Highlights from 2024’s Gaming Releases
- The standout new video game of 2024, *Astro Bot*, achieved an impressive overall score of 95.
- Including downloadable content (DLC), both *Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree* and *Vampire Survivors* DLC made the prestigious top 10 list.
- Despite being less crowded than 2023, 2024 showcased numerous high-quality game releases.
The gaming landscape in 2024, while slightly quieter than the preceding year, still dazzled players with a variety of critically acclaimed titles. A noteworthy achievement is the release of several top-rated games that cater to PC, PS5, Switch, and Xbox enthusiasts, underscoring a successful year for gamers seeking fresh experiences.
As 2024 draws to a close, the roster of newly released games appears well-defined, barring any unexpected surprises. This crystallization of the top 25 highest-rated games showcases the titles that have captivated audiences, many being recognized at esteemed events, including the annual Game Awards hosted by Geoff Keighley.
According to OpenCritic, the crown for the highest-rated new game goes to *Astro Bot*, a PlayStation 5 exclusive boasting a stellar rating of 95. The subsequent entries in the top 10 feature *Animal Well* at 89, *Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth*, *UFO 50*, *Tekken 8*, and *The Crimson Diamond*, all rated at 90; followed closely by *Balatro* and *Satisfactory* both at 91, *Metaphor: ReFantazio* at 92, and finally, *Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth* with a score of 93. It is important to note that traditional remakes, remasters, and DLC were excluded from this list to maintain its integrity.
Top Games of 2024
- *Astro Bot* – 95
- *Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth* – 93
- *Metaphor: ReFantasia* – 92
- *Balatro* – 91
- *Satisfactory* – 91
- *The Crimson Diamond* – 90
- *Tekken 8* – 90
- *UFO 50* – 90
- *Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth* – 90
- *Animal Well* – 89
- *ONE BTN BOSSES* – 89
- *Grapple Dogs: Cosmic Canines* – 89
- *1000xRESIST* – 89
- *Arc* – 89
- *Hell Throne* – 88
- *Timemelters* – 88
- *Athenian Rhapsody* – 88
- *Halls of Torment* – 88
- *ANTONBLAST* – 88
- *Unicorn Overlord* – 88
- *Persona 3 Reload* – 88
- *Minishoot’ Adventures* – 88
- *Lorelei and the Laser Eyes* – 87
- *Silent Hill 2* – 87
- *Dragon’s Dogma 2* – 87
The inclusion of downloadable content (DLC) significantly alters the top-10 landscape. For example, *Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree* DLC ranks second with a remarkable 94 rating, generating discussions about its nomination for Game of the Year at the 2024 Game Awards. Following closely is *Vampire Survivors: Ode to Castlevania*, also rated at 94. *Destiny 2: The Final Shape* enters the conversation with a score of 91, solidifying its presence among top-rated releases. Additionally, early access titles, such as *Hades 2*, were not included in the rankings.
In retrospect, while 2024 may not have surpassed the exceptional game lineup of 2023, it certainly made its mark with numerous outstanding releases. Among my personal favorites are the wonderfully crafted 3D platformer *Astro Bot*, the addictively engaging *Balatro*, and the intellectually stimulating *Lorelei and the Laser Eyes*. The expansive RPG experience offered by *Metaphor: ReFantazio* and the spine-tingling remake of *Silent Hill 2* also greatly exceeded my expectations.
Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be an even more eventful year for the gaming community. With Nintendo gearing up for the anticipated release of the Switch 2 console and Rockstar eyeing the launch of *Grand Theft Auto 6*, excitement is building for the lineup of forthcoming major game releases.
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