Everyone loves finding a great free game. We've dug through Steam to find the best hidden gems you can play right now without spending a dime.
Gaming
15 Games That Are Officially Harder Than Elden Ring
15. Neverwinter (2013)
Neverwinter breaks the mold by offering true free-to-play access with no paywalls from the very first level. You can dive right into the classic D&D city and explore all its quests, bosses, and character builds without restriction. It's a complete, nostalgic MMO package that runs well on most systems, making it perfect for a casual fantasy adventure without a huge commitment. | © Cryptic Studios
14. Dark Deception (2018)
Dark Deception blends survival horror with the tense, fast-paced action of a deadly game of Pac-Man. You’re trapped in a maze with unstoppable monsters, relying purely on your wits and speed to navigate environmental hazards and find a way out. There’s no hiding in lockers here, just pure, heart-pounding chase horror that feels fresh with every terrifying run. | © Glowstick Entertainment
13. Battle for Wesnoth (2003)
Battle for Wesnoth is a legendary turn-based tactics game that feels almost too generous to be free. Its brilliance lies in the deep, chess-like combat where every hex tile directly impacts your units' chances in battle. With rich campaigns, distinct factions, and meaningful unit progression, it delivers a classic strategic challenge that’s rewarding and endlessly replayable. | © The Battle for Wesnoth Project
12. Killer Instinct (2017)
Killer Instinct proves that a free fighting game can offer a polished experience. You get full access to a weekly rotating character for every mode, including online ranked matches and the story campaign. Its deep, combo-heavy combat system is explosive and satisfying to learn, especially when paired with the game's legendary soundtrack and cross-platform play with friends. | © Iron Galaxy Studios
11. Palia (2024)
Palia is a wonderfully relaxed MMO that feels like a warm, living fantasy village. Instead of combat or grind, the focus is on the cozy satisfaction of crafting a home, cooking meals, and helping your neighbors flourish. It’s a cross-platform game perfect for unwinding, offering deep creative expression without any pressure. | © Singularity 6 Corporation
10. Predecessor (2024)
Predecessor revitalizes the MOBA genre by ditching the static, top-down view for fast-paced, third-person shooter combat. Every surface on the map can be scaled or used for cover, letting you vault over walls and take to the skies for dynamic, vertical fights. With 45 unique heroes and a movement system that rewards skill, it creates large-scale battles that feel fresh and engaging. | © Omeda Studios
9. FragPunk (2025)
FragPunk shakes up the hero shooter formula by making every single round feel unpredictable. Arenas shift dynamically, and during matches, you collect game-changing cards that can totally flip the script on abilities and tactics. Its vibrant, hyper-stylish art and chaotic modes offer a refreshing, fast-paced alternative to more grounded tactical shooters. | © Bad Guitar Studio
8. Conqueror's Blade (2020)
Conqueror's Blade throws you into huge medieval battles where you command troops in open-field fights. It's packed with content, from managing your army to exploring a vast world, and it works whether you play for an hour or commit for the long haul. If you love team-based PVP and large-scale strategy, this blend of tactical command and hands-on combat really hits the spot. | © Booming Tech
7. Umamusume: Pretty Derby (2025)
Umamusume: Pretty Derby has stormed onto the Western scene, and it’s easy to see why it’s a hit. Don't let the gacha label fool you. At its heart, it's a deeply engaging sports management sim with surprisingly heartfelt stories about its cast of horse-girl athletes. The RNG can be tough, and careers are long, but the addictive gameplay is something you really have to try for yourself to get the hype. | © Cygames
6. Puck (2025)
Puck is a hockey game that nails the feeling of being on a real team, where every player controls a unique position. The gameplay has a satisfying learning curve, starting awkward but becoming fluid as you learn to work with teammates and basic hockey strategy. Thanks to passionate player-run servers and great mods, you can jump into anything from a silly arcade match to a proper simulation. | © NS7
5. The Looker (2022)
The Looker is a sharp, hilarious parody that's also a legitimately great puzzle game in its own right. It nails the vibe of a certain iconic puzzle title with its environmental challenges and deliberate pacing, leading to constant, clever jokes. Best of all, it’s completely free, offering a satisfying blend of smart puzzles and comedy that’s absolutely worth your time. | © Subcreation Studio
4. FleshBound (2025)
FleshBound is an atmospheric platformer that throws you into a raw and hostile organic world. Its parkour feels solid as you navigate unsettling landscapes, backed by a strong art direction and soundtrack that build real tension. While it has some rough edges and leaves you wanting more content, it's a uniquely visceral and enjoyable survival experience, especially for a free game. | © Splatterpunk
3. Emily is Away (2015)
Emily is Away perfectly captures the specific, awkward nostalgia of teenage friendships evolving through an old instant messenger. Its simple, choice-based conversations are surprisingly engaging, making you care about each reply as you navigate the universal experience of growing apart. While small in scale and a bit cringey by design, this short game delivers an authentic and memorable story that feels true to that time in life. | © Kyle Seeley
2. Guild Wars 2 (2012)
Guild Wars 2 ditches the typical gear grind, letting you explore and progress at your own pace without pressure. The world feels alive through massive, cooperative open-world events that bring players together. The core game offers a huge amount of content to enjoy, all without a monthly subscription. | © ArenaNet
1. Where Winds Meet (2025)
Where Winds Meet is a vibrant free-to-play adventure with slick, challenging combat and stunning environments. It offers great flexibility, letting you dive into a solo story or seamlessly switch to tackle loads of fun side content in co-op. It's complex at first, but mastering its systems and the whimsical 'goosepower' ranking reveals a surprisingly generous and satisfying experience. | © Everstone Studio
Everyone loves finding a great free game. We've dug through Steam to find the best hidden gems you can play right now without spending a dime.
