As we look back at 2024, it has proven to be an exhilarating year for the gaming community, marked by impressive releases that resonate across various platforms. This year saw a remarkable array of AAA titles garnering critical acclaim, starting with the much-anticipated Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and culminating with standout games such as the Silent Hill 2 remake and Indiana Jones & The Great Circle. Additionally, the indie scene has thrived, delivering unexpected gems like Palworld alongside instant classics like Neva and Balatro.
While 2023’s gaming landscape was dominated by the monumental Baldur’s Gate 3—an unquestionable Game of the Year contender at The Game Awards 2023—this year’s nominations were fiercely competitive with titles such as Metaphor: ReFantazio, Astro Bot, Balatro, Black Myth: Wukong, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree. The award for Game of the Year unexpected went to Astro Bot, a choice that many, including us, consider truly deserving.
Beyond awards and accolades, our editorial team at Screen Rant has meticulously curated a list of games that we believe are contenders for the title of “best”. These selections reflect not just critical receptions, but also our personal favorites based on experiences throughout the year. Here are our top picks:
20. World Of Warcraft: The War Within
A Gaming Classic Gets Better
What it’s about: As the opening chapter of the Worldsoul Saga, this new expansion invites players to delve deeper into the rich lore of Azeroth.
Having nearly 17 years invested in World of Warcraft, I relish the immense variety of gameplay styles and the supportive community I’ve found throughout my journey. Whether it’s excelling in DPS or healing during raids, the nostalgia flows as I tackle fresh challenges reminiscent of my early Vanilla WoW days.
19. Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth
One Of The Best In The Series
What it’s about: Following the upheaval of the Great Dissolution, Ichiban Kasuga must navigate the intricacies of a nefarious financial syndicate while aiding former Yakuza to reintegrate into society.
This installment enhances the RPG systems introduced in Yakuza: Like a Dragon, blending them with a riveting storyline that captures the hearts of fans. Its turn-based combat, which may seem clunky initially, evolves into one of the most thrilling experiences of the Yakuza series, filled with drama and humor.
18. Persona 3 Reload
A Perfect Remake
What it’s about: Returning to his birthplace, the protagonist joins Gekkoukan High School and embarks on a quest with fellow students to uncover mysteries surrounding the Dark Hour and the nature of Death.
Persona 3 Reload is not just a simple remake. Atlus transforms this beloved classic with modern visuals, revamped gameplay mechanics, and a fully voiced social links system. New features, including fast-paced gameplay and expanded Tartarus encounters, redefine the experience for both newcomers and veteran players alike.
17. Stardew Valley 1.6
Not A Full New Game – But May As Well Be!
What it’s about: This beloved farming simulator, originally launched in 2016, allows players to restore their grandfather’s farm while forging relationships in the local community. The major 1.6 expansion introduced in 2024 revitalizes the experience.
While not a new game per se, the 1.6 update added an abundant amount of content, including a mastery system and an innovative farm type, re-engaging players who might have stepped away. Developer ConcernedApe knows how to breathe new life into its creations, and discovering these enhancements felt like rediscovering Stardew Valley all over again.
16. Call Of Duty: Black Ops 6
A Return To Form
With the introduction of the Omnimovement system, Black Ops 6 has revitalized the franchise, delivering smoother gameplay and exciting mechanics. Despite Warzone’s stronghold on player interest, the engaging multiplayer and Zombies modes hint at a resurgence in prominence for the franchise.
The polished mechanics showcased in Black Ops 6 make it a remarkable entry in this legendary series.
15. Crow Country
A New Venture
What it’s about: This survival horror game transports players to a 1990s abandoned theme park, drawing heavily from nostalgic PS1 horror narrative styles.
In a year filled with remarkable indie offerings, Crow Country stands out with its assured design, refining the frustrating elements of its inspirations while maintaining the thrills. This title’s dedication to late-90s game design is a rare achievement, epitomizing a seamless blend of nostalgia and innovation.
14. Star Wars Outlaws
An Immersive Star Wars Experience
What it’s about: Set between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, players step into the shoes of thief Kay Vess in this open-world RPG that diverges from traditional Jedi narratives.
Star Wars Outlaws captures the essence of what makes the franchise appealing, offering new narratives through Kay’s adventures. With multiple branching paths, its replayability adds depth to an engaging gameplay experience.
13. Marvel Rivals
A Surprisingly Addictive Game
What it’s about: This free-to-play hero shooter incorporates key Marvel characters in exciting team-based battles.
Marvel Rivals balances fun and accessibility, embodying the qualities of an effective multiplayer title. While influenced by Overwatch, its unique features, including Team-Up abilities and diverse maps, create a refreshingly engaging experience that stands out in the hero-shooter genre.
12. Helldivers 2
Updates Keep It Fresh & Fun
What it’s about: As members of Helldivers, players engage in a lore-rich squad shooter combating threats in a dystopian future.
Despite initial waning interest, the emergence of hostile elements following a recent update has reignited excitement. The blend of chaotic yet humorous gameplay—with unexpected yet exhilarating outcomes—keeps players returning for more.
11. Supposedly
A Beautiful Adventure
What it’s about: Following the journey of Alba and her wolf cub, Neva weaves a narrative that expands upon the enchanting storytelling and visuals seen in GRIS.
Having anticipated Neva, I was captivated by its artistic world and emotional depth. Described as visually stunning, our reviewer awarded it a remarkable 9/10, stating: “It’s no exaggeration to say that nearly any screenshot is worthy of framing.”
10. Black Myth: Wukong
Testing Your Skills
What it’s about: Drawing from Chinese mythology, this action RPG follows Sun Wukong as he faces formidable bosses to shape his destiny.
With brutal combat mechanics that evoke strong emotions, my experiences echoed the profound satisfaction of mastering challenging encounters similar to those in Elden Ring. Stunning visuals and captivating colors enhance immersion in this compelling title.
9. STALKER 2: Heart Of Chornobyl
Worth The Wait
What it’s about: In this horror-themed FPS, players must survive against mutants and factions within the hazardous Zone.
Despite small technical challenges, STALKER 2’s eerie atmosphere and strange allure make it a memorable gaming experience. The combination of bizarre anomalies and perilous mutants makes traversing the Zone an engaging thrill, compelling me to revisit the world time and again.
8. Indiana Jones & The Great Circle
Indy’s Best Gaming Adventure Yet
What it’s about: In this immersive adventure published by Bethesda, players are guided by acclaimed voice actor Troy Baker, portraying Indiana Jones himself.
Through thrilling action, MachineGames may have crafted a title that rivals the magic of Spielberg’s finest works, allowing players to experience the joy reminiscent of classic Indy tales with modern gameplay.
7. Zelda: Echoes Of Wisdom
Princess Zelda Takes The Stage
What it’s about: This entry marks Princess Zelda’s inaugural lead role in a Legend of Zelda game, where her unique abilities aid in solving puzzles and fighting foes.
As a long-time fan of the series, Echoes of Wisdom embodies everything I cherish about top-down Zelda experiences, showing exquisite artistry and thoughtful challenges that are easy to embrace and appreciate.
6. Silent Hill 2
Bloober Proved Everyone Wrong
What it’s about: This remake invites players to follow James Sunderland as he confronts his traumatic past while seeking his deceased wife in the haunting town of Silent Hill.
As a fan of the original, I was initially skeptical about the remake. However, I found that Bloober’s innovative approaches to classic moments demonstrate their dedication to this beloved franchise.
5. Elden Ring: Shadow Of The Erdtree
FromSoft Never Misses
What it’s about: This anticipated expansion for Elden Ring offers a promising return to its expansive world through a plethora of new content.
Shadow of the Erdtree stands as a massive enhancement to what many consider one of the finest games ever made, introducing new realms, gear, spells, and deepening the lore that captivates players.
4. Astro Bot
GOTY Winner At TGA 2024
What it’s about: In this vibrant platforming adventure, Astro Bot must rescue his fellow bots across various worlds after a shipwreck.
Astro Bot extends beyond nostalgia, showcasing creativity in each level, leveraging the PS5’s strengths, and delivering memorable music and humor. It epitomizes a joyfully engaging family-friendly experience that I look forward to playing repeatedly.
3. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
The Saga Continues To Impress
What it’s about: This chapter in the FF7 Remake trilogy follows Cloud and his allies as they chase the elusive Sephiroth while gathering new companions to save Gaia.
The narrative serves up humor, thrilling mini-games, and heartwarming moments, effectively balancing homage to the original while setting the stage for an exhilarating finale.
2. Metaphor: ReFantasia
ATLUS Proves Its Worth
What it’s about: Following the assassination of a king, protagonist Will and his compatriots traverse the land of Euchronia, which bears eerie similarities to our world.
During a time when RPGs often rely heavily on existing IPs, Metaphor: ReFantazio stands out with its dynamic blend of strategic combat, storytelling, and rich character development. This fresh take by Atlus illustrates their capability for innovation in storytelling.
1. Balatro
An Indie Titan That Deserves All Its Praise
What it’s about: Balatro reimagines classic poker gameplay, challenging players to navigate unique roguelike runs where each card may hold unpredictable twists.
This concept thrives on originality, delivering captivating mechanics and challenges that hook players from the outset. Balatro’s strategic depth and accessible rules keep it engaging, making it a standout success in the indie gaming landscape.
As I reflect on 2024, the games mentioned here represent the rich diversity and innovation that have defined the year in gaming. It will be fascinating to see where these trends lead us in the years ahead.
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