The 10 Best Games to Play on Chromebook in 2024

Chromebooks are versatile machines. They’re fast, affordable and flexible, making them ideal for work — especially in hybrid setups — but what about gaming? They may be better than you’d think, but if you want to make the most of it, you’ll need to know the best games to play on Chromebook.

Can You Play Games on Chromebook?

When most people think of computer gaming, they think of custom-built PCs. Chromebooks don’t have a reputation for gaming, but that doesn’t mean they’re incapable. They may lack beefy processors or Steam support — on most models, at least — but you can work around those shortcomings.

One option is to stick to in-browser games. You can even play games on ChatGPT if you want an AI opponent, but you don’t have to stick to these basics. The Google Play store offers tons of Android ports of popular games, and you can use cloud gaming services to access AAA titles with a strong enough internet connection.

10 Best Games to Play on Chromebook

Not every game has ChromeOS support or a browser version, but you still have options. Here are 10 of the best games to play on Chromebook right now.

1. Minecraft

Minecraft has sold more than 300 million copies, making it one of the most popular titles of all time. Now that Microsoft has released it on Google Play, you can download and play it on your Chromebook without workarounds.

On top of offering countless opportunities to flex your creativity and endless hours of playtime, Minecraft is a great fit for Chromebooks. Its 8-bit art style doesn’t require much processing power, and it supports cross-play if you want to play with friends on other platforms.

2. Terraria

If you like the exploration and building of Minecraft but want something a little different, check out Terraria. The 2D side-scroller will run beautifully even on a Chromebook’s minimal hardware, even reaching 60 FPS.

At just $5, Terraria is also a steal. Keep in mind, though, that if your Chromebook can’t run Steam, you’ll be playing the Android version, which is more stripped back than the Steam release.

3. Stardew Valley

If you haven’t had your fill of mining and crafting yet, Stardew Valley is another one of the best games to play on Chromebook. It’s arguably the pinnacle of cozy gaming, thanks to its immersive music, relaxing farming simulation and lovable cast of characters.

Stardew Valley also has an extensive modding community if you want to personalize your experience. The Google Play version supports keyboard and mouse controls, external controllers and touch screens, giving you even more options.

4. Alto’s Odyssey

For something a little different, check out Alto’s Odyssey. It’s a mobile game focused on skiing past stunning backgrounds with gameplay that’s easy to pick up but difficult to master.

While Alto’s Odyssey may be most popular on smartphones, your Chromebook’s larger screen lets you appreciate its gorgeous visuals more. The best part is that it’s completely free. Keep in mind you’ll need a Chromebook with touchscreen functionality, though. 

5. Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact took the world by storm when it released in 2020. Years later, it remains one of the best games to play on Chromebook, especially if you’re trying to scratch that Breath of the Wild itch.

This action-adventure RPG offers a staggering amount of content for a free mobile game, though some people complain about its microtransactions. You can download it through the Google Play Store, but it’s best on a cloud gaming service like Nvidia’s GeForce NOW.

6. Among Us

Among Us is another internet sensation, though perhaps more for the memes it spawned than for the game itself. If you’re not tired of hearing people call things “sus,” though, it’s a great title for ChromeOS.

While its player base has declined, Among Us still gets millions of daily players, so you don’t have to worry about matchmaking issues. The Mafia-esque whodunnit is also free and even has a Chromebook-optimized version on the Google Play Store.

7. Injustice 2

This one may be more surprising. The Injustice series — the DC superhero take on Mortal Kombat — is most popular as a console title, but there’s an Android port, too. It doesn’t have all the same content as the original but still offers hours of player-vs-player fun.

Injustice 2 would rank higher on this list if it had keyboard or controller support. Unfortunately, you can only use your Chromebook’s touchscreen, which doesn’t feel as natural. Once you get the hang of it, though, the larger screen makes for a better experience than your phone.

8. Fallout Shelter

Chromebooks may be unable to run the mainline Fallout games, but the survival strategy spinoff Fallout Shelter is worth playing. In this title, you build and manage an ever-growing bunker, trying to keep your survivors alive and happy while balancing your resources.

Like Injustice 2, the Chromebook port of Fallout Shelter is actually an Android mobile version. As such, there’s no keyboard support, but it’s still a good time with touchscreen controls.

9. Asphalt 9: Legends

Asphalt 9: Legends may not be as well-known as some of these others, but it deserves a spot on the list. This racing title is one of the most impressive-looking Chromebook titles, despite not needing much power to run it,

While racing games are arguably best in VR, Asphalt 9 is a blast on Chromebook. It supports both keyboard and touchscreen controls, too, so you can play however you like.

10. Roblox

Rounding out the list of the best games to play on Chromebook is the ever-popular Roblox. You can play Roblox in-browser, but it now has a dedicated port on Google Play, which may run better.

Roblox is a true sandbox, offering countless worlds and options to explore. It’s an authentic metaverse experience, though it’s largely geared toward a younger audience, so you may not find it as exciting as others.

Get More Out of Your Chromebook

These 10 titles are the best games to play on Chromebook right now and a great reminder that these laptops are capable of more than just work. While you may not match the same experience as a big-budget gaming PC, these games run exceptionally well on ChromeOS. Find one that suits your fancy and use your Chromebook for more than paperwork.