2024 saw a wave of exciting video game releases, but some truly exceptional titles flew under the radar. Lost amidst the blockbuster hype or hampered by minor launch issues, these ten games deserve a second look. Prepare to discover some hidden gems!
Table of Contents
- Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
- Last Epoch
- Open Roads
- Pacific Drive
- Rise of the Ronin
- Cannibal Abduction
- Still Wakes the Deep
- Indika
- Crow Country
- Nobody Wants to Die
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
Release Date: September 9, 2024
Developer: Saber St. Petersburg
Download: Steam
This game exemplifies modern action. As Captain Titus, you'll unleash the Ultramarines' arsenal—bolters, chainswords, the works—against relentless Tyranids. Cinematic battles, a grim future atmosphere, and a compelling co-op mode make each mission unforgettable. The graphics bring the Warhammer universe to life.
Why it's Underrated:
Despite its excellence, Space Marine 2 surprisingly missed a Game of the Year nomination at The Game Awards 2024, sparking fan outrage. It boasts dynamic gameplay, stunning visuals, fun co-op, and a unique setting, yet only reached a niche audience of Warhammer 40,000 fans. It deserves a wider audience.
Last Epoch
Release Date: February 21, 2024
Developer: Eleventh Hour Games
Download: Steam
A unique action-RPG where time travel and deep character development are key. Explore Eterra, spanning various epochs, battling enemies and altering history. Five base classes, numerous subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting ensure engaging and multifaceted gameplay.
Why it's Underrated:
Last Epoch, despite initial attention, was quickly forgotten. This is a shame, as it offers a fresh take on the genre with a dynamic timeline, balanced gameplay, and helpful tutorials.
Open Roads
Release Date: March 28, 2024
Developer: Open Roads Team
Download: Steam
Open Roads is a poignant story about a mother and daughter uncovering family secrets. It focuses on dialogue, emotional scenes, and exploration. The unique visual style—blending drawn characters with 3D environments—is memorable. This isn't just adventure; it's a deep dive into relationships and the search for truth.
Why it's Underrated:
Its intimate nature and lack of action may have limited its appeal. However, Open Roads demonstrates the artistic potential of video games, delivering a deeply moving narrative.
Pacific Drive
Release Date: February 22, 2024
Developer: Ironwood Studios
Download: Steam
Pacific Drive is an unusual survival simulator where your car is your only ally. Venture into a forbidden zone, battling anomalies and dangers while maintaining your vehicle. Careful route planning, repairs, and trap avoidance are crucial. The unique atmosphere and grim world are unforgettable.
Why it's Underrated:
While critically acclaimed (positive Metacritic and OpenCritic scores), Pacific Drive has its detractors. Some found the controls, interface, and constant repairs frustrating. Repetitive gameplay and random events can be challenging. Despite these flaws, its originality and atmosphere make it worthwhile for those who appreciate unconventional games.
Rise of the Ronin
Release Date: March 22, 2024
Developer: Team Ninja
Download: PlayStation
This grand action-RPG from Team Ninja transports you to 19th-century Japan. As a ronin, you'll navigate the conflict between tradition and progress. The game blends samurai combat, open-world exploration, and a compelling story filled with moral choices.
Why it's Underrated:
Rise of the Ronin may have been overshadowed by other releases, unfairly dismissed as "just another samurai game." However, its unique atmosphere, historical depth, and complex themes of modernization and freedom of choice set it apart.
Cannibal Abduction
Release Date: January 13, 2023
Developer: Selewi, Tomás Esconjaureguy
Download: Steam
A tense survival horror returning to the genre's roots. You're trapped in a cabin, pursued by cannibals, fighting for survival. You'll scavenge for weapons, hide in shadows, and solve puzzles to uncover a horrifying story.
Why it's Underrated:
Its low-fi graphics may deter some, but this contributes to its unique charm. Cannibal Abduction is a homage to classic survival horror, offering intense, old-school thrills.
Still Wakes the Deep
Release Date: June 18, 2024
Developer: The Chinese Room
Download: Steam
An atmospheric horror set on a North Sea oil platform. Survive and escape the unexplained horror lurking in the darkness. The tense atmosphere, disturbing sound design, and detailed setting create an immersive and chilling experience.
Why it's Underrated:
Modest marketing and its niche genre may have limited its reach. However, Still Wakes the Deep is a masterful work of horror, focusing on atmosphere and psychological tension.
Indika
Release Date: May 2, 2024
Developer: Odd-Meter
Download: Steam
A provocative game exploring religion, philosophy, and the search for truth through abstract and surreal gameplay. Navigate empty spaces, interacting with clues in a serene yet thought-provoking experience.
Why it's Underrated:
Despite nominations, Indika is often criticized for its lack of traditional gameplay and lengthy cutscenes. However, its visual style and philosophical approach make it a unique and compelling art project.
Crow Country
Release Date: May 9, 2024
Developer: SFB Games
Download: Steam
A remake of a cult-classic survival horror with puzzles, reminiscent of classic PlayStation 1 titles. Explore an abandoned amusement park filled with mysteries and monsters. The retro horror aesthetic and gripping storyline create an unforgettable experience.
Why it's Underrated:
Simple combat and puzzles, and a lack of deep psychological themes may have held it back. However, its attention to detail, unique plot, and well-crafted gameplay make it a worthwhile experience for fans of classic horror.
Nobody Wants to Die
Release Date: July 17, 2024
Developer: Critical Hit Games
Download: Steam
A dystopian detective game set in a grim, art-deco-noir New York in 2329 where death has been conquered. Investigate murders, unravel complex mysteries, and manipulate time to reconstruct events.
Why it's Underrated:
Despite ambitious ideas and philosophical questions, Nobody Wants to Die lacks widespread recognition. Its blend of genres and competition from larger projects may have hindered its success.
2024 offered a diverse range of ambitious games, many deserving more attention. From philosophical explorations to tense horror and unique adventures, these games each offer something special. Remember, not every great game becomes a blockbuster, and sometimes the smaller gems leave the most lasting impression.
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