What Are Monthly Active Users (MAU)?
Before we jump into the list, let’s clarify what monthly active users means. MAU is a key metric used to measure a game’s popularity, representing the number of unique players who engage with a game at least once in a given month. This includes both free-to-play and paid titles, spanning genres like multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs), first-person shooters (FPS), and survival games. High MAU numbers indicate a game’s ability to retain players, attract new ones, and maintain a vibrant community.
In 2025, PC games are thriving, with platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Riot Games’ launcher hosting millions of players. According to recent data, Counter-Strike 2 was the most-played PC game in February 2025 across 37 markets, but other titles are hot on its heels. Let’s explore the top PC games by MAU and what makes them so irresistible.
1. Counter-Strike 2: The King of Competitive FPS
Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) has solidified its place as the most popular PC game by monthly active users in 2025, continuing the legacy of its predecessor, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO). Developed by Valve, CS2 is a free-to-play tactical shooter that pits teams of terrorists and counter-terrorists against each other in intense, objective-based matches.
Why It’s Popular
- Competitive Gameplay: CS2’s skill-based mechanics reward precision, strategy, and teamwork, making it a favorite among esports enthusiasts.
- Free-to-Play Model: With no upfront cost and optional cosmetic purchases, CS2 is accessible to a global audience.
- Regular Updates: Valve keeps the game fresh with new maps, skins, and balance changes, ensuring players stay engaged.
- Massive Esports Scene: Tournaments like the ESL Pro League and Major Championships draw millions of viewers, boosting CS2’s visibility.
In February 2025, CS2 topped the charts with millions of monthly active users, driven by its competitive depth and thriving community. Whether you’re planting the bomb or clutching a 1v5, CS2 delivers adrenaline-pumping moments that keep players hooked.
2. League of Legends: The MOBA Giant
League of Legends (LoL), developed by Riot Games, remains a titan in the PC gaming world. This multiplayer online battle arena game has been a staple since its release in 2009, boasting a massive player base and a cultural impact that extends beyond gaming.
Why It’s Popular
- Diverse Champions: With over 160 champions, each with unique abilities, LoL offers endless replayability and strategic depth.
- Free-to-Play Accessibility: Like CS2, LoL is free, with revenue generated through skins and other cosmetics.
- Global Esports Presence: The League of Legends World Championship is one of the biggest esports events, drawing millions of viewers and players.
- Constant Updates: Riot releases regular patches, new champions, and seasonal events to keep the game fresh.
Recent data suggests League of Legends ranks among the top PC games by MAU, with its fast-paced 5v5 matches and vibrant community ensuring its dominance in 2025. Whether you’re a casual player or aiming for Challenger rank, LoL’s addictive gameplay is hard to resist.
3. Marvel Rivals: The Newcomer Sensation
Marvel Rivals, a team-based hero shooter released in late 2024, has skyrocketed to popularity, securing the No. 3 spot among PC games by MAU in early 2025. Developed by NetEase Games, this title combines Marvel’s iconic characters with fast-paced, Overwatch-style gameplay.
Why It’s Popular
- Star-Studded Roster: Play as Spider-Man, Iron Man, or Black Panther, each with unique abilities that cater to different playstyles.
- Polished Gameplay: Smooth mechanics and vibrant visuals make every match feel cinematic.
- Free-to-Play Model: Like many top PC games, Marvel Rivals is free, with cosmetic microtransactions funding its development.
- Team-Based Strategy: Matches emphasize coordination and synergy, appealing to fans of cooperative shooters.
Marvel Rivals has captured the attention of both Marvel fans and competitive gamers, with its accessibility and engaging gameplay driving millions of monthly active users. Its rapid rise proves that new PC games can compete with established giants.
4. Fortnite: The Battle Royale Behemoth
Fortnite, developed by Epic Games, continues to be a cultural phenomenon and one of the most popular PC games by MAU. This battle royale game, known for its colorful art style and building mechanics, has evolved into a platform for concerts, crossovers, and creative modes.
Why It’s Popular
- Cross-Platform Play: Fortnite’s availability on PC, consoles, and mobile devices ensures a massive, interconnected player base.
- Frequent Updates: New seasons, skins, and events (like Marvel or Star Wars crossovers) keep the game fresh.
- Variety of Modes: From Battle Royale to Creative and Save the World, Fortnite caters to diverse tastes.
- Cultural Impact: Virtual concerts by artists like Travis Scott and in-game movie screenings make Fortnite a social hub.
In 2023, Fortnite was the most popular game across PC and consoles, and it remains a top contender in 2025 with over 200 million monthly active users reported in recent years. Its blend of accessibility and innovation keeps it at the forefront of PC gaming.
5. Minecraft: The Timeless Sandbox
Minecraft, the iconic sandbox game by Mojang Studios, continues to captivate players of all ages. With its limitless creativity and open-world exploration, it ranks among the top PC games by MAU, with an estimated 140 million monthly active users in recent data.
Why It’s Popular
- Creative Freedom: Build anything from a simple house to a functioning computer using Minecraft’s block-based system.
- Multiplayer Appeal: Servers like Hypixel and survival worlds with friends foster a strong sense of community.
- Educational Value: Minecraft: Education Edition is used in schools, expanding its reach to younger players.
- Regular Updates: New biomes, mobs, and mechanics keep the game evolving.
Minecraft’s enduring popularity stems from its simplicity and versatility, making it a staple for both casual and dedicated PC gamers. Whether you’re mining diamonds or battling the Ender Dragon, Minecraft offers endless possibilities.
6. Valorant: The Tactical Shooter Rising Star
Valorant, Riot Games’ free-to-play tactical shooter, has carved out a significant share of the PC gaming market since its 2020 launch. Combining elements of CS2 and hero-based shooters like Overwatch, Valorant attracts millions of monthly active users.
Why It’s Popular
- Unique Agents: Each agent has distinct abilities, adding strategic depth to the core gunplay.
- Competitive Scene: Valorant’s esports ecosystem, including VCT tournaments, draws professional and aspiring players.
- Free-to-Play Model: Accessible to all, with optional cosmetic purchases.
- Anti-Cheat System: Riot’s Vanguard anti-cheat ensures a fair experience, boosting player trust.
With an estimated 20 million monthly active users in recent years, Valorant remains a top PC game in 2025, thanks to its polished gameplay and growing community.
7. Roblox: The Creative Platform
Roblox isn’t just a game—it’s a platform where players create and share their own games. This unique model has made it one of the most popular PC games by MAU, especially among younger audiences.
Why It’s Popular
- User-Generated Content: Thousands of games, from simulators to obstacle courses, keep players engaged.
- Social Hub: Roblox is a virtual space for friends to hang out and collaborate.
- Cross-Platform Support: Available on PC, consoles, and mobile, Roblox boasts a massive player base.
- Monetization for Creators: Players can earn real money by designing popular games, incentivizing creativity.
In 2023, Roblox was among the top games by MAU, and its popularity continues in 2025, driven by its community-driven ecosystem.
8. Black Myth: Wukong: The Action RPG Phenomenon
Black Myth: Wukong, a 2024 action RPG inspired by Chinese mythology, has taken the PC gaming world by storm. Its stunning visuals and challenging combat have earned it a spot among the most-played PC games in 2025.
Why It’s Popular
- Gorgeous Graphics: Powered by Unreal Engine, the game delivers breathtaking environments and animations.
- Engaging Combat: Souls-like mechanics combined with fluid combos appeal to action RPG fans.
- Cultural Appeal: Its roots in Journey to the West resonate with global audiences.
- Single-Player Focus: A refreshing departure from multiplayer-heavy titles, offering a deep narrative experience.
Black Myth: Wukong smashed records on Steam, becoming one of the most-played games shortly after launch, and its MAU remains strong in 2025.
9. Grand Theft Auto V: The Evergreen Open-World Classic
Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V), developed by Rockstar Games, continues to attract millions of monthly active users over a decade after its release. Its open-world chaos and robust online mode keep it among the top PC games.
Why It’s Popular
- GTA Online: Regular updates with new heists, vehicles, and missions keep the multiplayer mode thriving.
- Modding Community: PC players enhance the game with mods, from graphics overhauls to custom missions.
- Massive World: Los Santos offers endless exploration, from heists to street races.
- Cross-Platform Appeal: GTA V’s availability on multiple platforms boosts its player base.
GTA V’s enduring popularity, with millions of MAU, proves that a well-crafted PC game can stand the test of time.
10. Baldur’s Gate 3: The RPG Masterpiece
Baldur’s Gate 3, developed by Larian Studios, is a critically acclaimed RPG that continues to draw players with its rich storytelling and deep mechanics. It ranks among the most-played PC games in 2025.
Why It’s Popular
- Narrative Depth: Choices matter, with branching storylines and memorable characters.
- Co-Op Multiplayer: Play with friends for a shared D&D-inspired experience.
- High Replayability: Multiple classes, races, and outcomes encourage multiple playthroughs.
- Mod Support: The PC version benefits from a thriving modding community.
Posts on X highlight Baldur’s Gate 3 as the most-played PC game in late 2024, and its MAU remains strong in 2025, driven by its immersive world and passionate fanbase.
Why PC Games Dominate in 2025
The popularity of these PC games reflects broader trends in the gaming industry. Here’s why PC gaming continues to thrive:
- Accessibility: Free-to-play models make games like Counter-Strike 2, League of Legends, and Fortnite accessible to millions.
- Hardware Flexibility: PCs range from budget laptops to high-end rigs, allowing players of all budgets to join in.
- Community and Modding: PC games benefit from modding communities and platforms like Steam, which foster creativity and longevity.
- Esports and Streaming: Competitive PC games dominate esports, while platforms like Twitch and YouTube amplify their reach.
How to Choose the Right PC Game for You
With so many PC games vying for your attention, how do you pick the right one? Consider these factors:
- Genre Preference: Love fast-paced action? Try Counter-Strike 2 or Valorant. Prefer story-driven adventures? Baldur’s Gate 3 or Black Myth: Wukong might be your pick.
- Time Commitment: Games like League of Legends require dedication, while Minecraft offers casual fun.
- Social Features: If you enjoy playing with friends, Fortnite or Roblox are great choices.
- Budget: Many top PC games are free, but single-player titles like GTA V or Baldur’s Gate 3 require an upfront purchase.
The Future of PC Gaming
As we look ahead, PC games are poised for even greater growth. Emerging technologies like cloud gaming, AI-driven NPCs, and virtual reality could redefine the landscape. New titles will challenge the dominance of current leaders, while established games will continue to innovate to retain their massive MAU.
The success of Marvel Rivals and Black Myth: Wukong shows that fresh PC games can break into the top ranks, while classics like Minecraft and GTA V prove that timeless gameplay never goes out of style. Whether you’re a competitive player or a creative explorer, there’s a PC game for everyone in 2025.
Conclusion
The most popular PC games by monthly active users in 2025 reflect the diversity and vibrancy of the gaming industry. From the tactical precision of Counter-Strike 2 to the creative freedom of Minecraft, these titles offer something for every type of gamer. Their massive MAU numbers highlight the power of community, accessibility, and innovation in keeping players engaged.
Ready to dive into the world of PC gaming? Whether you’re fragging foes in Valorant, building epic structures in Roblox, or exploring Los Santos in GTA V, the top PC games of 2025 promise unforgettable experiences. Which one will you play next?
Sources:
- Newzoo: Most Popular PC Games by Monthly Active Users – 37 Markets
- ResetEra: Marvel Rivals Ranking
- X Posts on Game Popularity