Best free-to-play games right now (PC and console)
Fortnite, Marvel Rivals, Warframe, Rocket League and 2026's new arrivals – the best free-to-play games on PC and console, platforms checked.
“Free” is a great price, especially in the run-up to the expensive end of the year. These games cost nothing to download and play, and they’re genuinely good without spending – though all of them sell optional cosmetics or passes, so it’s worth setting a budget (or a spending limit for younger players) before you start.
One thing to know: on console, many free-to-play games don’t need a paid subscription for online play, but rules differ by platform and game, so check before you assume. Availability can also vary by country.
Shooters and hero games
Fortnite
Still the default free game for a reason: battle royale, building, LEGO, racing and music modes in one app, on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch 2 and mobile (mobile availability varies by region).
Marvel Rivals
A 6v6 hero shooter with a huge Marvel roster, free on PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. Fast, colourful and much easier to get into than most competitive shooters.
Long-term adventures
Warframe
A sci-fi action game with years of content, free on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Switch 2 and mobile, with cross-play and cross-save – so you can carry your progress between devices.
Genshin Impact
The open-world anime RPG is free on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S and mobile. Gorgeous to explore; just be aware the character “gacha” system is built to tempt you.
Arknights: Endfield – new in 2026
Launched worldwide on 22 January 2026 on PC, PS5 and mobile, mixing squad combat with base-building. A good pick if you like a strategic layer with your action.
Quick matches with friends
Rocket League
Football with rocket-powered cars. Free on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch and PC (via the Epic Games Store), with cross-play. Easy to learn, very hard to master.
2XKO – new in 2026
Riot’s 2v2 tag fighting game, set in the League of Legends universe, fully launched in January 2026 on PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. Teaming up with a friend makes fighting games far less intimidating.
Spend nothing, play better
The only upgrade that really matters in free games is comfort. A decent headset helps in team games – see What2Buy’s PS5 headsets under £50 – and PC players can find picks in best wireless gaming mice. What2Buy is a UK site with prices in pounds, so readers elsewhere should check local retailers. Looking for something to play with one other person? Try our two-player games list.
Sources & fact-checks
Dates and platforms were checked against these on 16 October 2026. Release dates move – check the store before you plan around one.
- Epic Games – What platforms or devices are compatible with Fortnite?
- Marvel – Marvel Rivals launches Season 0, free to play
- Epic Games – Rocket League free to play FAQ
- Warframe – Warframe on Switch 2 available now
- Xbox Wire – Genshin Impact coming to Xbox on November 20 (2024)
- Games Press – Arknights: Endfield sets 22 January 2026 global launch
- Riot Games – 2XKO patch notes 1.1.1 (January 2026)
- Dot Esports – 2XKO global release date