Introduction

The late 2000s and early 2010s are often regarded as a golden age for gaming, a time when things were simpler and the competition wasn't as fierce. Whether you played them then or are discovering them for the first time, there are a few games from this era that hold a special place in our hearts. PC Game Spotlight has featured some incredible games from this time, including Portal, Burnout Paradise, and the Ratchet & Clank trilogy. But what were the best PC Games from 2004?

The Standout Titles of 2004

2004 was a remarkable year for PC games, with standout titles such as Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Halo 2, and World of Warcraft dominating the scene. Many gamers look back on this year with fond memories. One user reminisces, "2004 was the year I discovered PC gaming, and I've never looked back. I was 10 years old, and my dad finally decided to get me a cheap gaming PC. I got The Sims 2, Sims 2 University, Sims 2 Nightlife, Sims 2 Apartment Life, Sims 2 Pets, Sims 2 Castaway, Sims 2 Superstar, and Sims 2 Holiday." Unfortunately, they add, "I can't legally acquire The Sims 2 anymore."

Unreal Tournament 2004 and Dawn of War are also mentioned as games that left a lasting impact. "I still play UT 2004," one user comments. "I have the most fun with it in local multiplayer with a friend. I still enjoy the old maps and bots, and the soundtrack is a timeless gem." Another user agrees, stating, "UT2004 was by far the best shooter ever. The soundtrack was amazing, the gameplay was perfect, and the bots were so much fun."

The Nostalgia Factor

Many gamers express their love for the GTA games from that time. One user shares, "I loved the GTA games from that time. I never played GTA: San Andreas, but I did play Vice City and GTA III. I got really into the Burnout series, and I really enjoyed the first two Halo games." Fable is another game that's mentioned, although some express their disappointment that it didn't live up to the hype. "Fable was supposed to be the best RPG since Ultima and Elder Scrolls," one user shares. "I'm still waiting for that game to come out."

The Impact and Legacy

"2004 was a great year for PC gaming," one user remarks. "Half-Life 2, GTA: San Andreas, Doom 3, Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory, F.E.A.R., Bioshock, World of Warcraft, and Halo 2 were all incredible." Other users note notable omissions from the list, such as MGS3, Def Jam FFNY, and Prince of Persia Warrior Within. Despite the increasing noise and competition in the gaming industry, many believe that the games from 2004 would still be considered the best if they were released today. "The games from 2004 were amazing even then," another user writes. "If you compare it to now, games are much better, but the best games are still the same."

The Personal Experiences

Some gamers fondly recall their experiences playing these games as children, despite their family's financial struggles. "I had no internet access and no money, but I always had a PS2, and my dad was a truck driver," one user writes. "So on his trips across the country, he would bring back games for me. Games like Underground 2, Vice City and San Andreas, God of War, and Metal Gear Solid 3." Others express disappointment that a remake of Unreal Tournament 2004 was canceled due to resources being shifted to another game.

Conclusion

The PC games from 2004 hold a special place in the hearts of many gamers. They represent a golden age of gaming, where memories were made and new worlds were explored. As we revisit these games, we are reminded of their impact and legacy. Whether you're reliving the nostalgia or discovering these games for the first time, the best PC games from 2004 will continue to captivate and entertain.