2024 was a landmark year for the gaming industry, with numerous highly anticipated titles hitting the shelves and captivating players worldwide. From epic RPGs to thrilling action games, this year offered something for every type of gamer.

Here’s a look at some of the standout titles that defined 2024:

Black Myth: Wukong

Black Myth: Wukong dives deep into the legendary Chinese tale of Journey to the West, presenting an action-packed RPG experience that reimagines the epic journey. Players embody the Destined One, a character who mirrors the famed Monkey King, Sun Wukong. Set in a time where Sun Wukong has been turned to stone by Erlang Shen, the game tasks players with collecting five relics imbued with Sun Wukong’s essence scattered across a mystical land. This quest to restore the Monkey King’s power is fraught with peril, demanding mastery of various combat styles, weapons, and cunning strategies to prevail against formidable foes and treacherous landscapes.

What sets Black Myth: Wukong apart is its intricate narrative and the influence of player decisions on the game’s multiple endings. Every choice impacts the storyline, ensuring a unique experience for each player. The game’s rich graphics and immersive gameplay have captivated audiences, securing its place as a standout title. Recognized for its excellence, Black Myth: Wukong clinched the Game of the Year award at the 2024 Steam Awards, propelling it into the spotlight and reigniting interest in the original Journey to the West novel. This fusion of ancient mythology and cutting-edge gaming technology offers a fresh and exhilarating adventure for modern gamers.

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

In Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, FromSoftware expanded the lore and depth of the original game, offering players new areas to explore, formidable bosses to defeat, and a riveting storyline that delved deeper into the mysteries of the Erdtree. The game’s graphics were a visual feast, pushing the boundaries of what was possible on next-gen consoles, and the gameplay was refined to provide a balanced mix of challenge and reward. Fans of the original were not disappointed, as the expansion retained the soul-crushing difficulty and intricate world design that had become synonymous with the series.

The introduction of new character classes and abilities added layers of strategy and customization, allowing players to tailor their experience to their preferred playstyle. Whether engaging in brutal melee combat or casting powerful spells, every encounter felt unique and exhilarating. The game’s atmospheric world, rich in lore and detail, continued to captivate players, making Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree a defining release of 2024.

Astro Bot

Astro Bot was a delightful surprise, emerging as one of the most charming and inventive platformers of the year. Developed by Team Asobi, the game took players on a whimsical journey through beautifully crafted levels, each teeming with creativity and imagination. The adorable protagonist, Astro, quickly won the hearts of gamers with his endearing animations and the game’s clever use of mechanics that kept the gameplay fresh and engaging.

The level design in Astro Bot was nothing short of genius, incorporating innovative platforming challenges that made full use of the game’s physics and environment. Players were treated to a visual and auditory spectacle, with vibrant colors and a captivating soundtrack that complemented the game’s joyful atmosphere. Astro Bot stood out in 2024 as a testament to the power of well-crafted indie games, delivering an unforgettable experience that appealed to gamers of all ages.

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Atlus brought a new level of depth and complexity to the RPG genre with Metaphor: ReFantazio, an 80-hour epic that masterfully blended elements of the Persona and Shin Megami Tensei series. Set in a world that was both medieval and futuristic, the game offered a rich narrative filled with intricate character interactions and a unique battle system that kept players engaged from start to finish. The game’s stylized graphics and mature themes set it apart as a standout title in 2024.

Metaphor: ReFantazio was more than just a game; it was an experience that took players on an emotional and philosophical journey. The narrative explored themes of identity, society, and the human condition, all while providing a deeply strategic gameplay experience. The fusion of turn-based combat and real-time action created a dynamic and challenging environment, ensuring that no two encounters were ever the same. Atlus once again proved their prowess in creating compelling RPGs with this exceptional release.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth continued the story of Cloud Strife and his companions, delivering a visually stunning and emotionally charged experience that built upon the legacy of the original game. Square Enix outdid themselves with improved graphics, expanded environments, and a captivating storyline that drew players deeper into the world of Midgar and beyond. The game’s enhanced combat system and character development provided a fresh take on the beloved classic.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth was its ability to balance nostalgia with innovation. Longtime fans were treated to familiar scenes and characters, but with new twists and surprises that kept the experience exciting and unpredictable. The game’s rich narrative and immersive world-building made it a standout release in 2024, solidifying its place as a must-play title for RPG enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Helldivers 2

Helldivers 2 brought chaotic, cooperative shooting to new heights, offering players an exhilarating experience filled with over-the-top action and strategic gameplay. The game’s varied maps and unique story mode kept the experience fresh, while the emphasis on teamwork and coordination ensured that every mission was a thrilling challenge. The diverse enemy types and dynamic environments added layers of complexity and excitement to the gameplay.

In addition to its intense combat, Helldivers 2 also featured a robust progression system that rewarded players for their efforts, encouraging replayability and long-term engagement. The game’s vibrant community and cooperative multiplayer mode made it a favorite among shooter fans, cementing its place as one of the standout titles of 2024. Helldivers 2 proved that sometimes, chaos and camaraderie are the perfect combination for an unforgettable gaming experience.

Thank Goodness You’re Here!

Thank Goodness You’re Here! by Coal Supper Panic Inc. brought a delightful dose of British humor to the gaming landscape. This quirky adventure game combined witty dialogue, charming characters, and a whimsical storyline that kept players entertained from start to finish. The game’s unique art style and clever puzzles provided a refreshing break from the more traditional fare, making it a hidden gem of 2024.

The humor and charm of Thank Goodness You’re Here! were its standout features, drawing players into a world filled with lovable characters and laugh-out-loud moments. The game’s narrative was both heartwarming and hilarious, offering a perfect balance of comedy and adventure. It was a testament to the power of storytelling in games and a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable experiences come from the most unexpected places.

Dragon’s Dogma 2

Capcom’s Dragon’s Dogma 2 continued the series’ tradition of delivering immersive open-world action RPGs. Players were once again drawn into a vast and beautifully crafted world, filled with dynamic combat, intriguing quests, and a rich storyline. The game’s improved graphics and enhanced mechanics provided a deeper and more engaging experience, making it a standout title in 2024.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 excelled in creating a sense of adventure and discovery, with its expansive world offering countless opportunities for exploration and combat. The game’s intricate character development and customizable combat system allowed players to tailor their experience to their preferred playstyle. With its compelling narrative and immersive gameplay, Dragon’s Dogma 2 solidified its place as a must-play title for fans of the genre.

College Football 25

EA Sports’ College Football 25 made a triumphant return to the football gaming scene, bringing back the beloved NCAA football experience with stunning realism and depth. The game’s realistic gameplay, deep systems, and immersive graphics provided a comprehensive and engaging experience for sports fans. Players were able to build and manage their teams, compete in thrilling matches, and experience the excitement of college football.

College Football 25 stood out for its attention to detail and commitment to authenticity, capturing the spirit and energy of college football. The game’s robust career mode and dynamic gameplay kept players engaged, while the online multiplayer options provided endless opportunities for competition and collaboration. It was a standout title in 2024, offering sports fans a thrilling and immersive football experience.

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II continued the haunting and emotional journey of its protagonist, offering a deeply immersive experience that pushed the boundaries of storytelling in games. The game’s stunning visuals, gripping narrative, and innovative gameplay mechanics earned it praise for its artistic direction and emotional depth. Players were once again drawn into a beautifully crafted world, filled with psychological horror and mythological intrigue.

The narrative of Hellblade II was a standout feature, exploring themes of mental health, identity, and resilience. The game’s developers at Ninja Theory created a deeply personal and impactful experience, using cutting-edge technology to deliver a visually and emotionally stunning journey. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II was a testament to the power of storytelling in games, offering an unforgettable experience that resonated with players long after the credits rolled.

Tekken 8

Tekken 8 brought the iconic fighting series back with a bang, offering fans improved graphics, new characters, and enhanced gameplay mechanics. The game’s fast-paced action and deep roster of fighters provided a thrilling experience for both casual players and competitive enthusiasts. With its refined combat system and engaging storyline, Tekken 8 solidified its place as one of the best fighting games of the year.

The character variety and customization options in Tekken 8 added layers of strategy and depth to the gameplay, ensuring that every match felt unique and exciting. The game’s developers at Bandai Namco also introduced new modes and features, providing players with fresh and engaging ways to enjoy the series. Tekken 8 was a standout release in 2024, offering a thrilling and immersive fighting experience that captivated fans around the world.

2024 was a year of innovation and excitement in the gaming industry, with these titles leading the charge and setting new standards for quality and creativity. Whether you were into RPGs, shooters, sports games, or indie titles, there was something for everyone to enjoy. As we look forward to 2025, it’s clear that the gaming landscape will continue to evolve and surprise us with even more incredible experiences.