Unveiling the Hottest Upcoming PC Games of 2020: Your Ultimate Guide
Remember those days spent meticulously planning your next gaming adventure, poring over release lists, and dreaming of new worlds to explore? Well, 2020 was a truly exciting year for PC gamers, packed with incredible titles across every genre imaginable. The video above gave us a fantastic sneak peek, but let’s dive even deeper into the magnificent lineup of new PC games 2020 had to offer, exploring what made each one so anticipated and how they shaped the gaming landscape.
From groundbreaking simulators to nostalgic remakes and innovative RPGs, the sheer diversity of experiences heading to our rigs was astounding. Whether you were seeking epic narratives, competitive multiplayer, or deeply immersive single-player journeys, there was undoubtedly something that captured your imagination. Many of these titles pushed technological boundaries, while others refined beloved formulas, ensuring a thrilling year for the entire PC gaming community.
Groundbreaking Simulations & Nostalgic Revivals
Microsoft Flight Simulator: A New Era of Realism
Kicking off our journey through the best new PC games of 2020, we find Microsoft Flight Simulator at the forefront of graphical fidelity and immersive gameplay. This highly anticipated title marked the return of a beloved franchise, with the last major installment appearing way back in 2014, making its comeback even more significant for simulation enthusiasts. What truly set this simulator apart was its unprecedented use of Bing Maps data, creating an incredibly accurate and photo-realistic digital rendition of our entire planet.
The developers employed advanced photogrammetry techniques to render stunning 3D models of real-world locations, from bustling cities to remote natural wonders. This process involves stitching together thousands of aerial photographs to build detailed, three-dimensional representations, offering players an unparalleled sense of realism. The game promised not just an accurate flight sim but also a visually breathtaking experience, allowing players to traverse global landmarks from the comfort of their cockpits. Its release on PC, alongside Xbox One, represented a massive leap forward for the genre.
Destroy All Humans! Remake: Retro Fun Reimagined
For those craving a blast from the past with a modern polish, the Destroy All Humans! Remake certainly delivered a wonderfully warped experience. This game, a personal favorite for many, offered a delightful return to a quirky, experimental era of “double A” games that flourished in the early 2000s. The remake beautifully preserved the original’s hilarious premise, where you play as the alien Crypto-137, tasked with harvesting human DNA to save your dying race.
Significantly, the developers utilized all the original voice acting, maintaining the game’s iconic humor and charm, while completely overhauling the graphics to meet contemporary standards. The result was a phenomenal-looking title that stayed true to its roots yet felt fresh and engaging for both returning fans and new players. This delightfully silly adventure proved that sometimes, the best new PC games of 2020 were fantastic updates of classic concepts, hitting PC and consoles in early 2020.
Phantasy Star Online 2: A Long-Awaited Western Debut
Speaking of long waits, Phantasy Star Online 2 finally graced Western PC screens in 2020, much to the excitement of MMORPG aficionados. This game had been a staple in Japan since 2012, even seeing releases on platforms like the Nintendo Switch in its home country, making its official English localization a monumental event. It represented a follow-up to what many consider one of the greatest MMORPGs of all time, offering a vast and vibrant sci-fi universe to explore.
While the game’s innovative mechanics might have felt more groundbreaking in 2012, its beauty, unique character, and engaging gameplay loops remained incredibly appealing. The free-to-play model also made it highly accessible, allowing countless players to finally dive into its rich content and robust character customization. Its arrival on Microsoft Windows and Xbox One in the spring or early summer of 2020 was a testament to the persistent demand for its unique blend of action and role-playing.
Engaging RPGs and Strategic Masterpieces
Wasteland 3: The Spiritual Ancestor of Fallout Returns
Role-playing game enthusiasts had much to look forward to with Wasteland 3, an upcoming RPG from InXile Entertainment that continued its legacy as the series that originally inspired Fallout. This squad-based RPG featured tactical turn-based combat, building upon the deep narrative and challenging gameplay its predecessors were known for. The historical connection to the original Fallout developers added significant weight to its release, hinting at a truly authentic post-apocalyptic experience.
The game promised a grim, old-school Fallout aesthetic and challenging choices set in a frozen Colorado wasteland, making it a compelling entry for fans of classic isometric RPGs. Its May 19th release date meant players could immerse themselves in its strategic depth and rich character development relatively early in the year. Wasteland 3 continued to prove that traditional RPG mechanics, coupled with a strong narrative, still held immense power among new PC games of 2020.
Empire of Sin: Mobster Strategy During Prohibition
For a unique blend of strategy and historical intrigue, Empire of Sin by Romero Games presented a fascinating concept. This turn-based strategy game transported players to 1920s Chicago during the Prohibition era, casting them as a mob boss loosely based on real historical figures. The premise alone sparked considerable interest, offering a fresh take on the strategy genre by intertwining criminal enterprise with deep tactical combat.
The combat system was specifically described as “X-COM-like,” indicating intricate, position-based encounters where every decision carried significant weight. This ingenious combination of mobster management and intense turn-based tactics offered a compelling gameplay loop, appealing to fans of both strategy simulations and narrative-driven experiences. Empire of Sin, a multi-platform release that notably included PC, arrived in the second quarter of 2020, bringing a captivating new world of organized crime to our screens.
Crusader Kings 3: Dynasty, Intrigue, and Grand Strategy
The highly anticipated Crusader Kings 3 provided an in-depth 4X grand strategy experience set in the tumultuous Middle Ages. This game was less about conquering the world through brute force and more about managing a dynamic medieval dynasty, where personal relationships, treacherous plots, and strategic marriages played crucial roles. For those intrigued by the idea of a comprehensive dynasty simulator, this title promised countless hours of intricate decision-making and emergent storytelling.
The Crusader Kings series is renowned for its incredible depth and detailed mechanics, allowing players to shape the destinies of their characters and their lineages over centuries. Newcomers were often encouraged to explore previous titles to grasp the complexity, though the third installment aimed to be more accessible while retaining its signature strategic richness. Crusader Kings 3 arrived on Windows sometime in 2020, cementing its place as a must-play for grand strategy enthusiasts and fans of historical simulations.
Action-Packed Adventures and Cutting-Edge Innovation
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2: Visuals and Narrative Prowess
While only an in-engine trailer provided the initial glimpse, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 instantly set a new benchmark for visual fidelity and narrative ambition among new PC games of 2020. The original Hellblade was lauded for its powerful storytelling and innovative depiction of mental health, and the sequel looked to elevate every aspect of that experience. The trailer showcased astounding rendering and animation, hinting at a dramatically expanded world and even more intense, visceral gameplay.
Although specific gameplay details remained speculative, the visual presentation suggested a significant increase in scope, with Senua seemingly rallying a multitude of people for a larger conflict. Its potential launch alongside new consoles hinted at its status as a technological showcase, but its definite arrival on PC meant players could expect a deeply immersive and graphically stunning journey. This sequel was poised to be a pivotal title for narrative-driven action-adventure fans.
Overwatch 2: Evolving a Global Phenomenon
Blizzard’s Overwatch 2 represented a fascinating evolution rather than a standard sequel, functioning as a significant expansion to the original beloved hero shooter. The most intriguing aspect was the introduction of a dedicated story mode, providing a deeper narrative context to its vibrant universe and diverse cast of heroes. Crucially, Blizzard ensured that all existing cosmetics would carry over, respecting players’ investments in the original game.
Furthermore, the developers took a player-friendly approach by allowing Overwatch 1 and Overwatch 2 players to share the same PvP ecosystem, receiving identical competitive updates. This model brilliantly avoided completely deprecating the original game, fostering a continuous, unified community. Expected sometime in 2020, Overwatch 2 offered new maps, heroes, and story missions, making it an exciting continuation for fans across all platforms, especially PC.
Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga: The Ultimate Block-Buster
For a lighter, more family-friendly adventure, Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga promised the complete cinematic journey in charming Lego form. This game aimed to encompass all nine mainline Star Wars films, providing the signature humor, enjoyable puzzle-solving, and accessible action that defines the Lego Star Wars series. It was heralded as the culmination of the entire Lego Star Wars saga, offering a definitive and expansive experience.
Players could relive iconic moments, explore a vast galaxy, and enjoy countless hours of collaborative gameplay, all infused with that distinctive Lego charm. Its release across all major platforms, including Microsoft Windows, cemented its place as a highly anticipated title for fans of both Star Wars and Lego games. The Skywalker Saga was expected to launch sometime in 2020, promising fun for all ages.
Diverse Worlds and Unforgettable Experiences
Gods & Monsters (Immortals Fenyx Rising): A Greek Mythological Epic
Ubisoft’s Gods & Monsters, later renamed Immortals Fenyx Rising, immediately drew comparisons to Nintendo’s Breath of the Wild, showcasing a vibrant open world filled with exploration and puzzle-solving. Developed by the creators of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, this title infused its open-world design with rich Greek mythology, creating a unique and appealing aesthetic. Combining the exploratory freedom of Zelda with the action-adventure flair of Assassin’s Creed created a truly wonderful prospect for players.
The game promised a visually stunning world teeming with mythical creatures and gods, offering players a chance to embody a hero destined to save the Greek pantheon. While an exact release date was not specified for 2020, it was certainly marked as a must-play for fans of expansive open-world adventures and ancient Greek lore. This title demonstrated Ubisoft’s commitment to diverse open-world experiences, making it a standout among new PC games of 2020.
Outriders: A Co-op Sci-Fi Shooter with Mystery
People Can Fly, the developers behind action-packed titles like Gears of War: Judgment and Bulletstorm, brought us Outriders, a new co-op shooter shrouded in an intriguing sci-fi mystery. Designed as a three-player experience, the game naturally bore some resemblances to the intense third-person combat of Gears of War but injected a heavy dose of apocalyptic science fiction into its core. The game’s enigmatic presentation only fueled the anticipation, promising a dark and thrilling narrative.
Players were expected to dive into a brutal, alien world, harnessing unique powers and advanced weaponry to survive its dangers. With its September 2020 release, Outriders aimed to provide a fresh, compelling co-op experience for those seeking intense shooting action combined with a compelling, yet mysterious, storyline. It was certainly one of the grittier new PC games of 2020.
Death Stranding: Hideo Kojima’s Enigmatic Journey to PC
Initially a PlayStation 4 exclusive that captivated and divided critics in November 2019, Hideo Kojima’s wholly unique Death Stranding made its way to PC in 2020, opening its peculiar world to a broader audience. This game famously defied easy explanation, blending elements of exploration, stealth, and unconventional multiplayer into a deeply philosophical narrative. Its signature Kojima style ensured an experience unlike anything else available.
The premise involved reconnecting a fractured post-apocalyptic America by delivering vital supplies across treacherous landscapes, all while contending with supernatural entities and mysterious environmental phenomena. While not universally appealing, its distinctive atmosphere and emotional depth provided an unforgettable journey for those willing to embrace its unique mechanics. Death Stranding’s arrival on PC in Q2 or Q3 2020 was a significant event, bringing a truly singular artistic vision to the platform.
Torchlight 3: A Return to Hack-and-Slash Roots
Fans of classic hack-and-slash action RPGs eagerly awaited Torchlight 3, a title that evolved from its initial concept as a massively multiplayer online game, Torchlight Frontiers. The developers consciously shifted its direction to a more linear, focused experience, aiming to recapture the essence of its beloved predecessors. This change promised a refined action RPG journey, reminiscent of the critically acclaimed Torchlight 2.
Torchlight 3 aimed to deliver the satisfying loot cycles, diverse character classes, and frantic combat that defined the series, with many considering it a significant upgrade to Torchlight 2. Despite not having a firm release date, its expected arrival in 2020 generated considerable excitement for those who cherished its vibrant art style and addictive gameplay. Torchlight 3 was poised to be a strong contender among the new PC games of 2020 for ARPG enthusiasts.
Highly Anticipated Blockbusters and VR Revolution
Marvel’s Avengers: Assembling Earth’s Mightiest Heroes
For superhero fans, Marvel’s Avengers promised an action extravaganza featuring Earth’s mightiest heroes in a brand-new, original story. The game showcased full-blown action sequences, drawing comparisons to the fluid combat of titles like Spider-Man, complete with engaging Quick Time Events (QTEs). The appeal hinged heavily on its potential to deliver an authentic, high-stakes superhero adventure with a compelling multiplayer component.
Players could embody iconic characters such as Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, Thor, Black Widow, and Ms. Marvel, each with unique abilities and playstyles. The visual spectacle and the promise of evolving content kept anticipation high for its September 4th release across all platforms, including PC. Marvel’s Avengers aimed to be a definitive interactive experience for comic book enthusiasts among the new PC games of 2020.
Diablo 4: The Return of the Lord of Terror
Blizzard teased the long-awaited return of a titan with Diablo 4, a game many fans had yearned for after previous teases and speculation. This installment promised a darker, more customizable experience than its predecessors, allowing players significantly more freedom in character appearance and skill tree development. While detailed information remained scarce, the glimpses provided hinted at a return to the series’ grittier roots and expansive loot-driven gameplay.
Though a confirmed 2020 release was uncertain, with many hoping for more news around E3, the mere possibility fueled immense excitement within the action RPG community. Diablo 4 aimed to redefine the hack-and-slash genre for a new generation, offering a massive, interconnected world and endless demon-slaying opportunities across all major platforms, including Windows, truly making it a hopeful highlight of the new PC games of 2020.
Resident Evil 3 Remake: Fear Reimagined
Following the immense success of the Resident Evil 2 Remake, Capcom delivered another terrifying treat with the Resident Evil 3 Remake. This highly anticipated title received the same meticulous treatment, rebuilding the horror classic from the ground up with stunning modern graphics and refined gameplay. Its narrative, intrinsically linked to Resident Evil 2, partly unfolding before and partly after its events, offered a comprehensive look at the Raccoon City outbreak.
The original Resident Evil 3 was known for its relentless pursuit by the terrifying Nemesis, and the remake promised to amplify that dread with state-of-the-art technology and revamped controls. Its April 3rd release was a must-play for horror fans, continuing Capcom’s stellar run of bringing classic survival horror experiences to a new era of gaming. The Resident Evil 3 Remake was undoubtedly one of the most exciting new PC games of 2020 for horror fans.
Halo Infinite: A New Chapter for Master Chief
The legendary Master Chief made his grand return in Halo Infinite, a game that had been in development since 2015, showcasing astonishing visuals and ambitious scope. Built on the brand-new Slipspace engine, a proprietary technology that developers were incredibly proud of, the game promised a more expansive and visually spectacular Halo experience. Speculation ran wild about an open-world design, albeit one set within the iconic confines of a Halo Ring, offering a unique take on open exploration.
Further rumors, such as the inclusion of a grappling hook, hinted at new movement mechanics that could revolutionize Halo gameplay. While its exact 2020 release date was pending, many anticipated it would coincide with the launch of new Xbox consoles, ensuring a premium experience on PC from day one. Halo Infinite aimed to be a flagship title, pushing boundaries for the FPS genre among the new PC games of 2020.
Cyberpunk 2077: The Dystopian Future Arrives
Arguably one of the most anticipated new PC games of 2020, Cyberpunk 2077 from CD Projekt Red promised an unparalleled immersive experience in a sprawling dystopian future. This ambitious title looked to encompass everything: destructible environments, intricate driving mechanics, intense shooting, and deep RPG elements reminiscent of the studio’s critically acclaimed Witcher series. The game’s sheer visual fidelity and depth of choice set it apart from many contemporaries.
Players were expected to dive into Night City, a megalopolis where power, glamour, and body modification reign supreme, taking on the role of V, a mercenary outlaw. The developer’s reputation for rich storytelling and player agency fostered incredibly high expectations for this title, which many believed it would meet. Cyberpunk 2077’s September 17th release date was circled on countless calendars, signifying a monumental moment for PC gaming.
Half-Life: Alyx: Legitimizing VR Gaming
Finally, concluding our look at the most exciting new PC games of 2020, Valve dropped a bombshell with Half-Life: Alyx, a full-fledged VR FPS that served as a prequel to the legendary Half-Life 2. This game was more than just a VR experience; it was a testament to the potential of virtual reality, offering genuine innovations specifically tailored for the medium. With promises of over 30 hours of gameplay, it aimed to deliver a complete, premium VR adventure.
The intricate interactions, physics-driven puzzles, and compelling narrative demonstrated how VR could be fully integrated into a complex game world, potentially legitimizing the platform for a broader audience. Its March 2020 release was seen by many as a watershed moment for VR technology, showcasing what was truly possible when a major developer committed fully to the medium. Half-Life: Alyx was not just one of the new PC games of 2020; it was a potential game-changer for the entire industry, offering an unparalleled level of immersion and innovation.
