The Steam Autumn Sale is underway, and while the biggest AAA titles often grab the spotlight, PC Gamer staff have highlighted a selection of underappreciated games that deserve attention. These picks range from narrative-driven experiences to intense shooters and strategic simulations, all available at discounted prices.
Narrative and RPG Gems
For those who appreciate deep narratives and rich lore, several standout titles are recommended. Skald: Against the Black Priory is lauded for its captivating cosmic horror writing, delivered with exceptional prose, wrapped in a visual style reminiscent of classic DOS RPGs but with modern gameplay. Another narrative gem is To Be or Not To Be, a choose-your-own-adventure retelling of Hamlet by Ryan North, featuring art from renowned webcomic creators. It offers players the chance to explore the classic story from different perspectives.
Schrödinger's Call is highlighted as a powerful visual novel that excels in evoking feelings of longing and regret. This ten-hour experience tasks players with comforting those facing the end of the world, making it an emotionally resonant choice. For fans of the Vampire: The Masquerade universe, Shadows of New York is a visual novel praised for perfectly capturing the setting's atmosphere, making it a compelling addition for those seeking a dose of dark urban fantasy.
Underappreciated Shooters
Beyond narrative titles, several action-packed games are singled out for their quality despite a lack of widespread recognition. Necromunda: Hired Gun is described as a fast, bloody, and incredibly violent shooter that, despite a rocky launch, offers a thrilling Warhammer 40,000 experience. Its janky charm, satisfying enemy destruction, and the inclusion of a loyal canine companion make it a standout, even compared to titles like Doom Eternal.
Wild Bastards, a space western FPS, is recommended for its roguelite format, featuring quick shootouts, unique cowboy abilities, and escalating tension. Despite its age, it's noted as a strong performer on the Steam Deck and a thoroughly enjoyable experience that seems to have flown under the radar.
Cozy and Strategic Pursuits
For players seeking more relaxed or strategic experiences, there are also compelling recommendations. Beacon Pines offers a blend of cozy gaming and light horror, set in a small town where children go missing. Its unique Mad-Libs style storybook mechanic provides laughs and a spooky, yet not overly dark, narrative perfect for the season.
Tavern Keeper, a fantasy management sim, has recently received a significant update adding features like cellar construction and new staff roles. It’s an engrossing simulation with deep systems and robust design tools, offering hours of engaging gameplay. For strategy enthusiasts, Mordheim: City of the Damned is a turn-based tactics game set in the Warhammer Fantasy world. Players manage a customizable warband exploring the cursed city for valuable Wyrdstone. While it has a steep learning curve and some jank, its satisfying combat and progression systems make it a deeply flavorful Warhammer experience. Finally, Endless Legend 2, an exceptional 4X game, is noted for its discount. Its unique factions and the way it expands the exploration phase by revealing new lands throughout a campaign make it a standout in the genre.