat ’em up genre with stunning hand-drawn visuals and fluid combat. It successfully captured the essence of the arcade originals while introducing new characters and mechanics. Fans of retro gaming, as well as newcomers, praised its faithful yet fresh approach to a beloved franchise.

Epic RPGs and Grand Strategy

The RPG landscape was equally vibrant, with titles offering vast worlds and deep character progression. Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot allowed fans to step into the shoes of Goku and relive iconic moments from the anime with a unique blend of open-world exploration and intense combat. The ability to fly freely and unleash devastating attacks like the Kamehameha proved incredibly satisfying for long-time fans of the series.

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord, an eagerly anticipated sequel, launched into early access and immediately immersed players in a medieval sandbox filled with large-scale battles and intricate kingdom management. This game uniquely blends strategy, RPG, and simulation elements, allowing players to forge their own destinies in a war-torn land. During battles, intricate damage models come into play; for example, a mount might receive 65 Pierce damage to the head from an arrow, or 82 Pierce damage to the shoulder, with precise calculations for missile speed and absorbed damage. This level of detail in combat mechanics significantly contributes to the game’s realistic and engaging experience.

Competitive Edge and Unique Experiences

Multiplayer games continued to dominate, with new entries shaking up the competitive scene. Valorant, Riot Games’ tactical first-person shooter, quickly established itself as a major contender, blending precise gunplay with character-specific abilities. Its unique combination of Counter-Strike-esque shooting mechanics and hero-shooter elements drew in millions, creating a thriving esports scene almost overnight.

Call of Duty: Warzone, a free-to-play battle royale, also made a massive impact, offering large-scale combat across an expansive map. Its innovative Gulag mechanic, giving downed players a chance to re-enter the fight, set it apart from other games in the genre. Warzone quickly became a go-to for players seeking intense, high-stakes multiplayer action with friends.

Beyond the mainstream, innovative titles offered fresh perspectives. The Pedestrian presented a unique puzzle-platformer experience where players manipulated street signs and public transportation maps to navigate a 2D world within a 3D environment. This creative approach to puzzle-solving earned it critical acclaim for its ingenuity and charming execution.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps, a breathtaking Metroidvania, delivered a poignant narrative alongside stunning visuals and fluid platforming. The game built upon its predecessor’s foundation, offering an expanded world, new abilities, and deeply emotional storytelling. Its intricate level design and challenging boss fights were celebrated by players and critics alike, making it one of the most visually impressive and heartfelt PC titles of 2020.

Niche Genres and Unexpected Delights

Even in specialized genres, the first half of 2020 saw significant releases. SnowRunner offered a unique off-road simulation, challenging players to conquer extreme terrain with powerful vehicles. Its realistic physics and complex environmental challenges provided a deeply engaging experience for those who enjoyed methodical, physics-based gameplay. Success in SnowRunner often required strategic planning and careful resource management.

Gears Tactics brought the brutal combat of the Gears of War universe to the tactical turn-based strategy genre. It merged the series’ iconic aesthetic and weighty combat with deep strategic elements, creating a fresh take on both the Gears franchise and the tactical genre itself. This title successfully proved that the Gears universe could thrive beyond its traditional third-person shooter roots.

Deep Rock Galactic, a cooperative first-person shooter, continued to gain traction with its unique blend of sci-fi mining, procedural generation, and dwarf-centric humor. Players teamed up to explore dangerous alien caverns, mine resources, and fight off hordes of hostile creatures. Its focus on teamwork and distinctive classes made it a standout co-op experience for many PC gamers.

Finally, Legends of Runeterra, a digital collectible card game set in the League of Legends universe, offered an accessible yet strategically deep experience. It differentiated itself with innovative mechanics and a generous free-to-play model, attracting both card game veterans and newcomers. The game’s dynamic combat and emphasis on player agency made it a strong competitor in the CCG space.

The first half of 2020 truly spoiled PC gamers with an incredible range of choices. From intense competitive shooters like Valorant and Call of Duty: Warzone to narrative-rich experiences like Ori and the Will of the Wisps, the diversity and quality of these top PC games of 2020 highlight a vibrant and innovative industry. These titles collectively contributed to a memorable year in gaming, cementing their places in many players’ hearts and hard drives.