Gaming can be an expensive hobby, particularly if you want the latest titles as soon as they get released. If you’re saving up for the next big thing but still want to get your gaming fix, we’ve got a rundown of ten of the best free to play games available on the web. Some are full versions that require a hefty download, but others will run in your browser so you can jump straight into the action.
10. TrackMania Nations Forever Get it from: http://store.steampowered.com/app/11020/
It's almost certain that TrackMania Nations Forever was the brainchild of someone that seriously loved Hot Wheels as a child. If regular racing games are putting you to sleep, the multitude of fantastic fantasy tracks filled with ramps, loops and jumps are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
The series has several retail versions, but Nations Forever has over 60 tracks, solo and multi-player game modes, a track editor and a global leader board. If you want a quick blast of speed, this is ideal.
9. Spiral Knights Get it from: http://store.steampowered.com/app/99900/
One of the first games added to Steam’s Free-to-play initiative, Spiral Knights is a co-op adventure that will instantly remind older gamers of classics such as Golden Axe and Streets of rage. There are plenty of puzzles as well as combat, so you'll need to work together if you want to progress far. The cutesy graphics might not be for everyone, but the gameplay is fantastic. Plus, if you finish the game you will unlock a hat to use in Team Fortress 2!
8. Battlefield Heroes Get it from: http://www.battlefieldheroes.com
Taking the class-based combat that Battlefield fans are familiar with and putting it into a cell-shaded, third person action game sounds like a recipe for disaster, but Battlefield Heroes is an absolute blast to play. Plenty of maps, well-animated characters and vehicular combat make this a great game to drop in for a quick session, although there’s plenty to unlock for dedicated players.
There are weapons available to buy, as well as character customisation options that only become available if you dust off your credit card, but the main game is still just as fun if you don’t want to pay to play.
7. Lord of the Rings Online Get it from: http://www.lotro.com/
Originally a full retail game, Lord of the Rings Online went free-to-play last year and has amazingly become even more profitable for the developers. It’s clear to see why; the lovingly recreated Middle Earth is packed full of character and the storyline is top notch. Tolkien fans will enjoy exploring the Shire and journeying to Mordor, but the gameplay is strong enough that anyone not already familiar with the books will still have plenty of fun levelling up and questing.
