In the vast and ever-expanding realm of online gaming, one name reigns supreme: Steam. Since its inception in 2003 by Valve Corporation, Steam has revolutionized the way gamers connect, explore, and experience the digital world of gaming. As a digital distribution platform, Steam offers an extensive catalog of games, ranging from indie gems to AAA blockbusters, making it a virtual paradise for gaming enthusiasts.
With its user-friendly interface, seamless integration of social features, and a plethora of community-driven content, Steam has earned its place as the go-to platform for millions of gamers worldwide. It offers a one-stop destination for purchasing, downloading, and managing an extensive library of games, eliminating the need for physical copies and simplifying the gaming experience.
But Steam is much more than just a game store. It serves as a vibrant hub for the gaming community, facilitating communication, competition, and collaboration among players. From joining multiplayer sessions with friends to participating in online tournaments and forums, Steam fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared passion that transcends geographical boundaries.
Now, let's embark on an exciting journey through the virtual landscapes of Steam's top 10 most played games. Brace yourself for thrilling adventures, captivating narratives, and immersive gameplay as we explore the cream of the crop, handpicked from the millions of games that call Steam their digital home. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a novice gamer, this diverse selection promises to cater to all tastes and preferences.
So, buckle up and prepare to delve into a world where epic battles, intricate puzzles, and unforgettable stories await. Join us as we uncover the gems that have captivated the hearts and minds of millions, solidifying their status as the most beloved and sought-after titles on Steam. Get ready to embark on a gaming odyssey like no other as we countdown the top 10 most played games on Steam.
TOP 10 MOST PLAYED GAME ON STEAM
1. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO) is a popular team-based action game that builds upon the original Counter-Strike released 19 years ago. It introduces new maps, characters, weapons, and game modes while also offering updated versions of classic CS content like de_dust2.
When Counter-Strike was initially released as a mod in August 1999, it quickly became the most played online PC action game worldwide, surprising the gaming industry. Over the past 12 years, it has remained one of the most popular games, featuring prominently in competitive gaming tournaments and selling over 25 million units across the franchise.
Valve's Doug Lombardi states, "CS: GO promises to expand on CS' award-winning gameplay and deliver it to gamers on the PC as well as the next-gen consoles and the Mac."
Regarding mature content, CS: GO includes intense violence and blood.
2. Dota 2
Dota 2, the most-played game on Steam, offers an immersive experience where millions of players worldwide engage in battle as a diverse roster of over a hundred heroes. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned player, there's always something new to discover in this constantly evolving game. With regular updates, Dota 2 introduces fresh gameplay features, heroes, and improvements.
Endless possibilities unfold on a single battlefield in Dota 2. The game boasts a wide range of heroes, each with unique abilities, and a plethora of powerful items, ensuring that no two games are alike. Heroes can adapt to multiple roles, granting players the freedom to express their own playstyle.
One of Dota 2's standout features is its commitment to competitive balance. All players have access to the core content, including the vast pool of heroes, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone. While cosmetic items can be collected to customize heroes and the game world, everything needed to play the game effectively is already included from the start.
Gather your friends and join the Dota 2 community. Whether you're new to the game or a veteran, there are various ways to learn and improve. Practice against AI bots in cooperative matches, refine your skills in the hero demo mode, and engage in a matchmaking system that considers both player behavior and skill level, ensuring fair and enjoyable matches.
Don't hesitate to embark on your Dota 2 journey—it's a deep and ever-evolving game that welcomes players at any stage of their gaming experience.
3. Destiny 2
Delve into the vast universe of Destiny 2, where you'll uncover enigmatic secrets across the solar system while engaging in thrilling first-person shooter battles. Harness potent elemental abilities and acquire distinctive equipment to tailor your Guardian's appearance and gameplay. Immerse yourself in Destiny 2's captivating narrative, tackle challenging cooperative missions, and partake in a variety of PvP modes, either solo or with companions. Begin your journey today, etching your legend among the celestial bodies.
Engrossing Narrative
Assume the role of a Guardian, the stalwart protector of humanity's Last City in a solar system besieged by notorious adversaries. Gaze at the cosmos and take a stand against the encroaching darkness. Your epic tale commences now.
Guardian Classes
Select from three distinct classes: the armored Titan, the mystical Warlock, or the swift Hunter.
Titan
Disciplined and proud, Titans excel in both aggressive assaults and unwavering defenses. Ignite your hammer in flames, rend the sky with lightning, and confront any adversary head-on. Your team shall find strength behind your impenetrable shield.
Warlock
Warlocks harness the enigmatic forces of the universe to sustain themselves and vanquish their foes. Unleash devastating powers upon the battlefield, obliterating hordes of enemies in an instant. Those allied with you will witness the true might of the Light.
Hunter
Agile and audacious, Hunters possess unrivaled swiftness and precision. Unleash a hail of bullets with your golden gun, effortlessly glide through adversaries, or strike from the shadows. Locate your target, take aim, and conclude the battle before it commences.
Cooperative and Competitive Multiplayer
Engage in PvE and PvP game modes alongside friends and fellow Guardians.
Cooperative Multiplayer
Embark on exciting co-op adventures teeming with rare and formidable rewards. Immerse yourself in the narrative through missions, quests, and patrols. Form a small fireteam and secure the rewards awaiting at the end of a swift Strike. Alternatively, test your team's prowess with hours of raid progression – the ultimate challenge for any fireteam. The choice is yours to shape your legendary journey.
Competitive Multiplayer
Confront other players in high-octane free-for-all skirmishes, team-based arenas, and thrilling PvE/PvP hybrid competitions. Highlighted events like Iron Banner offer exclusive rewards available for a limited time.
Exotic Weapons and Armor
With an array of thousands of weapons and countless customization options, you'll embark on an epic quest for your perfect arsenal. Discover new gear combinations and define your distinct personal style as you hone your skills and adapt to the challenges that lie ahead.
4. APEX LEGEND
Experience the thrill of conquest in Apex Legends, a free-to-play hero shooter where formidable characters with unique abilities unite to compete for glory and riches on the fringes of the Frontier. Command an expanding roster of diverse Legends, engage in strategic squad-based gameplay, and embrace innovative features that push the boundaries of the Battle Royale genre. Step into a gritty world where rules are bent, and everything is fair game. Prepare for the next evolution in hero shooters.
5. RUST
Rust is a popular survival game that has been around for nine years, offering players an intense experience where the main goal is to survive against various threats. The game has seen over 350 content updates, ensuring regular additions and improvements for players. These updates include features such as procedurally generated worlds, server customization, vehicles like cars and helicopters, complex electrical systems, farming, new enemies and wildlife, additional areas to explore, gestures and contact system, musical instruments, a large train network, and recent graphic enhancements.
In Rust, players start on a mysterious island with only a rock and a torch, facing natural dangers like extreme temperatures, thirst, and hunger. They must gather resources, construct shelter, and scavenge for food while navigating the island's abandoned settlements and enigmatic monuments. However, the most significant threat comes from other players, adding an element of unpredictability and competition.
Building bases is crucial for defending territory and acquiring valuable resources. Players can research technology, establish farms, harness electricity, and utilize various vehicles, ranging from horses to helicopters. Adaptability and resourcefulness are key to gaining an advantage in this harsh environment.
In Rust, there are no predefined rules except those players create for themselves. Crafting tools, armor, and weapons becomes essential for self-defense. Collaboration with friends and allies allows for the establishment of thriving communities. Alternatively, players can choose a more predatory approach, raiding other players' bases and seizing their hard-earned possessions. Trading with fellow survivors is also a possibility.
Overall, Rust offers a dynamic and challenging survival experience, constantly evolving through regular updates and providing a wide range of options for players to explore, build, and ultimately survive in its unforgiving world.
6. PUBG
PUBG, short for PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds, is a popular online multiplayer battle royale game developed and published by PUBG Corporation, a subsidiary of the South Korean video game company Bluehole. The game was designed by Brendan Greene, also known by his online alias "PlayerUnknown," who previously worked on other battle royale mods for different games.
PUBG was officially released on March 23, 2017, for Microsoft Windows via the Steam platform as an early access title. It gained massive popularity during its early access phase and went on to have a full release on December 20, 2017, for Windows. The game was later ported to other platforms, including Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Android, and iOS.
The gameplay of PUBG revolves around the battle royale concept, where up to 100 players are dropped onto a large open map and fight against each other until only one player or team remains. Players start with no weapons or equipment and must scavenge the environment for resources, weapons, and protective gear. The playable area on the map shrinks over time, forcing players into closer proximity and increasing the intensity of encounters.
PUBG offers both first-person and third-person perspectives, allowing players to choose their preferred viewpoint. The game provides a wide variety of firearms, vehicles, attachments, and consumables, adding strategic depth to the gameplay. Additionally, PUBG features a range of maps, each with unique terrain and landmarks to explore.
7. TEAM FORTRESS 2
Team Fortress 2, an immensely popular online action game, holds the title for the highest ratings among free games. Its dedicated development team consistently releases free updates, offering new game modes, maps, equipment, and a special focus on hats. With nine unique classes, players can choose from a wide range of tactical abilities and distinct personalities, catering to various player skills.
If you're new to TF2, there's no need to worry. The game accommodates players of all styles and experience levels. Detailed training and offline practice modes are available to help you refine your skills before diving into the numerous game modes, such as Capture the Flag, Control Point, Payload, Arena, King of the Hill, and more.
What sets TF2 apart is its extensive customization options. There are countless weapons, hats, and other items to collect, craft, buy, and trade. You can personalize your favorite class to match your gameplay style and individual preferences. Importantly, TF2 maintains a fair playing field as the majority of items available in the Mann Co. Store can also be obtained in-game without the need for payment.
8. Grand Theft Auto V
In Grand Theft Auto V, players are thrust into a dangerous city where a young street hustler, a retired bank robber, and a psychotic individual must navigate the treacherous criminal underworld, the U.S. government, and the entertainment industry. Their survival hinges on executing a series of perilous heists, all while realizing that trust is a luxury they cannot afford, especially amongst themselves.
The PC version of Grand Theft Auto V offers an immersive experience, allowing players to explore the vast and acclaimed world of Los Santos and Blaine County in stunning 4K resolutions and beyond. With a seamless 60 frames per second, the game delivers a visually captivating encounter.
The PC edition provides an extensive range of customization options specifically tailored for PC players. With over 25 configurable settings, gamers can fine-tune texture quality, shaders, tessellation, anti-aliasing, and more. Furthermore, the game offers comprehensive support and customization for mouse and keyboard controls. Players can also adjust the population density of cars and pedestrians, enjoy dual and triple monitor setups, utilize 3D compatibility, and seamlessly connect controllers.
Grand Theft Auto V for PC includes the dynamic online multiplayer mode, Grand Theft Auto Online, accommodating up to 30 players and two spectators. It encompasses all previous gameplay upgrades and Rockstar-created content, including Heists and Adversary modes.
Introducing the First Person Mode, the PC version allows players to delve into the meticulously crafted world of Los Santos and Blaine County from a whole new perspective.
Among the exciting features is the Rockstar Editor, a robust suite of creative tools enabling players to easily capture, edit, and share game footage from within Grand Theft Auto V and Grand Theft Auto Online. With Director Mode, players have the ability to stage scenes using prominent story characters, pedestrians, and even animals, bringing their imaginative vision to life. Advanced camera manipulation, editing effects, and a variety of camera filters are at their disposal. Additionally, players can incorporate their own music, select tracks from GTAV radio stations, or dynamically control the intensity of the game's score. Completed videos can be effortlessly uploaded to YouTube and the Rockstar Games Social Club for seamless sharing.
The game's soundtrack features The Alchemist and Oh No as hosts of The Lab FM, a radio station showcasing exclusive music inspired by the original game soundtrack. Notable guest artists like Earl Sweatshirt, Freddie Gibbs, Little Dragon, Killer Mike, Sam Herring from Future Islands, and more contribute to this unique experience. Moreover, players can enjoy their own music through Self Radio, a new radio station that accommodates custom soundtracks created by the players themselves.
9. UNTURNED
As one of the few survivors in a world overrun by zombies, staying alive will be a constant challenge. You'll need to decide between attracting attention by going in guns blazing or taking a more subtle approach, using distractions and sneaking around. Be prepared to confront and learn how to counter special abilities exhibited by the undead, ranging from invisibility to fire breathing and even lightning attacks.
In addition to dealing with zombies, you'll also face the challenges posed by nature itself. Forage for wild fruits and vegetables, hunt animals for food and pelts, or try your luck fishing. You may even need to plant crops and ensure they receive enough rain. Seek warmth and take shelter during blizzards to survive the harsh environment.
Interacting with other players adds another layer of complexity. You can choose to arrest bandits using non-lethal strategies, such as handcuffs and blindfolding. Engage in combat using a wide range of weapons, including swords, machine guns, snipers, missiles, and landmines. Raid enemy encampments to steal their loot by using charges and detonators. Engage in PvP battles in an arena mode or cooperate in PvE gameplay. Roleplay servers encourage players to stay in character and tell a story together.
You can also contribute to the new society in various ways, even when playing offline or solo. Meet, trade, and complete quests for NPCs to aid their cause and progress the story. Defend against waves of the undead to clear out hordes and secure airdropped supplies. Equip gas masks to explore radioactive dead zones.
Building and fortifying your stronghold is essential for survival. Use barricades, traps, furniture, and machinery to fortify existing structures or craft entirely new ones. Transform your vehicle into a moving fortress by adding defensive features. Travel across vast landscapes using land vehicles like tanks, quads, and snowmobiles, or take to the skies with helicopters, seaplanes, and fighter jets. You can even navigate waterways with jetskis and hovercraft. Maintain your vehicles with necessary supplies like tires, batteries, and fuel.
Explore expansive worlds across multiple maps, including Prince Edward Island (PEI), The Yukon, Washington, Russia, Hawaii, and Germany. Each map offers unique locations to discover and survive in.
Modding is a central aspect of the game, allowing you to download and create player-made content. Access a wide range of mods including guns, vehicles, and custom levels from the workshop. Utilize the in-game level editor to create your own maps, with the assets from official maps available for your use. Write plugins using built-in or third-party systems, and share your creations with the community. Collaborate with other modders to create your own updates, which may be considered for official adoption. You can even submit and upvote apparel and skins in the workshop for potential inclusion in the game's official content.
In Unturned, there are many other interesting features, such as the ability to destroy objects to create new pathways and the option to communicate with your squad using in-game two-way radios for added immersion, instead of relying on external voice chat programs.
10. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II thrusts players into a global conflict like never before, featuring the return of beloved Task Force 141 Operators. Engage in high-stakes infiltration missions and classified operations alongside friends, immersing yourself in an unparalleled gaming experience.
Infinity Ward delivers cutting-edge gameplay, introducing new gun handling mechanics, an advanced AI system, a revolutionary Gunsmith feature, and a host of other innovations that push the boundaries of the franchise.
Modern Warfare® II offers a thrilling single-player campaign that takes you across the globe, engaging in immersive multiplayer battles, and embarking on narrative-driven co-op Special Ops missions.