Paying to win or constant microtransactions in games these days can be annoying. Things like limited-time items, skins, and other extras can, of course, enhance a player's experience, but it sure does add up. Kids today are growing up surrounded by games that literally shove the need to purchase in your face. Roblox and Fortnite are great examples of that.Veteran gamers, however, who refuse to spend money on the extras find themselves at a disadvantage, which has recently been seen with Pokemon Unite. What is comforting to know is that there are still a ton of games out there you can enjoy without microtransaction and for free. Yes, some may create VIP memberships and skins you can purchase, but that really doesn't affect your ability to get the most out of a title.
11 Star Trek Online
Star Trek fans can explore the final frontier and boldly go where no one has gone before in Star Trek Online. This neat free-to-play MMO title puts you in control over your own starship and crew. It can be very irritating to grind for in-game currency, but it's a great free Star Trek experience for the casual and more dedicated player.
Yes, there is also the option to purchase the high-end starships and costumes from the shows and films to outfit your crew if you wish, but it's not necessary. Those extras can be purchased with in-game currency by a dedicated player.
10 Dota 2
Dota 2 definitely gives League of Legends a run for its money in this popular title on Steam. In this 5v5 battle, both teams of wizards are tasked to duke it out by destroying the other team's tower to destroy their base. What's great about Dota 2 is that the matches are super quick lasting only about 30 minutes each and players can choose from a roster of over 110 characters to utilize.
No two battles are really ever the same. This game also features optional cosmetics you can purchase that have no impact on your gameplay experience. Dota 2 still maintains a huge competitive scene in the world of esports if you chose to play competitively or just for fun.
9 EVE Online
Eve Online is an all-out space battle for those who may enjoy games like Mass Effect. In this space-themed MMO, it may seem daunting for new players to get into who may have a hard time navigating the veteran player-driven landscape. The graphics themselves and the gorgeous atmosphere of space in this game makes it worth checking out.
The free version offers a lot to do in it. You can truly get the most out of it before feeling the need to spend money to unlock specific ships and skills through premium access. Eve Online also has a pretty big following, new payers are sure to find ways to get integrated into the game's community even if they are just casual players.
8 Fallout Shelter
If you love the main Fallout games, you will no doubt want to add this game to your collection. It's the experience of Fallout but adorable and whimsical. The release of this unique entry into the series was actually more popular than Fallout 4 when it was released in 2015.
The main objective of this spin-off title is to get survivors to come to your vault, protect them, feed them and keep them safe from harm so they can re-populate the earth. You can also send them out on missions and construct more rooms in your vault. One of the best things about it is that you don't need to invest too much time in it. You can easily pick up where you left off. Fallout Shelter is available on PC, consoles, and mobile.
7 The Awesome Adventures Of Captain Spirit
If you love story-driven games and were a fan of the Life is Strange series, you will love this game and not just because it's free. The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit takes place in the same world that the first game took place in. It is set three years after those events ended. The game also features a cameo from the Diaz brothers from Life is Strange 2.
You play as a boy named Chris who recently lost his mom. To cope with the loss he invents an alter-ego superhero persona known as Captain Spirit. Choices you make in this title can be carried over to your save file in Life is Strange 2. Be prepared to be emotionally invested in this short but sweet spin-off that you can enjoy for free.
6 Doki Doki Literature Club
Don't let the cute characters fool you; this game has a serious side. It's not your typical high school drama visual novel. The basic premise of Doki Doki Literature Club follows a male who has been invited to join an all-female literacy club. Some might think it's a dating sim game but it's so much more than that.
Be warned. It turns into an emotional rollercoaster ride and there is a content warning before you even start the game. PC and Mac users can experience it for free and can also donate to the creators.
5 Gwent
Fans of The Witcher series will no doubt recognize Gwent. The card game created for the series got a standalone title that has gained a massive following. The PvP card deck-building battle game similar to other online card games, lets you build your deck and strategize to defeat your opponents. Gwent's graphics are also unique all on their own making for a truly unique card battle experience.
4 Path Of Exile
Path of Exile is one of the best free-to-play titles out there. This online RPG was released back in 2013 and remains popular today. Some would even compare it to playing a Diablo game. Pick from seven different classes each offering its own strengths and weaknesses. Besides being free it keeps receiving new content, items skills expansions, and story content.
3 Among Us
There is nothing "sus" about this smash hit. Among Us rose to popularity and drew in a ton of gamers prompting new updates and more to be added. Basically, the premise of the game is to find out who the imposter is, or if you are the imposter you must survive round after round without being detected.
Although the game is only $5 on Steam, Android and iOS users can dive right in for free. The best thing is that the game supports cross-play. It's a great time waster and also fun to play with friends and strangers.
2 DC Universe Online
It's always great when a massive franchise receives its own free online title. The game which was first launched in 2011 allows players to play as iconic DC heroes and tackle missions in both Gotham and Metropolis. It also includes daily missions, an interesting story, PvP matches, and regular updates keeping the game fresh. If superhero titles are your jam this is one you should check out
1 Runescape
Runescape will probably live on forever. It's hard to believe it launched about 20 years ago and is still going strong. The game's developer Jagex has kept the game fresh with new content and hours of amazing gameplay. The MMORPG allows players to really do what they like such as quests with friends or honing their skills. A true blast from the past that only continues to improve with time.