For many gamers, the concept of physics in video games can seem elusive—like a mysterious entity that's often discussed but not easily pinpointed. Yet, it plays a crucial role in enhancing the believability of the game world, making the experience feel more authentic and immersive.

In the realm of game development, physics primarily revolves around an object's mass and velocity. For living characters, this extends to detailed skeletal structures and soft tissue dynamics, which can be particularly captivating for fans of character realism. In this comprehensive list, we'll explore some of the best PC games renowned for their exceptional physics, spanning not only simulators but also mainstream 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

A staple in many gaming collections, Red Dead Redemption 2 stands out for its impressive physics. Arthur Morgan's journey through a burgeoning America is not only captivating due to its rich narrative and stunning graphics but also its realistic physics. The game employs "ragdoll" technology, allowing human and animal bodies to react in ways that mimic real life. Whether it's Arthur stumbling after a misstep or a bandit limping after being shot, the game's physics contribute significantly to its immersive experience.

War Thunder

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

War Thunder demonstrates that realistic physics aren't limited to single-player games. This online military vehicle action game delivers a tangible sense of controlling massive machines. The physics engine differentiates between tracked and wheeled vehicles, and even the terrain beneath them impacts gameplay. Snow can bog down weaker vehicles, while air resistance affects aircraft maneuverability. Ships, too, react realistically to damage, with flooding potentially causing them to list and sink.

Hellish Quart

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

Hellish Quart offers a unique take on physics with its focus on realistic character movement in a fencing simulator. The game's human models adhere to in-game physics principles, featuring mass, inertia, and a natural skeletal structure. Every sword swing and step carries weight, and injuries impact a character's movement, making for a deeply engaging combat experience.

SnowRunner

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

SnowRunner excels in its physics-based approach to off-road driving. The game's heavy trucks interact realistically with diverse terrains, from mud that can cause vehicles to sink to rivers with currents strong enough to flip them over. The physics engine accounts for vehicle weight, center of mass, and the unique properties of different ground types, making for a challenging and rewarding experience.

GTA IV

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

GTA IV set a new benchmark for physics in gaming with its Euphoria technology, originally used in documentary filmmaking. Characters in the game respond realistically to physical forces, whether it's a pedestrian stumbling after a shove or a car crumpling in a collision. The game's physics engine adds depth to its action scenes and vehicular dynamics, though it's famously demanding on hardware.

Euro Truck Simulator 2

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

Euro Truck Simulator 2 captures the essence of truck driving with its attention to physics. The game's trucks and cargo have realistic mass and speed, resulting in significant inertia at high velocities. Wet roads and the potential for rollovers add to the authenticity, making it a compelling choice for simulation enthusiasts.

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 physics, particularly in its flight mechanics. From the subtle effects of air resistance to the complexities of landing a heavy aircraft, the game offers a detailed simulation of flight dynamics. Players can experience the challenge of avoiding stalls and managing speed at different altitudes, making it a standout in the genre.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

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

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II continues the legacy of its predecessor with enhanced physics and an immersive medieval setting. Players will navigate a world of knightly valor and intrigue, where realistic combat and strategic decision-making are key. The game's improved physics contribute to its engaging narrative and gameplay, offering a deeper experience than ever before.

Universe Sandbox

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

Universe Sandbox lets players experiment with the physics of the cosmos. From simulating the effects of adding mass to planets to creating black holes and observing their gravitational pull, the game offers a hands-on exploration of universal laws. It's a unique blend of education and entertainment, all driven by realistic physics.

Space Engineers

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

Space Engineers combines creativity with physics in a sandbox environment. Players can build everything from space stations to planetary vehicles, all while contending with zero gravity and planetary atmospheres. The game's physics engine ensures that every construction project must account for mass, propulsion, and gravitational forces, adding a layer of realism to the gameplay.

WRC 10

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

WRC 10 delivers a thrilling rally experience with its detailed physics. The game accurately models vehicle dynamics, allowing players to fine-tune their cars for different terrains and conditions. From the impact of tire grip on various surfaces to the nuances of vehicle handling, WRC 10 offers a realistic rally simulation.

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 uncompromising realism. The game's physics engine accounts for everything from tire wear to aerodynamics, requiring players to master vehicle settings to compete effectively. High-speed collisions and the impact of different track surfaces add to the game's challenging and authentic racing experience.

Arma 3

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

Arma 3 is a military simulator that prioritizes realistic physics. Characters move with mass and inertia, and vehicles handle differently based on their chassis and suspension. The game's ballistics model adds depth to combat, with bullets affected by gravity and possessing penetrating power, making every shot count.

Death Stranding

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

Death Stranding blends narrative depth with innovative physics. The protagonist's physical attributes and the weight of cargo create a unique gameplay experience, where balancing and navigating diverse terrains becomes a central challenge. The game's physics engine contributes to its immersive world, making every journey feel meaningful.

BeamNG.drive

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

BeamNG.drive is renowned for its realistic vehicle physics. The game simulates car crashes with astonishing detail, accounting for material strength and collision speed. While it offers a playground for enthusiasts, its physics engine provides a highly realistic driving experience, appealing to both casual players and simulation purists.

In this curated list, we've highlighted 15 games across various genres that showcase the best in physics simulation. While these titles represent some of the most impressive examples, the world of gaming is filled with other gems that offer equally compelling mechanics and dynamics. We encourage you to share your favorite physics-driven games in the comments below!