The Struggle is Real: Gaming Lists and Budget Constraints
One of the most frustrating aspects of being a gamer is the never-ending list of games you want to play but never seem to have the time or money for. Adult life, with its responsibilities and expenses, often gets in the way of your gaming aspirations. Despite your best efforts to keep up with the latest releases, new games hit the shelves daily, and publishers are constantly vying for your attention—and your wallet. With the rising costs of gaming and an uncertain economy in 2025, it’s wise to be mindful of your gaming budget.
This is where the Epic Games Store comes in, offering a lifeline for gamers on a budget. Every week, the store gives away free games—sometimes even two if you’re lucky. These aren’t just obscure indie titles; they include high-quality games from both talented independent developers and major studios. Best of all, once you claim these games, they’re yours to keep forever.
The Epic Games Store is operated by Epic Games, the same company behind the global phenomenon Fortnite. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just someone who’s heard your kids talk about Fortnite, you’re probably familiar with the Epic Games name. The store has been a go-to platform for free games since 2019, offering a wide variety of titles, from action-packed RPGs to innovative indie games. All you need is a gaming PC to access these thrilling experiences without breaking the bank.
Current and Upcoming Free Games on the Epic Games Store
As of February 27 to March 6, the Epic Games Store is offering Mages of Mystralia, a fantasy action RPG developed by Borealys Games. This game challenges players to think creatively by designing their own spells to overcome enemies, solve puzzles, and navigate the world. With a 4.4 out of 5 rating from Epic users, it’s a must-try for fans of magic and strategy. Normally priced at $20, it’s free for download this week.
Next week, from March 6 to March 13, the store will feature Them’s Fighting Herds, a charming 2D fighting game designed by Lauren Faust, the creator of My Little Pony. This game is more than just a cute face; it offers local versus modes, online matchmaking, and a story mode with episodic adventures, boss fights, and puzzles. Rated 4.6 out of 5, Them’s Fighting Herds is a great choice for both casual and competitive players.
The Epic Games Store has also been generous with its free games in previous weeks. From February 20 to 27, gamers could download World War Z: Aftermath and Garden Story. These titles offer vastly different experiences: World War Z: Aftermath is a cooperative third-person shooter with intense zombie battles, while Garden Story is a relaxing, story-driven game about restoring a community garden. Both were free, giving players a chance to enjoy a variety of genres without spending a dime.
Looking further back, games like F1 Manager 2024, Humankind, and Beyond Blue were also available for free in earlier weeks. These titles represent the diversity of the store’s offerings, from sports management to strategy and narrative-driven adventures.
A Look Back at Previous Free Games on the Epic Games Store
The Epic Games Store has consistently delivered a wide range of free games over the years, catering to every type of gamer. In 2025 alone, the store has given away titles like Behind the Frame: The Finest Scenery, Escape Academy, and Hell Let Loose. These games span genres from investigative puzzle games to cooperative escape room simulations and intense World War II shooters.
In 2024, the store offered even more variety. Games like Sifu, Orcs Must Die 3, and Vampire Survivors were all up for grabs. Sifu is a stylish martial arts action game with a unique aging mechanic, while Orcs Must Die 3 is a chaotic tower defense game perfect for playing with friends. Vampire Survivors is a minimalist but addictively fun game where you survive waves of enemies while collecting power-ups.
The store’s free games in 2023 were equally impressive. Titles like Death Stranding, The Outer Worlds: Spacer’s Choice Edition, and Fallout: New Vegas Ultimate Edition were all available for free. These games are not just small indie titles but full-fledged AAA experiences that would otherwise cost $50 or more.
How to Claim Your Free Games on the Epic Games Store
Claiming free games on the Epic Games Store is a straightforward process. First, you’ll need to create an account if you haven’t already. To sign up, visit the Epic Games website, click the “Sign In” button in the top-right corner, and then select “Create Account” at the bottom of the page. Once your account is set up, navigate to the store’s homepage, where you’ll find the current free game(s) prominently displayed. Click “Get” to add the game to your library, and it’s yours to keep forever.
One important note: games claimed from the Epic Games Store are only playable through the Epic Games Launcher. They won’t appear in your libraries on other platforms like Steam. However, this is a small trade-off for the chance to build an impressive gaming library without spending a dime.
The Epic Games Store also regularly offers discounts and sales on popular titles, making it a great place to discover new games or pick up ones you’ve been eyeing at a lower price. Even if you’re not sure what to play right now, claiming free games each week is a smart way to stockpile your library for the future.
Why You Should Take Advantage of the Epic Games Store’s Free Games
The Epic Games Store’s free game offerings are a testament to the platform’s commitment to gamers. With new titles added every week, it’s a great way to explore genres you might not normally play or discover hidden gems you wouldn’t have tried otherwise. The store’s selection often includes games that are both critically acclaimed and fan favorites, giving you a chance to experience high-quality gameplay without spending money.
Moreover, the store’s free games are a fantastic way to build your gaming library. Even if you don’t have time to play them right away, claiming them ensures that you’ll have a collection of games to enjoy whenever you’re ready. This is especially useful for gamers who want to try out different genres or are looking for something new to play without the financial risk.
In a world where gaming costs are rising and new releases are as expensive as ever, the Epic Games Store’s weekly free games are a breath of fresh air. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the store’s offerings provide unparalleled value and accessibility. So why not take advantage of this incredible opportunity? Sign up, claim your free games, and start exploring the endless possibilities the world of gaming has to offer.
