Steam is a popular gaming platform with an excellent collection of games from every genre. However, not all gamers prefer Steam as their gaming medium because of issues with the Steam app or overpriced games on the platform.

Thankfully, there are tons of different games of various genres that you can download and install for free outside of Steam. Here are the 10 best non-Steam games that I love.

10 League of Legends

The ultimate multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA)

League of Legends (LoL) is a popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game in which two teams, each made up of five players, go head-to-head in a race to destroy the other team's base. The game offers more than 150 unique champions, each with their own special abilities. This makes every match feel fresh, exciting, and packed with strategic opportunities.

The gameplay relies on both teamwork and individual skills. To succeed, you have to strategically plan your attacks, defend your team, and maintain control of the map. If you enjoy playing MOBA games or strategic multiplayer challenges, League of Legends is for you.

9 Valorant

Tactical shooting meets heroic abilities

Valorant is a first-person tactical shooter game that combines precise gunplay with hero-based abilities. It is one of the most popular esports right now. In the game, the teams of five players face off in objective-based matches, often involving bomb planting and defusing scenarios like classic Counter-Strike games. I like how Valorant combines traditional shooting mechanics with unique abilities for each agent. The game keeps you hooked with frequent updates, introducing new agents, and a competitive rank system.

8 Classic Minecraft

Enjoy the roots of creative freedom

Classic Minecraft is a publicly available free version of the iconic Minecraft game. It's a browser-based game that has only 32 block types allowing you to build freely without worrying about battles or collecting resources. Basically, it gives you a glimpse of how Minecraft started.

The gameplay is pretty minimalistic, and the graphics are simple, making it nostalgic for the game's OG fans. You can also invite nine of your friends to join you in the game, so a total of 10 players can play together. I personally found it less interesting than Modern Minecraft, but if you haven't played Minecraft before, Classic Minecraft is the best way to get started and get the feel of it because of its unpolished form.

7 Warframe

Fast-paced sci-fi action without a platform lock

Warframe is one of Steamers' favorite games, but you can also play it from its official website. It's a free-to-play RPG and third-person shooter game that is set in a sci-fi universe where you'll be a space ninja battling various enemies while equipped with a bio-mech suit called Warframes. Every time you pass a mission, you unlock a new Warframe. I found the game adrenaline-pumping because of its fast pace and unique storyline. The game is also regularly updated with new storylines, weapons, and Warframes to keep you interested. If you like to experience thrilling combat and want extensive customizations in your games, Warframe is a must-try.

6 RuneScape

An iconic MMORPG that never gets old

Any list of "best" games is incomplete without mentioning RuneScape. It's a legendary MMORPG game launched in 2001 in which you immerse yourself in the fantasyland of Gielinor. The game is open-ended, where you get plenty of opportunities to explore and choose the path of your preference. I especially like the story-driven quests, which always keep me hooked on the game. The game also has a huge community with many die-hard fans. You will also enjoy the frequent updates the game brings in the form of seasonal events. If you are new to the MMORPG genre, you'd like to start with RuneScape, which will soon be among your favorites. Even after more than two decades of launch, the game continues to be popular among gamers.

5 Roblox

A platform for creativity and social interaction

Roblox is more than just a game — it's a platform where users can create, share, and play games designed by others. For example, I enjoyed playing the recently popular Squid Game created by a developer on Roblox. You'll also like the flexibility Roblox provides to bring your imagination to reality. You also get to interact and make friends among the millions of other players. It's like an online social gathering hub. You can also monetize your created games.

The best part of Roblox is its cross-platform compatibility. You can play games of every genre, from solving puzzles to racing cars to playing baseball to action and quest-based games. It's popular among players of any genre or age due to its flexibility. It's a must-have game for every casual or regular gamer.

4 Krunker

A browser-based FPS with endless fun

If you like to take a quick, refreshing break between your work or want a fun game for a gathering, try playing Krunker. However, a fair warning: you might get addicted to it. It's a browser-based first-person shooter game that gives you a variety of maps and game modes to choose from. You can play as an individual or with a team. There's an option to join an existing server or create a new server where you can invite your friends to play with you. You can further personalize your gaming experience by adding custom skins and maps. If you are an esports player, the game also allows you to join tournaments and win lucrative prizes.

The game relies on the internet to run, but it's still pretty lightweight and loads quickly because of its pixelated graphics. However, pixelated graphics don't affect the gameplay. It's a fun game to play with friends at a get-together as it doesn't have a learning curve and is easy to understand and get used to.

3 OpenRA

Classic strategy games reimagined

If you have a low-end PC and want to enjoy classic real-time games like Command & Conquer, Dune 2000, and Red Alert, OpenRA is the game you need. It's an open-source game that offers multiplayer support, modding abilities, and an active community of passionate gamers. In a single game, you get to play three classics. The game is not fancy or has over-the-top graphics, but it's still engaging and addictive.

2 Battle for Wesnoth

Turn-based strategy with endless possibilities

Battle for Wesnoth is a turn-based, open-source multiplayer strategy game. Players command armies, capture villages, and outmaneuver opponents in challenging campaigns or multiplayer matches.

In the game, you lead armies, conquer villages, and battle your opponents in challenging campaigns or multiplayer matches. It's a captivating game where you must carefully strategize how to manage your resources, place your army units, and more. I also liked the customization options of the game. Plus, with the multiplayer mode, you can compete and collaborate with your friends and other global players.

1 Eggnogg+

A quirky sword-fighting game for local multiplayer fun

Eggnogg+ is a quirky, fast-paced local multiplayer sword-fighting game about quick reflexes and hilarious battles. Inspired by retro pixel art and simple controls, it's easy to pick up but hard to master. Players face off in intense duels, trying to outwit and outfight their opponent while dodging traps and obstacles, sliding, and slicing. It's a perfect game for playing with your friends on the same screen. The game's minimalist design keeps the focus on action, while the pixel art gives it a nostalgic feel.

Discover a world of gaming beyond Steam

Steam is definitely a major gaming platform, but there's a whole gaming world beyond it. From action-packed adventure to tactical, there's something for every type of gamer for free. The list has 10 of the best and my favorite games beyond Steam that you should try and add to your game library.