While the year 2026 has only just begun, Valve and the independent developers present on Steam are offering a generous surprise to PC players. No fewer than five games have just been added to the free-to-play platform — no subscription required, no hidden payments. It only takes one click to collect them, install them and enjoy them.
Here is the full list of titles currently available:
- Skybound
- Price of Obsession
- The Cry of Darkness
- BND-Legend: Operation Blackbox
- Poker Fate – ACG Texas Hold’em
Among this selection, Skybound clearly stands out as the best surprise of the lot. Developed by Half Home Games, it is a 3D exploration game that combines platforms, puzzles and a mystical atmosphere.
Skybound, an aerial adventure full of promise
In Skyboundyou embody Bella young archaeologist set out to discover floating islands lost in the skies. The gameplay is based on parkour mechanics mixed with the use of a grappling hook, agility boots and powers linked to a mysterious energy called “Flow”. “You play as Bell, a young archaeologist exploring mystical floating islands in search of ancient artifacts. Use his specialized equipment – a grappling hook, agility boots and mastery of magical “Flow” – to explore ruins that have remained unexplored for centuries. »
The game is still under development: it is the first act of a larger adventure, the continuation of which will depend on critical and public success. This episodic model recalls a time when indie titles focused on originality and community above all else.
Varied experiences, for all tastes
The other free games are not lacking in interest:
- The Cry of Darkness offers a horrifying experience at jumpscares. Although it is very short, it has already received positive reviews.
- BND-Legend: Operation Blackbox presents itself as a tactical infiltration game in a cyberpunk universe. The only limitation: the game is not yet translated into English or French.
- Poker Fate – ACG Texas Hold’em is, as the name suggests, a multiplayer version of poker with free-to-play elements. The reception is more mixed because of the progress considered too slow.
No need for subscription, just curiosity
Unlike Prime Gaming, PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass, these titles are accessible without any subscription. This offer comes at the right time for players who want to reduce their expenses without giving up new video gaming experiences. “None of these games require a subscription like Luna (formerly Prime Gaming), PlayStation Plus, or Xbox Game Pass; so they are perfect for those who are tired of managing multiple services. »
Between accessibility, artistic quality and promise of the future, Skybound might just be your next gaming obsession. And if not, the other four titles are here to broaden your horizons – for free.