5 Best Early Access Games on PC (2023)

Steam's Early Access program allows players to enjoy all the ups and downs a game has to offer. These games are made from the ground up. And the player is invited to see and be a part of all of it. In addition, these games allow for community feedback to be heard and applied prior to the full release of these titles. So if you, like us, enjoy Early Access games, enjoy our list of the 5 Best Early Access Games on PC (2023).

5. Boundary

Today, we begin by starting off our list of the best Early Access PC Games with a gravity-defying entry. Boundary is a project that has been followed for quite some time. This game is fantastic in the way it approaches its sci-FPS concept. In this game, players will be able to participate in zero-gravity gunfights. This leads the player into a myriad of situations. The combat is snappy and responsive and simply feels great. This game has certainly come a long way in its Early Access journey, and it is exceedingly exciting to see where it will go from here.

First, leaning more into the game's tactical feel is a great choice. This ensures that the player will be on the edge of their seats with every gunfight. Much like Splitgate and the way it uses its movement mechanics, Boundary is phenomenal in this regard. So if you are looking for a shining example of what Steam Early Access titles can look like, then definitely check this title out. As it is not only one of the best sci-fi shooters on the market but one of the best FPS games on the market, full stop.

4. Valheim

For our next entry, we have a game that has taken the world by storm. The pure strength of the initial release of Valheim can still be felt to this day. This game does a fantastic job of immersing the player within its world as you make your way through the Norse-inspired lands. Firstly, this is a world that allows the player to manipulate it through the game's stellar physics system. Secondly, this world has a distinct graphical charm that is exuded through the game's art style. Players are able to challenge great gods with a myriad of powers, which never ceases to amaze to this day.

This game achieved immense commercial and critical success through its solid game mechanics, as well as the timing of the game's release. With the inclusion of the Mistlands, an entirely new area for players to explore, Valheim is one of the best examples of an Early Access title doing everything right. So if you are looking for one of the best Early Access PC games, then make sure that you check this one out.

3. Ready or Not

Our next entry offers a unique experience. Ready or Not is a tactical shooter in which players will be under the control of a SWAT team. This gives the game extremely tense moments as you move from room to room, clearing the area. First, this is great for the tactical shooter space, as it shows what is capable through Early Access. Ready or Not already has a plethora of weapons and unique gadgets to choose from. This only adds to the replayability of the game, as well as its overall quality.

The atmospheric sound design within the game is truly top-notch. Players will be able to move throughout the game's incredibly dense levels and accomplish a number of objectives. There are quite a few systems at play within every round of Ready or Not. In addition, the enemy AI is simply stellar and some of the smartest out there. So if you are looking for a tactical shooter or simply want a fantastic Early Access game to play, make sure you check out Ready or Not, as it is one of the best Early Access titles available on PC.

2. Ground Branch

Much in the same vein as our last entry, we have Ground Branch. Ground Branch is a tactical shooter that, much like Ready or Not, focuses on intense CQB situations. This means that players will have to get up close and personal within the game's close-quarters combat environments. In terms of environmental design, this game has only gotten better since its inception. Fans of hardcore tactical shooters are sure to love this title. The amount of sheer customization options in the game is staggering. You can practically spend all day customizing your armor and weapons.

Also, players will be able to engage in PvP combat. This gives the game a rather intense feeling as well. In these multiplayer matches, players will be tasked with rescuing or protecting hostages. This is very much in the same style as the older Rainbow Six titles. So if you are looking for a game that will surely manage to scratch that itch and do so while looking and sounding stunning. Then Ground Branch is simply one of the best Early Access games on Steam that you can get for PC.

1. Sons of the Forest

The sequel to the immensely popular survival title The Forest, Sons of the Forest, improves greatly upon its predecessor. Many different elements of the game are improved compared to the first outing. This includes things such as physics systems and sound design. Both of these do a great job of conveying the weight of the environment around the player, as well as the sense of atmosphere. While this game may not be for the faint of heart, the survival experience within this title is simply spectacular.

The game's building and crafting systems are truly top-notch and allow players to carve out their own section of the world. And the best part about this is that players can join in with a friend. This is great as it lets you build together. Players will have to keep their wits about them if they wish to survive in this title, however, as the mutated enemies are immensely overwhelming at times. This only adds to the tension one feels when playing the game. So if you are looking for a survival game that just so happens to be one of the best Early Access games on PC, definitely give Sons of the Forest a try.

So, what's your take on our picks for the 5 Best Early Access Games on PC (2023)? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.