Every year, Steam welcomes thousands of new games, many of which are completely free. The problem ? In this avalanche of titles, it is difficult to spot the real gems, especially when you are looking for a fast, original or immersive experience without spending a cent.
Since January 1, 2026, eight new games have appeared on the platform, and all of them are free to download. No subscription required, no conditions: once added to your library, these games are yours. Here are the ones that deserve your attention.
Short but memorable experiences
Poker Fate – ACG Texas Hold’em offers an unexpected mix: Texas Hold’em style poker, in a universe inspired by anime. Designed for both beginners (with clear tutorials) and experts (thanks to its high-stakes duels), the game also offers a series of varied tournaments. A title that is both technical and visually original.
With Youchosisthe atmosphere changes radically. This psychological horror game plunges you into unstable dimensions, searching for what the game calls “the perfect afterlife.” Warning: some visual sequences are intentionally disturbing. The game plays as much on visual discomfort as on anxiety-provoking narration.
Retro action, musical adventure and daycare horror
Space Aces is aimed at science fiction fans. It’s a multiplayer space shooter that focuses on strategy as much as precision. Space battles are fast-paced, tactical, and feature competitive mechanics.
More narrative, Diluted offers a 3D side-scrolling puzzle adventure game. In dark, stylized environments, you solve puzzles as you explore a world marked by fear and manipulation.
Humanoidfor its part, adopts the style of the first arcade games. This is a top-down shooter, where aggression is key. It takes the 8-bit charm of the classics of yesteryear, with a deliberately retro artistic direction.
More surprisingly, Monster Maestro puts you in the shoes of a conductor. But here, music is a weapon: in this action platform game, battles are based on your musical performances. An original concept that could appeal to fans of Hollow Knight or Celeste.
Two short but effective horror games
Little Smiles Daycare is a brief but intense experience. The game immerses you in an abandoned daycare center, where every corner hides a latent uneasiness. The soundscape, the dilapidated decor and the heavy silence are enough to establish a palpable tension from the first seconds.
Finally, Fall Asleep mixes platforming and first-person horror. You are stuck in a nightmare, and the only escape is vertical: to climb, to climb, to flee the darkness. With its minimalist aesthetic and stifling soundscape, this title offers an experience that is as short as it is distressing.
Free games to keep for life
All of these titles can be downloaded now from their Steam page. Once added to your account, they remain in your library, even if they are removed from the platform. Just remember to check the minimum configurations, especially for 3D or multiplayer games.
As the author reminds us: “Once added to your account, the games belong to you and will remain accessible even if they are removed from Steam”. A good way to start the year 2026 by exploring indie games without breaking the bank.