When it comes to buying games, PC gamers have a multitude of options. With so many online stores available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to get your next gaming fix. In this guide, I will break down the best websites for PC gamers, highlighting the top platforms that offer a wide selection of games, exclusive deals, and unique features.
Whether you’re looking for the latest AAA releases, retro classics, indie gems, or great value bundles, there’s a platform out there to cater to your specific gaming interests. Let’s explore the top choices for PC gamers and discover where to buy PC games online.
Key Takeaways:
- Steam is the largest and most important PC gaming marketplace, offering a massive library of games and innovative features.
- GOG.com specializes in retro PC games and preserving old titles, providing DRM-free options.
- Humble Bundle offers great value for gamers and supports charity work through its bundles and gaming subscription service.
- itch.io is the go-to platform for indie gamers, offering a community-driven marketplace for artistic and adventurous titles.
- GameFly is the best option for mail rentals of video games, allowing users to try out a wide variety of titles.
Steam – Best for Avid PC Gamers
When it comes to PC gaming, Steam is undoubtedly the largest and most popular marketplace available. With its vast game library, Steam offers a diverse range of options to cater to the interests of avid PC gamers. Whether you’re looking for AAA releases, indie gems, or classic titles, Steam has it all.
One of the standout features of Steam is its accessibility. Not only can you access the platform on your desktop, but you can also enjoy gaming on your TV through the Big Picture Mode. Additionally, the recent introduction of the Steam Deck has taken handheld gaming to the next level, providing high-powered gaming on the go.
While Steam offers numerous game recommendation tools and features such as remote play and video streaming, it does have its limitations. When it comes to customer service, direct support is limited, which can be frustrating for some users. Furthermore, although Steam has an integrated screenshot tool, it lacks built-in video-capture tools, requiring users to rely on external software.
Highlights of Steam:
- Largest PC gaming marketplace with a vast game library
- Accessible on desktop, TV, and handheld with the Steam Deck
- Game recommendation tools and features like remote play and video streaming
- Integrated screenshot tool for capturing memorable gaming moments
- Available for Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms
- Self-service refund method for hassle-free returns
If you’re an avid PC gamer looking for a wide selection of games and innovative features, Steam is the go-to platform for you. With its vast library, accessibility, and continuous updates, Steam offers an unparalleled gaming experience for PC enthusiasts.
GOG.com – Best for Retro PC Gamers
GOG.com is a leading platform for retro PC gamers, offering a wide selection of classic games that have been reconfigured to run smoothly on modern computers. With a focus on preserving old titles, GOG.com provides an authentic and nostalgic gaming experience. One of the key advantages of GOG.com is its commitment to offering DRM-free options, allowing gamers to truly own their games without any restrictions. This gives players the freedom to install and play their games on multiple devices without the need for online authentication.
GOG.com also offers the GOG Galaxy client, which serves as a hub for all your games and provides additional features such as cloud saves, automatic updates, and multiplayer matchmaking. The GOG Galaxy client aims to enhance the overall gaming experience by organizing and integrating all your games into a single platform.
Furthermore, GOG.com has a customer-friendly refund policy, allowing users to request a refund within 30 days of purchase if the game does not meet their expectations. This provides peace of mind to gamers, knowing that they can try out their chosen retro games risk-free.
GOG.com Key Features:
- Wide selection of retro PC games
- DRM-free gaming experience
- GOG Galaxy client for additional features
- Customer-friendly refund policy
“GOG.com is the ultimate destination for retro PC gamers, offering a vast library of classic titles and a commitment to preserving gaming history. Their DRM-free options and customer-friendly refund policy make it an appealing choice for gamers seeking an authentic and hassle-free retro gaming experience.”
Humble – Best for Value and Charity Work
When it comes to finding great deals on PC games and supporting a good cause, Humble Bundle is the perfect choice. This innovative platform offers a unique combination of value and charity support, making it a favorite among gamers.
One of the standout features of Humble Bundle is its gaming subscription service. With a subscription, you gain access to a curated selection of games each month, giving you the opportunity to discover new titles and genres. Not only do you get excellent value for your money, but a portion of the proceeds from your subscription goes to support various charities.
Another reason why Humble Bundle is a preferred choice for gamers is its refund policy. The platform offers a self-service refund method, allowing you to easily request a refund if you encounter any issues with your purchase. This level of customer-friendly service ensures that you can shop with confidence.
Humble Bundle is available on Linux, Mac, Windows, and Nintendo Switch platforms, providing a wide range of options for gamers. Whether you’re looking for indie gems, AAA hits, or digital versions of console games, Humble Bundle has you covered. With its commitment to value, charity support, and flexible refund policy, it’s no wonder that Humble Bundle has become a go-to platform for gamers seeking quality games at an affordable price.
itch.io – Best for Adventurous Indie Gamers
For those indie gamers who seek unique and artistic gaming experiences, itch.io is the ultimate platform. With its vast library of obscure and offbeat indie PC games, it caters to the adventurous souls who crave something different. Whether you’re in the mood for thought-provoking narratives, visually stunning landscapes, or innovative gameplay mechanics, itch.io has it all.
One of the standout features of itch.io is its community-driven nature. The platform fosters a welcoming and supportive community of game creators and players. You can connect with like-minded individuals, share your experiences, and discover hidden gems recommended by fellow gamers. This sense of belonging and collaboration adds an extra layer of immersion to the indie gaming experience.
Exploring the World of Indie Games
With itch.io‘s easy-to-use browsing options and tools, you can effortlessly navigate through the vast selection of indie games. Whether you prefer browsing by genre, popularity, or user ratings, you’ll find the perfect game to suit your taste. From atmospheric puzzle games to experimental art projects, itch.io has something to satisfy every gamer’s curiosity.
“itch.io is a haven for indie gamers, embracing the unconventional and pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling.” – IndieGameMag
The itch.io Desktop App
To enhance your gaming experience, itch.io offers a convenient desktop app. This app allows you to seamlessly access your games, receive updates, and stay connected with the itch.io community. With just a few clicks, you can dive into your favorite indie titles without any distractions, immersing yourself in the unique worlds created by talented game developers.
So, if you’re tired of mainstream gaming and crave something out of the ordinary, look no further than itch.io. Embark on an adventure through the world of indie games, connect with fellow gamers, and discover hidden treasures that will leave a lasting impression.
GameFly – Best for Mail Rental
GameFly is the perfect solution for gamers who enjoy the convenience of renting games through the mail. It offers a wide game library, allowing users to choose from a vast selection of recent and classic console games. Whether you’re looking to play the latest releases or revisit old favorites, GameFly has you covered.
Not only does GameFly provide physical game rentals, but it also offers PC game streaming. This means that you can enjoy your favorite PC games without the need for expensive hardware. Simply stream the games directly to your computer and start playing.
To make the gaming experience even more enjoyable, GameFly offers a convenient mobile app. With this app, you can manage your game queue, receive updates on new releases, and even read game reviews on the go. It’s the perfect companion for any gaming enthusiast.
So if you’re someone who loves to try out different games and wants the flexibility of renting rather than buying, GameFly is the ideal choice for you. With its extensive library, PC game streaming option, and convenient mobile app, GameFly makes it easy to discover and play your favorite games without breaking the bank.
Xbox – Best for Microsoft Gamers
In the world of PC gaming, Microsoft gamers have a dedicated platform that caters to their gaming needs. Xbox not only offers a wide range of PC games but also integrates seamlessly with the Xbox Game Pass, providing access to an extensive library of games.
One of the standout features of the Xbox platform is its attractive interface and user-friendly experience. The platform offers a range of features including voice chat, video recording, game DVR, and multiplayer gaming, all at no additional cost. This makes it a top choice for gamers who want a complete gaming experience.
Xbox also provides cloud saves, allowing gamers to seamlessly pick up their progress on different devices. Whether playing on a desktop or a laptop, Xbox ensures that your gaming progress is always synchronized and easily accessible.
Overall, Xbox offers a comprehensive gaming experience for Microsoft gamers on the PC. With its extensive library of games and user-friendly features, it is a platform that shouldn’t be overlooked by PC gamers.
Epic Games Store – Best for Exclusive Games and Free Giveaways
The Epic Games Store is a PC gaming platform that has gained popularity for its exclusive game offerings and frequent free game giveaways. It was created by the makers of Fortnite and has quickly become a competitor to Steam and other major game marketplaces.
One of the standout features of the Epic Games Store is its selection of exclusive games. These titles are only available on the Epic Games Store, making it an enticing platform for gamers who want access to unique and highly anticipated releases. Additionally, the store regularly offers free games to its users, allowing players to expand their gaming library without spending any additional money.
The Epic Games Store also provides valuable resources for game developers, particularly those using the Unreal Engine. Unreal Engine is a popular game development engine used by many industry professionals, and the Epic Games Store offers a range of resources, tutorials, and support for developers working with this powerful tool.
With its exclusive game offerings, free game giveaways, and resources for Unreal Engine developers, the Epic Games Store has established itself as a top choice for PC gamers looking for something different.
The Epic Games Store is available for both Windows and Mac platforms, providing accessibility to a wide range of gamers. Its no-DRM (Digital Rights Management) policy ensures that gamers have control over their purchased games and can enjoy them without restrictions or constant online connectivity.
Overall, the Epic Games Store offers a unique gaming experience with its exclusive titles, free game giveaways, and resources for game developers. Whether you’re a fan of Fortnite or simply looking for something new and exciting, the Epic Games Store is definitely worth exploring.
Green Man Gaming – Best for Recycled Keys
If you’re looking for discounted Steam keys, Green Man Gaming is the go-to store. They frequently offer better deals than Steam itself, allowing you to save some hard-earned cash on your favorite games. But it’s not just about the savings, Green Man Gaming also supports developers by taking a lower cut, meaning your purchase helps to support the gaming industry as a whole.
However, there has been some controversy surrounding the source of the redemption keys sold on Green Man Gaming. Some gamers and developers have raised concerns about the legitimacy and origin of these keys. While Green Man Gaming has stated that they acquire their keys directly from authorized distributors, the issue remains a topic of debate within the gaming community.
When browsing Green Man Gaming, you may find that the platform lacks some of the advanced tools and features offered by other game stores. However, their frequent discounts and competitive prices make up for this. Green Man Gaming offers a wide range of physical and digital games, giving you plenty of options to choose from.
Green Man Gaming browsing tools
- Advanced search filters to help you find games based on genre, price, and platform.
- Wishlist feature to save games for later and receive notifications when they go on sale.
- Deal of the Day section to find the best discounted games.
- User reviews and ratings to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Green Man Gaming is a great option if you’re looking for discounted Steam keys and want to support developers. Just keep in mind the ongoing debate surrounding the source of their redemption keys. Take advantage of their browsing tools and frequent discounts to find the best deals on your favorite games.
Conclusion
When it comes to buying PC games online, there are several platforms to choose from. The most popular and extensive marketplace is Steam, which offers a vast library of games for all gaming interests. If you’re a fan of retro PC games, GOG.com specializes in preserving and reconfiguring old titles, ensuring they run smoothly on modern PCs. For those looking for great value and the opportunity to support charity work, Humble Bundle is the go-to platform. They offer bundle deals, a gaming subscription service, and a portion of the proceeds go towards charitable causes.
If you’re an adventurous gamer who enjoys indie titles, itch.io is the platform for you. They have a diverse library of obscure and artistic indie games, and their community is welcoming and supportive. Gamers interested in renting physical copies of games should check out GameFly. They offer a wide game library and allow users to rent games through the mail, similar to the old Blockbuster model. Xbox is the platform of choice for Microsoft gamers, with a wide selection of games available for purchase on PC.
For fans of exclusive titles and free giveaways, the Epic Games Store is worth exploring. They offer games that can’t be found on other platforms and provide resources for Unreal Engine developers. Lastly, Green Man Gaming is a key retailer that offers discounted Steam keys. While there has been controversy surrounding their key sources, they frequently provide great discounts on games. Each platform has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your gaming needs when making a decision.
In conclusion, whether you’re looking to buy PC games online or explore different PC gaming platforms, there are plenty of options available. From the extensive library of Steam to the retro charm of GOG.com, there’s something for every type of gamer. Consider your preferences, budget, and gaming interests to find the best website for you.
FAQ
Where can PC gamers buy games?
PC gamers can buy games from various online platforms such as Steam, GOG.com, Humble Bundle, itch.io, GameFly, Xbox, Epic Games Store, and Green Man Gaming.
What is Steam best known for?
Steam is known for being the biggest and most important PC gaming marketplace, offering a massive library of games, innovative features, and discounted prices.
What types of games does GOG.com specialize in?
GOG.com specializes in retro PC games and preserving old titles, offering DRM-free options and reconfigurations for modern PCs.
How does Humble Bundle support charity work?
Humble Bundle allows users to customize how much support goes to developers, Humble, and selected charities, with a portion of the proceeds going to charity.
What types of games can be found on itch.io?
itch.io is a marketplace dedicated to indie PC games, offering a library of obscure and artistic titles created by independent developers.
How does GameFly work?
GameFly is a service that allows physical rental of video games. Users can subscribe to receive games through the mail and return them to get the next game in their queue.
What is Xbox known for?
Xbox is not only a home console but also a PC gaming store, offering select Xbox games for purchase on PC and integrating with Xbox Game Pass.
What sets the Epic Games Store apart?
The Epic Games Store offers exclusive games, free game giveaways, and resources for Unreal Engine developers, along with a no DRM policy.
What does Green Man Gaming offer?
Green Man Gaming is a retailer that sells discounted Steam keys, often offering better deals than Steam itself and supporting developers by taking a lower cut.
Where can I find a variety of PC gaming options?
PC gamers have various options when it comes to buying games online, allowing them to find the best fit for their gaming needs among platforms like Steam, GOG.com, Humble Bundle, itch.io, GameFly, Xbox, Epic Games Store, and Green Man Gaming.
