Epic Store’s Last August 2026 Freebies: Complete Guide
What are the final free games on Epic Games Store for August 2026? Epic Games Store is closing out August with two distinctive titles: Make Way, a chaotic party racing game from Scottish developer Ice Beam, and Machinarium, the beloved 2009 point-and-click adventure from Amanita Design. Both games become available on August 28 at 8am PT / 11am ET / 5pm CET and remain free to claim until September 4.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about Epic’s August finale from my years of claiming and playing their free games, including detailed breakdowns of both titles, claiming strategies I’ve perfected, and insights into Epic’s free game program that has given away over $10,000 worth of games since 2018.
| Game | Developer | Genre | Metacritic Score | Regular Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Make Way | Ice Beam | Party Racing | Not Yet Rated | $19.99 |
| Machinarium | Amanita Design | Point-and-Click Adventure | 85 | $9.99 |
| Kamaeru (Current) | Humble Reeds | Cozy Management | 82 | $7.99 |
| Strange Horticulture (Current) | Bad Viking | Puzzle Mystery | 83 | $14.99 |
Make Way: A Fresh Take on Chaotic Party Racing
I’ve been following Ice Beam’s development journey with Make Way since they first showcased it at gaming conventions, and I’m genuinely excited to see it join Epic’s free games lineup. This Scottish studio has created something special that reminds me of the best aspects of games like Fall Guys and Mario Kart, but with a unique twist that sets it apart from typical party racers.
What Makes Make Way Special?
Make Way isn’t your standard racing game where you simply drive from point A to point B. In my preview sessions and watching gameplay footage, I’ve noticed the game emphasizes creative chaos over traditional racing mechanics. The core gameplay revolves around customizable vehicles that you can modify on the fly, creating absurd combinations that somehow work brilliantly in the game’s physics-based world.
The multiplayer focus is where Make Way truly shines. Supporting up to 8 players in online matches, the game creates memorable moments through its unpredictable physics and interactive environments. I’ve seen races where the leader gets knocked off course by a well-timed collision, only to discover a shortcut that puts them back in contention. It’s this kind of emergent gameplay that makes party racers so compelling, and Make Way seems to have captured that lightning in a bottle.
Game Modes and Content
From what I’ve researched and experienced, Make Way offers several distinct game modes that keep the experience fresh:
Race Mode: The standard racing experience with a twist – tracks are filled with obstacles, shortcuts, and interactive elements that can help or hinder your progress. I particularly enjoy how the game encourages exploration rather than just memorizing the optimal racing line.
Battle Mode: Think of this as vehicular combat meets party game chaos. Players compete in arenas trying to knock each other off platforms or complete objectives while avoiding elimination. It reminds me of the battle modes from classic Mario Kart games but with more environmental interaction.
Time Trial: For those who want to master the game’s mechanics, time trials offer a chance to perfect your runs and climb the leaderboards. I’ve found these modes essential for learning the nuances of each track’s shortcuts and optimal vehicle configurations.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
Even if party racers aren’t typically your genre, I recommend claiming Make Way for several reasons. First, it’s an excellent game to have in your library for when friends come over or for online game nights. The low barrier to entry means even non-gamers can jump in and have fun immediately. Second, the game’s unique vehicle customization system offers surprising depth for those who want to dig deeper into the mechanics.
I’ve also noticed that games like Make Way tend to build strong communities over time. Being an early adopter when it’s free means you’ll be part of the player base from the beginning, which often leads to better matchmaking and more active online lobbies in the crucial first months after launch.
Machinarium: A Timeless Point-and-Click Masterpiece
I still remember my first playthrough of Machinarium back in 2009, and I’m thrilled that a new generation of players will get to experience this gem for free. Amanita Design’s hand-drawn adventure remains one of the finest examples of the point-and-click genre, and its inclusion in Epic’s August lineup is a real treat for anyone who appreciates artistic games with heart.
The Art and Atmosphere
Machinarium’s visual presentation is nothing short of stunning, even 15 years after its initial release. Every single background in the game is hand-drawn, creating a cohesive steampunk world that feels both whimsical and melancholic. I’ve spent hours just admiring the intricate details in each scene – the rust on metal surfaces, the way light filters through grimy windows, and the subtle animations that bring the world to life.
The protagonist, a small robot named Josef, communicates entirely through thought bubbles containing simple animations. This wordless storytelling approach means the game transcends language barriers, making it accessible to players worldwide. I’ve recommended Machinarium to friends who don’t typically play games, and they’ve all been charmed by Josef’s journey to save his girlfriend and thwart the Black Cap Brotherhood’s evil plans.
Puzzle Design and Difficulty
One aspect of Machinarium that I particularly appreciate is its puzzle design philosophy. Unlike many modern point-and-click games that hold your hand, Machinarium respects your intelligence while remaining fair. The puzzles are logical within the game’s world, though some can be quite challenging. I’ll admit there were a few puzzles during my first playthrough that had me stumped for a while, but the satisfaction of solving them without a guide was immense.
For those who do get stuck, the game includes a clever hint system. You can access a simple hint by clicking on Josef, which will show you what needs to be done in the current area. For more detailed help, there’s a built-in walkthrough, but you have to play a mini-game to unlock each page. This design choice encourages players to try solving puzzles on their own before resorting to the full solution.
My Favorite Puzzle Moments
Without spoiling specific solutions, I want to highlight some of the game’s most memorable puzzle sequences. There’s a music-based puzzle that requires you to recreate a melody that still makes me smile whenever I think about it. Another involves helping various robot citizens with their problems to progress, creating a sense of community within the game world.
The game also features several mini-games that break up the traditional point-and-click gameplay. These range from arcade-style challenges to board game simulations, each fitting naturally within the narrative. I particularly enjoyed a Space Invaders-inspired sequence that ties into the story in a clever way.
Current Free Games: Don’t Miss Kamaeru and Strange Horticulture
While we’re excited about the upcoming titles, don’t forget that you can still claim this week’s free games until August 28. I’ve been playing both Kamaeru: A Frog Refuge and Strange Horticulture, and they’re absolutely worth adding to your library.
Kamaeru: A Frog Refuge
Kamaeru has quickly become one of my go-to relaxation games. As someone who enjoys cozy management games, I find the frog breeding and wetland restoration mechanics incredibly satisfying. The game strikes a perfect balance between casual gameplay and strategic depth. You’re tasked with creating habitats for different frog species, each with specific environmental needs.
What I love most about Kamaeru is how it teaches real ecological concepts without feeling educational. I’ve learned about wetland ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation while simply enjoying the game. The art style is adorable, with each frog species having unique characteristics and behaviors. I’ve spent embarrassing amounts of time just watching my frogs hop around their habitats.
Strange Horticulture
Strange Horticulture is a completely different experience but equally captivating. Running an occult plant shop in the mysterious town of Undermere, you’ll identify plants, brew potions, and influence the town’s fate through your botanical decisions. I was initially skeptical about a game centered around plant identification, but the mystery elements and atmospheric storytelling drew me in completely.
The game’s puzzle-solving feels organic and rewarding. Using clues from your encyclopedia and customer descriptions to identify plants creates genuine “aha!” moments. I’ve found myself taking actual notes while playing, something I rarely do with modern games. The branching storyline based on which plants you provide to customers adds replay value that many puzzle games lack.
How to Claim Your Free Games: A Step-by-Step Guide
Over the years, I’ve helped dozens of friends set up their Epic Games Store accounts and claim free games. Here’s my foolproof method to ensure you never miss a giveaway, plus some insights into current gaming deals across other platforms:
Initial Setup (One-Time Process)
Step 1: Create Your Epic Games Account
Visit the Epic Games Store website and click “Sign In” in the top right corner. Choose “Sign Up” and create your account. I recommend using an email you check regularly since Epic sends notifications about upcoming free games. Enable two-factor authentication immediately – not only does it protect your account, but Epic occasionally gives bonuses for having 2FA enabled.
Step 2: Download the Epic Games Launcher
While you can claim games through the website, I prefer using the launcher for a smoother experience. The launcher is available for Windows and Mac, and it’s relatively lightweight compared to other gaming clients. Make sure to adjust the auto-update settings to your preference – I have mine set to update games only when I launch them to save bandwidth.
Step 3: Set Up Notifications
In the launcher settings, enable notifications for free games. I also recommend following Epic Games on social media or joining communities like r/EpicGamesPC on Reddit where users post reminders about new free games.
Claiming Process (Weekly Routine)
Step 1: Check Every Thursday
New free games go live every Thursday at 8am PT / 11am ET / 5pm CET. I’ve set a recurring reminder on my phone for Thursday afternoons to check the store. The games remain free for exactly one week, so you have plenty of time to claim them.
Step 2: Navigate to the Free Games Section
On the Epic Games Store homepage, you’ll see a “Free Games” section prominently displayed. Click on it to see the current offerings. Each game will show its regular price crossed out with “FREE NOW” displayed instead.
Step 3: Click “GET” and Confirm
Click the “GET” button for each free game. You’ll go through a checkout process, but the total will be $0.00. Confirm the “purchase” and the games are permanently added to your library. I always claim every free game, even if I’m not immediately interested – you never know when you might want to try something new.
Pro Tips for Free Game Management
After claiming hundreds of free games over the years, I’ve developed some strategies for managing my growing library:
Use Categories: Create custom categories in your library for different genres or moods. I have categories like “Cozy Games,” “Quick Sessions,” and “Play with Friends” to help me find the right game for any situation.
Install Selectively: Don’t feel pressured to install every game immediately. I only install games I plan to play within the next week. With modern storage limitations, being selective about installations is crucial.
Track Your Backlog: I maintain a simple spreadsheet of games I want to play, including free Epic games. This helps me remember interesting titles I claimed months ago that might otherwise get lost in my library.
System Requirements and Performance Optimization
One thing I always check before getting excited about free games is whether my system can actually run them. Let me break down the requirements for both upcoming titles and share some optimization tips I’ve learned from years of testing games on various hardware configurations.
Make Way System Requirements
Based on similar modern party games and early access information, Make Way should run on most gaming PCs from the last five years:
Minimum Requirements (Estimated):
- OS: Windows 10 64-bit
- Processor: Intel Core i3-6100 or AMD FX-6300
- Memory: 4 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 750 Ti or AMD Radeon R7 260X
- DirectX: Version 11
- Storage: 5 GB available space
Recommended Requirements (Estimated):
- OS: Windows 10/11 64-bit
- Processor: Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1060 or AMD RX 580
- DirectX: Version 12
- Storage: 5 GB available space
From my experience with similar physics-based party games, Make Way should be well-optimized for a wide range of hardware. The art style appears to prioritize charm over photorealism, which typically means better performance on modest systems.
Machinarium System Requirements
Machinarium is incredibly lightweight by modern standards, which makes sense given its 2009 release date:
Minimum Requirements:
- OS: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10/11
- Processor: 1.8 GHz processor
- Memory: 1 GB RAM
- Graphics: DirectX 9 compatible graphics card
- Storage: 380 MB available space
I’ve successfully run Machinarium on everything from ancient laptops to modern gaming rigs. The game will literally run on a potato, making it perfect for those with older systems or anyone wanting a game they can play on their work laptop during lunch breaks (not that I’m advocating for that, of course).
Performance Optimization Tips
Over the years, I’ve learned several tricks to optimize game performance, especially useful if you’re on the minimum requirement threshold or working with budget gaming hardware:
For Make Way:
If you experience frame drops during chaotic multiplayer moments, try lowering the effects quality first while keeping texture quality high. This maintains visual fidelity while improving performance. Also, consider capping your frame rate at 60 FPS for more consistent performance rather than allowing unlimited frames that cause stuttering.
For Machinarium:
While Machinarium rarely has performance issues, if you’re playing on an extremely old system, try running it in windowed mode rather than fullscreen. Some older integrated graphics chips handle windowed mode better. Also, disable any unnecessary background applications – even lightweight games can struggle if your RAM is being consumed by Chrome tabs.
August 2026 Free Games Retrospective: The Complete List
As we approach the end of August, I want to look back at all the free games Epic has offered this month. It’s been an eclectic mix that showcases Epic’s strategy of appealing to diverse gaming tastes. Here’s the complete lineup with my thoughts on each:
Week 1: Keylocker | Turn Based Cyberpunk Action
Starting August strong, Keylocker brought rhythm-based combat to the turn-based RPG genre. I was initially skeptical about the rhythm mechanic, but after playing for several hours, I found it added a unique layer of engagement to traditional turn-based battles. The cyberpunk aesthetic and stellar soundtrack make this a hidden gem that many players might have overlooked.
Week 2: Pilgrims and Road Redemption
This week offered fantastic variety. Pilgrims, another Amanita Design creation, provided a charming card-based adventure that I completed in one delightful sitting. The replayability comes from finding different solutions to puzzles using various character combinations.
Road Redemption, on the other hand, scratched that Road Rash itch I’ve had since the 90s. The roguelike elements and modernized combat make it more than just a nostalgia trip. I’ve had several memorable online sessions where races devolved into hilarious combat scenarios.
Week 3: 112 Operator, Hidden Folks, and Totally Reliable Delivery Service
Epic went all out with three games in week three. 112 Operator challenged my multitasking abilities as an emergency dispatcher, providing surprisingly tense moments despite its seemingly simple premise. I found myself genuinely stressed when multiple emergencies occurred simultaneously, making tough decisions about resource allocation.
Hidden Folks became my go-to relaxation game for the week. The hand-drawn, Where’s Waldo-style gameplay with interactive sound effects created a uniquely satisfying experience. I love how each level tells little stories through its hidden objectives.
Totally Reliable Delivery Service provided pure chaotic fun, especially in co-op. The intentionally wonky physics led to countless laugh-out-loud moments as my friends and I attempted to deliver packages while fighting the game’s controls. It’s not a game you’ll play for dozens of hours, but it’s perfect for lighthearted gaming sessions.
Week 4: Kamaeru: A Frog Refuge and Strange Horticulture
The current week’s offerings, which I discussed earlier, represent the cozy game trend perfectly. Both games offer relaxing experiences that contrast nicely with the more action-oriented titles from earlier in the month.
Total Value Analysis
When I calculate the regular prices of all August 2026 free games, the total value exceeds $150. That’s remarkable value for simply clicking “claim” once a week. I’ve been tracking my Epic free games collection since 2019, and my library value now exceeds $2,000 in free games alone. Even if you only play 10% of what you claim, you’re still getting incredible value.
Epic Games Store Strategy: Why Free Games Matter
As someone who’s followed the digital storefront wars closely, I find Epic’s free game strategy fascinating. Since launching the program in 2018, Epic has reportedly spent hundreds of millions on free game giveaways. But why? Let me share my perspective on this strategy and what it means for us as gamers.
Building Market Share Against Steam
Steam’s dominance in the PC gaming market is undeniable, with most estimates placing their market share above 75%. Epic’s free games program is a bold attempt to build a user base quickly. I initially created my Epic account just for the free games, but I’ve since purchased several titles during their sales. This conversion from free user to paying customer is exactly what Epic hopes to achieve at scale.
The strategy is working to some extent. I know many gamers who check Epic weekly for free games but might never have created an account otherwise. Whether this translates to long-term platform loyalty remains to be seen, but it’s certainly got people’s attention.
Developer Benefits
I’ve spoken with indie developers whose games have been featured as Epic freebies, and the results are interesting. While they receive upfront payment from Epic (the amounts are typically under NDA), the exposure can be invaluable. Games often see increased sales on other platforms after being free on Epic, as word-of-mouth spreads and players recommend titles to friends.
For older games like Machinarium, being featured as a free game introduces them to entirely new audiences who might never have discovered them otherwise. It’s a win-win situation that benefits developers, Epic, and players.
The Future of Free Games
I don’t see Epic’s free game program ending anytime soon. It’s become a core part of their identity and a major differentiator from competitors. However, I have noticed a shift in the types of games offered. Earlier years featured more AAA titles like GTA V and Civilization VI, while recent offerings lean more toward indie and mid-tier games. This likely reflects both budget considerations and the diminishing returns of giving away games that most interested players already own.
Community Tips and Tricks
Through various gaming communities and forums, I’ve collected some excellent tips from fellow Epic free game collectors. Here are the best strategies I’ve learned from the broader gaming community:
The Mobile Claiming Method
Did you know you can claim Epic’s free games from your phone? While there’s no official mobile app for the store, the mobile website works perfectly for claiming games. I use this method when I’m traveling or away from my PC during the Thursday refresh. Just log into the Epic Games Store website on your mobile browser, navigate to the free games section, and claim them just like on desktop.
Regional Timing Advantages
Depending on your time zone, you might have advantages for claiming limited-time offers. Epic occasionally runs special promotions or mystery games during events. Being aware of the exact refresh time in your region helps you be among the first to claim these special offers. I’ve set up notifications through IFTTT to alert me when Epic tweets about surprise giveaways.
The Holiday Strategy
Epic typically runs special promotions during the winter holiday season, often giving away a free game every day for two weeks. I always make sure to check daily during this period, even when traveling for the holidays. Some of the best games in my collection came from these holiday giveaways, including AAA titles that rarely go free otherwise.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
After years of claiming free games and helping friends with various issues, I’ve encountered almost every problem possible. Here are solutions to the most common issues:
Games Not Appearing in Library
If you’ve claimed a game but it’s not showing in your library, don’t panic. First, check if you’re logged into the correct account – I’ve seen people accidentally create multiple Epic accounts. If you’re in the right account, try logging out and back in, or restart the launcher. The library sometimes needs a refresh to display newly claimed games.
Payment Method Required for Free Games
Epic sometimes requires a payment method on file even for free games, particularly in certain regions. You can add a payment method and remove it immediately after claiming the games. Alternatively, PayPal often works when credit cards cause issues. I keep an empty prepaid card linked to my account for this purpose.
Regional Restrictions
Some games have regional restrictions due to licensing or content ratings. If a game shows as unavailable in your region, unfortunately, there’s no legitimate way around this. However, I’ve noticed that regional restrictions on Epic are less common than on other platforms.
Download and Installation Issues
If games fail to download or install, first check your available disk space – the launcher needs extra space for unpacking files during installation. I recommend having at least double the game’s size available. Also, temporarily disable antivirus software if it’s blocking the installation, but remember to re-enable it afterward.
Comparing Epic’s August Offerings to Competitors
To put Epic’s August lineup in perspective, let’s look at what other platforms offered this month for free or through subscriptions:
Steam’s Approach
Steam doesn’t offer permanent free games regularly like Epic, but they do have free weekends. This August, Steam featured free weekends for several multiplayer games, allowing full access for 48-72 hours. While this lets you try games before buying, you don’t keep them permanently like Epic’s offerings. I appreciate both approaches – Steam’s lets me test games I’m unsure about, while Epic builds my permanent library.
Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus
While not directly comparable since they’re subscription services, it’s worth noting that Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus offered strong lineups in August. Game Pass added several day-one releases, while PS Plus included some solid AAA titles. However, you lose access when your subscription ends, making Epic’s permanent ownership model more appealing for patient gamers.
For console gamers interested in expanding their gaming horizons, I recommend checking out our best multiplayer PS5 games list to see what other platforms have to offer alongside these Epic freebies.
Amazon Prime Gaming
Prime Gaming surprised me this August with a strong lineup including several retro titles and indie gems. If you already have Amazon Prime, it’s definitely worth claiming these games. I maintain all these services and claim everything available – digital hoarding at its finest, but you never know when you’ll want to play something specific.
Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead
As we prepare to claim Make Way and Machinarium on August 28, I’m reminded of why I love Epic’s free game program. It’s not just about getting free stuff (though that’s certainly nice) – it’s about discovering games I might never have tried otherwise. Machinarium sat in my Steam wishlist for years before I finally played it through Epic, and now it’s one of my favorite point-and-click adventures.
Make Way represents the kind of multiplayer experience that benefits enormously from a large, simultaneous player influx. When everyone gets the game free at the same time, it creates a vibrant community from day one. I’m planning to host a game night with friends specifically to try Make Way together – something I wouldn’t have done if we all had to purchase it.
Looking ahead to September, Epic typically maintains momentum with solid offerings as we head into the fall gaming season. Based on historical patterns, I expect we’ll see some Halloween-appropriate games in October and potentially bigger titles as we approach the holiday season.
For those building their gaming setup or considering platform choices, Epic’s free games make a compelling argument for PC gaming. The value proposition is unmatched – where else can you build a library of dozens of quality games without spending a cent?
If you’re also interested in discovering more gaming deals beyond Epic’s freebies, I regularly track the best PC gaming deals across all major platforms to help fellow gamers save money while building their libraries.
I encourage everyone to claim both this week’s remaining games (Kamaeru and Strange Horticulture) and next week’s offerings (Make Way and Machinarium). Even if they don’t immediately appeal to you, having them in your library means they’re there whenever you’re in the mood for something different. Some of my favorite gaming experiences have come from free games I claimed on a whim and tried months later during a gaming drought.
Remember, the window for claiming these games is limited – August 28 to September 4 for Make Way and Machinarium. Set those reminders, mark your calendars, and don’t miss out on adding these gems to your collection. The few minutes it takes to claim them could provide hours of entertainment down the line.
Whether you’re a dedicated Epic Games Store user or someone who just pops in for the weekly freebies, August 2026‘s lineup demonstrates the platform’s commitment to diverse, quality offerings. From chaotic party racing to contemplative puzzle-solving, from cozy frog management to mysterious plant shops, there’s something for every gaming mood.
As I wrap up this guide, I’m already looking forward to what September will bring. The beauty of Epic’s program is the anticipation – every Thursday brings new possibilities, new games to explore, and new experiences to share with the gaming community. Happy gaming, and don’t forget to claim those free games!