Best Games Under $20 Analyzed for Value
There's nothing quite like stumbling upon a hidden gem in the gaming world, is there? You know, that moment when you're browsing through the depths of your favorite gaming platform, and you come ac...
December 21, 2025 · 6 min read
Numbers guy who also happens to love games. I break down what makes a game worth your money with data, benchmarks, and honest analysis.
There's nothing quite like stumbling upon a hidden gem in the gaming world, is there? You know, that moment when you're browsing through the depths of your favorite gaming platform, and you come across a title that looks like it was tailor-made for you. The thrill of discovery is real, and it's what keeps us coming back for more. But what if you're on a budget? Can you still find those gaming treasures without breaking the bank? Absolutely! Let's dive into the best games under 20 dollars that are worth your time and money.
Finding the Best Games Under 20 Dollars
Scouring the digital shelves for games that offer a rich experience without the hefty price tag is a challenge many of us face. The good news is that there are plenty of fantastic titles out there that won't dent your wallet. In this list, we're focusing on games that not only fit within a 20-dollar budget but also offer engaging gameplay, compelling stories, or both.
5. Need for Speed: Underground
Need for Speed: Underground
EA Black Box · Electronic Arts
Nov 17, 2003
Need for Speed: Underground is a 2003 racing video game and the seventh installment in the Need for Speed series. It rebooted the franchise, ignori…
Need for Speed: Underground is a classic racing game that rebooted the franchise back in 2003. It introduced a career mode with a comprehensive storyline and a garage mode where players could fully customize their cars. The game is all about street racing and the underground culture surrounding it, offering a thrilling experience with its fast-paced racing and extensive car customization options.
The game's ability to let players modify their vehicles to suit their driving style or to simply look cool adds a layer of depth that's hard to resist. Whether you're into high-speed racing or customizing your ride, Need for Speed: Underground has something for you.
4. Tony Hawk's Underground
Tony Hawk's Underground
Beenox · Activision
Oct 27, 2003
Get ready for a major new step for the Tony Hawk series. Tony Hawk's Underground tweaks the gameplay of previous installments to include a plot-twi…
Skateboarding games don't get much better than Tony Hawk's Underground. Released in 2003, it brought a new level of freedom to the series with its open-world design, allowing players to explore and skate wherever they pleased. The game also introduced a story mode that was more about the journey than the destination, adding a narrative layer that was new for the series.
The customization options in Tony Hawk's Underground are extensive, from creating your own skater to designing your own skateparks. It's a game that encourages creativity and self-expression, making it a standout title in the series.
Our Pick for Best Story: Undertale
Undertale
tobyfox · 8-4
Sep 15, 2015
A small child falls into the Underground, where monsters have long been banished by humans and are hunting every human that they find. The player c…
Undertale is a masterpiece when it comes to storytelling in games. Released in 2015, it tells the story of a human child who falls into the Underground, a world inhabited by monsters. The twist? You can choose to resolve conflicts peacefully or engage in a unique turn-based combat system. The game's narrative is heavily influenced by your choices, leading to multiple endings based on your actions throughout the game.
The charm of Undertale lies not just in its story but also in its characters and the world it creates. With a rating of 92/100 on Metacritic, it's clear that this game has resonated with players and critics alike. The game's ability to balance humor, tragedy, and adventure makes it a compelling experience.
3. Need for Speed: Underground 2
Need for Speed: Underground 2
EA Black Box · Electronic Arts
Nov 9, 2004
Need For Speed Underground 2 takes place in Bayview after the events of Need for Speed: Underground. The prologue begins with the player driving in…
Building on the success of its predecessor, Need for Speed: Underground 2 takes the street racing experience to the next level. With improved graphics and new features like the ability to race in various environments, it offers a more diverse and exciting racing experience. The game's open-world design allows for more exploration and freedom, making it a thrilling experience for fans of the series.
The game's focus on customization and performance upgrades means that players can tailor their vehicles to their liking, whether for speed, style, or a mix of both. The addition of new racing modes and events keeps the gameplay fresh and challenging.
Our Pick for Best Platformer: Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight
Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight
Bombservice · PLAYISM
Mar 4, 2016
Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight is a sidescrolling platformer, and is the fourth installment of the Momodora series. Focusing on gameplay, me…
Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight is a sidescrolling platformer known for its challenging gameplay and atmospheric soundtrack. As a prequel to the Momodora series, it follows the story of a young heroine on a quest to save her village from a mysterious curse. The game is praised for its tight controls, variety of items and spells, and the challenging enemies it presents.
The game's aesthetic, combined with its challenging platforming and exploration elements, makes for a captivating experience. With a Metacritic rating of 82/100, it's a well-regarded title among fans of indie and platformer games.
And the Best Games Under 20 Dollars Keep Going...
We've highlighted just a few of the many great games available for under 20 dollars. From racing and platforming to RPGs and more, there's a wealth of gaming goodness waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just looking to expand your library, these titles offer a mix of entertainment, challenge, and enjoyment that makes them stand out as some of the best games under 20 dollars.
As you continue your gaming journey, remember that great games can be found at all price points. Sometimes, the best experiences come from titles that are a little off the beaten path. So, don't be afraid to explore, try new things, and discover your next favorite game.