Summer is the best time to enjoy PC games. School is off, days are longer, and many people are looking for something fun to play. But with so many games out there, how do you pick the right one?
As someone who has played and reviewed PC games for over 13 years, I’ve picked the top eight trending games for this summer. These games are popular, fun, and tested by real players.
What Makes a Game Trend in Summer?
Here’s what helps a game become trending:
- A big number of active players
- New content like maps, events, or updates
- Runs smoothly on many types of PCs
- Fun to play alone or with friends
1. Valorant
Genre: First-Person Shooter
Mode: Online Multiplayer
Developer: Riot Games
Valorant is a 5v5 shooter game. You choose agents with different powers and compete in rounds to win matches. It’s known for smooth gameplay and skill-based action.
Why It’s Popular Now
- Riot added new maps and skins this summer
- Summer tournaments are drawing new players
- Top streamers are playing again
Expert Tip
If you’re new, choose the agent “Sage.” She helps teammates and is easy to understand.
What Makes It Fun
- Runs even on older computers
- Free to play
- Strong focus on teamwork
2. Minecraft
Genre: Sandbox / Survival
Mode: Single or Multiplayer
Developer: Mojang Studios
Minecraft lets you build anything you want using blocks. You can also fight monsters and survive in adventure mode.
Why It’s Trending
- New Tricky Trials Update is live
- Realms trials are free this summer
- Kids enjoy building, adults love automation
Expert Tip
Try “Skyblock” or “Hardcore Mode” if the normal game feels too easy.
Personal Story
I once rebuilt my entire high school in Minecraft. It took months but felt amazing when done.
3. Call of Duty: Warzone
Genre: Battle Royale
Mode: Multiplayer
Developer: Activision
Warzone drops you into a large map where you fight to be the last one standing. You can play solo or in teams.
Why It’s Hot This Summer
- Season 4 Reloaded has new weapons
- Ranked mode now supports solo players
Expert Tip
Avoid crowded areas at the start. Survive longer by playing smart.
4. Baldur’s Gate 3
Genre: Role-Playing Game (RPG)
Mode: Single Player / Co-op
Developer: Larian Studios
This game is based on Dungeons & Dragons. You make choices that change the story and build your own character from scratch.
Why It’s Popular
- Won Game of the Year
- On sale for summer
- New players still finding secrets
Expert Tip
Don’t skip conversations. Your choices matter more than you think.
Features Table
| Feature | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Choose Backstories | Unlock special powers and missions |
| Pause Combat | Lets you think before your next move |
| Romance Characters | Build in-game relationships with characters |
5. Counter-Strike 2 (CS2)
Genre: Tactical Shooter
Mode: Online Multiplayer
Developer: Valve
Counter-Strike 2 is a cleaner, updated version of CS:GO. You play short rounds to plant or stop bombs.
Why People Are Playing
- New graphics and smoother performance
- Better matchmaking
Expert Advice
Warm up in Deathmatch mode. It improves your aim before ranked matches.
6. Fortnite
Genre: Battle Royale
Mode: Multiplayer
Developer: Epic Games
Fortnite is a fast-paced shooter with colorful graphics and building mechanics. You collect weapons, build walls, and try to be the last player alive.
Why It’s Still a Top Game
- Added Lego Fortnite and Racing Modes
- Summer events feature Marvel and Star Wars characters
Game Modes Table
| Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Battle Royale | Standard shooter gameplay |
| Lego Mode | Peaceful survival and building |
| Creative | Build your own maps and mini-games |
| Racing | Drive cars in new, competitive races |
7. The Sims 4
Genre: Life Simulation
Mode: Single Player
Developer: Maxis / EA
The Sims 4 lets you control people called Sims. You build their homes, guide their careers, and manage their lives.
Why It’s Trending
- New Horse Ranch pack released
- Base game is free for everyone
Pro Tip
Use the cheat code motherlode to get in-game money quickly for building better houses.
8. Elden Ring
Genre: Action RPG
Mode: Single Player / Co-op
Developer: FromSoftware
Elden Ring is an open-world fantasy game filled with big monsters and deep combat. It’s hard, but fair.
Why People Are Still Playing
- A big new DLC is coming soon
- Game mods let you add fun changes (like Shrek)
Expert Tip
Use Spirit Summons to help during boss fights. Even skilled players rely on them.
Quick Comparison Table
| Game | Best For | Runs on Low-End PC | Free to Play |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valorant | Team shooters | Yes | Yes |
| Minecraft | Creative building | Yes | No |
| Warzone | Battle Royale fans | No | Yes |
| Baldur’s Gate 3 | Deep story and choices | No | No |
| CS2 | Competitive players | Yes | Yes |
| Fortnite | Kids and casual fun | Yes | Yes |
| Sims 4 | Relaxed gameplay | Yes | Yes |
| Elden Ring | Challenging combat lovers | No | No |
Summer Gaming Tips from a Pro
- Use headphones to hear footsteps and gunshots clearly in shooters
- Take breaks every hour to avoid eye and hand strain
- Keep water and a light snack nearby to stay focused
- Update your graphics driver for smoother gameplay
- Play in a cool room so your PC doesn’t overheat
