Best games for low-end PC: What to play and system requirements

If you have a low-end PC, you can still enjoy immersive and exciting games without needing high-end hardware. From simulation to action-packed adventures, Gadinsider has curated some of the best games for low-end PC and their minimum system requirements.

Stardew Valley

A relaxing farming simulator with a game invites players to farm crops, raise animals, and build relationships in the cosy town of Pelican Town. Its sweet charm and rewarding gameplay make a big difference for low-end PC gamers.

Minimum system requirements

• OS: Windows Vista or higher
• Processor: 2 GHz
• Memory: 2 GB RAM
• Graphics: 256 MB video memory, DirectX 10 compatible
• Storage: 500 MB

TCG Card Shop Simulator

This is quite a special simulator: Run your trading card game shop. Managing inventory, the interactions between customers and store owners with expansion, are all interesting combinations of strategic and creative thinking. Perfect for games for low-end PC, it’s light on resources but full of depth.

Minimum system requirements

• OS: Windows 7 or later
• Processor: Dual Core 2 GHz
• Memory: 2 GB RAM
• Graphics: Integrated graphics
• Storage: 1 GB

Into the Breach

A tactical turn-based strategy game, Into the Breach, sets players into mechs that defend humanity from alien threats. Battlefields are puzzle-like levels played out with careful planning. Minimal visuals make it a well-suited game for low-end PCs.

Minimum system requirements

• OS: Windows Vista/7/8/10
• Processor: 1.7+ GHz or better
• Memory: 1 GB RAM
• Graphics: OpenGL 2.1 compatible
• Storage: 300 MB

Little Nightmares

This atmospheric puzzle platform follows the story of a haunting, whimsical world from the perspective of guiding a little girl named Six. Because of its eerie visuals and thrilling gameplay, it is surely one of the most eye-catching games for low-end PC.

Minimum system requirements

• OS: Windows 7 (64-bit)
• Processor: Intel Core i3
• Memory: 4 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 460 or equivalent
• Storage: 10 GB

Animal Well

Animal Well is a mysterious exploration platformer where players unravel puzzles and secrets in a vibrant pixel-art world. This game’s resource-light requirements make it great for low-end PCs while delivering a rich experience.

• OS: Windows 7 or newer
• Processor: Intel Core i3
• Memory: 2 GB RAM
• Graphics: Integrated graphics card
• Storage: 500 MB

Darkest Dungeon

A turn-based RPG, Darkest Dungeon tasks players with managing a team of heroes exploring dangerous dungeons. With gothic visuals and challenging mechanics, it’s a great choice for games for low-end PC enthusiasts.

Minimum system requirements

• OS: Windows 7
• Processor: Dual Core 2.5 GHz
• Memory: 2 GB RAM
• Graphics: Open GL 3.2+ Compliant
• Storage: 2 GB

Among Us

This multiplayer social deduction game has players working together to complete tasks while identifying imposters. With simple graphics and engaging gameplay, it’s one of the most accessible games for low-end PC.

Minimum system requirements

• OS: Windows 7 SP1+
• Processor: Intel Pentium 4
• Memory: 1 GB RAM
• Graphics: Integrated graphics
• Storage: 250 MB

Hotline Miami

A fast-paced top-down shooter, Hotline Miami offers action-packed levels with a retro aesthetic. It’s a classic for fans of high-intensity games for low-end PC.

Minimum system requirements

• OS: Windows XP
• Processor: 1.2 GHz
• Memory: 512 MB RAM
• Graphics: DirectX 8 compatible
• Storage: 250 MB

Batman: Arkham Asylum

Step into the shoes of the Dark Knight in this action-adventure game. Batman: Arkham Asylum delivers a gripping story, fluid combat, and puzzle-solving mechanics, making it one of the best games for low-end PC in the action genre.

Minimum system requirements

• OS: Windows XP/Vista
• Processor: 3 GHz Intel or AMD
• Memory: 1 GB RAM (XP) / 2 GB RAM (Vista)
• Graphics: NVIDIA 6600 or ATI 1300
• Storage: 8 GB

Tomb Raider (2013)

This reboot of the classic series follows Lara Croft as she evolves into the legendary adventurer. Tomb Raider combines exploration, combat, and survival elements, optimized well for games for low-end PC.

Minimum system requirements

• OS: Windows XP Service Pack 3
• Processor: Dual Core CPU (2 GHz)
• Memory: 1 GB RAM
• Graphics: DirectX 9 compatible, 512 MB video memory
• Storage: 12 GB