2011 could easily be known as the year of free games. Whether “free-to-play” or straight up “free as in beer”, many games hit the web this year that don’t cost a cent, yet can yield thousands of hours of entertainment (don’t make me show you my Seam stats). This year also saw several huge AAA games suddenly go free, hinting at a bright future for those of us without disposable incomes.
Now I’m going to list my top 10 favorite free games, but the order isn’t really important. Also, not all the games came out in 2011, but that’s when they really caught on. Every game on this list is worthy of your attention.
10. Alien Swarm
Why it makes the list: Valve released Alien Swarm without much fanfare, but that’s no indication of its quality. Originally a mod for Unreal Tournament 2004, then rebuilt in the Source Engine, this top-down shooter has you battling through alien-infested institutions with up to three co-op buddies. And it’s a lot of tense, action-packed fun. The community it a bit smaller these days, but I still usually have no problem finding a good game.
9. Battlefield Heroes
Why it makes the list: This spinoff from the Battlefield series soesn’t take itself too seriously. While the graphics appear similar to Team Fortress 2, the gameplay is classic Battlefield. It’s a small download, and I’ve been enjoying it for about 2 years now.
Now a lot of people complain this game is “play to win” and it’s true, you can buy powerful weapons, but I’ve never spent a penny on the game, and I consistently kick ass. Also, you can get codes from Dr Pepper bottles for cool gear.
8. Battlefield Play4Free
Why it makes the list: This free-to-play Battlefield title takes a lot of visual cues from Battlefield 2, such as the maps, but uses a class system closer to Bad Company 2. It’s about as straight-forward as multiplayer action gets these days, but it all runs in a browser, and it’s rarely anything other than a delight, especially when you factor in the (lack of a) price tag.
7. League of Legends
Why it makes the list: This is frankly one of the best PC games currently being played. It is fantastic. Intense PVP action is what this game is about. It’s a DOTA clone, and if you don’t know what that means, then you should look it up. Right now, LoL has more active players than World of Warcraft. You can use money to unlock skins and gain certain trivial boosts, but anyone can unlock everything without a dime. This game is almost perfect and fun as hell.
6. Realm of the Mad God
Why it makes the list: This is an easy to pick up, difficult to master browser MMO. Don’t let that fool you, this isn’t some Evony clone. RotMG is basically a dual stick shooter mixed with an mmorpg with permadeath. And it is awesome.
5. DC Universe Online
Why it makes the list: Who wouldn’t want to be a superhero? This game delivers solid combat, great graphics, and a huge amount of free content. If you’re a fan of DC or MMOs, then definitely check it out.
4. Dungeons & Dragons Online
Why it makes the list: As a traditional pay-to-play MMO, D&D Online seemed doomed to failure. A rough launch was followed by an extensive overhaul, but by then the bulk of its playerbase had already moved on. The game got a new lease on life when it transitioned to free to play model which aggressively pushes players into purchasing perks or access to content areas. It’s there if you choose to avail yourself of it, but the game is playable even without an investment of cash. Today it is thriving.
3. Lord of the Rings Online
Why it makes the list: It was an incredibly solid MMO even when it was pay-to-play, but now Lord of the Rings Online is an outstanding example of a freemium game done right. With enough dedication, every part of LotRO is playable without shelling out a dime for premium content, up to and including its expansions. Earn enough points through the course of play and just about everything is accessible. Dropping a few dollars on points is a convenient shortcut, but is by no means mandatory. Players who find themselves truly absorbed in the world may well end up paying a regular subscription for the sheer convenience, but more casual players will find plenty to do here without shelling out a monthly fee they can’t justify for the amount of time they spend playing.
2. Minecraft
Why it makes the list: Essentially a multiplayer platform for building anything you want out of simple blocks, Minecraft has been the runaway success story of the year, making millions over the course of just a few months. But did you know that Minecraft still has a free version? It hasn’t been updated since the game went to Alpha and began selling preorders, but people are still operating free servers, and you can even try it out from the comfort of your browser. Why not find out first hand why this thing has already acquired hundreds of thousands of addicted fans?
1. Team Fortress 2
Why it makes the list:
“The most fun you can have online” - PC Gamer
Is now FREE!
There’s no catch! Play as much as you want, as long as you like!
The most highly-rated free game of all time!
One of the most popular online action games of all time, Team Fortress 2 delivers constant free updates—new game modes, maps, equipment and, most importantly, hats. Nine distinct classes provide a broad range of tactical abilities and personalities, and lend themselves to a variety of player skills.
New to TF? Don’t sweat it!
No matter what your style and experience, we’ve got a character for you. Detailed training and offline practice modes will help you hone your skills before jumping into one of TF2’s many game modes, including Capture the Flag, Control Point, Payload, Arena, King of the Hill and more.
Make a character your own!
There are hundreds of weapons, hats and more to collect, craft, buy and trade. Tweak your favorite class to suit your gameplay style and personal taste. You don’t need to pay to win—virtually all of the items in the Mann Co. Store can also be found in-game.
