Not everyone owns a powerful gaming PC with a high-end graphics card. In fact, a large number of gamers across the country still rely on budget laptops and entry-level desktops. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy great games. Many popular titles today are well-optimized and run smoothly even on low-spec systems that cost as little as ₹30,000–₹45,000.
If you’re looking for the best PC games that can run on budget machines, this guide highlights top titles across genres, including shooters, story-driven games, sports, racing, and strategy. These games are fun, lightweight, and ideal for systems with older CPUs, 4–8GB RAM, and basic integrated graphics.
Counter-Strike 2 (CS2)
Minimum Requirements
- 4GB RAM
- Dual-core CPU
Why It’s Perfect for Budget PCs
- CS2 is extremely popular in gaming cafés and among competitive gamers. It’s well-optimized and can run smoothly on machines with integrated Intel UHD or AMD Radeon Vega graphics.
- The gameplay is fast, tactical, and perfect for online multiplayer sessions.
Valorant
Minimum Requirements
- 4GB RAM
- Intel HD 4000
Why Gamers Love It
- Valorant is known for its ultra-optimized engine. You can easily hit 60–120 FPS even on a PC under ₹40,000.
- The game’s low hardware demand, combined with fast-paced shooting and abilities, makes it a favourite among Indian esports players.
3. GTA V (Grand Theft Auto V)
Minimum Requirements
- 4GB RAM
- Integrated graphics compatible
Why It Works on Low Specs
- Despite its size, GTA V scales beautifully on lower settings. Even budget laptops can run it at 720p low settings.
- The story, open-world exploration, missions, modding community, and GTA Online make it one of the best value-for-money games.
Minecraft (Java + Bedrock Editions)
Minimum Requirements
- 4GB RAM
Why It Runs Well
- Minecraft’s blocky art style is very system-friendly.
- Even older PCs can hit 40–60 FPS.
- Whether you want survival mode, creative mode, or multiplayer servers, it’s a great lightweight choice for all age groups.
5. FIFA / EA FC Series
Minimum Requirements
- Budget GPUs like GT 710 / integrated graphics
Why It’s Popular
- Football games have a massive fanbase in the country.
- The PC versions are optimized to run on older hardware with some tweaks to resolution and details.
- You can enjoy Ultimate Team, career mode, and online matches without needing an expensive setup.
Rocket League
Minimum Requirements
- 4GB RAM
- Dual-core CPU
Why It’s Great for Budget Machines
- This high-octane football-with-cars game is surprisingly light on hardware.
- Even entry-level laptops can hit 50–60 FPS.
- The game is free-to-play, competitive, and fun for both casual and serious players.
Left 4 Dead 2
Minimum Requirements
- Very low-end specs
Why It’s Still Popular
- Despite being more than a decade old, this zombie shooter is still incredibly fun in co-op mode.
- It works flawlessly even on office PCs with Intel HD graphics.
Euro Truck Simulator 2
Minimum Requirements
- 4GB RAM
Why It’s Perfect for Relaxed Gaming
- This game doesn’t demand much but delivers a relaxing long-drive experience.
- Whether you like highway cruising, logistics simulation, or mods, it’s perfect for low-spec rigs.
Need for Speed: Most Wanted (2012) & Older NFS Titles
Minimum Requirements
- 4GB RAM
- Basic GPU
Why NFS Works on Older PCs
- Racing fans can enjoy NFS Most Wanted, NFS Carbon, and older titles easily on budget setups.
- The games offer high-speed racing fun without stressing your system.
What Specs Are Enough for Budget Gaming?
You don’t need a ₹1 lakh PC to enjoy gaming. Even a ₹35,000–₹45,000 laptop/PC can run the above games with ease.
Recommended Specs:
- CPU: Intel i3 (4th–7th Gen) / Ryzen 3
- RAM: 8GB
- Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD / AMD Vega
- Storage: 256GB SSD (for faster loading times)
If your system matches or exceeds these specs, you can comfortably run 90% of lightweight PC titles.
Tips to Improve Performance on Budget PCs
Even if your PC is old, try these optimizations:
Upgrade to an SSD (₹1,500–₹3,000)
This drastically reduces loading times and improves smoothness.
Increase RAM to 8GB (₹1,200–₹2,500)
Most budget systems benefit heavily from upgrading RAM.
Lower In-Game Resolution
Playing at 720p boosts FPS significantly.
Update Drivers
Intel/AMD graphics drivers often boost FPS in older titles.
Close Background Apps
Free RAM helps games run better on low-end machines.
Why These Games Are Perfect for Indian Budget Gamers
Affordable
Most of these games cost under ₹1,000, and many like Valorant, Rocket League, and CS2 are free-to-play.
Well-Optimized for Older PCs
They’re designed to run on low-end hardware, making them ideal for school laptops, office PCs, and older desktops.
Strong Community Support
Whether through online servers, modding, or esports, each game has a large player base here.
Final Thoughts
Budget PCs don’t have to limit your gaming options. From fast-paced shooters like Valorant and CS2, to creative games like Minecraft, to open-world favourites such as GTA V, there’s a huge library of games that run beautifully on low-end hardware. With small upgrades like an SSD or additional RAM costing under ₹3,000, your system can handle even more modern titles.
If you’re ready to dive into gaming without spending a fortune, these best PC games for budget machines offer the perfect starting point.