In 2024, the gaming industry saw a plethora of exciting releases, yet some remarkable titles were overshadowed by blockbuster hits or missed due to minor launch issues. This article highlights ten games that deserve more recognition and might have slipped under your radar. If you believe you've explored all there is, prepare to uncover new gems in the gaming world.
Image: bolumsonucanavari.com
Release Date: September 9, 2024
Developer: Saber St. Petersburg
Download: Steam
This game exemplifies how modern action should be crafted. As Captain Titus, you engage in epic battles against the relentless Tyranids, utilizing the full arsenal of the Ultramarines, from thundering bolters to devastating chainswords. The cinematic battles, immersive atmosphere of a grim future, and cooperative gameplay make every mission captivating. The stunning graphics bring the Warhammer universe vividly to life, creating an unforgettable experience.
Why it's underrated: Despite its excellence, Space Marine 2 was overlooked for a "Game of the Year" nomination at The Game Awards 2024, sparking controversy among fans. It boasts dynamic gameplay, breathtaking visuals, engaging co-op, and a unique setting, yet it primarily attracted the attention of Warhammer 40,000 enthusiasts. Its appeal could extend to those new to the universe as well.
Image: store.steampowered.com
Release Date: February 21, 2024
Developer: Eleventh Hour Games
Download: Steam
This action-RPG stands out with its innovative time travel mechanics and deep character development. Players journey through Eterra's different epochs, battling foes and altering history. With five base classes offering numerous subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting, every session promises excitement and diversity.
Why it's underrated: Last Epoch initially garnered attention but was soon forgotten. It offers a fresh perspective on action-RPGs with its dynamic timeline, balanced gameplay, and user-friendly tutorials, making it an excellent choice for those seeking innovation within a familiar genre.
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Release Date: March 28, 2024
Developer: Open Roads Team
Download: Steam
Open Roads is a poignant narrative about a mother and daughter uncovering family secrets on a journey. The game emphasizes dialogue, emotional depth, and exploration. Its unique visual style, blending drawn characters with 3D environments, enhances its memorability. It's not just an adventure; it's an exploration of character relationships, experiences, and the quest for truth.
Why it's underrated: Open Roads may have been overlooked due to its intimate nature and lack of action, which might not appeal to mass audiences. However, it exemplifies how video games can be art, delivering stories that resonate deeply. Its focus on emotional content might have deterred those seeking more dynamic gameplay, yet it offers a rare and powerful experience.
Image: store.playstation.com
Release Date: February 22, 2024
Developer: Ironwood Studios
Download: Steam
Pacific Drive is a unique survival simulator where your car is your only ally. You explore a forbidden zone filled with anomalies and dangers, uncovering its secrets while maintaining your vehicle. Each trip is a challenge, requiring careful route planning, repairs, and evasion of deadly traps. The game's unique atmosphere and grim setting make it unforgettable, especially for fans of unconventional concepts.
Why it's underrated: Despite positive reviews from critics (79% on OpenCritic), some players found the controls, interface, and constant repairs challenging. The repetitive gameplay and frequent random events can be frustrating. However, its originality, atmosphere, and respect for its literary source material make it a compelling choice for those seeking an unconventional journey.
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Release Date: March 22, 2024
Developer: Team Ninja
Download: PlayStation
This action-RPG transports players to 19th-century Japan, an era of transformation. As a ronin, you navigate the conflict between tradition and progress, blending samurai combat, open-world exploration, and a story filled with moral dilemmas. The game's stunning visuals and detailed world immerse you in a time of change.
Why it's underrated: Despite its potential, Rise of the Ronin may have been overshadowed by other major releases. It's often dismissed as "just another samurai game," yet it offers a unique atmosphere and historical depth, making it more than just an action game. Its exploration of modernization and player choice in gameplay make it a must-play for fans of historical adventures with an Eastern aesthetic.
Image: nintendo.com
Release Date: January 13, 2023
Developer: Selewi, Tomás Esconjaureguy
Download: Steam
This survival horror game harks back to the genre's roots. Trapped in a secluded cabin, you evade a cannibal family, using improvised weapons and solving puzzles to uncover a chilling story. The oppressive atmosphere, scarce resources, and constant danger make every moment a true challenge.
Why it's underrated: Cannibal Abduction may have been lost among louder horror releases. Its low-fi graphics and intimate approach might deter those used to high-end visuals, yet these elements contribute to its unique charm. It's a tribute to classic survival horror games like Resident Evil or Silent Hill, perfect for fans of old-school horror seeking thrills.
Image: pixelrz.com
Release Date: June 18, 2024
Developer: The Chinese Room
Download: Steam
This atmospheric horror game is set on an isolated oil platform in the North Sea. Your goal is to survive and escape as chaos ensues due to an unexplained horror. The game's tense atmosphere, unsettling sound design, and detailed environments create an immersive experience. Without weapons and with minimal rescue chances, you rely on your wit and survival instincts.
Why it's underrated: Still Wakes the Deep might not have received the attention it deserved due to modest marketing and its niche genre. It's a work of art in horror, focusing on atmosphere and psychological tension, reminiscent of SOMA and Amnesia but with a unique setting and fresh survival themes. It's ideal for those who enjoy slow-burning, gripping stories with a lonely, unsettling atmosphere.
Image: store.epicgames.com
Release Date: May 2, 2024
Developer: Odd-Meter
Download: Steam
Indika is an unconventional game blending religion, philosophy, and personal truth with abstract, surreal gameplay. Players navigate through dark, empty spaces, interacting with clues that don't always clarify the narrative. Despite lacking traditional gameplay, it offers a serene atmosphere with deep cutscenes and mini-games, allowing players to appreciate its visual richness and contemplative narrative.
Why it's underrated: Despite nominations for the Golden Joystick and The Game Awards, Indika didn't receive the recognition it deserved. It's often criticized for its lack of tangible impact on the storyline and gameplay, as well as lengthy cutscenes. However, its visual style and philosophical approach make it compelling for those who view it as an art project rather than a traditional game. Its polarizing themes and unconventional gameplay appeal to critics and players but haven't achieved widespread popularity.
Image: store.steampowered.com
Release Date: May 9, 2024
Developer: SFB Games
Download: Steam
This remake of a cult-classic survival horror game, inspired by PlayStation 1 titles like Resident Evil and Silent Hill, features puzzle elements. Players explore an abandoned amusement park in Georgia, USA, filled with mysteries, monsters, and dangers. The game's retro horror atmosphere and gripping storyline make it an unforgettable experience for genre fans.
Why it's underrated: Despite positive reviews, Crow Country was overshadowed by major 2024 releases. Critics noted the simplicity of its combat and puzzles, and a lack of deep psychological themes. However, its attention to detail, unique plot twists, and well-crafted gameplay make it essential for fans of classic horror and exploratory adventures.
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Release Date: July 17, 2024
Developer: Critical Hit Games
Download: Steam
This dystopian detective game is set in a grim, art-deco-noir New York in 2329, where death is defeated, and consciousnesses are stored in memory banks. Only the elite enjoy immortality, and death is a temporary issue. As detective James Carr, you investigate murders among the city's elite, delving into mysteries of transhumanism and immortality. The game blends detective elements and sci-fi with photorealistic graphics on Unreal Engine 5, allowing players to manipulate time and reconstruct crime scenes.
Why it's underrated: Despite its ambitious ideas and philosophical questions about immortality, transhumanism, and social contrasts, Nobody Wants to Die hasn't gained wide recognition. Its attempt to combine multiple styles and genres might deter players expecting more linear or traditional gameplay. Despite its visual excellence, it faces competition from larger projects.
The year 2024 brought many interesting and ambitious projects, many of which did not receive the attention they deserved. From deep philosophical explorations in dystopian worlds to tense horrors and unique adventures, each of these games offers something special worth noting. As we head into 2025, let's remember that not every excellent game can be a major hit, and sometimes the smaller gems end up being the most memorable in the long run.
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