Summer has arrived once again and as usual PC gamers can make use of potential vacation time with the big Steam Summer Sale which began last Friday and runs till July 14th. There are a lot of great discounts across a variety of genres. Just like last year, I hope to bring your attention to a few of them. However, this year I won’t be sticking to a strict budget. Instead, I’d like to simply highlight a few fantastic games that you won’t want to miss that are absolute steals at the current discount.

Chained Echoes – Discount 20%- Sale price: $19.99

Starting off with the most expensive title first, we have Chained Echoes. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention at least one JRPG and this one is one of the best I’ve played recently. It takes a lot of inspiration from Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy IX which are two of my all-time favorites. However, the game also manages to stand on its own with a great combat system and extensive customization. On top of all that is a solid story, a great soundtrack, and an inviting retro art style that calls back to a simpler era.

Mortal Kombat 11: Ultimate– Discount 85%- Sale price $8.99

With Mortal Kombat 1 releasing this fall, now is the best time to jump into the last game in the old universe. The ultimate edition of MK 11 comes with the entire base game, multiple character packs, and the entire Aftermath story expansion. The Mortal Kombat series has become the definitive franchise for story-driven campaigns within the fighting game genre and it certainly continues that trend here. Even though the newest title is branded as a reboot, the new universe was a direct result of events from this title. For longtime fans (like myself) this isn’t a game you’ll want to skip.

Although MK 11 has a few elements that don’t quite hit the mark in terms of gameplay there is still a lot of fun to be had here. The visuals are outstanding, visceral, and always a little bit disturbing. Character customization, while locked behind grindy progression systems, gives you something to do if you don’t want to spend time playing with friends or playing competitively online

Mirror’s Edge– Discount 75%- Sale price $4.99

One of the most underrated titles for the Xbox is Mirror’s Edge. I love parkour and this is easily the game that represents the sport the best. Set in a city ruled over by corporations that strictly regulate all forms of media and self-expression you take on the role of Faith, a young woman who is part of an underground messenger service.

Over the course of the game, you will undertake a variety of missions utilizing your athletic prowess to evade and traverse the city rooftops. You also have the ability to steal firearms from enemies. However, in my opinion, the best way to play Mirror’s Edge is to ignore guns completely.

The first-person perspective combined with an exceptionally creative use of color and an outstanding soundtrack makes this truly a one-of-a-kind experience. If you happen to enjoy the game then the sequel Mirror’s Edge: Catalyst is also on sale for the same price. However, the prequel (although visually stunning) failed to recapture much of the magic for me and is dragged down by an overreliance on poorly optimized first-person melee combat. Nonetheless, if you want a unique fast-paced action adventure title this is a great series to jump into.

Age of Empires II Definitive Edition– Discount 75%- Sale price $4.99

Another one of my favorite genres is the Real Time Strategy genre and Age of Empires II is an all-time classic. I loved playing the original game on PC and this definitive edition is chock full of new content, optimized graphics, and a remastered soundtrack.

Age of Empires II has one of the largest civilization rosters with 35 cultures to select from the classical medieval era. On top of that, you also have a thriving online community to play endless matches and the ability to create custom games. Like Mirror’s Edge, if you find yourself enjoying the franchise, the definitive edition of the third game is also on sale for $6.99.

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice- Discount 85%- Sale price $4.49

I’ve saved the absolute best deal for last with the first Hellblade title that was released in 2017. Senua’s Sacrifice is extremely underrated and is easily one of the most immersive titles I’ve ever played. Set in the Viking age you take on the role of Senua, a Celtic warrior on a quest into the underworld who suffers from severe psychosis. If you enjoyed God of War’s bloody third-person action gameplay but are looking for an even more atmospheric title to get lost in, this is your game.

Additionally, Senua’s Sacrifice is absolutely at its best on PC. In fact, you can easily play the game with headphones for maximum eeriness. The game is also receiving a sequel that will be released later this year. It’s never been a better time to play through this and it is currently at a great price you just can’t say no to. Hopefully with this list of games I was able to bring your attention to some good deals and deliver a good mix of modern and retro titles to choose from.

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