2024 has been an alright year for gaming, with an decent number of releases, not really enough to make this list very difficult but enough that I wanted to include 11 games and not the usual 10. However, as with any ranking, there are games that just don’t make the cut—for reasons both personal and objective. Let’s dive into my Top 11 Games of 2024, but first, let me explain who didn’t make the list and why.
Games 100% Not Making This List
Some games may be critically acclaimed or massively hyped, but they rubbed me the wrong way. Two major titles fall into this category:
- Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Look, the Final Fantasy 7 remake series does a lot of things right. The story? Brilliant. The combat? Engaging. But Rebirth threw me off a cliff with its bizarre obsession with mini-games. When nearly a third of your game is mandatory, gimmicky mini-games, it stops being fun and starts being infuriating. It feels like the developers were trying to shoehorn in nostalgia while forgetting what made the original great. Despite its other strengths, I couldn’t get past the pacing issues and forced distractions. - Metaphor
Oh, Metaphor. You had me in the first half with your intriguing world and stylish presentation, but the second half completely fell apart. The gameplay loop that initially felt fresh quickly became repetitive and tiresome, and the story’s momentum ground to a halt. By the end, I wasn’t just disappointed—I was actively annoyed. What started as an exciting journey became a slog, and I walked away feeling more relieved than satisfied.
Most Overrated Game of the Year: Black Myth Wukong
Let me clarify: Black Myth Wukong is not a bad game. It’s gorgeous, the combat feels weighty, and it’s clear a lot of love went into its creation. But the novelty wears off fast. By the midpoint, the game becomes so samey that it’s hard to stay invested. Every encounter starts to feel like a rehash of the last, and even the jaw-dropping visuals can’t save the tedium. It’s fine, but it’s not the masterpiece the hype machine made it out to be. Overrated? Absolutely.
Games Not Played Enough to Judge (Yet)
Some games are simply victims of timing—I haven’t had the chance to sink my teeth into them properly. Titles like Animal Well, Dragon Ball Sparking Zero, Indiana Jones & The Great Circle, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, and The Casting of Frank Stone are still sitting on my backlog.
Then there’s Star Wars Outlaws. I gave it an hour and absolutely hated it. Maybe I’ll revisit it one day, but for now, it’s a hard pass.
With That Out of the Way… Here Are My Top 11 Games of 2024!
11. Darkest Dungeon 2
I have a bit of a masochistic streak when it comes to games, and Darkest Dungeon 2 scratches that itch perfectly. It’s brutal, unforgiving, and constantly challenges you to adapt and learn. The roguelike structure adds a layer of unpredictability that keeps every run fresh, while the stress mechanics force you to balance risk and reward. Every victory feels like a triumph against impossible odds, and that’s why this game kicks off my list.
10. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
The Like A Dragon series has been on fire lately, and Infinite Wealth continues that streak with its perfect blend of absurd humor and heartfelt drama. The JRPG approach suits the franchise beautifully, with quirky side quests, deep turn-based combat, and endless activities to sink your time into. Whether it’s singing karaoke, battling street thugs, or indulging in bizarre minigames, this game is pure joy from start to finish. Few series balance emotional storytelling and chaotic fun like Like A Dragon.
Also i dont care what you say, Kiryu’s new look is hot.
9. Dragon’s Dogma 2
I wasn’t a fan of the first Dragon’s Dogma—it felt clunky and uninspired. But Dragon’s Dogma 2 completely changed my perspective. It fixes everything wrong with the original, delivering a world that feels alive and combat that’s incredibly satisfying. The story, in particular, stands out, with a depth and complexity that kept me hooked from beginning to end. This is the rare sequel that doesn’t just improve on its predecessor; it reinvents it.
8. Space Marine 2
Space Marine 2 is a blast. From the moment I booted it up, I was hooked by its fast-paced, visceral combat and larger-than-life action. Whether you’re mowing down hordes of Tyranids or standing in awe of the Warhammer 40K universe’s gothic architecture, the game delivers spectacle after spectacle. It’s a thrilling experience that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s exactly what makes it so much fun.
7. Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (Campaign)
This entry shocked me. I haven’t cared about Call of Duty in years, but the Black Ops 6 campaign drew me in with its tight pacing and engaging story. Every mission felt fresh, offering something new and exciting. I can’t speak to the multiplayer (because PvP isn’t my thing), but as a standalone narrative experience, this game impressed me in ways I didn’t expect.
6. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
As a lifelong fan of the Prince of Persia series, I was thrilled to see The Lost Crown return to its roots. The game masterfully blends fast-paced platforming with intense combat, and every level is a joy to explore. The puzzles are clever, the environments are stunning, and the gameplay feels fluid and satisfying. For fans of the classic Prince of Persia games, this is a must-play.
5. Persona 3 Reload
Persona 3 has always been my favorite Shin Megami Tensei game, and Reload takes everything great about the original and makes it even better. The updated graphics, modernized mechanics, and quality-of-life improvements make it the definitive version of an already incredible game. The emotional story and unforgettable characters are just as impactful today as they were in 2006. This remake is a love letter to fans and a perfect entry point for newcomers.
4. System Shock (Remake)
The System Shock remake is a masterclass in modernizing a classic. It retains the retro charm of the original while bringing the visuals, controls, and gameplay up to modern standards. Exploring Citadel Station is as tense and atmospheric as ever, and the story’s themes of AI and humanity remain as compelling as they were decades ago. This is how you do a remake right.
3. Stellar Blade
Stellar Blade is an absolute powerhouse of a game. With its breathtaking visuals, fast-paced combat, and gripping narrative, it’s easily one of the most polished titles of the year. Every battle feels like a cinematic showdown, and the world-building is top-notch. It’s a game that oozes style and substance in equal measure, making it an easy pick for my top three.
2. Astro Bot
Sometimes, simplicity is king. Astro Bot doesn’t reinvent the wheel—it doesn’t need to. It’s pure fun, packed with charm, creativity, and nostalgia. Every level feels like a joyful celebration of gaming, and it never fails to put a smile on my face. In a year filled with heavy, story-driven games, Astro Bot is a refreshing reminder of the simple pleasures of gaming.
1. Silent Hill 2 (Remake)
No surprise here: Silent Hill 2 is my favorite survival horror game of all time, and the remake only solidifies its legendary status. The updated visuals, expanded story, and improved combat make this a definitive experience. It’s haunting, emotional, and utterly captivating. The oppressive atmosphere and complex themes remain intact, and every moment in the town of Silent Hill feels meticulously crafted. This isn’t just the best game of 2024—it’s a masterpiece.