Game of the Year: Liam’s Top 5 PS5 Games of 2024

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As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of gaming under my belt, I must say Liam Croft’s Game of the Year picks for 2024 are nothing short of impressive. The variety and depth in his choices reflect his diverse taste and keen eye for quality games.

Each member of our wonderful writing and editing team gets a chance to express their preferred PS5 games of the year in our special Game of the Year features. Today, we’re delighted to feature the personal choices of our assistant editor, Liam Croft.

5. Astro Bot

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Although it didn’t resonate as deeply with me as it did with most PlayStation users from 2024, Astro Bot remains one of my top-favorite gaming experiences from that year. Each level is nothing short of spectacular, a masterclass in engaging and immaculate platforming combined with the captivating (and sometimes subtly hidden) faces of the brand’s storied past.

It was a delight to watch as all the unique robots congregated in the central zone, and the stages tailored to each brand really added to the excitement. Despite not having played LocoRoco prior, I found that stage simply outstanding.

This year, Sony’s offerings have appeared somewhat unremarkable, yet Astro Bot stood out as truly exceptional – an experience that would continue to be fondly remembered even if surrounded by more robust releases.

4. Metaphor: ReFantazio

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2024 saw Atlus achieve extraordinary success, with Metaphor: ReFantazio being their standout title. Personally, I found this game to be an immersive journey focused more on its narrative, characters, and visuals rather than its combat system. Over time, the turn-based battles seemed a tad repetitive to me.

Driving my actions was the struggle to claim the throne and the unexpected turns that accompanied it. I undertook this journey for Maria, a character so endearing she outshines any other created by Atlus. Additionally, I did it for those breathtaking moments when Neuras would pause the gauntlet runner.

For me, this experience revolved around the community I formed over the course of a 70-hour gameplay session, and the way my bonds with every participant grew stronger. Despite being an outstanding JRPG, it truly shines as a game that focuses on human connections.

3. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

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The first game I reviewed this year stayed with me right until the very end; Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is utterly sublime. Easily the best the series has ever been, I was absolutely gripped by the storyline of Ichiban’s quest to find his mother, and all of the events happening around it.

Improved turn-based battles, hilariously amusing side plots, and an overwhelming quantity of optional content kept me fighting enemies in sewers for hours beyond my comfort zone. It’s clear that RGG Studio kicked off the year with a powerful explosion of entertainment, undeniably demonstrated by Infinite Wealth.

I could play these games for an eternity; what a cracker.

2. Stellar Blade

I must admit, I didn’t expect Stellar Blade to find a spot among my top five games of the year, let alone rank second, before its release. Initially, I wasn’t very intrigued by the game and even dismissed it as catering solely to a more adult audience.

Initially, I gave it a try. Then, I found myself unable to stop playing it. In fact, I continued to play it extensively. This year, no other game has captivated me as much as Stellar Blade, and that’s largely due to its extraordinary combat mechanics.

As a gamer, I couldn’t tear myself away from that game due to its captivating ability system, the enthralling Souls-like combat, and the delightful platforming challenges it offered.

I outfitted Eve quite decently this year, and we ventured into Stellar Blade together. Bring on the sequel right away!

1. Silent Hill 2

As the horror aficionado at Push Square, I was certainly excited for Silent Hill 2, but I must admit that I harbored some doubts when it comes to Bloober Team taking on the responsibility of remaking such a legendary survival horror game.

To say it knocked it out of the park is an understatement, though, providing a masterclass in how to remake a PS2 classic. From top to bottom, this is a masterpiece.

The developer skillfully revives and enhances the outstanding aspects of the original version, adding small yet impactful improvements such as new areas to discover and multiple alternative conclusions.

The minor modifications can be found in the latest collectibles, while the overall freshening up of combat, exploration, and gameplay contributes to an enhanced gaming experience.

There was no contest left when I completed Silent Hill 2 and hit the credits; I’ve never felt more triumphant about naming a game as my Game of the Year. Kudos to you, Bloober Team!

How about this for a more casual and friendly rephrasing: “What are your thoughts on Liam’s chosen Games of the Year? Feel free to share your thoughts, either if you completely agree or have a different opinion, in the comments section below.

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2024-12-24 14:36