15 Must-Play Titles Boasting Astounding Physics for Every Gamer

For many gamers, in-game physics is a fascinating, often debated, element—something everyone talks about, but not everyone immediately recognizes. Why is it important? Simply put: it enhances the game's sense of realism (at least partially). In game development, physics primarily involves an object's mass and speed. For living creatures, it extends to detailed skeletal structures and soft tissue behavior, a feature particularly appealing to fans of specific character designs. This list explores the best PC games showcasing exceptional physics, encompassing both dedicated simulators and popular titles.

Table of Contents

• Red Dead Redemption 2
• War Thunder
• Hellish Quart
• SnowRunner
• GTA IV
• Euro Truck Simulator 2
• Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
• Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
• Universe Sandbox
• Space Engineers
• WRC 10
• Assetto Corsa
• Arma 3
• Death Stranding
• BeamNG.drive

Red Dead Redemption 2

Developer: Rockstar Studios
Release Date: October 26, 2018
Download: Rockstargames

A frequent standout in game collections, Red Dead Redemption 2 excels in its physics engine. Arthur Morgan's journey through a nascent America captivates players not only through its stunning visuals, compelling narrative, and immersive atmosphere but also its remarkable realism. "Ragdoll" technology ensures lifelike movement for characters and animals. A stumble isn't just a graphical glitch; Arthur will realistically tumble. A leg shot results in a limp or a fall, mirroring real-world consequences. This extends to animals, particularly horses.

War Thunder

Developer: Gaijin Entertainment
Release Date: August 15, 2013
Download: Steam

Realistic physics aren't limited to single-player experiences. This online military vehicle action game delivers a convincing sense of scale and weight. Tanks feel massive, and wheeled vehicles handle distinctly differently from tracked ones, due to detailed physics applied both to vehicles and terrain. This impacts gameplay significantly; navigating snowy terrain with a less-capable vehicle becomes a considerable challenge. Similar realism is evident in aviation, with air resistance affecting sharp maneuvers, and in naval combat, where water physics impact ship stability and handling.

Hellish Quart

Developer: Kubold
Release Date: February 16, 2021
Download: Steam

Realistic body mechanics are central to Hellish Quart, a simplified fencing simulator focused on online duels. Character models adhere to the game's physics, possessing mass, inertia, and realistic skeletal structures. Every swing, step, and hit impacts movement, creating a dynamic and responsive combat experience.

SnowRunner

Developer: Saber Interactive
Release Date: April 28, 2020
Download: Steam

SnowRunner, while not a hyper-realistic driving simulator, boasts impressive physics, extending beyond the vehicles themselves. The game's focus on heavy trucks in off-road conditions creates a compelling interplay of mechanics. Trucks have realistic weight and center of mass, and terrain materials exhibit unique properties. Mud isn't just a texture; it has physics, creating ruts and varying in consistency. This realism extends to snow and water, with strong currents capable of capsizing vehicles.

GTA IV

Developer: Rockstar North
Release Date: April 29, 2008
Download: Rockstargames

GTA IV is a landmark title in game physics. Powered by Euphoria technology, the game featured astonishingly realistic character movement and interactions. Simple actions like pushing a pedestrian could result in realistic falls or retaliatory actions. Shootouts became spectacular, and vehicle collisions were equally detailed, with realistic crumpling and passenger ejection.

Euro Truck Simulator 2

Developer: SCS Software
Release Date: October 18, 2012
Download: Steam

Euro Truck Simulator 2 offers a compelling driving experience with realistic physics. Trucks and cargo possess mass and inertia, making high-speed maneuvers challenging. The center of mass plays a significant role, leading to potential rollovers, especially in adverse conditions such as rain.

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020

Developer: Asobo Studio
Release Date: August 18, 2020
Download: Steam

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 sets a high bar for flight simulation physics. Air resistance, mass, and speed are fundamental, but the simulation extends to air flow, affecting stall behavior and making landings challenging. On higher difficulty settings, temperature also plays a role.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

Developer: Warhorse Studios
Release Date: February 4, 2025
Download: Steam

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II continues the tradition of realistic storytelling, incorporating advanced mechanics that enhance the game's depth and engagement. The improved combat system, expanded world, and detailed storyline contribute to a richer and more immersive medieval experience.

Universe Sandbox

Developer: Giant Army
Release Date: August 24, 2015
Download: Steam

Universe Sandbox is a physics-based space simulator. The game accurately models gravitational forces and other celestial mechanics, allowing players to conduct experiments and observe the consequences of altering planetary masses or introducing black holes.

Space Engineers

Developer: Keen Software House
Release Date: February 28, 2019
Download: Steam

Space Engineers is a space-based construction and survival game with detailed physics. Building in zero gravity requires careful consideration of thrusters and power sources. Planetary gravity also plays a significant role, impacting both construction and vehicle operation.

WRC 10

Developer: KT Racing
Release Date: September 2, 2021
Download: Steam

WRC 10 offers a realistic rally driving experience with detailed car physics. The game accurately simulates tire grip and vehicle handling, requiring players to adapt their driving techniques to different terrain types and conditions.

Assetto Corsa

Developer: Kunos Simulazioni
Release Date: December 19, 2014
Download: Steam

Assetto Corsa prioritizes realistic racing simulation. The game features detailed physics, including friction, air resistance, and downforce, demanding careful car setup and driving technique. Even tire wear is simulated.

Arma 3

Developer: Bohemia Interactive
Release Date: September 12, 2013
Download: Steam

Arma 3's physics engine provides realistic character and vehicle movement. Characters have detailed skeletons and respond to forces realistically. Vehicles exhibit realistic handling and ballistics are accurately simulated, with projectiles affected by gravity and air resistance.

Death Stranding

Developer: Kojima Productions
Release Date: November 8, 2019
Download: Steam

Death Stranding features realistic character physics and cargo weight and size, making balancing crucial during gameplay. The diverse terrain and varied material properties enhance the challenge and immersion of the experience.

BeamNG.drive

Developer: BeamNG
Release Date: May 29, 2015
Download: Steam

BeamNG.drive is renowned for its exceptionally realistic vehicle physics. The game simulates detailed car deformation and damage, providing a highly realistic driving and crash testing experience.

This collection highlights 15 games across various genres that exemplify excellent physics. Many other titles showcase realistic mechanics, but these stand out for their implementation. We welcome your suggestions for other noteworthy games in the comments!