The world of gaming has seen a constant evolution.
In this age of robust devices and technologies, it’s natural for developers to push game development to its limit. This means improvements in performance, graphics, and storyline. It also directly correlates to higher system requirements, which most gamers and gaming enthusiasts have these days.
However, some concerns arise in the minds of those who have a basic PC setup and still want to enjoy a decent gaming experience.
To help with that, you’d be glad to know that there’s a variety of games optimized for lower-end PCs you can play right away if you have at least 2GB of RAM.
The developers of these games have had a significant impact globally, especially in regions where it’s hard to get hold of high-end hardware. These games allow people living in those regions to enjoy immersive gaming experiences without upgrading.
If you have a low-end PC running on at least 2GB RAM, you need to check out the games I will reveal in this post.
Challenges and Rewards of Gaming on 2GB RAM PCs
You must wonder, “How can I enjoy smooth gameplay on a PC with only 2GB RAM?” 🤔 Undoubtedly, gaming on a basic PC is a challenge in itself. It means optimizing game performance to ensure smooth gameplay while managing within limited memory constraints.
It often involves optimizing textures, setting graphics to low, reducing visual effects, and tweaking other settings. Sometimes, you may also experience lags as the system will have other programs running in the background. By the way, be sure to check out our guide to PC graphics options to know more about gaming graphics!
However, looking at the bright side, one of the biggest rewards of playing games optimized for 2GB RAM is enjoying a very intimate community. Such games often have very passionate players and are also a boon to regions where high-end devices aren’t affordable.
Developers who succeed in creating games that can run on lower-end systems contribute to inclusivity, higher sales, and greater adoption, amplifying the gaming experience on a budget.
With that said, let’s jump into the list of the best PC games you can play on 2GB RAM only.
Outlast
We start off the list with a horror game on Steam, Outlast. The game was released in 2013 by a relatively unknown studio (at the time) called Red Barrels to widespread critical acclaim. You play the role of Miles Upshur, a freelance investigative journalist who’s caught in the seedy happenings of a psychiatric hospital.
The surprising thing about this game is that you don’t have any weapons to defend yourself from the inhabitants of the hospital. To solve the mystery, you need to run, hide, and explore using your night cam (which can run out of juice unless you find batteries).
Outlast features plenty of jumpscares, psychological horror, and a dark atmosphere that will keep you on your toes. There’s also a sequel to the game, which did tremendously well. However, you’ll need more than 2GB of RAM to play it!
Developers: Red Barrels
Publisher: Red Barrels
Release Date: September 4, 2013
➡️ Check it out on Steam.
Far Cry 3
The Far Cry series has seen a recent revamp of late, especially with a more RPG-esque approach to the vast open world. However, what started it all was Far Cry 3, which was released in 2012.
As an FPS game, Far Cry 3 brings exceptional shooting elements, which have inspired plenty of newer releases and other game franchises. Moreover, thanks to a charismatic and enigmatic villain in Vaas, the game set the standard for the story as well.
In fact, the story of your character’s growth from a spoiled rich kid to a stone-cold killer (born out of a need to survive) is one of the best that’s ever been told in shooter games. If you’ve got just 2GB of RAM on your PC and want to play a shooter, you can’t miss this one!
Developers: Ubisoft Montreal
Publisher: Ubisoft
Release Date: November 29, 2012
➡️ Check it out on Steam.
Batman – Arkham City
It’s time to step into your favorite superhero’s shoes again, but it’ll be more intense and deadlier this time. Batman: Arkham City continues the story of Arkham Asylum and takes it a notch higher.
You’ll meet the warden Quincy Sharp who now rules Arkham City, as all the notorious criminals are shifted to the heart of Gotham. Run by Dr. Hugo Strange, Batman finds himself in an ethical dilemma – do these criminals arise because of his existence? Well, you’ll have to play the game to find an answer.
Explore the dark and gritty streets of Gotham City in this critically acclaimed action-adventure game. Dive into the open-world environment, solve puzzles, and engage in thrilling boss fights.
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Batman: Arkham City - Action Video Game, PC |
$18.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
In this installment, you’ll see Batman with new attacks on his array, including the ability to take down several enemies together and use multiple gadgets in a battle. The storyline is engaging, with all the famous Batman characters coming together.
Developer: Rocksteady Studios
Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Release Date: October 18, 2011
Assassin’s Creed II
Set in Renaissance Italy, Assassin’s Creed II follows the journey of Ezio Auditore da Firenze as he seeks revenge against those responsible for his family’s downfall. The game delves into a conspiracy involving powerful families, political intrigue, and the ancient conflict between Assassins and Templars.
Embark on an epic tale of power, corruption, and morality as you dive deep into the game. The open world is vast and immersive, with graphics that’ll leave you in awe – even on 2GB RAM.
To reach the top, you’ll have to practice your weaponry and master skills to emerge stronger from any controversy that comes your way. The golden pearls are the weapons and instruments at your disposal exclusively created by none other than Leonardo Da Vinci himself.
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Assassin's Creed 2 - PC |
$24.90 |
Buy on Amazon |
The game provides heavy action, realistic sword fights, and stunning medieval weapons, enough to keep you hooked on the screen for hours. Brace yourself for this incredible world of dark secrets and tactics you’ve never encountered.
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal
Publisher: Ubisoft
Release Date: March 9, 2010
Battlefield 2
If you’re a fan of games like Call of Duty and Medal of Honor but want to explore something else yet similar, you’re in for a treat. Play Battlefield 2 and join your friends in this multiplayer military shooter game set in the modern age.
It has team-based battles of up to 64 players across global locations. Flaunt your skills as you equip yourself and your team with some of the most technologically advanced vehicles and weapons to take down enemies.
Being a player, you get to form your army. As you recruit soldiers in your army, the players can increase their rank with every battle played and unlock new weapons, medals, uniforms, gears, etc.
Moreover, you can head over to the commander mode, where you assume the role of your battalion’s commander and direct the forces to victory. You’ll have different roles, including the Special Ops, Sniper, Assault, Anti-Tank unit, Combat Engineer, Medic, or Heavy Weapons guy.
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Battlefield 2 (PC) (UK) | $8.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Prepare to give it your all and fight, as teamwork, strategy, and effective communication will help you reign with victory.
Developer: DICE
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Release Date: June 21, 2005
Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Blacklist
Everyone knows that US armies are operating in almost one-third of places in the world. How does it sound? A lot of action and adventure? That’s exactly what Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Blacklist is here to offer. The famous Sam Fisher returns to lead the newly formed Fourth Echelon unit. However, he’s back for a role deadlier than ever.
Step into his shoes to diffuse the plans of “Blacklist” – a group of terrorists who believe themselves to be Engineers and initiate deadly terror attacks. The rules are bent as the stakes are higher, and you can operate without restrictions.
You’ll have to ramp up your abilities to outwit the stealth, espionage, and tactical prowess of a group that has only spread terror. You’ll have to infiltrate heavily guarded areas to abduct and carry enemies and learn the art of Killing in Motion. Killing in Motion is when you strike out multiple enemies in one fluid motion using surgical precision markings.
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Blacklist - PC | $10.88 | Buy on Amazon |
With 14 maps and 4 mission types, you can win it all by unlocking additional weapons, gadgets, and in-game currency.
Developer: Ubisoft Toronto
Publisher: Ubisoft
Release Date: August 20, 2013
Borderlands 2
This legendary first-person shooter game with RPG elements has left a mark within the gamer’s community. Critically acclaimed for its smooth gunplay and artistic graphics, the story of Borderlands 2 starts from a planet called Pandora.
You take on the role of Vault Hunters, battling the nefarious Handsome Jack and his Hyperion Corporation as they seek to uncover the legendary Vault. You can team up with 3-4 players online or head on a co-op mission with your friend as you undergo a lot of action and character development.
You’ll be intrigued by how detailed and intricate the characters are. You can choose between various characters, including the famous Gunzerker, who hails the power to dual-wield any two weapons in the game.
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Borderlands 2 | $18.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Engage in humor-filled quests and collect various procedurally generated weapons in the frozen land as you begin your quest for revenge. Get thirsty to acquire more and more weapons, alien artifacts, shields, and class mods across different landscapes, including the arctic tundra, lush green grasslands, and mysterious corrosive caverns.
Hold on tight because unpredictability awaits you at every turn!
Developer: Gearbox Software
Publisher: 2K
Release Date: September 18, 2012
Hitman: Absolution
Join a cold-blooded Agent 47, tasked with protecting a young girl named Victoria while navigating a web of deceit and assassination contracts. Cold-blooded though morally upright, he’s betrayed by his loved ones and on the run from the police; his only way out is to take this contract to get out of a dark conspiracy he’s entangled in.
Hitman: Absolution explores Agent 47’s struggle with his own identity and morality in a twisted world of corruption.
Compared to its previous release, the story of the Hitman in this game is more personal, so you can expect to see him go through a lot of character development, accompanied by cutting-edge graphics and sound design.
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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HITMAN ABSOLUTION (PC) | Buy on Amazon |
The game is integrated with an AI system that responds to every tactic or choice you make. You’d love the instinct mode in this game, which allows you to predict enemy patrol, identify weapons, and find escape routes while you’re in disguise. Be sure to also take a look at our list of the best Hitman games for more of Agent 47’s adventures!
Developer: IO Interactive, Feral Interactive & Nixxes Software
Publisher: Square Enix Europe
Release Date: November 20, 2012
Devil May Cry 5
Devil May Cry 5 follows demon hunters Dante, Nero, and newcomer V battling a new demonic threat. The game explores the intertwining destinies of the 3 characters and their struggle against a powerful demon king. They’ve come together with a single goal – to save humanity from demons responsible for the menace in the world.
This game has high-octane stylized action sequences in which each character offers a unique playstyle and strongly emphasizes combat mechanics.
Speaking of graphics, the game has photorealistic character designs and out-of-the-world environmental effects, all combining to give a groundbreaking experience.
You’ll have to go on side quests, acquire new weapons, and team up to form a strategy to defeat some of the most dangerous demons, including the blood-sucking Empusa and giant colossus Goliath.
Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom
Release Date: March 8, 2019
➡️ Check it out on Steam.
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
This title needs no introduction, and this list would be incomplete without it. The iconic Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is based on the protagonist, Carl “CJ” Johnson, as he returns to Los Santos after five long years of absence. His return again finds himself amidst gang wars, drugs, corruption, and fame.
You’ll be thrilled to partner with your friends, as you can make your gang and territory and start making hefty earnings out of it.
Experience an open-world sandbox environment, engage in criminal activities, complete missions, and explore the vast map of San Andreas.
It also allows you to hone some of the most beautiful cars in the city, and you can further modify it with upgrades like stereo and nitrous oxide.
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas ( DVD-ROM ) - PC | $12.99 | Buy on Amazon |
The game offers a blend of action, exploration, and storytelling, making it a must for every gamer.
Developer: Rockstar North
Publisher: Rockstar Games
Release Date: October 26, 2004
Fallout: New Vegas
Embark on the post-apocalyptic journey of Mojave Wasteland, as you navigate a world filled with factions, choices, and consequences. Uncover the mysteries of the wasteland and shape its future.
In Fallout: New Vegas, you play the role of Courier, who finds himself in a masquerading trap and will have to work with 3 other lost souls as the survival stakes are high.
In the Honest Hearts piece, you set out on an expedition into Utah’s Zion National Park. Something causes it to go terribly wrong, and you’re stuck between the conflict of the local tribes, a mysterious burning man, and a new Canaanite missionary. The task is to come out victorious while revealing all the secrets.
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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Fallout: New Vegas - PC Ultimate Edition | $14.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Termed the Ultimate Edition for a reason, this version of the game comes with additional gaming content and world expansions, responsible for a more immersive experience.
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Release Date: October 19, 2010
Check it out on Amazon.
Closing Thoughts
All the games in this list offer a perfect blend of great storylines, breathtaking graphics, and immersive gameplay optimized to run smoothly on a system with basic configurations, as long as it’s at least 2GB RAM.
These titles will make you forget you’re gaming on a low-end PC, as they’re all optimized, keeping the RAM capacity in mind.
However, if you’ve got a laptop instead, you need to check out our guide to optimize gaming on a laptop next!
