For many gamers, game physics is a fascinating, often debated element—a crucial ingredient that subtly enhances the sense of realism, yet remains largely unnoticed at a glance. But why is it so important? Simply put: believable physics significantly increase immersion in the game world.

In game development, physics engines primarily model an object's mass and velocity. For characters, this extends to detailed skeletal structures and soft-tissue simulation, a feature particularly appreciated by fans of character design. This list highlights top PC games showcasing exceptional physics, encompassing both dedicated simulators and 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

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

A frequent favorite, Red Dead Redemption 2 boasts impressive physics. Arthur Morgan's journey across a nascent America captivates with its atmosphere, story, and visuals, but its realistic physics are a key component. "Ragdoll" technology simulates realistic body movement for both humans and animals. A misstep results in a believable tumble, and a leg shot leads to limping or falling, mirroring real-world reactions. This realism extends to horses and other animals.

War Thunder

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

Realistic physics aren't limited to single-player games. This online military vehicle action game delivers a convincing sense of scale and weight, particularly noticeable when controlling tanks. The difference between tracked and wheeled vehicles is palpable due to the detailed physics engine affecting both vehicles and terrain. This realism impacts gameplay; navigating snowy terrain with a less-powerful vehicle becomes a significant challenge. Similar attention to detail is evident in aviation and naval combat, with air resistance and realistic water physics impacting maneuverability and ship stability.

Hellish Quart

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

Hellish Quart stands out with its realistic body mechanics. This simplified fencing simulator focuses on online duels, emphasizing skill-based combat. The human models adhere to realistic physics, possessing mass, inertia, and a natural skeletal structure. Every swing, step, and hit impacts movement, adding a layer of tactical depth.

SnowRunner

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

SnowRunner, while not a hyper-realistic driving simulator, excels in its physics implementation, extending beyond just the vehicles. The game's focus on heavy trucks in off-road conditions creates interesting interactions between vehicle weight, center of mass, and terrain properties. Mud is not just a texture; it has realistic viscosity and leaves tire tracks. This realism extends to snow and water, with strong currents capable of flipping or carrying away vehicles.

GTA IV

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

GTA IV is a landmark title in game physics. Rockstar's use of Euphoria technology resulted in remarkably realistic character and vehicle physics. Characters react realistically to impacts, and vehicle collisions are detailed, with crumpling and realistic passenger ejection. While the demanding Euphoria engine impacted optimization, the level of realism was groundbreaking.

Euro Truck Simulator 2

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

Euro Truck Simulator 2 offers a surprisingly realistic driving experience, especially with tweaked settings or mods. Trucks and cargo possess mass and inertia, making high-speed maneuvers challenging. The center of mass plays a role in rollovers, and weather conditions such as rain significantly impact handling.

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020

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

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 showcases advanced flight physics. Factors such as air resistance, mass, and air flow significantly impact flight characteristics, making landings challenging and requiring careful speed management. On higher difficulty settings, temperature also influences flight performance.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

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

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II continues the tradition of realistic gameplay, enhancing the combat system and expanding the world while maintaining its historically accurate setting. The improved physics engine adds depth and engagement to the gameplay experience.

Universe Sandbox

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

Universe Sandbox is a physics-based simulator allowing players to experiment with celestial bodies and gravitational forces. Players can manipulate planetary masses, trigger thermonuclear reactions, add black holes, and bombard planets, all governed by realistic physics.

Space Engineers

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

Space Engineers is a space-based construction and survival simulator where players build structures and vehicles. The game features realistic physics, including zero gravity, gravitational pull of planets, and atmospheric effects. Building and maneuvering spacecraft requires careful consideration of thrust, fuel, and gravitational forces.

WRC 10

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

WRC 10 is a realistic rally racing simulator featuring actual championships and tracks. The game's physics engine goes beyond basic mass and velocity, incorporating tire grip and surface properties. Different types of terrain require adjustments to vehicle setup for optimal performance.

Assetto Corsa

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

Assetto Corsa is a highly realistic racing simulator demanding careful vehicle tuning. The physics engine accounts for friction, air resistance, and downforce, requiring players to adapt their driving style and vehicle settings to different track conditions and situations. Even tire wear is simulated.

Arma 3

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

Arma 3's physics engine creates realistic character and vehicle movement. Characters have detailed skeletal structures and react to weight and inertia. Vehicles are affected by mass, suspension, and terrain. Ballistics are also realistic, with projectiles affected by gravity and penetration.

Death Stranding

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

Death Stranding features realistic character physics and cargo weight, impacting movement and balance, particularly on uneven terrain. The diverse landscape and material properties add to the challenge of cargo delivery.

BeamNG.drive

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

BeamNG.drive is renowned for its highly realistic vehicle physics. The game simulates detailed car deformation and material properties, resulting in realistic damage modeling and crash physics.

This collection showcases fifteen games across diverse genres with exceptional physics. Many other titles feature impressive mechanics, and we encourage you to share your favorites in the comments!