Gaming Industry Trends 2024
What a tumultuous year it has been for gaming!
2024 has presented significant challenges, impacting the industry from every direction.
This year has seen a notable decline in major triple-A releases, making it one of the quietest periods in recent gaming history.
Many studios, regardless of their size, have faced considerable hurdles.
However, amidst this adversity, an undeniable surge of creativity and innovation has emerged.
This year has been marked not only by survival but also by unexpected breakout titles that have captivated players.
Unique and delightful games have surfaced, filling the gaps left by the absence of blockbuster titles, which seem to be gearing up for a showdown in 2025.
Congratulations on navigating through this challenging year!
We appreciate your continued support and interest.
Enjoy exploring this curated list of outstanding games that remind us why we love this medium.
Here are the 50 top games of 2024, presented in ranked order.
Available on: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch.
At the heart of "The Plucky Squire" lies a concept so innovative that it's surprising it hasn’t been explored in other mediums before.
Imagine a character from a picture book gaining consciousness and having the ability to leap in and out of the pages, influencing the narrative.
This captivating premise feels like it should have been the plot of a Pixar film by now.
In the gaming world, this idea feels fresh, no matter how many times it’s revisited.
With charm radiating from every corner, players guide a little hero on a quest to save the day, traveling seamlessly through the chapters of his picture book and into the life of its young reader.
However, the game isn't without its flaws.
At launch, the lengthy dialogues risked losing the attention of its intended younger audience, and some puzzles, overly simplistic, could have benefited from a tighter design.
Fortunately, a recent update has worked to address these issues, while the brilliance of the core concept continues to shine brightly.
Available on: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S.
"Are you familiar with fishing?" asks Ichiban Kasuga, the protagonist of Infinite Wealth, just before a massive shark crashes onto your boat.
What follows is a turn-based showdown with this formidable creature, a scenario so absurd that even action star Jason Statham would think twice.
But that's the charm of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth.
It’s filled with unexpected twists that somehow feel right at home within its world. While it’s easy to try and persuade others to dive into the game, the true experience only unfolds once they play it themselves.
There’s nothing quite like this game, making it a unique gem worthy of appreciation.
- Tom Orry
Discover more in our review of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth.
Available on: PC
In a world shaped by crises—pandemics, cloning, and gene editing—1000xresist emerges as a profound 3D visual novel that tackles these pressing themes head-on.
Set against the backdrop of Hong Kong's Umbrella Revolution and apocalyptic scenarios, it delves into the potential realities of a society forged in turmoil.
The narrative unfolds intricately, revealing a slow-burning story filled with trust, deception, and conspiracy.
As players navigate the life of the protagonist, Watcher, alongside her clone-like sisters and their enigmatic maternal figure, the tension escalates dramatically after a pivotal moment in the plot.
Memory serves as a battlefield, where the quest for truth about Watcher's origins becomes paramount.
Through surreal and shifting flashbacks, the narrative exposes the chaotic consequences of misguided intentions, laying bare the complexities and messiness inherent in human existence.
While 1000xresist does not provide straightforward resolutions to its profound inquiries, this unfiltered and intimate experience remains resonant and significant.
Platforms: PC
At first glance, Grunn presents itself as a straightforward gardening simulation, but don’t be deceived. Developed by Sokpop Collective, this game takes players on a bizarre journey that blends gardening with elements of horror.
Your mission kicks off on a sunny Saturday at a sprawling, neglected country estate. With just a weekend to tidy up before the homeowners return, the task seems simple. The gameplay mechanics are satisfying; the sounds of trimming grass and hedges, along with the tactile feel of your gardening tools, create an immersive experience.
However, as you dig deeper, unsettling twists reveal themselves. Grunn cleverly layers its narrative, introducing strange and eerie forces that seem intent on thwarting your efforts. The game cleverly employs cryptic Polaroid snapshots that guide you in exploring its deeper mysteries.
As you progress, you'll encounter various puzzles that require you to pair items with the appropriate scenarios. This adds an intriguing layer of challenge that encourages exploration and experimentation. Each attempt you make teaches you more about the game’s mysteries, unlocking shortcuts and new insights, ensuring that no two playthroughs are the same.
Grunn is a captivating blend of horror and adventure that steadily reveals its depth. It’s a game that grows on you, becoming more engaging with every session.
Available on multiple platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
I must admit, the campaign of Black Ops 6 truly resonated with me, even surpassing many titles listed above it.
While I might risk criticism from the gaming community for this opinion, I feel it’s essential to express my perspective.
The multiplayer offerings of Call of Duty this year didn’t capture my interest, not because they lacked quality, but due to my limited time for engaging in online shooters.
Despite that, I firmly believe that Black Ops 6 presents the most compelling narrative in the Call of Duty series since the release of Infinite Warfare in 2016.
There, I’ve put it out there.
It's a standout experience.
Feel free to judge my taste, but I'm confident in my stance, and if you disagree, well, that’s your prerogative.
Here’s to hoping for more engaging campaigns in the future!
- Tom Orry
Available on: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch.
Digital Eclipse has crafted a unique experience with their collections, blending nostalgia and modern curation into what feels like a premium box set of classic cinema.
Think of it as an artfully assembled anthology of beloved films, enriched with insightful commentary and supplementary features.
Their latest release, which follows the critically acclaimed "Making of Karateka," shines a spotlight on the iconic Jeff Minter, a pioneer known for his vibrant arcade titles.
While this compilation highlights his earlier works, it’s essential to recognize that many of these lesser-known gems from the mid-80s maintain a captivating freshness that resonates even today.
This effort isn't just about nostalgia; it's a thoughtful preservation of video game history, delivered with genuine affection.
- Chris Tapsell
For a deeper dive, check out our review titled "Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story."
Available on: PC
In the realm of survival horror, "Sorry We're Closed" emerges as a captivating narrative woven with elements of romance and the supernatural.
This title stands out among the nostalgic PS1-inspired games released this year, boasting a striking visual style that commands attention.
Set against a vibrant backdrop, it features a group of relatable characters navigating a twisted version of downtown London, where angels and demons coalesce, each vying for power in this chaotic world.
The story revolves around Michelle, a shop employee who becomes entangled with the arch demon known as the Duchess.
Upon capturing the Duchess's interest, Michelle finds herself cursed with a third eye, granting her the unsettling ability to see the dark, hidden realities surrounding her.
With a chilling countdown looming over her—she must either yield to the Duchess within three days or face eternal torment—Michelle embarks on a perilous journey.
The gameplay seamlessly blends third-person puzzles with first-person shooting mechanics, creating an engaging experience.
"Sorry We're Closed" showcases the charm of fixed camera perspectives and gritty, low-fidelity aesthetics, all while delivering fierce confrontations against celestial entities.
This emotional rollercoaster reminds players that love can be as dangerous as it is profound.
Experience more insights in our detailed review of "Sorry We're Closed."
Available on PC.
Imagine a game that combines the strategic shooting of Sniper Elite with a low-fi aesthetic and a twist of conspiracy theory.
Introducing "Children of the Sun," an indie title that merges the excitement of a shooter with the challenges of a puzzle game.
As you take control of a mysterious protagonist, your mission is to execute shots that create a chain reaction, eliminating targets in a style reminiscent of pinball or the explosive crash modes seen in Burnout.
From a distance, you'll need to carefully line up your shots, ensuring that each ricochet contributes to your mission of revenge against a sinister cult.
The visuals are delightfully retro and the narrative, albeit minimal, adds a layer of intrigue to the gameplay.
With a quick-fail-and-try-again mechanic, players will find themselves saying, "just one more attempt," as they dive back into the action.
Don't miss out on the full review of "Children of the Sun" for a deeper look into this unique gaming experience.
Available on PC.
Anticipation has been building for Homeworld 3, a quarter-century after the original game reshaped the genre.
This latest installment, which followed a well-received remaster and a crowdfunding effort, aimed to deliver an immersive real-time strategy experience set in the vastness of space.
Upon its launch, players discovered a title that closely resembled their hopes: an enjoyable evolution featuring fresh factions and an innovative environment.
Iconic spacecraft, characterized by vibrant exhaust trails, engaged in combat amidst stunning nebulae, enhanced by a soundtrack inspired by Middle Eastern electronica.
The introduction of expansive maps with monumental structures for tactical maneuvers was a clever addition, showcasing the game’s impressive artistic vision and creating engaging battle dynamics.
However, the campaign fell short, centered around a limited number of underdeveloped characters, which was disappointing compared to the rich narratives of earlier titles.
This disconnect led to lower review scores, forcing the cessation of the game's ambitious post-launch development plans merely four months after release.
Despite its flaws, the campaign and the roguelite war games mode remain enjoyable, especially after the 1.3 patch that introduced vital balance and gameplay enhancements.
Regrettably, one can't help but wonder if this might be the conclusion for such a beloved franchise.
- Will Judd
Available on: PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch.
In recent years, the gaming landscape has seen a surge in puzzle games centered around plant cultivation, yet few stand out like Botany Manor.
Set in a stunning Somerset estate, players step into the shoes of Arabella Greene, an enthusiastic botanist on a quest to discover and recreate unique plant species that flourish under enchanting and specific conditions.
The game introduces intriguing challenges, such as a flower that thrives only in the precise breeze of its mountainous origin, or a rare river weed that blooms at a specific water temperature. There are even plants that reflect the vibrant colors of moth wings at particular times of the day, or those that resonate with the heartbeat of local wildlife during their slumber.
As you search the manor for seed bags and decipher the myriad notes and clues hidden throughout, Botany Manor evolves into a captivating puzzle experience that demands patience and meticulous observation.
This game certainly grows on you, revealing layers of complexity and artistry as you navigate its charming challenges.
- Katharine Castle
Available on: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
In "MechWarrior 5: Clans," players step into the role of formidable giants, emerging from the fringes of the universe, where colossal battlemechs reign supreme.
With a thrilling departure from the gradual growth of a mercenary outfit seen in "MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries," this installment offers a more captivating and direct storyline that navigates through the epic saga of the clan invasion within the Inner Sphere.
Expect dynamic animated cutscenes infused with rich lore and in-universe terminology, enhancing the immersive experience.
As part of a technologically advanced faction, your mechs boast superior speed, armor, and firepower, allowing your five-member team to dominate enemy forces with style and flair.
Players can customize their weapon configurations and upgrade skills, providing a chance to strategize before the challenge intensifies in the later stages of the game.
Additionally, the option for cooperative gameplay means that tackling the surats with a friend can add an extra layer of excitement, despite improvements made to AI control.
Platforms available for this exhilarating adventure include PC, PS5, and Switch.
Explore further in our review of "Arranger: A Role Puzzling Adventure."
Available on:
- PC
- PS4
- PS5
- Xbox One
- Xbox Series X/S
- Switch
In the realm of gaming, "Fear the Spotlight" stands out with its nostalgic nod to late 90s and early 2000s horror themes.
The gameplay mechanics may not be intricate, but the atmosphere captures the essence of that era perfectly.
The narrative unfolds in two distinct segments, both stemming from a fateful seance gone awry.
The first segment unfolds in a school setting where the main character searches for her missing friend while evading a menacing orange searchlight from the antagonist.
The second part takes a deeper dive into the life of the missing friend, primarily set in her childhood home.
This segment amplifies the fear factor, drawing inspiration from classics like "Ringu" and "Ju-On: The Curse."
While the game may not present significant challenges, the nostalgic puzzles and striking retro graphics serve as a refreshing change from the intense horror experiences prevalent in recent years.
- Tom Orry
For a more detailed exploration, check out our full review of "Fear the Spotlight."
Available on platforms: Meta Quest 3/3s (VR).
Look up and embrace the thrill of becoming the Dark Knight in the latest adventure, "Batman: Arkham Shadow," designed for the Meta Quest 3.
This immersive VR experience sets itself apart by allowing players to truly inhabit the role of Batman like never before.
While the iconic braggadocio of Bruce Wayne is well-known, in this game, you feel the weight of the cape and cowl firsthand.
The innovative gameplay captures the essence of being Batman, providing a more genuine experience than previous titles, even those from Rocksteady.
Combat remains a central element, adapted to ensure accessibility for a broader audience without sacrificing excitement.
The streamlined mechanics make it easy for anyone to jump in, regardless of martial arts experience, yet still deliver a satisfying action-packed experience.
- Tom Ory
Available on: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S.
In recent times, there has been a noteworthy trend where contemporary games embrace a retro aesthetic, and this year is no exception.
A standout title that captures this essence is "Crow Country," reminiscent of the PS1 horror classics.
Instead of relying solely on nostalgia, it offers an experience that feels authentically rooted in the era of iconic games like Resident Evil and Silent Hill.
"Crow Country" excels with its clever puzzles, a fundamental aspect of any compelling survival horror game.
What truly sets it apart, however, is the meticulously crafted environment that immerses players in a rich, atmospheric world.
This strong sense of place lifts the game beyond typical homage attempts in this genre.
Additionally, it incorporates humor effectively, a rare achievement in gaming that often struggles in this area.
Explore further insights in our comprehensive review of "Crow Country."
Available on: PC, Xbox Series X/S.
While the Age of Empires franchise often steals the spotlight, Age of Mythology deserves its own recognition as a remarkable title.
This early 2000s real-time strategy game pushed boundaries and embraced a playful spirit at a time when the genre was evolving.
In its latest iteration, the game has received a brilliant facelift, smoothing out the rough edges of the original while preserving its unique appeal.
Players can still unleash outrageous god powers, now featuring cooldowns for a more balanced experience, alongside the amusing physics that the game is known for.
Watching colossal figures and giants being hurled into the air by meteors remains a timeless joy.
Engaging in cooperative matches against an enhanced AI with friends is still a blast.
Whether you're new to the series, a fan of the classic, or someone curious about real-time strategy titles, this game comes highly recommended.
Platforms available: PC, PS5.
Pacific Drive is not your typical gaming experience.
For many players, the initial hours may be filled with frustration and exasperation.
As you navigate through the damp, dense woods of the Pacific Northwest, you’ll rely on a battered, possibly cursed vehicle and a cantankerous radio.
Expect to encounter a plethora of challenges: from eerie anomalies to the comical mishaps of your car’s trunk unexpectedly closing on you - a testament to your own clumsy mistakes.
This game is both delightfully cruel and ingeniously designed.
The garage serves as a crucial hub where you can recuperate, enhance your vehicle, and gradually level up, embodying the game's core essence.
With a rich atmosphere reminiscent of the Strugatsky brothers, it stands out as one of the most distinctive titles of the year.
It captures the current cultural mood perfectly, blending bizarre physics, dark humor, and a sense of masochistic perseverance.
Players are compelled to keep pushing forward, no matter the setbacks.
- Chris Tapsell
My experience with Stellar Blade has been quite a journey. Initially, I had minimal expectations for the game, but I was genuinely impressed by the depth of its combat mechanics.
I approached it thinking it would be a standard hack-and-slash title, but it turned out to be much more nuanced.
While it doesn't fully embody the Souls-like genre, it shares some stylistic elements with those games.
Visually, Stellar Blade is stunning, standing out as one of the top titles I've encountered on PS5 in 2024, especially when played on the PS5 Pro.
However, I do have some reservations regarding the costume designs, which I find to be rather over-the-top.
While I understand that various aesthetics appeal to different audiences, I believe these choices detract from an otherwise exceptional action game.
- Tom Orry
Initially, I assumed TCG Pocket would merely serve as yet another 'interactive experience', primarily focused on the novelty of pack openings, collecting vibrant digital items, and capitalizing on fan enthusiasm.
While it certainly includes those elements, there's much more to it—it's genuinely an outstanding card battler.
Given that Creatures has been crafting card games for decades, a high level of quality is to be expected. However, TCG Pocket introduces some clever modifications to the traditional formula that enhance its gameplay.
Instead of relying on cards for energy, the game employs a generation system, which can be fine-tuned with the cards you choose for your deck.
Matches are quick and may seem trivial by competitive gaming standards, yet this unique approach actually amplifies the enjoyment.
Losing a match only costs you five minutes, and it often provides you with valuable insights regarding your deck-building strategy and decision-making process.
The interconnected systems, which range from chance-based features like packs and wonder picks to an array of quests, AI challenges, and online battles, are impressively complex.
Additionally, the artwork is truly stunning.
This title stands out as one of the finest offerings from the Pokémon Company in recent years—give it a chance before dismissing it.
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S
Innovative Game Highlights of 2024
In today's gaming landscape, many titles tend to conform to a polished and risk-averse formula, making it a rarity when a game breaks the mold.
Enter Stalker 2, a daring venture that channels the spirit of indie games from over a decade ago, paired with the high production quality typical of modern AAA releases.
Despite grappling with several launch issues—and still facing challenges after various updates—no other title this year has matched its ambitious scale.
This game presents an open-world FPS experience that is unlike any other, especially for those familiar with the previous Stalker installments.
The reality is that not every game needs to be meticulously refined to the point of losing its character to be engaging or worthwhile.
Stalker 2 stands as a testament to this philosophy, showcasing more imperfections than most first-party games released by Sony in this generation.
Platforms available for this title include PC and Xbox Series X/S.
Set against the serene backdrop of the Austrian Alps, Dungeons of Hinterberg offers a captivating escape for those feeling the weight of daily life.
If you've experienced burnout or the lingering effects of recent global events, this game resonates on a personal level.
Reminiscent of this year's A Short Hike, it emphasizes the calming beauty of nature and the joy of simple interactions with friendly strangers who share their wisdom and stories.
Dungeons of Hinterberg is not just a tranquil experience; it's a well-crafted game that artfully combines elements reminiscent of Persona and Zelda.
Players will engage in environmental puzzles, enjoy dynamic camera angles, and experience light third-person combat, all while retreating to a cozy mountain village.
For gamers seeking a refuge from reality, few titles this year can match the heartfelt and dreamy escape that Dungeons of Hinterberg provides.
It stands out as a timely and cherished getaway.
Available on: PC, Switch.
In 2024, one standout title from the indie scene is Arco, a captivating action-adventure game crafted by a small team.
It showcases beautiful and expressive pixel art that evokes a nostalgic feel reminiscent of 2013, but in a fresh manner.
The gameplay emphasizes smart and engaging combat, featuring quick and thoughtful skirmishes that keep players on their toes.
Set in a unique world blending western elements with fantasy, the narrative follows a solitary wanderer, presenting an intriguing South American interpretation of the cowboy tale, complete with a mysterious, grand tree at its center.
Arco is rich in detail and atmosphere, delivering a compact yet impactful experience.
- Chris Tapsell
Available on: PC
Caves of Qud stands out as an everlasting experience, merging elements of Dwarf Fortress with the classic Rogue.
This unique game immerses players in a richly detailed fantasy environment, complete with centuries of lore that serves as an exceptional backdrop for thrilling dungeon exploration.
Visually, the art style, reminiscent of ASCII graphics, evokes nostalgic memories of late-night gaming sessions in university labs.
The narrative is intriguing and surreal, intertwining futuristic themes with decaying landscapes and peculiar fungi.
While dungeons are generated procedurally, the core storyline remains consistent, placing the focus squarely on the player’s choices.
Questions arise: Who will you become? What journey will you embark on? How many of your limbs will you choose to replace with advanced weaponry?
These thought-provoking queries make for an engaging gameplay experience.
Embedded within is a subtle commentary on the gaming landscape of 2024.
Similar to UFO 50, Caves of Qud captures the essence of gaming's past while presenting it in a manner that renders more graphically intense titles almost antiquated.
Even if you’re skeptical about Caves of Qud, it’s worth giving it a shot.
- Christian Donlan
Platforms: Switch
You can find it on YouTube.
In my opinion, the Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition stands out as one of the top titles of 2024, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Its quality is undeniable. While it may not boast features like online high-score leaderboards, it remains a must-have for local multiplayer sessions suitable for all generations. I've spent endless hours playing it with my son, proving that even with his youthful advantages, he still can't outplay me in these compact challenges.
What makes NWCNE truly remarkable is somewhat unexpected. By exposing my son to these classic games, he’s become intrigued by the original titles. He has dedicated significant time to classics like Super Mario Bros., Excitebike, and Metroid. This is the true magic of Nintendo. - Tom Orry
For more insights, check out our feature on Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition.
Available on: PC, PS5, iOS, Android.
Infinity Nikki offers a refreshing escape from the conventional combat-focused open-world games.
Instead of battling fierce bosses, players traverse the enchanting landscapes of Miraland, filled with fairytale charm.
The game emphasizes high-stakes fashion duels that take place on rooftops and within eerie forests, all designed to inject a sense of drama and excitement.
When Nikki does confront whimsical creatures, the intent is not to defeat them but to 'purify' them, adding a unique twist to the gameplay.
Beyond exploration and engaging in a delightfully absurd narrative where fashion intertwines with ancient deities, the primary focus is on dressing Nikki in adorable outfits.
For photography enthusiasts, the game boasts an impressive photo mode, allowing players to capture stunning images of their stylish ensembles.
Infinity Nikki embodies simple yet joyful concepts, creating a vibrant and quirky adventure that stands out in the gaming landscape.
- Jessica Orr
Platforms: PC
Timemelters, created by some of the minds behind Sang-Froid: Tales of Werewolves, elevates the unique blend of strategy and tower defense into new realms.
Set in an enchanting version of Scotland, players assume the role of a witch who transforms into a dynamic attack unit.
With the power to cast spells, manipulate time, and summon clones for combat, players navigate intricately designed maps connected by wormholes, defying traditional spatial boundaries.
The game's standout feature is the single hit point mechanic. This means that any misstep leads to instant defeat, compelling players to thoroughly explore each level, dissecting objectives and mastering spatial strategies.
Timemelters challenges players to unlock their true potential, providing not just gameplay but valuable lessons about ingenuity and problem-solving.
In a year filled with exceptional titles, few games offer such an engaging blend of fun and self-discovery.
- Christian Donlan
For an in-depth look, check out our Timemelters review.
Available on: PC
In 2024, one of the standout titles in the detective genre is "No Case Should Remain Unsolved."
This game offers players an intricate exploration of the complexities of the human psyche.
It's advisable to dive into the experience without prior knowledge, as discussing its plot too much could spoil the surprises that lie within.
The premise revolves around a detective grappling with a haunting, unresolved case from their past, which has lingered in the shadows for far too long.
Your mission is to sift through fragmented memories and various witness accounts to piece together the truth.
As you work to create a timeline and align statements with their sources, you’ll discover deeper layers of the mystery that challenge your perceptions.
The brilliance of "No Case Should Remain Unsolved" lies in its storytelling, skillfully revealing its most profound secrets at just the right moments.
This title is expertly crafted, making it essential for anyone passionate about detective stories.
Platforms available include PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch.
This year's standout title in the metroidvania genre sets a new standard for all future games.
"Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown" is an exhilarating action platformer that combines fluid movement mechanics with an epic storyline.
Players step into the shoes of the valiant warrior, Sargon, tasked with rescuing the captured prince from the treacherous, maze-like confines of Mount Qaf.
This daunting location twists reality, turning allies into adversaries and manipulating the flow of time itself.
The adventure is captivating, blending the classic elements of the series with the vibrant, dynamic aesthetics of anime and graphic novels.
One of its most innovative features addresses a common frustration in the genre: backtracking.
The introduction of a revolutionary screenshot tool allows players to mark locked doors, puzzles, and intriguing elements directly on the map, enhancing the exploration experience.
With its demanding and polished platforming, this game is a remarkable accomplishment from the creators of "Rayman Legends".
It's truly unfortunate that we may not see further installments in this captivating universe.
One standout title this year is "I Am Your Beast," a game that evokes the playful energy of classic comic book visuals reminiscent of the old Batman series, with its striking action moments.
However, it trades the campy feel for a more intense and emotional experience.
Developed by Xalavier Nelson's Strange Scaffold, this game exemplifies a unique approach to game development, allowing various creators to collaborate and produce high-quality, brief experiences that exceed expectations given their budget constraints.
Among these collaborative projects, "I Am Your Beast" shines the brightest.
It features a gripping narrative akin to a revenge thriller, with exhilarating combat that delivers a powerful sense of satisfaction and intensity.
Prepare for some serious action with every punch, showcasing a game that truly packs a punch!
Available on: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S.
