As we gear up for the excitement that 2025 promises to bring to our screens, let’s take a nostalgic stroll through the gaming wonders that 2024 offered us. This year was a treasure trove of diverse experiences—everything from cleverly-crafted bots and a charming LEGO universe to grand fantasy sagas and rejuvenated classic titles. Truly, there was something to enthrall every gamer.
### A Year of Expansive RPGs
Over the past year, we were swept away to magical realms brimming with spell-casting heroes, mythical towns nestled in the sky, and countless adventures. The creative minds at Atlus unveiled Metaphor ReFantazio, a bold venture into uncharted territory that dazzled with its strategic combat, sleek presentation, and an unforgettable battle soundtrack.
Likewise, the return of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth gracefully managed to reinvent a legendary RPG while maintaining the momentum of its predecessor. Meanwhile, Granblue Fantasy: Relink brought dynamic co-op battles into its sprawling narrative, and Dragon Age: The Veilguard ended the year on a high note, complete with a stirring score by music legends Hans Zimmer and Lorne Balfe.
For those favoring gritty realism over magical enchantment, Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth offered an entertaining dive into the streets with its exhilarating combat system that expanded the illustrious Yakuza universe.
### A Year of Classic Remasters
2024 proved that even the classics have a place amidst the clamor of fresh releases. Disney’s Epic Mickey re-emerged with both improved abilities and a stunning visual update. Fans of nostalgia rejoiced as Lara Croft took center stage again in Tomb Raider I–III Remastered. Simultaneously, Broken Sword – Shadow of the Templars: Reforged breathed new life into the quest of George Stobbart and Nico Collard with its enhanced 4K visuals.
Venturing into outer space, we saw Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster and Beyond Good & Evil – 20th Anniversary Edition triumphing in the FPS and action-adventure realms, while Grandia HD Collection and Persona 3 Reload catered to fantasy RPG enthusiasts. And for those craving undead action, Capcom’s Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster shambling onto our screens was a welcome addition.
### A Year of Horror and Retro-Inspired Thrills
Remasters brought their share of excitement, but there were thrillers to shake us to the core. Silent Hill 2, reconstructed in haunting clarity, resurrected its terrifying essence with improved graphics. New horror titles also made their mark, blending retro styles with chills—Crow Country echoed the classic survival horror vibe, and Fear the Spotlight’s retro aesthetic heightened its sinister story.
Meanwhile, Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game served up zany yet creepy multiplayer chaos inspired by the 1988 cult movie. For a more modern eerie experience, Still Wakes the Deep offered a tightly-written psychological horror, while Alien: Rogue Incursion delivered heart-pounding VR horror set in space.
### A Year of Character Platformers
Shining brightly in what’s often a tough genre to innovate, 2024 saw character-driven platformers take center stage. Astro Bot led the charge with its imaginative realms and ingenuity, becoming an instant favorite with its creative design and the innovative use of the DualSense wireless controller.
Not far behind in creativity, Another Crab’s Treasure dabbled in Soulslike mechanics with a crustacean twist, and Penny’s Big Breakaway took players on a whirlwind adventure against Emperor Eddie’s hilarious penguin army.
### A Year of Creative Art Design
Some games in 2024 were visual masterpieces. Harold Halibut stood out with its stop-motion charm and colorful dioramas, which took almost a decade to craft. Neva made a bold statement with its vibrant puzzle-platform color palette, while Thank Goodness You’re Here! embraced a whimsical comic style reminiscent of British humor.
Adding to the creative mix, LEGO Horizon Adventures offered a playful interpretation of Horizon Zero Dawn, encouraging gamers to create its iconic landscapes and machines with actual LEGO pieces.
Reflecting on the gaming trends and standout titles of 2024, which ones captured your imagination the most?
