GamingBolt’s Game of the Year – Top 30 Games of 2024

As someone who has been immersed in the world of gaming for over two decades now, I can confidently say that 2024 was truly a remarkable year for video games. The games we played this year took us on unforgettable journeys through haunting landscapes, expansive open worlds, and heart-wrenching narratives.

As we approach the end of another year, we’ll adhere to our customary practice: reflect before we leap into the future towards 2025. After a year that stood out as exceptional in 2023, 2024 may not have been quite as action-packed, but it still allowed us all a moment to catch our breath following the chaos of the prior year. However, the past twelve months didn’t disappoint, offering an extraordinary array of games.

Throughout the past year, we’ve enjoyed an abundance of remarkable games, each with its own distinctive charm and impact. While some stood out more than others, they all left a lasting impression. With such a wealth of options, it was challenging to select just 30 games to highlight as our favorites of the year. Regrettably, there were many exceptional titles that didn’t make the cut, which might have deserved recognition. Nevertheless, we’ve managed to compile a list of thirty games for 2024, arranged in descending order, culminating in our Game of the Year.

Without further ado, then, let’s dive right in, because there’s a lot to talk about.

NOTE: All entries and rankings were decided by an internal vote held among the entire GamingBolt staff.

#30. SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS

I’m playable on the following platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Developed by the talented folks at Sonic Team. If you’re curious about what I’m like to play, feel free to check out our review!

A highly enhanced version of a beloved 3D Sonic adventure? Already a tough offer to resist, but throw in a brand-new campaign centered around the infamous Shadow the Hedgehog, and you’ve got a nearly irresistible deal. The game, titled Sonic X Shadow Generations, is an absolute joyride, with Shadow’s new half of the game arguably surpassing the classic Sonic Generations, which, while remastered, does show its age somewhat. However, it’s one of many accomplishments for Sega this year, making it a great one for the company.

#29. SHOGUN SHOWDOWN

Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC | Developer: Roboatino

A lesser-known game that has attracted a significant following among players, including ourselves at GamingBolt, is Roboatino’s undergound hit. Blending aspects from roguelikes and deckbuilders while incorporating demanding yet tactical turn-based combat and visually appealing pixel art graphics, this game offers an immensely satisfying and hard-to-put-down experience. It’s tough, challenging, rich in mechanics, and utterly captivating. For enthusiasts of roguelikes, it’s a must-play.

#28. SENUA’S SAGA: HELLBLADE 2

Available on: Xbox Series X/S, PC | Developer: Ninja Theory | Read Our Review

As a diehard fan, I’ve eagerly awaited the arrival of Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 for what felt like an eternity. While some may argue whether it meets the high expectations built over those years or even surpasses its predecessor, on its own terms, Ninja Theory’s sequel is nothing short of remarkable. Admittedly, it might be a tad shorter than expected and could be seen as more of the same, but it falls short neither in storytelling nor visual appeal. Boasting captivating narratives, breathtaking graphics, outstanding acting, and cutting-edge audio design, this 6-hour journey through the depths of hell is a worthwhile endeavor that I’d recommend to any fan of the original.

#27. LORELEI AND THE LASER EYES

Available on: PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC | Developer: Simogo | Read Our Review

One fascinating indie game from this year, titled “Lorelei and the Laser Eyes“, stands out by breaking away from conventional storytelling methods often found in video games. Compared to others, it has been exceptionally successful. Its distinctive visual aesthetic, unconventional structure, and intriguing concept immediately captivate players on a narrative level. The game also offers challenging puzzles that complement the immersive storyline. For the talented developers at Simogo, known for the acclaimed “Sayonara Wild Hearts“, this is just another remarkable addition to their portfolio.

#26. THE PLUCKY SQUIRE

Accessible on: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC | Developer: All Possible Futures | Check Out Our Review

For quite some time now, we’ve been eagerly anticipating “The Plucky Squire”, and it’s safe to say that the first release from All Possible Futures was definitely worth the delay. While it does have its flaws, it offers an enchanting action-adventure experience akin to Zelda, along with a distinctive concept where players traverse various storybook terrains, seamlessly shifting between 2D and 3D gameplay. The captivating diversity and stunning graphics that result from this make “The Plucky Squire” worthy of being included in this list.

#25. THE LEGEND OF HEROES: TRAILS THROUGH DAYBREAK

Available on: PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC | Developer: Nihon Falcom | Read Our Review

The Legend of Heroes series by Nihon Falcom has an impressively consistent record when it comes to game output and quality, occasionally dipping but mostly hitting the mark exceptionally well. This year, we finally got the long-awaited Western version of Trails through Daybreak, which added another top-notch RPG experience to the franchise. As a fresh start for the long-running series, Trails through Daybreak is one of its strongest entries in years, featuring engaging turn-based combat, an enjoyable new set of characters, compelling storytelling, and a vividly brought-to-life setting.

#24. ONCE HUMAN

Available on: PC, iOS | Developer: Starry Studio | Read Our Review

Despite the intense competition that any new survival game encounters within the genre, Once Human managed to capture our interest, despite some initial problems. While we acknowledge the game’s flaws, there are numerous aspects such as its gunplay, setting, base building mechanics, and more, that make it an appealing title. If developer Starry Studio continues to develop the game at its current pace, Once Human has the potential to evolve into an even more immersive experience.

#23. CORE KEEPER

The game is accessible on: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Developed by Pugstorm. Feel free to check out our review.

After approximately 2.5 years in early access, it’s safe to say that many were already familiar with Core Keeper. Still, given its exceptional quality, this might not have been unexpected for those closely following the game. However, one could argue that more people should be aware of its existence because it truly is excellent. It offers an incredibly addictive survival sandbox adventure reminiscent of games like Minecraft and Terraria, but manages to stand out by creating a distinct, strong identity for itself within its expansive gameplay. Prepare to sacrifice some sleep because it’s the type of game that can consume your attention for days on end.

#22. ARCO

Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch | Developers: Franek Nowotniak, Max Cahill, José Ramón “Bibiki” García, and Antonio “Fayer” Uribe

A team of four international members created Arco, which largely went unnoticed when it debuted in August. However, since then, it has garnered a loyal fanbase, and after playing it, it’s clear to see why. Remarkably, both its lean yet intelligent game mechanics and its powerful storytelling in the most minimalistic manner make Arco an exceptional game that demands attention. To top it off, its stunning pixel art style is another factor that makes it a truly remarkable game.

#21. FROSTPUNK 2

Available on: PC | Developer: 11 bit studios | Read Our Review

11-bit Studios’ follow-up to the original “Frostpunk” is undeniably living up to its reputation as a modern masterpiece, stirring great anticipation among fans. And true to form, “Frostpunk 2” delivers another chilling, grueling city-building survival experience. The game challenges players with a steady stream of tough choices and brings its bleak post-apocalyptic world to life in a raw, uncompromising manner. This game is truly brilliant, although it’s not for the timid or those lacking patience. It offers a rich and rewarding gaming experience that skillfully expands upon the strong bases laid by its predecessors.

#20. DRAGON BALL: SPARKING! ZERO

Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC | Developer: Spike Chunsoft | Read Our Review

The anticipation for the comeback of the “Budokai Tenkaichi” series has been prolonged to nearly an unbearable extent, but with Spike Chunsoft and Bandai Namco stepping up, fans’ wishes were fulfilled this year. What we got was exactly what was desired – “Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO”. This game offers the same exhilarating, impactful 3D arena fighting experience, boasts an expansive collection of playable characters as its highlight, and features visuals that beautifully embody the franchise’s best aspects. In other words, “Sparking! ZERO” is a long-awaited dream come true for Dragon Ball fans worldwide.

#19. DRAGON’S DOGMA 2

Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC | Developer: Capcom | Read Our Review

The upcoming game Dragon’s Dogma 2 is generating quite a bit of controversy in 2024, given the legacy of its predecessors. However, we’re firmly among those who are captivated by Capcom’s open-world fantasy epic. This game offers a one-of-a-kind, delightfully quirky adventure that stands out from other big-budget games today. The sheer audacity and execution of its vision make Dragon’s Dogma 2 worthy of great admiration. Moreover, it boasts top-notch combat, a captivating emergent open world, an intricate class system, and much more. Despite some imperfections, Dragon’s Dogma 2 is still a fantastic game overall.

#18. DESTINY 2: THE FINAL SHAPE

Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, PC | Developer: Bungie | Read Our Review

Bungie’s history with Destiny expansions has had its share of issues, and more recently, Destiny 2 has been losing popularity. However, The Final Shape exceeded all expectations, effectively silencing any lingering doubts. As the culmination of Destiny’s major storyline, The Final Shape was an epic and fulfilling conclusion that lived up to its promise in a big way. Not only did it excel in storytelling, but it also provided a wealth of captivating content that kept players engaged for hours. Whether the future of Destiny will be as brilliant is uncertain, but if not, The Final Shape serves as a fitting end to the series’ ten-year narrative journey.

#17. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: HEART OF CHORNOBYL

Available on: Xbox Series X/S, PC | Developer: GSC Game World | Read Our Review

2024 was an exceptional year for open-world games, as two major titles dared to break away from traditional genre norms. First among them was Dragon’s Dogma 2, which previously caught our eye. Toward the end of the year, we were also introduced to another eagerly anticipated sequel: S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl. Developed by GSC Game World, this open-world survival horror shooter is incredibly challenging and unforgiving, not only due to its tough gameplay mechanics but also because it was technically rough at launch. There are definitely areas for improvement, yet even in its current state, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 shows great promise and we eagerly await its continued evolution.

#16. THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: ECHOES OF WISDOM

Available on: Nintendo Switch | Developer: Nintendo | Read Our Review

2024 seemed an unlikely year for a new mainline 2D Zelda game, but even more so for one where Princess Zelda is the star character – something fans have longed for years. Therefore, it was nothing short of exhilarating to discover The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, a fresh 2D Zelda title that makes Princess Zelda its main character. What’s more, the game stands out as exceptional, offering an intricately designed map that is a pleasure to explore and incorporating sandbox gameplay centered around innovative new mechanics. The combat, exploration, traversal, and puzzles in Echoes of Wisdom all take on an entirely different feel, making the game even more appealing for its unique yet familiar Zelda atmosphere.

#15. WARHAMMER 40,000: SPACE MARINE 2

Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC | Developer: Saber Interactive | Read Our Review

15 years after its popular predecessor, Saber Interactive’s “Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2” was highly anticipated by many, especially fans of the “Gears of War” series. However, few could have imagined that it would be this impressive. “Space Marine 2” is one of the best action games we’ve played in years. It offers intense, thrilling, and challenging third-person combat that draws heavily from “Gears of War” and intense hack-and-slash battles, and combines these elements with the vast number of enemies you face in battle. Whether you’re playing its multiplayer, PvE, or campaign modes, “Space Marine 2” consistently delivers stunning action in a way that feels like a nostalgic throwback to an earlier era, but in the best possible way.

#14. ANIMAL WELL

Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, PC | Developer: Billy Basso

Enthusiasts of the Metroidvania genre are always thrilled by the numerous games we often find available. However, with so many options, it’s become more challenging for a game to stand out in the genre – but Animal Well manages to do so effortlessly. Created single-handedly by developer Billy Basso, Animal Well is an exceptional game. It offers a vast, intricate world, captivating exploration, stunning visuals, and flawless traversal mechanics, all coming together in a tight, rich Metroidvania experience. For fans of the genre, Animal Well is virtually impossible to ignore.

#13. HELLDIVERS 2

Available on: PS5, PC | Developer: Arrowhead Game Studios | Read Our Review

2024 started with very few expecting much from “Helldivers 2”, even its creators at Sony and Arrowhead Game Studios. Yet, as we approach year-end, it’s clear that “Helldivers 2” is one of the most remarkable and surprising stories of the year – and one of the best games too. Its thrilling cooperative gameplay and live service narrative have captivated many, making it the talk of the gaming world for much of the year. Despite some post-release controversies, particularly the PSN account linking issue, the game has enjoyed strong support, which is evident in its active and vibrant player base. We eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this cooperative gaming sensation.

#12. TEKKEN 8

Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC | Developer: Bandai Namco | Read Our Review

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve been eagerly awaiting the arrival of Tekken 8 for nearly a decade. This new addition to the AAA fighter genre feels like it could easily be one of the best games in its class in years! The combat mechanics have always been heavy and satisfying in the Tekken series, and Tekken 8 takes it to another level, with fresh, aggressive mechanics that make each fight feel unique.

#11. NEVA

The game is accessible on: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Developed by: Nomada Studio. Click here to read our review. (Paraphrased for better readability)

In late 2024, Nomada Studio released their second game, titled “Neva”, which quickly made its way onto numerous “must-play” lists. Not only does it boast one of the most impactful stories of the year, but its powerful soundtrack and stunning visuals also leave a lasting impression, much like its predecessor “Gris”. However, where “Gris” excelled in narrative and aesthetics, “Neva” takes it a step further with an enhanced gameplay experience. From refined level designs and traversal mechanics to improved combat, every aspect of the game shows significant improvement. If you’re seeking an emotional rollercoaster ride, “Neva” is definitely worth your time.

#10. METAPHOR: REFANTAZIO

Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC | Developer: Studio Zero, Atlus

As a gamer, I can’t help but feel that the anticipation for Metaphor: ReFantazio was significantly lower than it should have been, given its pedigree from some of the top RPG creators out there. But let me tell you, from the moment it hit the shelves, it silenced every doubt about its potential.

#9. PRINCE OF PERSIA: THE LOST CROWN

The game is accessible on: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC. It was developed by Ubisoft. [Click here to read our review]

2024 started with a boom as the long-awaited “Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown” was released, marking the first installment in decades. Despite initial doubts due to Ubisoft’s past issues and the game’s marketing approach, “Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown” quickly proved itself a timeless gem. By returning to the series’ roots of side-scrolling action-platforming while also transforming it into an expansive Metroidvania experience, this game is nothing short of brilliant. Featuring smooth combat, precise movement, satisfying platforming, and excellent level design, it has everything one could desire in a top-tier Metroidvania game, and more. Regrettably, indications suggest that Ubisoft will not be producing a sequel to “The Lost Crown” due to its unfortunate commercial flop, which is truly disappointing because it’s not only among the best “Prince of Persia” games ever made, but also one of the finest Metroidvania games to date.

#8. SATISFACTORY

Available on: PC | Developer: Coffee Stain Studios | Read Our Review

Following more than five years in an early access phase, Coffee Stain Studios’ Satisfactory officially launched its 1.0 version in 2024. And it’s clear that all the time spent refining and enhancing the game during this period was well worth it because Satisfactory is undoubtedly one of the most compellingly addictive games of the year. With a finely-tuned core gameplay system, a vast world to explore, visually striking graphics, and an engaging blend of sandbox freedom and structured play, Satisfactory offers an expansive and alarmingly captivating factory building gaming experience. Rest assured, we are more than pleased with Satisfactory.

#7. ELDEN RING: SHADOW OF THE ERDTREE

Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, PC | Developer: FromSoftware | Read Our Review

It’s no surprise that a new release from FromSoftware would be exceptional, but the quality of Shadow of the Erdtree exceeded even our high expectations. Elden Ring was one of the standout games of 2022, and surprisingly, its expansion offers an experience almost as good. The vast, intricate expansion is so large and packed with content that it’s significantly bigger than most full-fledged games out there. As we’ve come to expect from FromSoftware, the quality matches the quantity. Some of the studio’s best bosses, a breathtakingly designed open world filled with grueling challenges, and the same sense of wonder and exploration found in Elden Ring – Shadow of the Erdtree delivers all this and more.

#6. INDIANA JONES AND THE GREAT CIRCLE

Available on: Xbox Series X/S, PC | Developer: MachineGames | Read Our Review

As a passionate fan, I can’t help but wonder why this new title isn’t following the third-person format like the iconic Uncharted or Wolfenstein 3. Why isn’t it just Indiana Jones and the Great Circle instead? Many skeptics had their doubts about this game in the lead-up to its release, but MachineGames has silenced them all with their first-person adventure-action title. Not only does it brilliantly capture the essence of Indiana Jones, surpassing even half of the movies in terms of tone and vibe, it also stands as a testament to exceptional game design. By blending stealth, social stealth, and immersive sim lite level design with organic exploration and unique first-person combat that emphasizes humorously improvised actions, The Great Circle offers an unparalleled gaming experience. It’s no exaggeration to say that it’s MachineGames’ finest work yet and one of Microsoft’s most significant first-party victories in years.

#5. LIKE A DRAGON: INFINITE WEALTH

The game is playable on: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. Developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio. Check out our review here.

The popularity of the “Like a Dragon” series has skyrocketed in recent years, reaching its peak earlier this year with “Infinite Wealth.” It’s not hard to understand why. Building on the turn-based RPG foundation of its predecessor, “Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth” provides an immense gaming experience, packed with numerous significant enhancements. Notably, it improves the turn-based combat, job system, social simulation mechanics, and other aspects. Additionally, “Infinite Wealth” features a compelling cast of characters that makes the journey enjoyable, as well as the abundant side content that Yakuza games are known for.

As a dedicated gamer, let me tell you, Infinite Wealth truly shines in this specific domain. It’s like hitting a grand slam homerun! The game offers a mind-blowing Crazy Taxi-style minigame, an Animal Crossing-inspired adventure, a Pokemon-esque mini-game, countless intriguing subplots, and so much more, all packed into one incredible title. Almost everything about it is a sheer pleasure to experience. The game also boasts an engaging new setting that’s beautifully realized, and a captivating (though admittedly contentious) narrative that brings together some of Yakuza’s most cherished characters for a singular, epic odyssey. All in all, Infinite Wealth stands as a bold modern classic.

#4. BLACK MYTH: WUKONG

Available on: PS5, PC | Developer: Game Science | Read Our Review (PC | PS5)

The game Black Myth: Wukong, which has been eagerly anticipated since a long gameplay reveal trailer in 2020, definitely meets and even surpasses expectations. This action game is a modern retelling of the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West. In terms of combat, it offers some of the most thrilling moment-to-moment actions within the genre, and its large-scale boss battles and set pieces are among the most impressive and memorable we’ve encountered this year.

While Black Myth: Wukong isn’t flawless – very few games are – it stands out for being an exceptional AAA console game from a studio without prior experience in this field. Given the game’s high-quality production and stunning visuals, you wouldn’t guess that this is their debut in AAA console gaming. By year’s end, it’s predicted to be one of the top-selling titles with a significant lead, and it’s clear why it’s become such a massive success.

#3. ASTRO BOT

Available on: PS5 | Developer: Team Asobi | Read Our Review

Following the success of “Astro Bot Rescue Mission” and “Astro’s Playroom,” Sony’s youngest platforming franchise made its grand debut this year with the full-fledged console game “Astro Bot.” We are thrilled that it finally got its chance to shine. The 3D platformer from Team Asobi bears a striking resemblance to modern classics like “Super Mario Galaxy” and “Super Mario 3D World,” and remarkably, it’s quality is such that it is often compared to these masterpieces, which speaks volumes about its excellence.

Without a doubt, Astro Bot lives up to all the acclaim it’s received. The game showcases an extraordinary level of inventive creativity and ingenuity throughout its diverse set of levels, each meticulously crafted for perfection. What sets it apart is how every action feels seamlessly precise, making the overall gaming experience feel like a delightful dream. Astro Bot offers a captivating journey filled with joy, honoring 30 years of PlayStation through hidden gems and secrets. It stands as a shining example of masterful platforming game design, demonstrating the heights this genre can reach when it’s at its finest. At its core, Astro Bot delivers pure, unadulterated fun, emphasizing what truly matters in a gaming experience.

#2. FINAL FANTASY 7 REBIRTH

Available on: PS5 | Developer: Square Enix | Read Our Review

In 2020, Final Fantasy 7 Remake was our Game of the Year, setting high expectations for Square Enix’s remake trilogy from the get-go. However, even we were taken aback by just how outstanding Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth turned out to be. For quite some time, it seemed like the dream of a AAA open-world Final Fantasy masterpiece that mirrored the series’ initial grandeur was slipping further and further away. But this year, Rebirth managed to deliver exactly that dream.

Beyond enhancing the clever fusion of real-time and command-based combat found in “Remake” by adding additional party members, Synergies, and numerous smaller advancements, “Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth” offers an expansive open world experience that showcases a variety of maps spanning diverse locations. Each map offers its own set of side activities, traversal techniques, design principles, biomes, and other features, making the exploration of every corner of “Rebirth’s” vast world consistently engaging.

Just as a rollercoaster storyline, balancing between retelling a cherished tale and forging its own path with surprising twists and turns, encapsulates Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. This masterpiece offers an adorable ensemble of characters, a myriad of unforgettable adventures throughout the game, a gameplay experience that consistently delights, and much more. It’s a delightful homage to all that this series has excelled at over the years, and could very well be one of its finest entries yet – a testament to its greatness that is not bestowed lightly.

GAMINGBOLT’S GAME OF THE YEAR 2024 – SILENT HILL 2

Available on: PS5, PC | Developer: Bloober Team | Read Our Review

You can’t help but love a good comeback story. When Bloober Team and Konami’s remake of Silent Hill 2 faced the abundant skepticism that it did before release, it was easy to see why- hell, we were skeptics ourselves here at GamingBolt, and the situation certainly seemed to warrant it. But just as that skepticism was fair, so, too, is it equally fair to stand up and loudly sing the praises of the absolute masterpiece that is the Silent Hill 2 remake. In our estimation, it’s the best game of 2024- yes, it’s that good. Never have we been more glad to be wrong about something.

At GamingBolt, we’re big fans of survival horror games – take Alan Wake 2 from last year as an example, which was our Game of the Year – and the Silent Hill 2 remake has quickly climbed to the top tier of the genre, even rivaling classics like Resident Evil 2 and Dead Space. The narrative of James Sunderland, his strained marriage, and his tormented psyche has been chilling gamers for years, but with Bloober Team’s remake, it’s more powerful, more moving, and more effectively brought to life than ever before.

The game gains substantial enhancements from innovative changes in gameplay. The third-person perspective, fresh and enlarged environments, revamped and novel bosses, along with numerous battle refinements, greatly enhance the gaming experience. It’s remarkable that despite being almost double the length of the original, the remake of Silent Hill 2 maintains a flawless tempo. Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that Bloober Team is well-known for delivering visually impressive games in the graphics department.

It’s unclear where Silent Hill and Bloober Team are headed next, but for now, we can feel confident that the remake of such a highly esteemed survival horror game has been successfully accomplished, making it equally impressive.

2024-12-19 22:43

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