Unreal Tournament 2004 is now available for free thanks to its fan community, and they've even updated the game for modern PCs: 'This is the first public patch for Unreal Tournament 2004 in over 20 years'
PC Gamer
by Rick Lane February 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Unreal Tournament 2004, a iconic first-person shooter from the late 1990s, is now available for free thanks to a collaboration between Epic Games and the OldUnreal community. The game has been updated with a modern patch by its dedicated fanbase, marking the first public update in over two decades. This release allows players to download the original game through the Internet Archive via an installer provided by OldUnreal, along with a community patch for compatibility with modern operating systems like Windows, Linux, and macOS.
The availability of Unreal Tournament 2004 is a significant milestone for gaming enthusiasts, as it represents the culmination of years of efforts by the OldUnreal project to preserve and enhance older Epic Games titles. The game's return to the spotlight is particularly noteworthy given its status as one of the pinnacle entries in the Unreal series. Known for its cutting-edge graphics at release, UT 2004 introduced innovative gameplay modes such as vehicle-based Onslaught and the return of the Assault mode, which had been absent in previous iterations.
While the game's multiplayer experience may depend on server availability, the community patch ensures compatibility across various platforms and offers improved functionality. The patch includes updates like a new renderer, build systems, and support for modern SDL backends. For those looking to revisit or体验 this classic title, the opportunity to play it for free is a remarkable chance to step into a piece of gaming history.
This release not only honors the legacy of Unreal Tournament 2004 but also underscores the importance of preserving and updating older games for new generations of players. With its enduring popularity and cultural significance, the game remains a testament to the innovation and creativity that defined the golden age of first-person shooters. Whether revisiting old memories or discovering it for the first time, Unreal Tournament 2004 offers an unparalleled gaming experience that continues to captivate fans worldwide.
Verticals
gamingpc
Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/15/2026