Play Ukrainian: the most popular video games of all time from Ukrainian developers

1. S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl.

Developer: GSC Game World.

Genre: shooter.

Year of release: 2007.

This is the first and most famous game in the series of post-apocalyptic open-world role-playing games. It was released in March 2007, and already in August 2007 appeared on Steam. 

Players appear in the role of Stalker, who tries to survive in the Zone (a fictional version of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone), struggling with supernatural phenomena that have arisen due to radiation. The unique atmosphere, detailed world and deep story of S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl are complemented by such important elements of the game as the survival system and the balance between exploration and combat. 

By the way, a sequel to the cult game is scheduled for release in November 2024 under the title S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chernobyl.

2. Metro Exodus.

Developer: 4A Games.

Genre: shooter.

Year of release: 2010.

This game is the third in the Metro series (the first Metro 2033 game was released in 2010, and the second Metro: Last Light in 2019). The post-apocalyptic first-person shooter takes the player to a bleak and harsh world destroyed by nuclear war. Facing danger and adventure, he has to solve challenges and interact with characters along the way. 

Metro Exodus is a mixture of Fallout and Stalker. The game combines beautiful landscapes, tense atmosphere and an unfolding story, giving an unrivalled gameplay experience.

3. The Talos Principle.

Developer: Croteam.

Genre: intellectual puzzle game.

Year of release: 2014.

The Talos Principle is an intelligent puzzle game from Croteam, part of which is based in Ukraine. The first-person game uses different puzzle mechanics, opening the eyes of players to a large and luxurious world to explore, where every action has its consequences and affects the further development of events.

In the virtual world, players must solve complex problems, uncover mysteries and solve riddles that require deep and logical thinking about many philosophical themes and moral dilemmas. The Talos Principle is a real challenge to the mind that leaves you pondering long after the game is over.

4. Warface: Clutch.

Developer: Crytek.

Genre: shooter.

Year of release: 2013.

Warface: Clutch is a free multiplayer online shooter video game developed by Crytek's Ukrainian branch. Players are given the opportunity to join a team and take part in a variety of combat operations around the world. 

This “shooter” has gained popularity due to its dynamic gameplay and a wide range of weapons and equipment. A variety of modes, including general battles, special operations, survival competitions, allows players to choose the most suitable for their preferences and style. Plus, Warface: Clutch is constantly being updated and expanded, adding new game modes, weapons, and cards for an even more exciting gaming experience.

5. Sherlock Holmes: The Devil’s Daughter.

Developer: Frogwares.

Genre: quest.

Year of release: 2016.

Sherlock Holmes: The Devil's Daughter is the most popular game in the series of games about Sherlock Holmes, which are developed by Kiev studio Frogwares and released since 2002. Today the series has already nine projects and one remake. While the first games of this series are traditional point-and-click games, the later versions of Sherlock Holmes are more action-oriented. 

Interestingly, the story of this version of the game is in no way connected to the previous one. The story of Sherlock Holmes: The Devil's Daughter starts in a completely different period of time, and the main character together with his irreplaceable partner managed to become fifteen or twenty years younger. Most of the time players have to search for various evidences with their further long study and attempts to connect them with other clues in the case, while exploring London in parallel. 

6. Cossacks 3.

Developer: GSC Game World.

Genre: real-time strategy.

Year of release: 2016.

Cossacks 3 is a reboot of the original game Cossacks: European Wars, released in 2001. The game was created in the genre of real-time strategy by Ukrainian developer GSC Game World. 

From the previous parts of the series, the third main game is distinguished by epic battles, which allow you to place up to 10 thousand units on the map. It includes a large base of diverse buildings, an expanded economy system and deployable battles. Cossacks 3 is an excellent choice for fans of strategy games and connoisseurs of historical accuracy and realism. 

7. Cooking Simulator.

Developer: Big Cheese Studio.

Genre: cookery simulator.

Year of release: 2019.

Cooking Simulator is a realistic cooking simulator partially developed by the Ukrainian company Big Cheese Studio. The players' task is to cook a variety of dishes using realistic recipes and ingredients. 

The fun and interactive game gives you the opportunity to feel like a real chef. Cooking Simulator is perfect for cooking enthusiasts and gourmets who want to experience the thrill of cooking.

What Ukrainians play video games on

As statistics shows, depending on availability and their preferences, modern gamers choose different devices. Among the most popular:

1. Personal computers (PCs) and laptops. Approximately 30% of Ukrainian gamers prefer PCs or laptops due to customisability, power and a wide range of games, especially in the genres of shooters, strategies and RPGs. This format is popular among fans of strategies, shooters and MMORPGs.
2. Consoles. Consoles such as PlayStation (PS4, PS5) and Xbox Series X/S remain popular for gamers looking for convenience and quality graphics in games. Consoles are also favoured by about 30% of gamers.
3. Mobile devices. With their versatility and wide range of content, they are popular with 40% of users due to the availability of mobile games for Android and iOS such as Genshin Impact, PUBG Mobile and others, and the convenience to play anytime, anywhere.

Choose your favourite device and interesting games from the ones described here — and let your leisure time be exciting!