Steam provides an ideal haven for gamers eager to dive into exciting multiplayer experiences. It not only offers a plethora of top-notch big-budget games but also highlights some of the finest emerging indie titles. Many of these excellent games come with multiplayer features, be it cooperative or competitive, or even a mix of both. For those in search of terrific multiplayer games on Steam, the platform offers a vast array of options to choose from.
Given the abundance of choices, it can be quite challenging to discover the finest multiplayer games on Steam. There's a remarkable diversity in the selection, ensuring that there's something appealing for everyone.
Counter-Strike 2
Counter-Strike has maintained its stronghold on the Steam charts for the past decade, and this trend is expected to persist. In 2023, Valve introduced Counter-Strike 2, taking the place of CS:GO as the default choice. Naturally, significant changes like this often encounter some initial difficulties, and the sequel didn't receive a particularly warm welcome at first. Nevertheless, it continues to stand out as the most widely embraced multiplayer game on Steam, and Valve is likely to smooth out any rough edges over time.
Counter-Strike offers various modes that cater to both casual and competitive players, granting players the freedom to tailor their experience. The gameplay is typically satisfying and layered with nuances, while the game maps are generally impressive. The new version boasts improved visuals compared to its predecessor, though CS2 doesn't aim to be a graphical powerhouse. This design choice aligns with the franchise's commitment to accessibility, a core element that has defined its legacy.
PUBG: Battlegrounds
PUBG: Battlegrounds has solidified its place in the multiplayer gaming landscape. While it wasn't the first of its kind, it played a pivotal role in bringing the Battle Royale genre into the limelight, triggering a wave of similar releases eager to replicate PUBG's success. Nowadays, Battle Royales come in various forms and specializations, offering players a wide range of options to suit their preferences. Consequently, PUBG can sometimes fade into the background since it doesn't boast the same level of polish as some other popular games.
Nevertheless, there's still plenty to enjoy here. PUBG remains a solid choice for those seeking a casual gaming session, and though it may not offer the most exceptional gameplay, it's generally decent. In 2022, PUBG adopted a free-to-play model, making it a risk-free choice for players to explore.
Final Fantasy 14
The Final Fantasy series holds a special place as one of the longest-standing and most esteemed RPGs in the gaming world. Gamers have grown accustomed to the array of fantastic classes, as well as the wealth of compelling characters and intricate narratives found in each installment. In 2002, fans were offered a new avenue to embark on their own adventures with Final Fantasy 11, an MMO that allowed players to create their own characters and team up with others online to explore various areas and dungeons together.
However, in 2010, Square Enix attempted to refine the formula but faced some criticism for what many perceived as a significant downgrade from the original release. To rectify this, Square Enix embarked on a complete overhaul of Final Fantasy 14, giving birth to A Realm Reborn, one of the most successful MMORPGs to grace the gaming market. This outstanding release provides players with a multitude of choices in terms of races and classes, even enabling them to switch between Jobs seamlessly.
Team Fortress 2
Before the arrival of Overwatch, there was Team Fortress 2, which stands as one of the most iconic multiplayer games in existence. Valve's "class-based shooter" involves two teams, each selecting from a diverse set of classes, including Soldier, Heavy, Scout, Pyro, Spy, Engineer, Medic, Sniper, and Demoman, as they engage in battles across a range of game modes like Capture the Flag, Team Deathmatch, Payload, and others. This game maintains its status as a beloved classic even today and boasts a substantial amount of user-generated content, including custom game modes and maps.
Destiny 2
Bungie crafted a captivating and enjoyable universe with Destiny, uniting thousands of players through its captivating gunplay and looter-shooter gameplay. Regrettably, Destiny 2 faced a less enthusiastic reception upon its initial launch. Nevertheless, it has managed to sustain a dedicated fanbase and now stands as one of the most impressive free-to-play options on the Steam platform. Although some may be deterred by the grind, Destiny 2 maintains the exceptional gunplay that made its predecessor shine. With a wide array of weapon types and three distinct classes to choose from, there's a wealth of diversity in this Sci-Fi FPS release.
Developers continue to enhance and expand the enduring game, regularly introducing Seasonal and DLC content. Those who relish both PvE and PvP aspects will find plenty to appreciate in Destiny 2.
Left 4 Dead 2
Left 4 Dead 2 ranks among the most captivating and renowned zombie-survival games ever to grace the gaming scene. This title not only boasts an extensive array of content continually added by developers over the years but also supports one of the largest and most devoted modding communities on Steam. Despite its 2009 release, players have been diligently piling on additional content to maintain a fresh and immersive experience for themselves and their companions.
Left 4 Dead 2 delivers one of the most gratifying and enjoyable cooperative gaming experiences available, making it a must-try for enthusiasts of Horror and FPS genres.
Dead By Daylight
Dead by Daylight should be a magnet for horror enthusiasts, thanks to its roster of familiar monsters and survivors. The game draws heavily from established horror themes while also introducing "branded" killers and survivors through crossover events. Those interested in team play will find themselves in a desperate struggle for survival against a player-controlled killer, compelled to repair generators and stealthily navigate spine-tingling environments to evade capture. Conversely, players with a thirst for the hunt can assume the role of the killer and attempt to eliminate all survivors before they complete their objectives and make their escape.
This free-to-play cat-and-mouse game receives frequent updates, consistently introducing new killers and survivors, each equipped with their unique abilities and skills.
War Thunder
There are a few fantastic vehicular combat games available, but few manage to capture the same level of intensity, excitement, and engagement as War Thunder. This free-to-play title allows players to hop into tanks, planes, and more, engaging in combat across a range of expansive maps.
In the primary game modes, players strive to capture points, but they can also dive into activities such as air battles and deathmatches. With a plethora of vehicles to unlock and various customization options, War Thunder offers extensive replay value and promises to keep vehicular combat enthusiasts thoroughly enthralled as they tear through destructible environments.
DOTA 2
Many players are likely acquainted with the League of Legends series, particularly its flagship MOBA game. Yet, it's essential to recognize that DOTA 2 stands as one of the original pioneers of the MOBA genre, playing a significant role in shaping it into what it is today. In DOTA 2, players can select from a diverse roster of characters, each equipped with their unique abilities, playstyles, and skills. Subsequently, they engage in battles against other players, while also dealing with AI-controlled minions and towers. This strategic warfare enables players to purchase new items and enhance their strength. The ultimate goal is to break through the opposing team's defenses.
Over the years, DOTA 2 has witnessed remarkable growth and now boasts an extensive array of characters to choose from.
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre
While slasher and horror movie franchises have found success in their respective mediums, they've rarely ventured into the world of video games. Although there may have been a few attempts on platforms like SNES or Atari 2600 in the past, very few developers have dared to adapt iconic titles like A Nightmare on Elm Street, Child's Play, or Halloween. Even if these movies occupy a more specialized niche within the horror genre, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is no exception, and Resident Evil 7 demonstrated that the original film's concept can deliver a genuinely terrifying gaming experience.
After their venture into Friday the 13th, Sumo Digital turned their attention to The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, creating an asymmetrical horror game similar to Dead by Daylight. While this subgenre has spawned some enjoyable releases, most remain in the shadow of the immensely successful property by Behaviour Interactive. However, Sumo's effort incorporates enough innovation and uniqueness to distinguish itself. Notably, matches involve 4v3 encounters rather than the typical 4v1, demanding constant communication and cooperation from both sides.
