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For the best PC games of 2026 so far, start with the kind of game you want to play: PC Gamer’s recommendations highlight a co-op puzzle adventure, a farm sim, strategy, action and RPG picks. Its individual review scores offer one editorial perspective; SteamDB’s separate ranking reflects user reviews for games released on Steam. Neither is a definitive measure of what every PC player will enjoy.
This shortlist reflects information available on October 4, 2026. Scores below are attributed to PC Gamer, not presented as critic consensus. SteamDB’s ranking changes as reviews accrue, so check its live page for current percentages and review counts.
How to read this 2026 PC games shortlist
PC Gamer’s recommendation page is an editorial guide, while SteamDB’s 2026 ranking orders Steam releases using its rating system and displays Steam user-review percentages and counts. Those signals answer different questions: a PC Gamer score is that publication’s review judgment; a SteamDB percentage summarizes reviews on Steam, not all PC players, storefronts or critics.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchThe PC Gamer page was last updated September 15, 2026. Its listed scores are useful for comparing its reviewed picks, but the page also contains an apparent contradiction: it lists several 2026 games rated 90/100 and later says there are no 2026 games in its 90-and-up club. The individual scores below are attributed as printed; do not treat the conflicting year-summary statement as a reliable ranking.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible with Windows and Android.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate (for 2.4G and wired connection)
- Hall Effect joysticks and Hall triggers. Wear-resistant metal joystick rings.
- Extra R4/L4 bumpers. Custom button mapping without using software. Turbo function.
- Refined bumpers and D-pad. Light but tactile.
SteamDB’s figures are live and were not captured here with exact percentages or review counts. Rather than imply a current number, use its ranking page to see the latest values and volume. Its list covers Steam releases, not every PC storefront.
Best PC games to consider by play style
Big Walk — co-op puzzle adventure
Choose Big Walk if you want a gentle, cooperative outing built around puzzles rather than a combat-heavy campaign. PC Gamer rated it 90/100, describing it as “A joyous jaunt through a gentle world full of thoughtfully-designed puzzles.” That is PC Gamer’s review assessment, not a promise that every puzzle or play session will suit every group.
Rank #2
- Supported Multi-Platform:Switch/Switch 2 (NO support wake-up function)/iOS/Android/Windows PC (Notice:Not compatible with Xbox, PlayStation or GeForce Now, For game platforms not mentioned, please consult customer service before buying）
- Connection modes:Wired/Bluetooth/Wireless Dongle(Connect to PC via Bluetooth : Select iOS (phone) mode, but it's not recommended; Dongle is more stable)
- 【Innovative Intelligent Interactive Screen】Manba One V2 wireless game controllers create a new era of controller screens; Equipped with a 2-inch display, no App & software needed, you can set the pc controller directly through the screen visualization, More convenient operation
- 【Micro Switch Button】Manba One wireless controller has Micro Switch Button and ALPS Bumper; The 6-axis gyroscope function makes switch games more immersive
- 【Customize Your Own Controller】The intelligent interactive screen allows you to easily set vibrations, buttons, joysticks,lights, etc., without the need for complex key combinations; 4 configurations can be saved to unlock your own gameplay for different games; The 4 back keys support macro definition settings, and you can activate the set character's ultimate move with one click
Fields of Mistria — farm simulation
Fields of Mistria is the farm-sim pick for players who care about characters as much as tending a farm. PC Gamer gave it 89/100 and called it “A fresh face for farm sims that brings the magic back with the best-written cast I’ve seen from the genre.” Fields of Mistria also appeared among the high-rated entries in the SteamDB snapshot, giving it a separate player-review signal; check SteamDB for the live percentage and review count rather than treating that changing figure as a critic score.
Star Wars Zero Company — strategy
If you want a strategy game in the Star Wars universe, consider Star Wars Zero Company. PC Gamer rated it 90/100 and wrote: “A new all-timer Star Wars game and a stunning debut for Bit Reactor.” That score and praise belong to PC Gamer’s review; they are not an aggregate of critics or players.
Rank #3
- Tri-mode Connectivity: Wired for Xbox, 2.4G & Wired for PC, and Bluetooth for Android. The G7 Pro supports seamless connectivity across Xbox, PC, and Android. Effortlessly switch between modes using the convenient physical mode switch.
- TMR Sticks: The G7 Pro features GameSir's Mag-Res TMR sticks, combining Hall Effect durability with traditional potentiometer performance. This advanced technology delivers stable polling rates for smooth, drift-free gaming with low power consumption.
- Hall Effect Analog Triggers: The GameSir precision-tuned Hall Effect analog triggers provide unmatched smoothness and linear input for precise control. Featuring clicky Micro Switch trigger stops, gamers can easily switch based on their preferences.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate on PC: Experience ultra-responsive gaming with a 1000Hz polling rate on PC, available through both wired and 2.4G wireless connections. This ensures instantaneous input registration, reducing lag and optimizing your performance for the most competitive gameplay.
- GameSir Nexus App: The G7 Pro is compatible with the upgraded GameSir Nexus app, which brings a significant upgrade over the original. It introduces powerful new features such as gyro settings, stick curve adjustments, and button-to-mouse mapping, giving you deeper customization and more control than ever before.
Onimusha: Way of the Sword — action
Onimusha: Way of the Sword is the action pick for weighty sword fighting. PC Gamer scored it 83/100, praising “A sublime mix of classic Capcom action and weighty physical swordfighting” while noting that “The only enemy it can’t overcome is its own pacing.” That qualification matters if you value brisk momentum as much as combat.
Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots — action and a distinctive sequel
Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots is a choice for players looking for an unusual, story-led action sequel. PC Gamer gave it 84/100 and described it as “A singular sequel that must be seen to be believed, and now it’s right at home on PC.” The score is PC Gamer’s individual review rating, not a cross-publication average.
Rank #4
- Multi-Platform PC Gaming Controller: Working with Switch, PC, Android, and iOS devices via Bluetooth, wired, and wireless dongle connections.
- Hall Effect Joysticks: Delivering enhanced recentering performance for smoother control and superior anti-drift capability. Plus, with anti-friction rings.
- 2-Way Trigger Lock: With trigger stops, gamers can toggle between short and long pull positions. Additionally, gamers can activate hair trigger mode by pressing M+LT/RT (triggers must be in the long pull position).
- 1000Hz Polling Rate: This ensures that your inputs are registered almost instantaneously, minimizing lag and maximizing your performance during competitive play.
- Mechanical Circular D-pad: Designed for quick reactions and accuracy in every direction, this D-pad elevates your gaming experience with superior responsiveness.
The Blood of Dawnwalker — horror RPG
For an RPG with a bleak horror tone, PC Gamer’s The Blood of Dawnwalker recommendation received 83/100. Its review says: “The Blood of Dawnwalker is a resolutely miserable horror RPG with some great ideas of its own, though it doesn’t always have the courage to follow them through.” The praise and reservations together make this a better fit for players drawn to its mood and ideas than for anyone seeking an unqualified recommendation.
Recommended Free Tools
Other names on SteamDB’s 2026 ranking
PRAGMATA and Resident Evil Requiem, along with Fields of Mistria, appeared among the high-rated entries in the SteamDB snapshot. The available snapshot does not establish their exact percentages or review counts, so compare them on SteamDB’s live page rather than assigning a number here. A place on that ranking indicates Steam user-review performance under SteamDB’s method; it is not itself a PC Gamer review or a ranking of every PC release.
Best Value
- Platform Compatibility: This PC controller is designed for Windows PC, Steam, Switch, Android, and iOS. Xbox-style asymmetric stick layout for PC gamers. Three modes cover all your devices. Please check your device compatibility before purchase
- Three Connection Modes: 2.4G wireless, Bluetooth, wired USB-C. PC gets native XInput/DirectInput. Switch pairs via Bluetooth, no adapter. This gaming PC controller switches devices seamlessly. Stable wireless minimizes random disconnects during gaming
- Hall Effect Precision: Hall effect joysticks and triggers eliminate stick drift. This gaming controller for PC delivers smooth, responsive input with no dead zones. Built for FPS, racing, and action games. Long-term precision for competitive PC gaming
- Back Buttons & Battery: Two programmable back buttons map combos and shortcuts. Textured grips with dual vibration. 1000mAh battery delivers up to 20H playtime. RGB can be turned off. A solid PC controller for gaming with custom back buttons
- ABXY Layout Switch: Press B + Minus + Plus to swap between PC and Switch modes. Features: 1000Hz polling rate, RGB lighting, turbo. Note: designed without mic jack or gyro sensor
Check release status before choosing a late-year game
Release calendars are forward-looking: they can include announced dates, updates and titles that have not launched yet. PC Gamer’s 2026 release calendar and September calendar provide context, while its October calendar lists scheduled dates and updates. A date in a calendar is not proof a game was available on PC by October 4. Confirm the title’s PC launch and storefront availability before buying or counting it as a released 2026 pick.
The same caution applies to regional price, system requirements, accessibility options and performance: the cited recommendation and ranking pages do not establish a consistent, current comparison of those details for every title. Check the game’s current official store or publisher listing for the edition and region that apply to you.
Quick Recap
Which one should you play?
- For cooperative puzzles: start with Big Walk.
- For a farm sim and character writing: consider Fields of Mistria.
- For strategy: look at Star Wars Zero Company.
- For sword-focused action: consider Onimusha: Way of the Sword.
- For an unconventional action sequel: try Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots.
- For a grim horror RPG: consider The Blood of Dawnwalker.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
