As 2023 drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the top five games that truly stood out to me this year. With another year ending, I’ve decided to make this an annual ritual.
The gaming world was bustling throughout 2024, churning out incredible games while captivating us with ongoing trends and stories. December was a time of celebration as we honored this year’s gaming highs, culminating in The Game Awards 2024, which not only showcased stellar performances but also teased what’s in store for 2025.
Here and now, I’m diving into what I consider the ultimate game lineup of 2024, the top picks that graced Xbox and PC. Of course, this list reflects my personal gaming journey and the titles I managed to fully explore. I missed out on some big hits like Balatro, Astro Bot, and Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth, to name a few.
Yet, among the games I did engage with, a few really made their mark. Here’s my rundown.
5. The “Purrfect Adventure” Award — Cat Quest III
This one might catch some off guard, but I firmly stand by it. Cat Quest III, despite not being the grandest or most visually groundbreaking, earned its place on my list for being sheer fun.
Cat Quest III is a charming, easy-going isometric RPG that radiates joy with its playful storyline and delightful cat puns. The world is vibrant, the narrative simple, and the mechanics uncomplicated, allowing players to just dive in and enjoy. My review summed it up well: it’s a compact yet joyful RPG experience with co-op play that kept me coming back for more. The only downside? I wish there was more to it.
4. The “I Didn’t Break My Controller” Award — Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Kicking off my gaming year was Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, which turned out to be a gem. Not just one of the year’s best, it’s one of the finest Metroidvanias released in recent times. This reinvention of a classic franchise showcases meticulous craftsmanship and passion.
Every aspect, from the story and design to its riveting gameplay, hits the mark. It’s challenging enough to never feel unfairly punitive, rewarding players with a sense of accomplishment. This game reminded me of the joy in overcoming difficulties, without wanting to hurl my controller in frustration.
3. The “You Can Pet the Dog” Award — Neva
Nomada Studio has a knack for creating visually stunning and emotionally gripping games, and Neva is no exception. This heartfelt action-platformer captivates with its hand-drawn artistry and poignant storytelling. Set in a world fighting off encroaching darkness, you journey with a wolf cub, watching it mature as your abilities grow in this touching narrative of growth.
Neva isn’t just about beauty; it offers engaging combat and puzzles, cementing Nomada Studio’s reputation as a top indie developer. Though brief, it’s an experience that lingers long after it’s over.
2. The “Punch All the Fascists” Award — Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
A mammoth adventure clocking in at 45 hours, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle feels as epic as any Spielbergian escapade. Despite its bugs and a particularly vexing photo glitch, it’s a beautifully crafted game blending immersive exploration with action-packed puzzle-solving.
The game captures the nostalgic thrill of treasure hunting and villain-busting, all set against a visually arresting backdrop. It might have taken the top spot if not for its minor hiccups, but it undeniably deserves recognition.
1. The “Humans Are the Real Monsters” Award — Metaphor: ReFantazio
Topping my list is Metaphor: ReFantazio, a game I didn’t expect to even try but ended up adoring. Merging strategic combat with a richly woven narrative, it offers a journey through a magical world filled with conflict and camaraderie.
The game’s distinct style might not appeal to everyone, but its narrative depth, captivating characters, and outstanding soundtrack make it my standout of the year.
Honorable Mentions
Several titles just missed the cut for my top five:
-
Star Wars Outlaws: Initially skeptical, the final release won me over with its immersive world-building despite niggles here and there.
-
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6: A return to form for the series, combining stellar multiplayer with a gripping campaign influenced by espionage classics.
- Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II: An incredibly immersive narrative with breathtaking visuals and sound, though briefly shadowed by the competition’s sheer abundance.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Though I completed fewer games than last year, my anticipation for what’s coming is high. With Xbox potentially dominating the scene, titles like Avowed and Fable are on my radar, alongside Assasin’s Creed: Shadows and Doom: The Dark Ages. While my backlog is daunting, it’s hard not to be excited about the future of gaming. Here’s to another thrilling year ahead!
