Short on Space? Try These Best PC Games under 10GB Size
Ever hit that annoying storage wall just when you are about to download an epic game?
Yup, storage struggles are real. But do not worry, we have got a killer list that respects both your storage & gaming appetite.
Why Smaller Games Can Be Big Wins:
Performance Magic: Remember those laggy moments when your PC seemed to give up on life? Small sized games often translate to smoother gameplay. Especially handy if your PC’s seen a few too many gaming marathons.
Storage Woes: Gigabytes are like gold for many. So, why waste them? Keeping games compact means more space for more games!
Oh, by the way, running extremely low on storage? Maybe you are in need of something even smaller?
Why not check out our other posts on Best PC Games under 1GB Size & PC Games under 500 MB
Perfect for those who are really stretching every byte.
Our Picky Selection Process:
Alright, so best PC games under 10GB, does not just mean we are throwing anything small at you. Here is what made a game worthy of our list:
- Dazzling Graphics and Killer Gameplay: Because who said small can’t be stunning? Each game offers a treat for the eyes and a thrill for the fingers.
- Genre Galore: Variety’s the spice of gaming life. Whether you are into action, mystery or strategy games, there is something for every flavor.
- Gamers’ Seal of Approval: We listened to the tribe. These are games that have made fellow gamers nod in approval. Trust the crowd, they know their stuff!
- Under 10GB Promise: We have kept it tight. Every game here won’t eat up more than 10GB of your precious storage.
Half-Life 2
Size: 6.5 GB
Genre: First-Person Shooter, Sci-Fi
Release: 2004
Developer/Publisher: Valve
Dive into the world of Half Life 2, the highly anticipated sequel where physics meets firepower. Step into the shoes of silent protagonist, Gordon Freeman & navigate a dystopian future controlled by the enigmatic Combine.
Key Features:
- Graphics: A revolutionary Source engine brings City 17 to life with immersive details & physics based gameplay.
- Gameplay Mechanics: Utilize the Gravity Gun, a game-changer that allows players to manipulate objects and even enemies.
- Storyline Depth: A compelling narrative filled with suspense, mysteries and memorable allies & foes.
- Characters: Meet memorable faces, from the enigmatic G-Man to the resourceful Alyx Vance.
Pros:
- Dynamic physics that influence puzzle solving and combat.
- Rich environmental storytelling.
Cons:
- Some might find the silent protagonist approach a bit dated.
- Can be challenging for newcomers due to scarce ammo and health resources.
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
Size: 8GB
Genre: First-Person Shooter
Release: 2007
Developer/Publisher: Infinity Ward / Activision
Step into the boots of elite soldiers in a gripping tale of global conflict. Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare redefined the FPS genre, delivering intense gunfights & a riveting storyline that still resonates with fans today.
Key Features:
- Graphics: For its time, top-tier visual fidelity brought realistic urban & overseas combat zones to life.
- Gameplay Mechanics: Fluid shooting mechanics, varied weapon arsenal and a mix of stealth and assault missions.
- Storyline Depth: A deeply engrossing narrative touching upon the modern implications of warfare and global politics.
Pros:
- One of the franchise’s most cherished storylines, blending reality with fiction seamlessly.
- Rich sound design amplifying the intensity of every firefight.
Cons:
- By today’s standards, the graphics might seem a tad dated.
- Some sections can feel linear, offering less player agency.
Need For Speed Hot Pursuit
Size: 8GB
Genre: Racing
Release: 2010
Developer/Publisher: Criterion Games / Electronic Arts
Get behind the wheel and feel the thrill of the chase! Need For Speed Hot Pursuit, propels you into a new open-world landscape, playing either as a racer dodging the law or an officer enforcing it.
Key Features:
- Graphics: Stunning landscapes & highly detailed car models make for an immersive experience.
- Gameplay Mechanics: Seamlessly shift roles between cop and racer. Each role has its unique challenges and rewards.
Pros:
- Intense action-packed races.
- Diverse range of cars to unlock and drive.
Cons:
- Some may find the AI challenging, especially at higher levels.
The Elder Scrolls V : Skyrim
Size: 6GB
Genre: Role playing
Release: 2011
Dive into the vast realm of Skyrim, where dragons have returned & fate thrusts you, the Dragonborn into the center of the chaos. Embark on epic quests, meet intriguing characters and decide the fate of a kingdom on the brink of civil war.
Key Features:
- Gameplay Mechanics: Open-world exploration, coupled with deep character customization and skill trees.
- Characters: From Jarls, warriors, mages to dragons, the characters of Skyrim have depth & stories of their own.
Pros:
- Massive open world with countless quests and secrets.
- Dynamic choices influence the world around you.
Cons:
- Some find the main questline to be overshadowed by the side quests.
Dishonored
Size: 9 GB
Genre: Action-adventure, Stealth
Release: 2012
In Dishonored, you step into the shoes of Corvo Attano, a bodyguard wrongly accused of murdering the Empress he swore to protect. As you navigate a city plagued by disease & corruption, your choices will shape the story and the world around you.
Key Features:
- Graphics: Dark, atmospheric visuals encapsulating a steampunk world.
- Characters: Mysterious allies, malevolent foes and shades of gray in between.
Pros:
- Flexible gameplay allowing for violent or non lethal approaches.
- Intricate level design with multiple pathways and secrets.
- Mesmerizing world-building and lore.
Cons:
- Some might find the story predictable.
Left 4 Dead
Size: 7.5 GB
Genre: Survival Horror
Left 4 Dead, thrusts you into a world overrun by the infected. Teaming up with three other survivors, you will fight through hordes of zombies to find safety.
Key Features:
- Graphics: Realistic, gritty visuals capturing the horror of a zombie apocalypse.
- Gameplay: Co-op-centric gameplay demanding teamwork and quick reflexes.
Pros:
- Dynamic scenarios ensure no two games feel the same.
- Intense, adrenaline-pumping action with waves of zombies.
Cons:
- Limited variety in terms of maps and modes in the base game.
State of Decay
Size: 3 GB
Genre: Survival Horror
Release: 2013
Play State of Decay, & experience a gripping post-apocalyptic world. Its not just about fighting off the undead, it is about building, leading and sustaining a community against all odds.
Key Features:
- Gameplay Mechanics: Base-building, resource management & perma-death of characters.
- Storyline: An evolving narrative shaped by your decisions and actions.
Pros:
- Deep base building mechanics intertwined with resource management.
- Unpredictable events, making every playthrough unique.
Cons:
- Combat can sometimes feel clunky.
Firewatch
Size: 4 GB
Genre: Indie
Release: 2016
Step into the shoes of Henry, a fire lookout stationed in Wyoming’s Shoshone National Forest. Firewatch is more than just a job – its an emotional journey filled with personal reflections, engaging conversations and unfolding mysteries.
Key Features:
- Graphics: Striking visuals & colors that capture the beauty of the wild.
- Characters: Henry and Delilah, whose relationship develops through heartfelt and often humorous radio interactions.
Pros:
- Immersive story that’s both emotionally resonant and intriguing.
- Soundtrack and voice acting that perfectly complements the game’s mood.
Cons:
- While the story is its strength, some might find the ending polarizing.
- Limited replayability due to its narrative focused gameplay.
Portal
Size: 3 GB
Genre: Puzzle Platform
Release: 2007
Developer/Publisher: Valve
Ever played with the idea of bending space? Portal, a mind bending adventure that marries physics with puzzles. Set in the mysterious Aperture Science Laboratories, you are given the “Portal Gun” – a device that allows you to create spatial shortcuts.
Key Features:
- Graphics: Sleek, minimalist design capturing the sterile environment of a lab, contrasted with the vibrant hues of the portals.
- Gameplay: Unique portal-based puzzles that challenge both your brain and reflexes.
- Storyline: A seemingly simple plot with dark undertones and sprinkled humor.
- Characters: The unforgettable GLaDOS, an AI with a twisted sense of humor and purpose.
Pros:
- Innovative gameplay mechanics that feel fresh even years after release.
- Dark, subtle humor that keeps players engaged and amused.
- Puzzles that scale in complexity, providing a satisfying challenge.
Cons:
- Some may find it too short for their liking.
- The narrative might be too subtle for those looking for an overt story.
GTA: San Andreas
Size: 4.7 GB
Genre: Open World
Release: 2004
Hop into the turbulent life of Carl “CJ” Johnson as he returns to his hometown, trying to rebuild his life & reclaim his family’s honor. From the gang infested streets of Los Santos to the rural areas of San Fierro, GTA: San Andreas offers an expansive world brimming with opportunities & danger.
Key Features:
- Graphics: A vast, open world with diverse environments capturing the essence of the early ’90s West Coast.
- Gameplay: Freedom to explore, carry out missions or simply cause chaos.
Pros:
- Engaging storyline that keeps players hooked from start to finish.
- Vast open world environment offering countless hours of exploration.
- Rich customization options for character, cars & more.
Cons:
- Graphics might feel dated to newer gamers.
- Some missions can feel repetitive.
- Controls might feel clunky compared to newer action titles.
Prince of Persia: Warrior Within
Size: 2.2 GB
Genre: Action-Adventure
Release: 2004
Developer/Publisher: Ubisoft Montreal / Ubisoft
Immerse yourself in a darker chapter of the Prince’s saga. Haunted by the relentless Dahaka & battling the scars of time, the Prince must confront his past to secure his future.
Pros:
- Gripping story that takes a darker turn from its predecessor.
- Enhanced combat system with a wide array of moves and combos.
Cons:
- Some may find the game’s tone too grim compared to other titles in the series.
- Some puzzles might feel overly complex for newcomers.
Among Us
Size: 250 MB
Genre: Social Deduction
Release: 2018
Navigate the confined spaces of a spaceship with your crew. But wait! One of you isn’t what they seem. Can you complete your tasks and figure out who the Imposter is or will deceit & chaos reign supreme?
Pros:
- Perfect for playing with friends, offering countless hilarious & suspenseful moments.
- Regular updates and additional content keep the game fresh.
Cons:
- Some may experience connectivity issues during peak times.
- The simplicity might not appeal to everyone.
Assassin's Creed 2
Size: 8GB
Genre: Action-Adventure, Stealth
Developer/Publisher: Ubisoft Montreal/Ubisoft
Unveil the intricacies of the Italian Renaissance as you step into the shoes of Ezio. Assassin’s Creed 2 takes players on an epic journey of vengeance, mystery & discovery against the dark backdrop of Templar conspiracies.
Key Features:
- Graphics: Breathtaking vistas of Renaissance Italy, from bustling streets to serene countryside.
- Gameplay: Parkour-inspired movements, stealth assassinations & an expansive open world experience.
- Story: Dive deep into Ezio’s evolution from a reckless youth to a seasoned Assassin.
Pros:
- Detailed and immersive recreation of Renaissance cities like Florence & Venice.
- Varied mission design and side quests, ensuring there’s always something new to explore.
Cons:
- Combat can sometimes feel repetitive.
- Parkour controls might be challenging for newcomers.
Max Payne 2
Size: 1.5 GB
Genre: Third-Person Shooter
Release: 2003
Enter the gritty world of Max Payne 2, where betrayal, love & bullets fly in equal measure. This sequel takes our tortured hero on an adventure filled with action packed sequences & a storyline dripping in melancholy.
Key Features:
- Gameplay: The iconic ‘Bullet Time’ returns, allowing players to dodge bullets and take down enemies in stylish slow-motion.
- Storyline: A tragic love story interwoven with criminal conspiracies.
Pros:
- A cinematic experience with a narrative that is both compelling and emotional.
- Improved shooting mechanics from the original game.
Cons:
- Shorter in length compared to other action games.
- The dark tone might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Frostpunk
Size: 8GB
Genre: City building
Release: 2018
Frostpunk is not your typical city-builder. Here, your mettle is tested against the biting cold of a post-apocalyptic world. Lead your citizens, make moral choices and keep the last city on Earth warm in a gripping battle against the cold.
Pros:
- Engaging, morally complex decisions that impact gameplay.
- Innovative temperature mechanics influencing city planning & resource management.
Cons:
- The steep learning curve can be challenging for some players.
- Limited replay value after mastering the game’s mechanics.
Mafia 2
Size: 8GB
Genre: Open World
Release: 2010
Developer/Publisher: 2K Czech / 2K Games
Feel the world of organized crime with Mafia 2. Following the life of Vito Scaletta, a war hero entangled in the mafia’s web, players traverse an evocative story set against the backdrop of a post-war Empire Bay.
Key Features:
- Graphics: Detailed re-creation of the 1940s-50s era, from architecture to attire.
- Storyline: A tale of friendship, betrayal and the power in the criminal underworld.
- Characters: Deeply fleshed-out personas, from Vito’s close friends to menacing mob bosses.
Pros:
- Engrossing storyline intertwined with historically accurate details.
- Soundtrack that encapsulates the era, enhancing immersion.
Cons:
- Lack of significant activities in the open world outside of main missions.
- AI sometimes falls short, especially in combat scenarios.
Why Game Size Matters
Ever wondered why some of us are obsessed with the size of a game? Lets break it down:
- Impact on PC Performance: Smaller games can be a blessing for those of us without the latest & greatest rigs.
- Faster Download & Installation: No one likes to wait, right? Especially when it comes to diving into a new game. Smaller games mean quicker downloads and you are in the game before you know it.
- Importance for Gamers with Limited Storage Space: Not everyone has terabytes of storage. For gamers on a storage budget, every gigabyte counts.
Optimizing Performance for Smaller Games
So, you have got your list of the Best PC Games under 10GB Size. But how do you ensure they run at their peak, even on an older machine?
Settings Tweaks:
- Resolution Adjustments: Lowering it slightly can boost performance.
- Texture and Shadow Quality: Dialing these down can work wonders for gameplay fluidity.
Hardware Recommendations:
- Solid State Drive (SSD): If you are still on an HDD, consider upgrading to an SSD. Even smaller games will see a performance hike.
- Upgrade RAM: Ensure you have at least 8GB of RAM for optimal performance.
Software Optimization Tips:
- Keep Drivers Updated: GPU drivers, can offer game specific optimizations.
- Close Background Apps: More resources for your game means smoother gameplay.
Conclusion
In this journey through the realm of gaming, we have highlighted some of the best PC games under 10GB size.
These titles are not just space savers, they are a testament to how quality gaming experiences are not always about hefty downloads.
Don’t let storage limitations hold back your gaming adventures. Dive into these fantastic titles & you will soon realize that great gaming can come in compact packages.
