Search free PC games by keyword

4X (7)

GAME GENRE – 4X games are strategy games based on the “4X” principles: eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, and eXterminate. Players lead their empires to victory by conquering territories, researching technologies, discovering new lands or planetary systems, building units, and waging war against opponents.
Popular non-free 4X strategy games include Master of Orion, Civilization, Galactic Civilizations, and Stellaris.

action puzzle (15)

GAME GENRE – Action puzzle games combine elements of both action and puzzle genres. They challenge players to think quickly, react swiftly, and solve problems under pressure. Players complete tasks such as manipulating objects, solving puzzles, or clearing obstacles in fast-paced, action-oriented environments. Many action puzzle games include time limits or other pressure mechanics to heighten the excitement.

action-adventure (8)

GAME GENRE – Action-adventure games combine elements of both action and adventure genres. They may include action sequences in a traditional adventure game, or a platformer with adventure features such as an inventory, story, or exploration. First-person survival/horror games are also often classified as action-adventures.

adult / erotic (74)

WARNING: ADULTS ONLY!
The contents in this section and the games in this list are intended for mature audiences. If you are under 18 years old, we kindly ask you to exit this section.

ancient history (8)

GAME SETTING – Pyramids rising from desert sands, gladiators clashing in crowded arenas, philosophers debating beneath marble columns—if it belongs to the world of ancient history, video games have found a way to bring it back to life. Free games are no exception. From the battlefields of Rome to the mysteries of Egypt, indie and freeware creators keep digging into the past to craft experiences steeped in myth, conquest, and timeless legends.

anime (80)

Anime graphics are a visual style inspired by Japanese animation, characterized by stylized characters, expressive facial features, large eyes, and vibrant colors. In video games, this aesthetic emphasizes dramatic poses, dynamic action, and often exaggerated emotions to convey personality and story. Popularized through JRPGs, visual novels, and fighting games, anime graphics can range from 2D sprite art to fully 3D-rendered worlds, maintaining the distinctive anime look. Games like Persona, Dragon Ball FighterZ, and Ni no Kuni showcase this style. Anime graphics combine artistry and storytelling, creating visually striking worlds that appeal to fans of both gaming and Japanese animation.

arcade (42)

GAME GENRE – An arcade video game, often called an "arcade game," is designed to be played in public venues known as arcades. Typically coin-operated and housed in dedicated cabinets, these games provide a quick, engaging gaming experience for a fee. Arcade games have played a major role in the video game industry and popular entertainment for decades.

arena (11)

artillery (7)

GAME GENRE – An artillery video game is a type of strategy game that simulates battles where players control units capable of launching projectiles, such as cannons, missiles, or other long-range weapons. The main objective is to accurately aim and fire to damage or destroy enemy forces or achieve specific goals. Success often requires precise calculations, strategic thinking, and a solid understanding of physics.

ASCII games (32)

A few decades ago, ASCII games—also known as text-based games—were quite popular. Why? Simply because early home computers weren’t capable of much in terms of graphics. But even as technology advanced, the appeal of ASCII games never completely disappeared. By stripping away most of the visuals, developers could focus on gameplay, depth, and complexity. Dwarf Fortress and ASCII Sector are perfect examples of how intricate text-based games can be.
And then there are MUDs (Multi-User Dungeons): text-based, old-school multiplayer RPGs with even fewer visuals than ASCII roguelikes, yet full of community-driven storytelling and interaction.
ASCII gaming isn’t for everyone, but some of these titles may surprise you—so don’t dismiss them until you’ve given them a try.

base building (17)

Base building games focuses on creating and managing a hub that grows over time. Players gather resources, construct structures, and expand their settlement while balancing efficiency and survival. Progression often follows a tech tree, unlocking new buildings and upgrades. Some games emphasize creativity in layout and design, while others stress defense, requiring fortifications and automated systems to withstand enemies or disasters. Subgenres range from strategy-driven titles like StarCraft, where bases fuel armies, to survival-oriented games like RimWorld or Factorio, where careful planning ensures survival. At its core, base building is about growth, resilience, and creative problem-solving.

board game (9)

GAME GENRE – A board game video game, often called a "digital board game," is a video game that recreates the experience of playing traditional board games. These digital adaptations aim to capture both the gameplay and social interaction of board games, allowing players to enjoy them on a variety of platforms, including PCs, consoles, and mobile devices.

brawler (7)

GAME GENRE – A video game brawler, often called a "brawler," is a subgenre of action games that focuses on close-quarters combat, hand-to-hand fighting, or melee battles. Brawlers typically feature characters facing multiple opponents, either in side-scrolling or 3D environments, with gameplay revolving around defeating waves of enemies or engaging in one-on-one fights.

casual (102)

In gaming, casual describes games that are easy to pick up and play, without demanding long hours or steep learning curves. They’re designed to be approachable and stress-free, letting players enjoy quick sessions or relaxed experiences without worrying about complex mechanics or intense competition. Casual games can be anything from simple puzzles and match-three challenges to light simulators or story-driven adventures, offering entertainment that fits easily into everyday life and doesn’t require hardcore dedication.

city building (6)

GAME GENRE – City-building games are strategy games in which players manage the development of a city by constructing infrastructure, building houses, and, as the game progresses, overseeing the economy.
Popular non-free city-building games include the SimCity series, Pharaoh, Caesar, and Cities: Skylines.

co-op (27)

collectible card game (16)

GAME GENRE – Trading card games (also known as collectible card games, or CCGs) revolve around playing and collecting cards. Players progress by winning turn-based matches to acquire new cards, which are often organized by type and rarity. Some CCGs also allow players to spend real money to purchase in-game currency for booster packs or individual cards.

comedy (46)

In gaming, comedy is all about making players laugh. It shows up in ridiculous situations, over-the-top characters, or dialogue that’s so clever—or absurd—you can’t help but grin. Sometimes it’s silly physics, sometimes it’s biting satire, but the goal is the same: to keep things fun and unpredictable. Comedy can sneak into any type of game, from adventures to RPGs to simulators, turning even ordinary mechanics or stories into moments that feel delightfully unexpected and full of personality.

Commodore 64 remake (8)

The Commodore 64, released in 1982, is one of the most iconic home computers ever made. Famous for its affordability and versatility, it featured a MOS Technology 6510 CPU, 64 KB of RAM, and advanced graphics and sound for its time thanks to the VIC-II chip and the legendary SID sound chip. It became a global success, selling over 17 million units, and offered thousands of games, from platformers to RPGs. Beyond gaming, it supported programming, music creation, and productivity software. The C64 fostered a passionate community of coders and gamers, leaving a legacy still celebrated in retro computing today.

contemporary (75)

GAME SETTING – Busy city streets, shadowy conspiracies, high-tech warfare, everyday dramas in ordinary homes—if it feels like the contemporary world, video games have captured it. Free games are no exception. From gritty crime thrillers to sharp political satires, indie and freeware creators keep turning today’s headlines and modern life into interactive stories that feel both familiar and unsettling.

controller support (37)

If you prefer not to use a mouse and keyboard, or simply want to play comfortably on the couch with a controller in both hands, these games are for you. Some of these free games offer full controller support, while others provide only partial compatibility.

crafting (42)

Crafting video games revolve around collecting resources and combining them to create tools, weapons, structures, or other useful items. Crafting emphasizes experimentation and progression, where players start with basic materials—like wood, stone, or metal—and gradually unlock more complex recipes. Crafting often supports survival, exploration, or combat, providing the means to thrive in hostile environments or expand creativity. Many games feature open-ended systems that encourage players to discover efficient combinations or design unique items. Titles like Minecraft, Terraria, and Subnautica exemplify the genre, where crafting transforms raw resources into the backbone of adventure, survival, and innovation.

crime (11)

GAME SETTING – Bank heists gone wrong, detectives chasing shadows through rain-soaked alleys, gang wars spilling into neon-lit streets—if it reeks of crime, video games have made it their playground. Free games are no exception. From noir-inspired mysteries to over-the-top shootouts, indie and freeware creators keep drawing from the endless drama of the underworld, where every choice could mean fortune, betrayal, or a bullet in the dark.

cyberpunk (6)

Cyberpunk emerged in the 1980s, shaped by visionary authors such as William Gibson and Bruce Sterling. But what exactly is cyberpunk? Imagine a grim, dystopian future where neon-lit skyscrapers loom over crime-ridden streets, technology has become both salvation and addiction, and humanity blurs with machines. It’s a world of hackers, drug addicts, and augmented rebels struggling to survive in societies ruled by megacorporations.
Gibson’s groundbreaking novel Neuromancer didn’t just redefine science fiction—it also made its way into video games, inspiring developers to bring this bleak, high-tech world to life. The genre spawned classics such as Syndicate, the dark point-and-click DreamWeb, the RPG BloodNet, and the cinematic Rise of the Dragon. Cyberpunk in gaming never truly died. Modern titles like Shadowrun Returns and Cyberpunk 2077 prove that the genre still thrives, constantly reimagining the tension between man and machine.
Notable cyberpunk video games: Syndicate, Shadowrun Returns, Deus Ex, Cyberpunk 2077.

dark, gothic (21)

Demons from the underworld, vampires resting in coffins, noir murder mysteries—these are all themes steeped in dark and gothic atmosphere. Many games draw inspiration from such gloomy settings, often reflected in their stark black-and-white palettes (with a splash of red… for the blood, naturally). So, what’s your pick? A horror-themed adventure? A bleak sci-fi tale? A moody detective story? The shadows are waiting—choose your poison.

dating sim (9)

GAME GENRE – A dating sim, short for "dating simulation," is a type of video game that focuses on interpersonal relationships, usually romantic, between the player’s character and other in-game characters. These games often combine elements of visual novels, interactive storytelling, and simulation to let players pursue romantic or platonic connections.
Players typically assume the role of a customizable character and navigate a story by making choices that shape relationships and influence outcomes, often leading to multiple possible endings, including different romantic conclusions.
In a dating sim, you typically assume the role of a character, often with customizable attributes or backgrounds. You navigate through a story, making choices at various points that influence the development of your character's relationships with other characters in the game. The choices you make can lead to different outcomes, including various romantic endings with one of the characters.

deathmatch (14)

demake (6)

A demake is when a modern video game is reimagined as if it had been released decades earlier, on older hardware with strict limitations. Instead of polishing the visuals or expanding the mechanics, like a remake would, a demake strips them down—textures become chunky, polygons blocky, music more chiptune than orchestral. It’s an artistic exercise in asking “what if this cutting-edge title had come out on the NES, the PlayStation, or even in the arcades of the ’80s?” Fans often create them as tributes, and the charm lies in seeing how something vast and technically complex translates into the language of older gaming eras. It’s not just nostalgia; it’s a playful exploration of how design adapts when technology is dialed back.

dungeon crawl (23)

Dungeon crawling was the core objective in the very first CRPGs (Computer Role-Playing Games) to ever appear on computers. In those early days these titles felt like primitive roguelikes, focused almost entirely on navigating dark mazes and surviving whatever lurked within.
As PC technology advanced in the 1990s, dungeon crawlers evolved into something more visually striking. Developers used clever 2D graphics that simulated 3D environments, creating an illusion of depth that made the genre far more immersive and appealing to a wider audience. This was the golden age of dungeon crawlers, when some of the most legendary RPGs were born:

• Dungeon Master – the instant classic that sparked the 3D dungeon-crawling craze.
• Eye of the Beholder – the definitive dungeon crawler series of the 90s.
• Wizardry – more than just a dungeon crawl, it became one of the longest-running RPG franchises.
• Might and Magic – closer to an open world than most, yet still steeped in that dungeon-crawling spirit.

These games dominated gaming magazines of the era and cemented themselves as milestones of PC RPG history.

But the tide shifted in the early 90s. When Wolfenstein 3D—and later Doom—stunned the gaming world with true real-time 3D environments, the rules changed. CRPG developers began moving toward real-time, first-person experiences (see Ultima Underworld), abandoning the grid-based, turn-by-turn systems that defined traditional dungeon crawlers. The old 2D/3D hybrids soon began to lose their charm, making way for a new era of role-playing design.

ecchi (7)

WARNING: ADULTS ONLY!
The contents in this section and the games in this list are intended for mature audiences. If you are under 18 years old, we kindly ask you to exit this section.

Ecchi video games are games that feature suggestive, risqué, or comedic sexual content without showing explicit sexual acts. The word “ecchi” in Japanese refers to playful or lewd situations, often involving fan service, such as revealing outfits, innuendo, or humorous accidental encounters. These games may include dating sims, fighting games, or even puzzle titles, where characters are depicted in provocative ways but the content remains relatively light compared to hentai or eroge. Ecchi games appeal to players who enjoy flirty humor and sensual aesthetics without crossing into explicit pornography. They are usually intended for mature audiences, though not always 18+.

editor included (29)

Some games are designed to make creating new content easy. Occasionally, developers include a free editor within the game itself. Depending on the title, players can use the editor to create new levels for platformers, maps for real-time strategy games, puzzles for puzzle games, and more.

educational (4)

Educational video games are designed to teach while entertaining. These games combine interactive play with learning goals, helping players practice skills such as math, language, science, or history. Gameplay often involves solving puzzles, answering questions, or completing challenges that reinforce knowledge. Some titles simulate real-world systems, like managing money or exploring ecosystems, to give hands-on understanding. They can target children with colorful, simple mechanics or challenge adults with complex simulations. Whether through storytelling, problem-solving, or experimentation, educational games aim to make learning engaging, memorable, and fun by blending academic content with interactive exploration and reward-based progression.

fantasy (199)

GAME SETTING – Fantasy is one of the most used (and sometimes abused) themes in the history of video games, whether free-to-play or not. Roguelikes, MMORPGs, platformers, adventures, and even card games often unfold in magical worlds filled with dwarves, elves, dragons, goblins, and all manner of vicious creatures—along with the inevitable swords and sorcery.

female protagonist (40)

Some video games feature a female character as the protagonist—whether as explorers, princesses, or something entirely different. While it’s less common than having a male lead, there are notable exceptions, with the Tomb Raider series standing out as the most iconic example. Interestingly, freeware games seem more inclined to put female characters in the spotlight: Iji, Hyper Princess Pitch, and Knytt are just a few titles that showcase women in the main role.

fighting games (16)

GAME GENRE – Fighting games are action-packed video games where players face off in one-on-one or small group battles, often in fast-paced, on-screen combat. Classics like Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, and King of Fighters defined the genre, while newer, free titles offer a modern take on the same thrilling gameplay.
Popular non-free fighting games include Tekken, Street Fighter II, Mortal Kombat, and The King of Fighters.

first-person 3D (88)

VISUAL - In gaming, first-person 3D describes a style where you see the world entirely through the eyes of the character you control, with everything around you rendered in three dimensions. This means you perceive depth, distance, and space realistically, and movement feels like actually walking, running, or looking around in a real environment. Typically, you might see the character’s hands, weapons, or tools, but the focus is on experiencing the game world directly rather than watching the character from an external viewpoint. It’s a perspective that emphasizes immersion and makes exploration, combat, and interaction feel immediate and personal.

first-person shooter (31)

GAME GENRE – First-person shooters (FPS) are video games played from a first-person perspective, where players shoot enemies to progress through levels. Multiplayer FPS often focus on arena-style combat, with players competing in “kill-everyone” matches without levels or storylines.
Popular non-free first-person shooters include Doom, Half-Life, Quake, and Halo.

flight simulator (3)

GAME GENRE - Flight simulators are video games designed to realistically replicate the experience of piloting an aircraft. Players take control of planes ranging from small propeller aircraft to massive commercial jets, navigating realistic physics, weather conditions, and flight systems. Many include authentic cockpits, air traffic control, and global maps for immersion. While some focus on casual enjoyment, others aim for high-fidelity simulation, appealing to aviation enthusiasts and aspiring pilots. The genre blends technical accuracy with the thrill of exploration, offering freedom to fly anywhere in the world. Flight simulators provide both a learning tool and a relaxing yet challenging gaming experience.

hack and slash (9)

Hack and slash games are a genre focused on fast-paced combat, where players fight large numbers of enemies using melee weapons like swords, axes, or other close-range tools. Emphasizing reflexes, combos, and character progression, these games often mix action with light RPG elements such as leveling, loot collection, and skill upgrades. Popularized by titles like Diablo, God of War, and Bayonetta, hack and slash gameplay rewards quick decision-making, timing, and strategic positioning in crowded battle scenarios. With both single-player and multiplayer appeal, the genre blends visceral combat with satisfying feedback, making it a staple of action-oriented gaming.

hentai (14)

WARNING: ADULTS ONLY!
The contents in this section and the games in this list are intended for mature audiences. If you are under 18 years old, we kindly ask you to exit this section.

Hentai video games are adult-oriented games, typically of Japanese origin, that feature explicit sexual content rendered in anime or manga style. They often take the form of visual novels, dating simulations, or role-playing games, where players make choices that influence relationships and lead to erotic scenarios. Some focus heavily on storytelling, blending romance, fantasy, or science fiction with adult themes, while others prioritize sexual imagery over gameplay depth. These games cater to a niche adult audience and differ from Western adult games by emphasizing stylized characters, exaggerated aesthetics, and interactive narratives. They are strictly intended for players aged 18+.

hex-based (7)

Hex-based games are strategy or war games that use hexagonal grids instead of square tiles for map layouts. The hex system, popularized in board wargames and later in computer games, offers smoother movement and more balanced tactical options, since each hex has six adjacent spaces instead of four. This avoids diagonal movement issues common in square grids. Hex-based gameplay emphasizes positioning, terrain effects, and long-term planning, making it a favorite for military simulations, turn-based strategy titles, and 4X games. Classics like Panzer General and many tabletop wargames rely on this system, which continues to shape digital and physical strategy gaming.

hidden object (3)

GAME GENRE - Hidden object games are a puzzle-based video game genre where players must find specific items concealed within detailed, cluttered scenes. The challenge lies in spotting objects cleverly blended into backgrounds, often requiring sharp observation and patience. Typically, these games feature a mix of story-driven progression, mini-games, and logic puzzles to break up the search sequences. They appeal to casual players thanks to simple controls - usually just pointing and clicking -but can still be surprisingly immersive. Hidden object games often include mystery, fantasy, or adventure themes, drawing players in with atmospheric art, engaging narratives, and the satisfying thrill of discovery.

horror (35)

GAME SETTING – Bloodthirsty vampires lurking in the shadows, zombies dragging their rotten limbs through deserted streets, and haunted houses where every creaking floorboard whispers a warning. These free games dive headfirst into horror, serving up chills, dread, and the occasional jump scare. They’re not for everyone—only the brave (or the reckless) should dare to press Start. Play them at your own risk… and don’t be surprised if you start checking under your bed afterwards.

idle clicker (12)

GAME GENRE - Idle clicker games, also known as incremental games, are a genre where players perform simple actions - usually clicking - to generate resources, which can then be reinvested to automate progress. Over time, clicking becomes optional as the game advances itself, rewarding long-term play with exponential growth. The appeal lies in the steady accumulation of numbers, upgrades, and achievements, creating a sense of constant progression. Often minimalist in mechanics but addictive in design, idle clickers combine strategy, resource management, and the psychological satisfaction of watching progress unfold, even when the player isn’t actively engaged. They’re simple, repetitive, yet strangely compelling experiences.

indie (455)

In gaming, indie refers to games created by individuals or small teams, usually without the financial backing of a major publisher. These games often emphasize creativity, experimentation, and unique artistic vision, allowing developers to take risks with gameplay, story, or style that bigger studios might avoid. Indie games can range from minimalist puzzles to sprawling adventures, and they frequently rely on digital distribution, crowdfunding, or community support. The term highlights both the independence of the creators and the often distinctive, personal touch that sets these games apart from mainstream releases.

interactive fiction (12)

GAME GENRE – Interactive Fiction (IF) is one of the earliest video game genres. IF games are story-driven adventures in which players use text commands to explore environments, pick up objects, and advance the narrative. Some IF games include minimal graphics, but the primary interface remains text-based.

isometric (66)

VISUAL - In gaming, isometric refers to a perspective where the world is viewed from a slightly elevated angle, usually tilted so that you can see the environment from above and to the side at the same time. This creates a pseudo-3D effect on a flat plane, letting you perceive depth and layout without true three-dimensional movement. You see characters, objects, and terrain from a fixed vantage point, which allows for strategic planning and navigation. It’s common in strategy games, RPGs, and simulations, giving players a broad view of the action while keeping controls and spatial awareness intuitive.

JRPG (22)

GAME GENRE – Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) are a genre defined by story-driven adventures, character progression, and turn-based or action-oriented combat. Originating in Japan, they often feature richly developed narratives, emotional themes, and distinctive art styles influenced by anime and manga. Players usually guide a party of heroes through quests, battles, and exploration, gaining experience points to grow stronger. JRPGs emphasize strategy, worldbuilding, and character relationships, blending gameplay with cinematic storytelling. While some stick to traditional mechanics, others innovate with hybrid systems. Beloved for their depth, memorable characters, and epic scale, JRPGs remain a cornerstone of role-playing games worldwide.

made with Adventure Game Studio (AGS) (17)

GAME ENGINE – Adventure Game Studio (AGS) is a development tool specifically designed for creating graphic adventure games for Windows. Released in 1997, AGS is still actively maintained. Several games made with AGS have become commercial successes and are beloved by point-and-click adventure fans. Notable titles include Resonance, Heroine’s Quest, Blackwell Epiphany, Technobabylon, and Kathy Rain.

made with Game Maker (5)

GAME ENGINE – GameMaker is a software platform and integrated development environment (IDE) for creating video games and interactive applications. It is designed for users of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced developers. GameMaker offers a visual drag-and-drop interface for building games, along with its scripting language, GameMaker Language (GML), for more advanced customization.

made with MUGEN (3)

GAME ENGINE – M.U.G.E.N, short for “MUGEN Universal GenErator,” is a free, open-source 2D fighting game engine developed by Elecbyte. It enables users to create custom 2D fighting games, including characters, stages, and gameplay mechanics. M.U.G.E.N has become popular among amateur developers and fighting game fans thanks to its flexibility and the ability to create and share custom content.

made with Ren'Py (13)

GAME ENGINE – Ren’Py is a free, open-source engine for creating visual novels and story-based games. It supports 2D graphics, dialogue trees, player choices, and light gameplay mechanics such as inventory systems or stat tracking. Ren’Py is particularly popular for visual novels and dating sims. Games like Doki Doki Literature Club, Long Live the Queen, and many titles on itch.io were likely created using Ren’Py.

made with RPG Maker (13)

GAME ENGINE – RPG Maker is a series of development tools for creating JRPGs (Japanese Role-Playing Games), first released in 1992 and available for both personal computers and consoles. It has become popular among amateur developers, players, and even professional game creators. Many games made with RPG Maker are free or free-to-play. Some of the most well-known titles include To the Moon, Aveyond, and Sometimes Always Monsters.

mahjong (6)

GAME GENRE - Mahjong video games are digital adaptations of the classic Chinese tile game, often simplified into a solitaire-style puzzle. Players match pairs of identical tiles to clear a layered board, with only free tiles—those not blocked by others—available for play. The challenge comes from strategic planning, as removing the wrong tiles early can leave the board unsolvable. Many versions add themes, timers, power-ups, or relaxing music to enhance replayability. While easy to learn, Mahjongg games can be deceptively tricky, offering both casual relaxation and brain-teasing challenge. They remain popular for their blend of simplicity, strategy, and timeless appeal.

management (10)

GAME GENRE – Construction and management simulation (CMS) and strategy games focus on building and managing an empire—or a similar entity—by overseeing the economy and driving constant expansion. These games often involve researching new technologies and competing against other players or AI opponents.

massively multiplayer (81)

maze (15)

GAME GENRE - Maze games are a genre where players navigate complex labyrinths, seeking a path from start to finish while avoiding dead ends, traps, or enemies. Gameplay often emphasizes exploration, memory, and problem-solving, with increasing difficulty as mazes grow larger or introduce new obstacles. Some versions are timed, adding pressure, while others allow a more relaxed pace. Mazes can be presented in 2D top-down views, 3D environments, or even first-person perspectives for immersion. The appeal lies in the balance of challenge and discovery, as players experience the satisfaction of finding the correct path through seemingly endless twists and turns.

medieval (16)

GAME SETTING – Castles under siege, knights on impossible quests, peasants grumbling in muddy villages, dragons circling the skies—if it screams medieval fantasy, it’s already found a home in video games. Free games are no different. From epic Arthurian legends to Tolkien-inspired realms, indie and freeware creators never tire of raiding the medieval toolbox of swords, sorcery, and courtly intrigue.

metroidvania (13)

GAME GENRE – Metroidvania games are platform/action/adventure games that draw inspiration from the Metroid and Castlevania series. Key features include expansive maps to explore, areas that become accessible only after acquiring specific items or skills, and 2D graphics.
Popular non-free Metroidvania games include Castlevania, Metroid, and Super Metroid.

military / warfare (22)

MMOFPS (7)

GAME GENRE - Massively Multiplayer Online First-Person Shooters (MMOFPS) are large-scale online games that blend the fast-paced action of FPS gameplay with the persistence and scope of an MMO world. Thousands of players battle across expansive maps, often divided into factions or teams, with objectives ranging from territory control to all-out warfare. Progression systems reward players with new weapons, gear, or abilities, encouraging long-term engagement. The genre emphasizes skill-based shooting while integrating strategy, cooperation, and large-scale coordination. MMOFPS games deliver the intensity of real-time combat alongside the depth of an evolving online community, making every battle part of a larger ongoing conflict.

MMORPG (44)

GAME GENRE – MMORPG stands for Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game. Imagine a role-playing game where countless players explore, fight, complete quests, and have fun together in a shared open-world environment.

MMORTS (12)

GAME GENRE - Massively Multiplayer Online Real-Time Strategy games (MMORTS) combine the large-scale persistence of MMOs with the tactical depth of RTS gameplay. Players build bases, gather resources, and command armies in real time, but unlike traditional RTS matches, the world continues evolving even when they log off. Thousands of players can compete or cooperate, forming alliances, waging wars, and shaping the balance of power across vast maps. Long-term strategy is key, as territorial control, economy, and diplomacy all influence success. MMORTS games offer a mix of immediate tactical decisions and enduring strategic planning, creating living battlefields that never truly end.

MOBA (5)

GAME GENRE - Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) games are competitive, team-based games where players control a single character with unique abilities, working with teammates to destroy the opposing team’s base. Matches typically take place on symmetrical maps with lanes, turrets, and neutral objectives, requiring both strategy and skillful execution. Players earn experience and resources during the match to strengthen their characters, creating dynamic power shifts. MOBAs emphasize teamwork, coordination, and tactical decision-making, as individual performance alone rarely guarantees victory. Known for intense matches, steep learning curves, and vibrant esports scenes, MOBAs combine fast-paced action with deep strategic gameplay.

monster girl (6)

WARNING: ADULTS ONLY!
The contents in this section and the games in this list are intended for mature audiences. If you are under 18 years old, we kindly ask you to exit this section.

Monster girl games are video games that focus on romantic, sexual, or sometimes comedic interactions with female characters who are part human and part monster, such as lamias, succubi, or catgirls. Originating largely from Japanese anime and manga culture, these games often appear as visual novels, dating sims, or role-playing adventures. Players usually pursue relationships with different monster girls, each with unique traits, personalities, and fantasy-inspired designs. While some monster girl games are lighthearted and focus on romance or humor, others include erotic content. They appeal to fans of fantasy, mythology, and anime aesthetics, and are generally intended for adults.

MS-DOS remake (8)

MS-DOS, launched by Microsoft in 1981, was the dominant operating system for IBM PCs and compatibles throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. Short for “Microsoft Disk Operating System,” it offered a text-based interface where users typed commands to manage files, run programs, and control hardware. Its simplicity and wide adoption made it the foundation for countless business applications, utilities, and, of course, a massive library of classic PC games. MS-DOS played a crucial role in popularizing personal computing, paving the way for Windows. Though eventually replaced by graphical systems, its influence endures in modern computing and retro gaming communities.

MSX remake (4)

The MSX, introduced in 1983, was a standardized home computer architecture created by Microsoft Japan and ASCII Corporation. Its goal was to unify the fragmented home computer market by providing common hardware and software standards. Equipped with a Zilog Z80 processor and typically 64 KB of RAM, the MSX offered impressive graphics and sound for its time. It became especially popular in Japan, Europe, and parts of South America. The MSX platform hosted many influential games, including early titles from Konami and Hudson Soft, and served as a launchpad for beloved series like Metal Gear. Its legacy remains strong among retro enthusiasts.

MUD (8)

GAME GENRE – Multi-User Dungeons (MUDs) are text-based online role-playing games where players explore virtual worlds, complete quests, and interact with others in real time. Often set in fantasy or sci-fi settings, MUDs rely on descriptive text to convey environments, characters, and actions, requiring imagination to visualize the world. Players create characters, gain experience, acquire items, and engage in combat or puzzles, while social interaction—through chatting, trading, or forming parties—is central. Despite minimal graphics, MUDs offer deep gameplay, persistent worlds, and complex storytelling. They are the precursors to modern MMOs, valued for their community-driven, immersive, and highly interactive experiences.

multiplayer (177)

mystery and detective (14)

mythology (5)

NES remake (4)

The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), released in 1985 in North America, revitalized the video game industry after the 1983 crash. Known as the Famicom in Japan, it featured an 8-bit Ricoh processor, colorful graphics, and memorable chiptune music. The NES became a household name thanks to iconic titles like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid. Its simple yet innovative controller design introduced the now-standard D-pad. Selling over 60 million units worldwide, the NES established Nintendo as a gaming powerhouse and laid the foundation for modern console gaming. Its library remains a cornerstone of retro gaming history.

nudity (75)

WARNING: ADULTS ONLY!
The contents in this section and the games in this list are intended for mature audiences. If you are under 18 years old, we kindly ask you to exit this section.

old school RPG (24)

GAME GENRE – Old-school RPGs are a niche genre aimed at nostalgic gamers. A CRPG is considered “old school” if it features a vintage aesthetic and retro feel, such as pixelated graphics, turn-based or pausable gameplay, classic soundtracks, and no true 3D graphics.

open world (91)

In open-world video games, the player can move freely through the game world with minimal restrictions. Unlike linear gameplay, open-world design allows players to approach situations in multiple ways, encouraging exploration and creativity. While often associated with RPGs like Skyrim or the Ultima series, the open-world formula can also be found in shooters, action-adventure titles, and even platformers—especially within the metroidvania subgenre.

pixel graphics (176)

Pixel graphics are a visual style where images are created and displayed at the level of individual pixels, the smallest units of a digital screen. Popularized in early computers and consoles like the Commodore 64, NES, and ZX Spectrum, pixel graphics were initially a technical necessity due to hardware limitations. Over time, they became a distinctive aesthetic, valued for their charm, clarity, and nostalgic appeal. Pixel art emphasizes careful placement of colors and shapes to convey characters, objects, and environments with minimal detail. Today, it’s celebrated in indie games and retro-style projects, blending simplicity with expressive, iconic visuals.

play it online (11)

point & click (61)

GAME GENRE – Point-and-click adventure games were hugely popular during the golden age of PC gaming, with titles like Monkey Island and King’s Quest shaping the history of the adventure genre. In recent years, indie developers have revived the point-and-click scene, and the genre’s devoted fanbase has even created free games of their own.
Popular point-and-click adventure games include Monkey Island, Leisure Suit Larry, the LucasArts Indiana Jones series, and The Longest Journey.

politics (5)

post-apocalyptic (14)

Post-apocalyptic video games explore worlds devastated by nuclear war, pandemics, alien invasions, or environmental collapse. These settings often depict ruined cities, scarce resources, and desperate survivors struggling to rebuild or endure. Gameplay typically blends survival mechanics—like scavenging, crafting, and managing limited supplies—with combat against hostile factions, mutants, or other survivors. Narratives highlight themes of loss, resilience, and moral choices in a world without order. Some games emphasize open-world exploration (Fallout, Metro Exodus), while others focus on story-driven survival (The Last of Us). At their core, post-apocalyptic games invite players to imagine survival in humanity’s darkest aftermath.

PvP (65)

racing (19)

GAME GENRE – In racing video games, players compete in races using a variety of vehicles, including cars, planes, spaceships, or karts. Racing games can range from fast-paced, arcade-style action to detailed simulations, depending on how much strategy and skill the gameplay demands.

real-time strategy (15)

GAME GENRE – A real-time strategy game (RTS) is a type of video game in which players manage units and resources in a dynamic, real-time environment. RTS games emphasize strategic planning, decision-making, and multitasking. Players typically control armies, civilizations, or factions, aiming to defeat opponents through military, economic, and sometimes diplomatic means.
Popular examples of RTS games include StarCraft, Age of Empires, Command & Conquer, Warcraft, and the Total War series. While settings, objectives, and complexity vary, all RTS games share the core elements of real-time strategic gameplay.

relaxing (9)

remake (47)

The freeware scene is made up of small developer teams and lone programmers who draw inspiration from classic video games—sometimes to create something entirely new, other times to remake beloved titles. One of the best ways to honor those old games is through remakes: updating graphics and sound, improving gameplay, refining controls, and ultimately aiming to deliver an experience even better than the original. Remakes are both a tribute to gaming history and, in some cases, a stepping stone toward a professional career in the industry.

The titles that get remade most often are the classics every gamer knows. Civilization, Sierra On-Line’s point-and-click adventures, The Legend of Zelda, and Transport Tycoon are just a few examples of fan-made remakes. Arcade legends are also a favorite target for developers seeking approachable projects: Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Space Invaders, and Pengo have all been reimagined countless times.

retro (199)

The retro gaming phenomenon began gaining traction years ago and has since left its mark on the entire industry, influencing both major studios and independent developers alike. Retro-inspired titles carry a distinctive vintage charm that comes through in many ways—whether it’s pixelated graphics, chiptune soundtracks, or gameplay mechanics reminiscent of arcade cabinets and early consoles. Some of these games are entirely new creations that simply borrow the aesthetics and spirit of the past, while others are faithful remakes or reimaginings of classic titles released decades ago. In both cases, retro games serve as a bridge between the nostalgia of older players and the curiosity of new generations discovering timeless gameplay for the first time.

robots (21)

rogue-lite (4)

GAME GENRE – Rogue-lites are similar to rogue-likes but with fewer constraints. They borrow elements from rogue-likes while being less punishing, often featuring mitigated permadeath, more accessible gameplay, varied genres, and usually avoiding the classic ASCII dungeon-crawler style.

roguelike (45)

GAME GENRE – Roguelike games are a subgenre of RPGs, often dungeon crawlers, where players explore procedurally generated levels. Roguelike gameplay typically features turn-based movement and combat, as well as permanent death. Two of the most popular free roguelikes are Angband and NetHack.

romance (18)

run and gun (29)

GAME GENRE – Run-and-gun games are video games where players control a gun-wielding character, shooting enemies and navigating levels by jumping and moving strategically. Traditionally, run-and-gun games are side-scrolling platformers (e.g., Bio Menace) or top-down military shooters (e.g., Alien Swarm), though some exceptions exist.

sandbox (19)

Sandbox video games emphasize freedom, creativity, and player-driven goals over linear storytelling. Instead of fixed objectives, they provide open systems where players can experiment, build, explore, or interact with the world in countless ways. Core elements include non-linear progression, dynamic environments, and tools that encourage creativity—whether constructing cities, modifying terrain, or scripting unique scenarios. Some sandbox games, like Minecraft or Terraria, blend crafting and survival, while others, such as Garry’s Mod or Roblox, act as platforms for creating entirely new experiences. At their heart, sandbox games hand control to the player, fostering imagination, replayability, and limitless experimentation.

science fiction (210)

GAME SETTING – Deep-space exploration, mech battles, cyberpunk romances, UFO invasions—if it even faintly smells like science fiction, it’s probably been turned into a video game. Free games are no exception. From Star Trek to Star Wars, indie and freeware creators keep dipping into the endless well of sci-fi for inspiration.

shoot 'em up (39)

GAME GENRE – Shoot ’em ups are action shooter games, usually presented from a top-down perspective, where players must blast their way through enemies to reach the end of each level. In most shoot ’em ups, players control a spaceship, plane, or other weapon-equipped vehicle.

side view (182)

VISUAL - In gaming, a side view means you see the action from a lateral perspective, as if watching the character from the side. The game world is typically displayed on a flat plane, and movement usually occurs left and right, with occasional vertical elements like jumping or climbing. This perspective emphasizes timing, positioning, and platforming challenges, letting players focus on navigating obstacles, avoiding enemies, and performing precise actions. It’s the classic viewpoint for platformers, beat ’em ups, and many 2D action games, offering a clear and straightforward way to experience the game world.

side-scrolling (75)

VISUAL - In gaming, side-scrolling is a style where the view follows the player character from the side as they move horizontally through the game world. The environment typically scrolls smoothly or in segments, revealing new areas as the character progresses. This perspective emphasizes continuous movement, timing, and exploration, often combining running, jumping, and combat. Side-scrolling is closely associated with platformers, action games, and beat ’em ups, providing a dynamic sense of progression while keeping the player focused on navigating obstacles and challenges along a horizontal plane.

single player (706)

solitaire (3)

GAME GENRE - Solitaire games are single-player card games where the goal is to arrange cards according to specific rules, typically by suit and rank. Classic versions, like Klondike, challenge players to build ordered stacks while managing limited moves and uncovering hidden cards. The genre emphasizes strategy, planning, and patience, turning a simple deck into a puzzle of logical decisions. Digital versions often include timers, hints, and themed graphics, making them accessible and visually engaging.

space (61)

space combat (13)

GAME GENRE - Space combat games are a genre where players pilot spacecraft and engage in battles across vast, often three-dimensional, space environments. Gameplay can range from dogfights and fleet engagements to strategic ship management, combining fast-paced action with tactical decision-making. Players must navigate zero-gravity physics, manage shields, weapons, and resources, and sometimes coordinate with allies or fleets. Missions often include exploration, escort duties, or large-scale interstellar warfare. The genre appeals to both action enthusiasts and strategy fans, offering the thrill of piloting advanced ships while mastering complex combat systems.

space exploration (14)

GAME GENRE – Space exploration games let players traverse the universe, planet by planet, star by star. These games are usually open-ended, often combining exploration with activities like battling space pirates, trading goods, or mining asteroids. One of the earliest examples was Elite, but the genre has continued to evolve, spawning many other titles that are well worth checking out.

sports (12)

squad management (7)

Squad management video games focus on controlling and developing a small group of characters rather than a single hero. Players recruit, equip, and train their squad, balancing strengths, weaknesses, and personalities to succeed in missions. Gameplay often mixes tactical combat—turn-based or real-time—with resource management and decision-making. Characters may gain skills, gear, or emotional bonds over time, and losses can be permanent, raising the stakes. Classic examples include X-COM, Jagged Alliance, and Darkest Dungeon, where strategy off the battlefield matters as much as in combat. The genre emphasizes planning, synergy, and leadership, rewarding careful choices and punishing reckless mistakes.

Star Wars (5)

stealth (6)

Stealth video games center on avoiding detection and achieving objectives through secrecy rather than brute force. Players use tools like disguises, shadows, and silenced weapons to outsmart enemies, often punishing direct confrontation. Core mechanics include line-of-sight systems, noise management, and AI behaviors that respond to suspicious activity. Success usually requires patience, planning, and creative problem-solving. Many titles, such as Metal Gear Solid, Splinter Cell, and Dishonored, mix stealth with story-driven missions, rewarding players who remain unseen. The genre emphasizes tension and strategy, giving players the thrill of slipping past danger and completing tasks without ever being noticed.

strip poker (18)

WARNING: ADULTS ONLY!
The contents in this section and the games in this list are intended for mature audiences. If you are under 18 years old, we kindly ask you to exit this section.

GAME GENRE - Strip poker video games are a niche category of adult-themed games that blend traditional poker with an erotic twist. In these titles, players face off against computer-generated opponents who gradually remove clothing as they lose hands. The goal is simple: win enough rounds of poker to watch the virtual characters undress.

superheroes (4)

GAME SETTING – Capes fluttering against the skyline, masked vigilantes clashing with mad geniuses, ordinary people discovering extraordinary powers—if it feels like a superhero tale, video games have embraced it. Free games are no exception. From comic book homages to tongue-in-cheek parodies, indie and freeware creators keep channeling the thrill of superhuman battles and secret identities, letting players step into a world where saving the day is just another part of the job.

survival (11)

Survival games tap directly into our most primal instinct: staying alive. Players are thrown into unforgiving worlds where danger lurks at every corner. Success depends not only on quick reflexes but also on careful resource management, crafting essential tools, and making tough choices under pressure. Every decision matters: do you spend the last of your supplies building shelter, or do you risk everything to explore the unknown in search of food and water? These games thrive on tension, immersing you in a constant battle against the elements, hostile creatures, and sometimes even other survivors.

text-based (45)

VISUAL - In gaming, text-based refers to games where all or most of the interaction and storytelling is conveyed through written words rather than graphics or visuals. Players read descriptions of environments, actions, and events, and input commands or choices using text to influence what happens next. This style emphasizes imagination, decision-making, and narrative, allowing complex stories, puzzles, or simulations to unfold entirely through language. Classic examples include interactive fiction and early adventure games, where the player’s mind fills in the visuals while the text drives both gameplay and storytelling.

third-person 3D (53)

VISUAL - In gaming, third-person 3D refers to a perspective where you view the player character from a camera positioned behind or slightly above them, while the game world is rendered in three dimensions. This allows you to see your character in full and observe their interactions with the environment, giving a clear sense of movement, spatial relationships, and context within the world. It combines the immersion of 3D graphics with the ability to watch and control your character from an external vantage point, making it popular in action-adventure games, RPGs, and open-world titles where navigation, combat, and exploration benefit from a broader view.

tile-based (58)

Tile-based movement is a gameplay system where characters or units move across a grid made up of uniform squares or tiles. Each tile represents a discrete space, and movement is typically limited to adjacent tiles, either orthogonally or diagonally. This system simplifies map design, collision detection, and player navigation, making it especially common in early RPGs, dungeon crawlers, and tactics games. Tile-based movement creates a structured, puzzle-like feel where positioning and planning are key. Classics like Final Fantasy Tactics, Pokémon, and Dungeon Master use this approach, which remains popular in both retro-inspired and modern indie game design.

tile-matching (19)

GAME GENRE – Puzzle games are almost exclusively free titles or games designed for smartphones. It’s rare to find a simple puzzle game sold at a high price. Tile-matching is perhaps the most popular subgenre, where gameplay revolves around… well… matching tiles of some kind. By far the most iconic example is Tetris.

top-down (219)

VISUAL - In gaming, top-down refers to a perspective where the player views the game world from directly above, looking straight down on characters and environments. This bird’s-eye view gives a clear overview of the surroundings, making it easier to navigate, plan strategies, and manage multiple elements at once. It’s commonly used in strategy games, RPGs, and shooters, where understanding the layout and positioning of units, obstacles, or enemies is crucial. The perspective emphasizes tactical awareness and control rather than immersion in a character’s personal viewpoint.

tower defense (4)

GAME GENRE – Take a fixed screen, add hordes of enemies that follow precise paths, give the player structures to defend their territory, and you have the basic formula for a tower defense strategy game. Popular commercial examples include GemCraft, Defense Grid, and Dungeon Defenders.

turn-based (145)

Turn-based video games structure gameplay into distinct phases where players and opponents act one after another rather than simultaneously. This pacing allows time to think, plan, and carefully weigh each move, making strategy and foresight more important than reflexes. The genre often features tactical combat, resource management, or puzzle-like decision-making, with outcomes determined by choices and sometimes chance (like dice rolls). Classic examples include Civilization, X-COM, and Divinity: Original Sin 2, spanning from grand strategy to small-scale tactical battles. At their core, turn-based games reward patience, planning, and adaptability, offering deliberate, thoughtful gameplay over fast, reaction-driven action.

turn-based tactics (10)

GAME GENRE – A turn-based tactics game is centered on strategic and tactical gameplay, where players take turns making decisions and executing actions. Typically, each player controls a group of characters, units, or assets, using their resources and abilities to outmaneuver opponents or accomplish specific objectives.

typing (4)

GAME GENRE – In a typing game, gameplay revolves around typing words or phrases on screen to achieve specific goals. Classic examples include Hangman, as well as action-oriented titles where players must quickly type words before time runs out.

urban setting (21)

vertical-scrolling (13)

VISUAL - In gaming, vertical scrolling is a style where the game world moves up or down on the screen as the player progresses, giving the impression that the character or environment is continuously advancing along a vertical axis. This perspective is often used in shooters, climbing or falling challenges, and arcade-style action games, creating a sense of upward or downward momentum. It emphasizes timing, reflexes, and pattern recognition, as players navigate obstacles, enemies, or hazards that appear from the top or bottom of the screen while the action constantly scrolls in one direction.

violent (33)

visual novel (40)

GAME GENRE – A visual novel is a distinctive type of video game that prioritizes storytelling and visual presentation over traditional gameplay. Players usually make choices that shape the narrative, leading to branching storylines and multiple possible endings. Known for character-driven plots, visual novels often feature anime-style artwork, though their art styles and themes can vary widely.

walking simulator (3)

GAME GENRE – In a walking simulator, the gameplay consists mostly of… well, walking. These games usually emphasize atmosphere, storytelling, and stunning visuals, creating an experience that feels closer to an interactive art piece than a traditional video game.

wargame (4)

GAME GENRE – A wargame is a type of video game built around the simulation of strategic and tactical warfare. These games often recreate historical settings or military scenarios, putting players in command of armies, navies, or entire nations. From ancient clashes fought with spears and shields to modern conflicts waged with tanks and missiles, wargames span a wide range of eras and battlefields. They typically emphasize realism, strategy, and careful decision-making—rewarding those who can outthink their opponents rather than just outgun them.

world wars (7)

GAME SETTING – Trenches soaked in mud, dogfights roaring across smoky skies, secret missions behind enemy lines—if it evokes the world wars, video games have brought it to life. Free games are no exception. From sweeping battle simulations to tense strategy challenges, indie and freeware creators keep exploring the chaos, heroism, and tragedy of global conflict, letting players experience history’s most devastating wars from the front lines or the command room.

zombies (7)

ZX Spectrum remake (3)

The ZX Spectrum, launched in 1982 by Sinclair Research in the UK, was a pioneering 8-bit home computer that helped spark the European gaming boom. Compact and affordable, it featured a Zilog Z80 processor, up to 48 KB of RAM, and its distinctive rubber-keyed keyboard. Its limited color palette and quirky graphics became iconic, as did the screeching sounds of games loading from cassette tapes. Despite its modest hardware, the Spectrum hosted thousands of inventive titles, from platformers to text adventures, and inspired a generation of bedroom coders. It remains a symbol of early home computing and British gaming culture.