Most popular PC game franchises of all time

PC games have existed since the early ‘60s. However, they have evolved over time and now offer more immersive gaming experiences that keep PC gamers globally hooked and at the edge of their seats. And that is not an exaggeration. The PC gaming market is growing from strength to strength every year, with more than 1.86 billion PC gamers in 2024. Wait, there's more!

In 2023, the PC gaming industry globally generated nearly $80.27 billion in revenues, while it is expected to generate nearly $141.9 billion by 2028. These statistics show that despite the emergence of high-quality mobile games and more powerful consoles, PC gaming remains a hot favorite among billions of people. This is pretty much owed to the fact that the best PC game franchises don't focus on capitalizing on the success of a hit original.

In fact, they continuously aspire to outdo what they launched and how they can do better, and this approach is precisely what moves the entire PC gaming industry forward. So, let's look at some of the most popular PC game franchises of all time that made history and continue to inspire new PC game developers and gamers alike.

Most Popular Computer Gaming Franchises Ever

Though several PC gaming franchises are loved by gamers worldwide, here are the most popular ones that made history.

The Elder Scrolls

Bethesda Game Studio's Elder Scrolls series (1994), now one of the defined luminaries in RPG history, set the gold standard for open-world games via its technical prowess and deep lore. The action gameplay was a core component, but this series expanded to allow player freedom and provide immersive gaming experiences to players. 

"The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim" (2011) is perhaps the most celebrated installment, known for its expansive world, engaging storylines, and modding community that extends its longevity. The franchise's success lies in offering a sandbox experience where players can explore, craft their narratives, and immerse themselves in a meticulously crafted fantasy universe.

Need for Speed (NFS)

Electronic Arts developed Need for Speed, arguably the most iconic racing game franchise in PC gaming. Debuting in 1994 with "The Need for Speed," the series quickly became known for its high-octane street racing and exotic cars. Titles like "NFS: Underground" (2003) and "Most Wanted" (2005) brought street racing culture into the limelight, introducing customization options and thrilling police chases.

NFS games are renowned for their blend of fast-paced action, stunning graphics, and various vehicles and tracks. The series has experimented with different styles, from the simulation-oriented "Shift" titles to the narrative-driven "The Run" and the open-world "Heat" (2019).

The franchise's longevity and appeal lie in its ability to evolve with gaming trends while maintaining its core adrenaline-fueled racing experience, cementing its status as a staple in the racing genre.

Grand Theft Auto (GTA)

The Grand Theft Auto (GTA) series, produced by Rockstar Games, is one of the most consequential and successful franchises in PC gaming. The series began in 1997 as a game that allowed players to interact in an open-world environment. However, the game became popularized with 'Grand Theft Auto III' (2001), which included a fully 3D world and a narrative-driven experience.

 That formula was further built on by each subsequent release: Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002), GTA: San Andreas (2004), and Grand Theft Auto V (2013), which offered bigger, more detailed worlds, more complicated plots, and dark humor and satire. GTA V remains notable for its expansive, modern, open world, its three playable protagonists, and the continued popularity of its multiplayer offshoot, GTA Online.

GTA's appeal is its sandbox nature, the opportunity to freely explore its worlds, and its mirroring of real-life societal issues, which has impacted the PC gaming industry.

World of Warcraft (WoW)

If you are a hardcore PC gamer, would you have already guessed what the abbreviation “WoW” stands for? That's right, we're talking about World of Warcraft. Launched by Blizzard Entertainment in 2004, this franchise truly transformed the landscape of MMORPG.

Set in the richly imagined world of Azeroth, WoW features a vast, dynamic environment teeming with quests, dungeons, raids, and a multifaceted social structure. Its compelling gameplay loop, regular expansions, and vibrant community kept players engaged for nearly two decades.

Expansions like "The Burning Crusade" (2007) & "Wrath of the Lich King" (2008) are particularly cherished for their deep storylines and challenging content. WoW's enduring success stems from its appeal to both casual and hardcore players, its immersive lore, and Blizzard's ongoing support and updates.

Wrapping Up

PC gaming. However, to take your gaming experience to the next level, consider investing in the right PC gaming gear, such as a high-quality mouse bungee and mouse pad. 

A mouse bungee allows gamers to manage mouse cable slack. This provides smooth yet uninterrupted mouse movement during gameplay, which is what you need to maximize your competitive edge. 

Similarly, a mouse pad like Thasis from our product line ensures a consistent and smooth surface for precise mouse tracking. So, you can slide and glide your mouse during intense gaming sessions, which are much needed for enhanced accuracy and responsiveness.