2024 has been an exceptional year in terms of video game releases. Genre-defining classics have received worthy sequels, and beloved franchises have seen successful reboots.
Annapurna Games was the outstanding independent publisher in 2023, scoring two of the top five indie titles – Cocoon and Mundaun.
Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail
Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail marks a first in recent memory regarding visual enhancement and breathing room for its MMORPG experience. Furthermore, Dawntrail sets up a whole new chapter in the saga, setting the scene for what lies ahead. Although not quite reaching the heights of Endwalker or Shadowbringers expansions in content creation or adventure value, Dawntrail still makes for an exceptional journey!
Though some players may be disappointed by its lower stakes, the story effectively builds to an exciting climax that will engage audiences. This is achieved thanks to Wuk Lama’s endearing character development – an endearing Hrothgal who brings her unique blend of compassion and extrovert playfulness to every situation; her presence alone makes the whole experience worthwhile!
Helpful too is that the rest of the game is so impressive; its new zones, dungeons, and boss fights are fun and challenging, while its visual update is amazing: show-stopping areas take full advantage of console capabilities to provide expansive views of the world while duty designs perfectly compliment narrative beats; something which FFXIV has long excelled at doing.
Some fans have been critical of Dawntrail due to two issues: its removal of the Warrior of Light class and its lack of any major new job unlock. However, these criticisms were in the minority as overall; the expansion has been well received; featuring relaxing vibes, captivating lore and two enjoyable jobs to play, Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail will satisfy many players despite its flaws; it shows Naoki Yoshida is still on track after nearly ten years!
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2
Hellblade 2 stands out among 2024’s many excellent games, focusing on atmospheric storytelling, stunning visuals and a captivating protagonist. Even though there may be some pacing issues and its combat system leans more toward spectacle over depth, Hellblade 2 remains an unforgettable cinematic experience that remains an extraordinary cinematic journey.
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice continues Senua’s epic Viking voyage across Iceland’s devastated homeland during 9th century Viking times, where she attempts to help strangers as she battles giants to help protect her unseen “people”. The experience is deeply immersive thanks to excellent binaural audio design. It creates an almost-real experience – from buzzing flies around corpses to Senua hearing voices inside her head; everything feels so real it almost makes you believe you’re almost there.
Ninja Theory has once more produced an astonishing tale of trauma, pain and difficult decisions balanced with moments of beauty and strength. Ninja Theory’s technical artisans have accomplished an astounding feat by designing an environment so realistic you’d think Melina Juergens had come straight out of a Hollywood production – yet they did this without breaking the bank with stunning graphics on consoles running Series X consoles.
Senua’s companions constantly remind her that she is not a monster, emphasizing that we cannot judge others solely based on their pain. Though at times unpleasant and disturbing, this game provides a deeply moving and significant journey into human nature. It reaches right into its core – while visually stunning as its palette spans from Nordic nightmarescapes to coral-hued mountains and spectacular displays of aurora borealis.
Hades 2
Hades 2 is an incredible sequel to one of the finest roguelikes ever created: an evolution without losing its essence. While still challenging, this game also feels fresh thanks to an improved combat system and engaging narrative. Developer Supergiant Games deserves credit for this achievement without depending on players already knowing about previous content – rather by adding new material while tweaking how things work!
Add variety to each journey through Hades with additional systems such as crafting, resource farming, base-building and additional currency that make each run fresh and exciting. Choose between various boons to augment each attack for unique offensive combinations that add variety.
Melinoe provides an intriguing counterpoint to Zagreus’ fiery rebellion, making her easy to sympathize with as she seeks to save her family. It is easy to root for Melinoe as she fights to free them all.
Hades 2 offers something for everyone, be it its devilishly difficult combat, meaningful narrative or incredible supplemental systems. I can’t wait to watch its development throughout its early access phase. What legacy it leaves after last year’s Roguelike of the Year winner was established by Supergiant Games’ team – they have proven they understand how to take an already successful formula and improve it further!
Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 is an impressive sequel to the 2015 PC top-down shooter Helldivers, boasting stylish graphics and exciting gameplay. Created by Arrowhead Games and designed to cross-play between PS5 and PC platforms with up to four players simultaneously blasting into planets filled with bases, hives and wreckage while taunted by patriotic slogans; their goal: eliminating everything that moves – often alien insects but sometimes robots too!
The combat in this game is furious, with multiple rewards waiting for players – from levelling up and unlocking weapon modules to unlocking entire assault ships for mission use. The visual style is clean and sharp; each environment boasts its distinct aesthetic. Characters have been thoughtfully designed with expressive facial features conveying emotion, while guns provide satisfying weight and feel as cartridges rattle around in the magazine, creating a pleasant soundscape.
Though this game seems promising on paper, questions still exist regarding its long-term viability. It is billed as a live service title with regular updates, including more enemies, vehicles, and planets to explore; yet, its lack of complexity may result in its being forgotten for a long time.
Helldivers 2 is worth checking out if you enjoy this game genre, even though it might not offer the deepest or most complex experience in its genre. But its simple pleasures more than makeup for any lack of depth. Plus, unlike many modern titles that demand payment to enjoy basic features, Helldivers 2 doesn’t force its way upon its players with needless battle passes and extra fees.
Pacific Drive
Last year, we saw a record number of highly rated games, with 83 titles earning IGN’s eight or higher review score. 2024 looks set to be even stronger, as numerous game of the year contenders from big developers are in development.
Ironwood Studios’ debut game, Pacific Drive, is an ambitious and rewarding roguelike exploration game with deep survival mechanics and an engaging narrative. While not without flaws – fiddly controls and an overly complicated user interface (UI) may lead to some frustration at times – its appeal lies in incrementally upgrading your car while traversing dangerous zones of the Olympic Exclusion Zone is worth any minor frustrations that might occur.
Losing oneself in the Zone can be easy with its altered reality and weird anomalies. But your car will truly put your mettle to the test, so making sure its strength remains strengthened with resources and improvements can mean the difference between an exasperating journey and an unforgettable one.
Pacific Drive offers an unparalleled driving experience with its compelling blend of terror-inducing survival and relaxed Sunday drives, making for an unforgettable adventure. The offbeat premise, captivating soundtrack, and delightful atmosphere combine for an experience you won’t soon forget – The Zone awaits! Get buckled up for the road trip of a lifetime; Pacific Drive is now available on PlayStation 5 and Windows PC at USD 29; follow it on social media such as Twitter or Facebook for updates, or download its free demo version here.