Top PC Games of 2020: Unpacking the First Half’s Must-Play Titles
The first half of 2020 represented a period of significant innovation and nostalgic revisits within the PC gaming landscape. Market analysis revealed a surge in player engagement, with millions flocking to new releases and beautifully remastered classics during this unprecedented time. Many players were eagerly searching for compelling experiences, and developers certainly delivered an impressive array of titles.
The accompanying video perfectly captures the raw excitement and diverse action that defined some of the best PC games of 2020. It offers a thrilling glimpse into the gameplay mechanics and intense moments that captivated gamers worldwide. This article delves deeper into each of these standout titles, offering comprehensive insights into why they earned their place among the most highly regarded games during that timeframe.
Saints Row: The Third Remastered Ignites Open-World Mayhem
Returning to the fictional city of Steelport, Saints Row: The Third Remastered reignited the fires of chaotic open-world action. Players once again stepped into the shoes of the Third Street Saints leader, fighting rival gangs and corporations with over-the-top weaponry and an abundance of humor. This remaster offered significantly enhanced visuals, making the explosions and character models more vibrant than ever before.
Imagine if your criminal empire could be built with dazzling modern graphics and smoother performance across contemporary PC setups. While the core game mechanics remained wonderfully outlandish, the visual facelift truly brought this beloved sandbox adventure into the modern era. The remaster proved that genuine fun, when combined with technical polish, creates an irresistible package for both new and returning fans.
Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot Delivers Epic Saiyan Sagas
For fans of the iconic anime, Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot arrived as an expansive action RPG allowing players to relive Goku’s legendary story. This title painstakingly recreated the beloved sagas, from the arrival of Raditz to the climactic Buu saga, offering a deep dive into the Dragon Ball universe. The combat system was fluid and dynamic, capturing the high-octane energy of the show’s signature battles.
However, beyond the intense fighting sequences, the game also offered open-world exploration, fishing, and character interactions that expanded on the lore. Imagine flying freely through vast landscapes, collecting Z-Orbs, and encountering familiar faces while progressing through an emotionally resonant narrative. Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot successfully blended powerful combat with heartfelt storytelling, appealing to both long-time devotees and newcomers alike.
Gears Tactics Redefines Strategic Combat
Breaking new ground for the beloved franchise, Gears Tactics presented a gripping, fast-paced turn-based strategy game set within the Gears of War universe. This title skillfully translated the intense cover-based gunplay and brutal executions into a strategic format, demanding careful planning and tactical precision from players. The narrative focused on Gabe Diaz, father of Kait Diaz, in an original story exploring the early days of the Locust War.
Imagine leading a squad of hardened COG soldiers through intricate maps, meticulously positioning them to outmaneuver monstrous foes and execute devastating attacks. While other tactical games prioritize slow, methodical movements, Gears Tactics introduced aggressive mechanics like chaining kills and executing enemies for bonus actions, keeping the pace exhilarating. It proved that the Gears formula could successfully expand into new genres without losing its brutal identity.
Valorant Enters the Tactical FPS Arena
Riot Games made a significant splash in the competitive shooter market with the release of Valorant, a 5v5 character-based tactical first-person shooter. This game combined the precise gunplay of titles like Counter-Strike with unique agent abilities, adding a layer of strategic depth and team coordination. Its clean visual style and emphasis on fair play quickly attracted a massive global audience.
Imagine a scenario where every bullet counts, and precise aim is paramount, yet the tactical deployment of smoke, walls, or healing abilities can single-handedly turn the tide of a round. On one hand, the game demanded individual mechanical skill, while on the other, it heavily rewarded masterful team communication and strategic ability synergy. Valorant quickly established itself as a serious contender in the esports scene, showcasing its long-term competitive potential.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Campaign Remastered Delivers Nostalgia
The iconic single-player experience of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Campaign Remastered brought back one of gaming’s most celebrated narratives with stunning visual upgrades. This remaster focused solely on the gripping campaign, allowing players to relive unforgettable moments with Captain Price, Soap MacTavish, and Ghost in breathtaking high definition. The emotional intensity and cinematic quality of the original were preserved and enhanced.
Imagine experiencing the infamous “No Russian” mission or the intense struggle against the Russian invasion with crisper textures, improved lighting, and refined audio that elevates the immersion. While many contemporary Call of Duty titles emphasize multiplayer, this release celebrated the powerful storytelling that defined a generation of FPS games. It offered a potent dose of nostalgia for veterans and a chance for new players to experience a classic in its best form.
Deep Rock Galactic Offers Co-op Sci-Fi Mining Fun
Team-based action took a distinctly dwarven turn with Deep Rock Galactic, a unique cooperative first-person shooter where four space dwarves delve into procedurally generated caves. Players chose from distinct classes—Driller, Engineer, Gunner, and Scout—each bringing unique tools and abilities to the hazardous mining expeditions. The objective was to extract valuable minerals while fending off hordes of alien insects.
Imagine descending into a completely new cave system every time, strategizing with your friends on how to best navigate treacherous terrain and defend your position against overwhelming odds. On one hand, the game offered intense combat, yet on the other, it demanded careful resource management and environmental manipulation. Deep Rock Galactic carved out a distinct niche by blending satisfying combat with the thrill of exploration and resource gathering, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.
Resident Evil 3 Remake Unleashes Nemesis Again
Capcom continued its successful streak of horror remakes with the highly anticipated Resident Evil 3 Remake, plunging players back into the Raccoon City outbreak. This modern reimagining brought Jill Valentine’s terrifying escape from the city and her relentless pursuit by the bioweapon Nemesis to life with stunning realism. The game combined intense survival horror elements with exhilarating action sequences.
Imagine navigating dimly lit, zombie-infested streets, desperately conserving ammunition and crafting supplies, all while knowing that a relentless, seemingly invincible monster is constantly hunting you. While it offered a more action-oriented pace compared to some other Resident Evil entries, the pervasive sense of dread and the formidable presence of Nemesis ensured constant tension. This remake brilliantly updated a classic, delivering a heart-pounding experience for both veterans and new fans of the survival horror genre.
