15 Must-Play Games with Stunning Physics for Gamers

For many gamers, physics in games can seem like an elusive yet crucial element, often discussed but not always noticed at first glance. The inclusion of physics in video games is essential as it enhances the believability of the game world, making the experience more immersive and realistic.

In game development, physics primarily revolves around an object's mass and velocity. For living entities, detailed skeletons and soft tissue behaviors are modeled, which adds to the realism and is particularly appreciated by fans of character-driven gameplay. This list explores some of the best PC games that showcase exemplary physics, ranging from simulators to widely 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

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

Red Dead Redemption 2 frequently graces game collections due to its numerous strengths, including its impressive physics. Arthur Morgan’s journey through an evolving America is captivating, not just for its atmosphere, story, and graphics, but also for its realism. The game utilizes "ragdoll" technology, making the bodies of humans and animals react realistically. If Arthur stumbles, he won't simply slip off a surface; he'll tumble realistically. Shooting a bandit in the leg results in them limping or falling, reflecting the impact on their movement.

War Thunder

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

War Thunder, an online military vehicle action game, demonstrates realistic physics that set it apart from its competitors. The game excels in conveying the sensation of controlling massive machines, whether tanks or aircraft. The physics model distinguishes between wheeled and tracked vehicles, affecting gameplay dynamics. Terrain conditions like snow impact vehicle performance, and aviation physics include air resistance, which affects maneuverability and speed at different altitudes. Ships in the game also respond realistically to damage, such as flooding, which can cause them to list and take on more water.

Hellish Quart

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

Hellish Quart focuses on realistic physics in its online dueling simulator. The game features human models that adhere to in-game physics, including mass, inertia, and a detailed skeletal system. This results in authentic movements, where each sword swing and step exhibits inertia, and injuries affect a character's mobility, adding depth to the combat experience.

SnowRunner

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

SnowRunner excels in vehicle physics within off-road conditions. The game's trucks have realistic weight and centers of mass, while the terrain varies in material properties. This means vehicles can sink into mud or be affected by snow and water currents, adding a layer of challenge and realism to the gameplay. The physics of the environment, such as soil and water, further enhance the simulation experience.

GTA IV

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

GTA IV set a new benchmark for realism in video games, largely due to its innovative use of Euphoria technology. The physics in GTA IV are remarkable, with pedestrians reacting naturally to physical interactions. A simple push can result in a realistic fall or a regained balance leading to a counterattack. Vehicle physics are equally impressive, with realistic damage models and collision dynamics, though the game's high system requirements were a notable drawback.

Euro Truck Simulator 2

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

Euro Truck Simulator 2 offers a realistic truck driving experience with detailed physics. The game accounts for the mass and speed of trucks, leading to realistic inertia and the potential for rollovers. Environmental factors like wet roads further challenge players, making for a highly immersive simulation.

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020

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

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is renowned for its advanced flight physics. The game models air resistance, mass, and speed intricately, affecting how different aircraft handle. From light Cessnas to heavy Airbuses, the physics simulation is detailed, with airflow and temperature impacting flight dynamics, particularly during takeoffs and landings.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

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

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II continues the saga of a medieval open-world RPG, where realistic physics enhance the immersive experience. The game's combat system, expanded world, and detailed storyline are complemented by new mechanics that deepen the gameplay, making strategic thinking and decision-making more impactful.

Universe Sandbox

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

Universe Sandbox allows players to experiment with the laws of physics on a cosmic scale. From altering planetary masses to simulating black holes and asteroid impacts, the game models real physical laws, providing a unique educational and entertaining experience.

Space Engineers

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

Space Engineers offers a sandbox environment where players can construct and explore in space and on planets. The game's physics include zero gravity in space, planetary gravity, and the need for different engines for atmospheric entry and escape, adding complexity and realism to the construction and survival gameplay.

WRC 10

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

WRC 10 is a rally racing simulator that excels in its physics, particularly in how it models mass, speed, and the interaction between vehicles and various road surfaces. Players must adjust car settings to adapt to different track conditions, adding depth to the racing experience.

Assetto Corsa

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

Assetto Corsa is a racing simulator known for its realism, with physics that affect every aspect of vehicle performance. From tire wear to air resistance and downforce, players must meticulously tune their cars to compete effectively, making it a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Arma 3

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

Arma 3's military simulation includes detailed physics for both characters and vehicles. Realistic movement, weapon handling, and ballistics enhance the tactical gameplay, making every action feel grounded in reality.

Death Stranding

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

Death Stranding's physics contribute significantly to its unique gameplay. The protagonist's physical attributes and the weight and size of cargo affect movement, turning simple walks into challenging balancing acts. The diverse terrain and material properties further enhance the walking simulation experience.

BeamNG.drive

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

BeamNG.drive stands out for its realistic vehicle physics, simulating crash tests with precision. The game's detailed material settings and collision dynamics make it a favorite among car enthusiasts, offering both a realistic and playful experience.

This collection highlights 15 games across various genres that excel in their physics models. While these are some of the best examples, many other games also feature impressive physics. We'd love to hear about your favorite physics-driven games in the comments!