The Best Game Of 2024
After a historic year of highly rated game releases, 2024 has some big shoes to fill. With Game of the Year contenders aplenty in 2023 and dozens of quality games spanning various genres, 2024 is already off to a strong start. We've seen impressive sequels and beloved classics given the remake treatment. If there are no significant delays, it looks like another year of genre-defining, must-play games is on the horizon. Upcoming titles like Final Fantasy XIV Dawntrail, Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, and STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl are highly anticipated.
In this article, we'll keep track of the best games of 2024. To make this list, a game needs to earn a review score of at least 8 from GameSpot, which is considered excellent. While games scoring lower or those not reviewed shouldn't be ignored, this list focuses on the cream of the crop. Expect this list to expand with more fantastic games as the year continues. For a closer look at potential contenders, check out our features on the most anticipated games of 2024.
Top-Rated Games of 2024 (So Far)
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree — 10/10
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
GameSpot's first game to earn a rare 10/10 score in 2024, Shadow of the Erdtree is everything fans love about Elden Ring, delivered with perfect execution. This expansion completes the grand story of Elden Ring, adding new gameplay content, tougher boss battles, and more awe-inspiring locations. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.
Animal Well — 9/10
Animal Well
Animal Well might look like a cute metroidvania at first glance, but it quickly becomes surreal as you delve deeper into its neon-soaked world. Created by solo developer Billy Basso, this game constantly surprises players as they explore room after room. Available on PC, PS5, and Switch.
Balatro — 9/10
Balatro
Combining rapid-fire rounds of poker with deep deck-building mechanics, Balatro offers a fresh take on the roguelite genre. This game is difficult to put down once it hooks you with its intricacy and fast-paced gameplay. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Switch.
Destiny 2: The Final Shape — 9/10
Destiny 2: The Final Shape
Bungie delivered a satisfying conclusion to Destiny's Light and Darkness Saga with The Final Shape. The game features a thrilling story, impactful gameplay changes, and a community-unifying finale that pushes Destiny 2 to new heights. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.
Dragon's Dogma 2 — 9/10
Dragon's Dogma 2
Twelve years after the first game, Dragon's Dogma 2 builds on the strengths of its predecessor to deliver a magical open-world RPG. With enhanced core strengths, emergent moments, and technological leaps, this sequel creates a thrilling sense of adventure. Available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.
Hades 2 — 9/10
Hades 2
Even in early access, Hades 2 is already a strong contender for Game of the Year. Developer Supergiant Games expands on the ideas of the first game with a deeper combat system and an engrossing story. Available on PC.
Helldivers 2 — 9/10
Helldivers 2
Switching from a top-down twin-stick shooter to a third-person perspective, Helldivers 2 is an action-packed adventure across alien planets. Best enjoyed with friends, this game features satisfying gunplay and fresh design elements. Available on PC and PS5.
Lorelei and the Laser Eyes — 9/10
Lorelei and the Laser Eyes
A psychological horror puzzle game, Lorelei and the Laser Eyes offers one of this year's best cerebral workouts. The game challenges players with seemingly impossible riddles and tells a great story with its unique artistic design. Available on Switch and PC.
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door — 9/10
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
With meaningful quality-of-life updates, beautiful HD visuals, and a delightful soundtrack, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remains as fun to play today as it was in 2004. Available on Switch.
Persona 3: Reload — 9/10
Persona 3: Reload
Persona 3: Reload is a complete remake of one of the best Persona games. This overhaul makes the game more approachable and visually appealing, bundling it with an unforgettable soundtrack. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown — 9/10
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Returning to its 2D roots, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown incorporates metroidvania elements, pitch-perfect combat, and a beautifully crafted world. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Switch.
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance — 9/10
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is an enhanced version of the acclaimed Atlus RPG, now available on multiple platforms. The game features visual upgrades, quality-of-life changes, and expanded storylines. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Switch.
Children of the Sun — 8/10
Children of the Sun
Children of the Sun brings a fresh twist to the sniper genre, offering a short but satisfying puzzle-solving experience with headshots. Available on PC.
Crow Country — 8/10
Crow Country
A nostalgic horror game, Crow Country mixes '90s-inspired horror with modern suspense. The game offers pre-rendered environments and blocky character designs for a retro feel. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, and Xbox Series X|S.
Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes — 8/10
Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes
A spiritual successor to the Suikoden series, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes features beautiful sprites, soul-stirring music, and unique characters. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Switch.
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth — 8/10
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a bigger and bolder return for Cloud and friends, featuring impressive visuals, finely honed combat, and exciting deviations from the established lore. Available on PS5.
Final Fantasy 16: The Rising Tide — 8/10
Final Fantasy 16 The Rising Tide
The Rising Tide expansion brings Final Fantasy 16's grand story to a satisfying conclusion, showing off new Eikonic abilities and closing the curtain in grand style. Available on PS5.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth — 8/10
Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth
The latest chapter in the Like a Dragon series, Infinite Wealth builds on RPG gameplay with an incredible amount of side content and a joyful experience. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.
Indika — 8/10
Indika
Indika is an indie hit exploring religion and philosophy with rich characters, unique visuals, and top-notch voice acting. Available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.
The Outlast Trials — 8/10
The Outlast Trials
The Outlast Trials shifts from single-player terror to a four-player PvE game, retaining core dread and reimagining it as a group horror experience. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.
Pacific Drive — 8/10
Pacific Drive
Pacific Drive offers a roguelite spin on familiar genres, featuring atmospheric gameplay and deep upgrade mechanics. Available on PC and PS5.
Pepper Grinder — 8/10
Pepper Grinder
Pepper Grinder combines inventive gameplay mechanics with adorable pixel art, delivering a short and sweet gaming experience. Available on PC and Switch.
The Rogue Prince of Persia — 8/10
The Rogue Prince of Persia
An action-packed 2D roguelike, The Rogue Prince of Persia mixes fluid parkour with riveting combat. Available on PC.
Stellar Blade — 8/10
Stellar Blade
Inspired by Bayonetta and Nier: Automata, Stellar Blade offers fun combat and impressive graphics despite a few rough spots. Available on PS5.
Tales of Kenzera: Zau — 8/10
Tales of Kenzera: Zau
Tales of Kenzera: Zau blends metroidvania gameplay with African folklore and a powerful narrative about loss. Available on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Switch.
Tekken 8 — 8/10
Tekken 8
Returning with an impressive roster and rewarding gameplay, Tekken 8 is a standout entry in the franchise. Available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.
Ultros — 8/10
Ultros
Ultros combines psychedelic graphics and thoughtful time loop mechanics for a visually captivating and engrossing experience. Available on PC, PS5, and PS4.
Unicorn Overlord — 8/10
Unicorn Overlord
Unicorn Overlord is a delightful mix of elegant style and thrilling combat, offering a sophisticated adventure. Available on PC, Switch, PS5, and PS4.
WWE 2K24 — 8/10
WWE 2K24
WWE 2K24 is the undisputed champion of the pro wrestling genre, featuring polished gameplay, a wealth of content, and a Showcase mode highlighting Wrestlemania's best moments. Available on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.
Conclusion
The first half of 2024 has already delivered a diverse array of exceptional games across various genres, and the year shows no signs of slowing down. From blockbuster sequels to innovative indie titles, the quality and creativity on display are impressive. With highly anticipated releases still to come, gamers have much to look forward to.
As we continue to track the best games of 2024, it's clear that this year will be remembered as another landmark period in gaming history. Whether you're a fan of intense action, intricate puzzles, or expansive RPGs, there's something for everyone. Stay tuned for more updates as new titles are released and reviewed, ensuring you don't miss out on the must-play games of 2024.
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