The best free games have the power to keep you entertained during those cold winter months, even if you're on a low budget. Fortunately, there are loads of new games across all platforms and genres, including on your new Xbox Series X or PS5. Backwards compatibility ensures you can access a whole host of supported titles, and many developers have updated their games so that they work on the latest consoles. Below are some of the best free games to keep you endlessly entertained, even if you're the type of player who's never spent a penny on in-game purchases.
There is one huge genre of games that are usually not regarded as free. But the fact is that there are tons of great casino games available at the online casinos, completely free. The trick is to play "for fun" without signing up and without betting real money.
Star Wars: The Old Republic
Genre: MMORPG
Platform: PC
If you're still frustrated that you never had the chance to enjoy Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 3, here's your chance to make up for it. While it's an MMO, you needn't worry if you prefer to play solo, as you can simply ignore those elements and focus entirely on exploring your character and their story. Each class comes with its very own take featuring KOTOR-style Dark Side and Light Side choices. If you're a fan of Star Wars, you'll love playing this one again and again. Other free Star Wars games include Star Wars: Rebel Assault 1 and 2.
Pinball FX3
Genre: Pinball simulator
Platform: Switch, PC, Xbox One, PS4, PCS
Seriously, who doesn't love pinball? Yes, the game is heavily monetised through microtransactions for extra tables that cover everything from Star Wars to Portal to Harry potter, but then it does offer a table to play at for free, and for as long as you want. The table is pretty darned good too. Whether you're a former avid pinball machine player or you simply used to love spending your free time playing Space Cadet that used to come with Windows, you're sure to enjoy yourself for at least a few hours with this one.
Smite
Genre: MOBA
Platform: Xbox One, Switch, PS4, PC
Maybe you don't want anything to do with League of Legends. Or perhaps Dota 2's hardcore rep scares the hell out of you. But yet, you still love to play a solid MOBA game. One choice is Smite, the third-person multiplayer game that emphasises fights between mythological figures and gods. You can enjoy the game for free, but then the affordable $30 upgrade gives you the Ultimate Gods Pack, which allows you to access a lifetime of updaters and play with every fighter in the game.
Brawlhalla
Genre: Platform fighting game
Platform: Xbox One, Switch, PS4, PC
If you're a fan of Super Smash Bros, you'll love Brawlhalla too. Sure, the roster of characters won't roll off your tongue like it does with the beloved Nintendo fighting game. It does, however, possess a similar streamlined form of competitive action. In other words, it works for both hardcore competitive types and casual players. Its business model is pretty generous too, as each player is given free access to a rotating selection of six different characters. You can also earn in-game currency to buy more via microtransactions.
Genshin Impact
Genre: Open-world adventure
Platforms: iOS, Android, PS4, PC
A world of fun characters to join forces with, tough enemies to defeat, and stunning vistas to enjoy, have all contributed to this game's claim to fame. It takes the elemental reactivity and vast open spaces of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and combines them with a satisfying and smooth combat system that's definitely taken some significant inspiration from anime action.
