The exciting new titles of 2025 are almost here, ready to dazzle our screens, but before we dive into what lies ahead, let’s reminisce about the gaming delights 2024 had to offer. Whether you’re into intelligent robots, the charm of a blocky LEGO universe, epic fantasy quests, or the allure of remastered gems, 2024 delivered a little something for everyone.
## A Year of Expansive RPGs
The past year was a dream come true for fans of sprawling magical worlds filled with daring heroes, enchanted cities, and epic battles. With their groundbreaking Metaphor ReFantazio, Atlas, the creators of Persona, introduced a fantastical realm that was met with high acclaim, all thanks to its innovative combat system, sleek visuals, and captivating battle themes.
Picking up the torch from the beloved classic, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth managed to not just honor its predecessor but exceed expectations following the success of Final Fantasy VII Remake. Meanwhile, Granblue Fantasy: Relink thrilled gamers with its cooperative combat against a rich storyline backdrop. Capping the year off was Dragon Age: The Veilguard, offering a gripping adventure paired with an evocative soundtrack composed by the renowned Hans Zimmer and Lorne Balfe.
On more grounded terrains, though just as engaging, Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth captivated RPG enthusiasts with its gritty streets and humorous combat within the expansive Yakuza universe.
## A Year of Classic Remasters
2024 wasn’t just about the new; it was about reviving the classic. Disney’s Epic Mickey returned, bringing Mickey Mouse back to life with not just updated graphics but enhanced abilities in a remaster that felt as fresh as a new coat of paint.
Lara Croft fans found much to love in Tomb Raider I–III Remastered, which sparked excitement throughout the community. The adventure didn’t stop there. In Broken Sword – Shadow of the Templars: Reforged, players were reunited with George Stobbart and Nico Collard in a revitalized quest steeped in history and mystery, now in stunning 4K.
In distant galaxies, Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster and Beyond Good & Evil – 20th Anniversary Edition delighted players with their sci-fi prowess, not to mention the Grandia HD Collection and Persona 3 Reload appeasing fantasy RPG lovers. Of course, for those hankering for some undead action, there was Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster, complete with sharper graphics and engaging gameplay.
## A Year of Horror and Retro-Inspired Chills
Many heartwarming remasters returned to fans’ delight, yet others reappeared to send shivers down our spines. The Silent Hill 2 remake emerged from the fog with modern graphics that intensified its eerie storytelling and familiar foes like Pyramid Head.
New titles followed suit, each packing their own frightful punch. Crow Country offered survival horror with a nostalgic 1990s aesthetic, while Fear the Spotlight channeled old-school vibes backed by a riveting story. For a campy twist, Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game revitalized ’80s horror with its quirky multiplayer antics.
Prefer contemporary terror? Still Wakes the Deep wove a tight, atmospheric horror story with a psychological twist. Meanwhile, Alien: Rogue Incursion in VR ensured that even at home, every scream was loud enough to echo.
## A Year of Character Platformers
While not easy to dominate, the platform genre saw fresh innovation in 2024. Astro Bot surged to the forefront with its imaginative adventure and clever utilization of the DualSense controller, anchored by countless memorable cameos from the gaming universe.
Don’t overlook the unexpected gems like Another Crab’s Treasure, where the whimsical world of Kril saw a crab utilize ocean debris in a unique action-adventure. Penny’s Big Breakaway charmed players as Penny raced through vibrant landscapes, pursued by a hilarious army of penguins led by the zealous Emperor Eddie.
## A Year of Creative Art Design
The game art of 2024 didn’t just look captivating; it enriched gameplay through unique visual styles. Harold Halibut’s long journey to success paid off with its tactful use of stop-motion animation, each scene meticulously handcrafted and scanned for an unmissable visual novel experience.
With Neva, players were treated to striking contrasts and colors that defined its puzzle-driven platformer vibe. On the other hand, Thank Goodness You’re Here! leaned into slapstick humor, reminiscent of classic comic fiction with its bright, comedic style.
Adding a playful twist was LEGO Horizon Adventures. This game took creativity to new heights, crafting an entire world where everything could be built with real LEGO bricks, even the iconic machines borrowed from Horizon Zero Dawn.
So many games, so many trends – what were your top picks from 2024?
