2024 has been a fascinating year for video games, with some real highs – and lows – across all platforms. This year we saw a wonderful slate of AAA games enjoy their well-deserved praise and accolades, with Final Fantasy VII Rebirth kicking off the year in style, all the way up to end-of-year hits like Silent Hill 2 remake, and Indiana Jones & The Great Circle. It’s also been a phenomenal year for indie games thanks to the surprise hits of Palworld, along with instant classics like Neva and Balatro.
Last year was largely dominated by the phenomenal Baldur’s Gate 3, which was a sure-fire win for Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2023. This year, however, it was anyone’s game with nominees Metaphor: ReFantazio, Astro Bot, Balatro, Black Myth: Wukong, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree. The award surprised viewers by going to Astro Bot – a well-deserved win, in our opinion.
Still, there are plenty of other games the editors here at Screen Rant have dubbed worthy of the title of “best.” The following games have been selected by our Gaming editors, considering not just awards, accolades, general reception – plus our own review scores – but also our own personal favorite candidates for games we’ve loved most throughout the year.
20
World Of Warcraft: The War Within
A Gaming Classic Gets Better
What it’s about: The opening chapter of the Worldsoul Saga and the 10th World of Warcraft expansion, The War Within challenges players to explore beneath the surface of Azeroth.
World of Warcraft as a whole has been a part of my life for almost 17 years now. The massive amount of abilities, different playstyles, and the sense of community that I get from my guild is something I will never forget. Ranking top dog in DPS, healing like no other in raids, and completing the new questline from the first expansion in the Saga always brings back those feelings of when I first started playing back in Vanilla WoW.
Though times have changed drastically, the storyline and lore that is presented in TWW keep me coming back for more.
– Written by Samantha Giambra-Plaisance, Gaming Editor.
Related
After 20 Years, Is It Too Late To Start Playing World Of Warcraft?
World of Warcraft has been out for 20 years. With several expansion packs and constant updates, is it too late to start playing in 2024 and beyond?
19
Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth
One Of The Best In The Series
- Platform(s)
-
PS5
, PS4
, Xbox One
, Xbox Series X
, PC - Released
-
January 26, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
What it’s about: Since the Great Dissolution three years ago, Ichiban Kasuga has been helping ex-Yakuza rehabilitate and rejoin society. Along with his companions, Kasuga is forced to uncover the truth behind a dangerous financial empire.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth improves upon the many RPG systems introduced in Yakuza: Like a Dragon and combines it with a fantastic story that fans of the franchise will cherish. Its turn-based combat system may initially feel awkward, but it blossoms into one of the most enjoyable and action-packed Yakuza experiences.
With a narrative packed with drama, action, and comedy, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth stands tall as one of the best games in the series.
– Written by Akshay Bhalla, Gaming Editor.
18
Persona 3 Reload
A Perfect Remake
- Platform(s)
-
PC
, Xbox Series X
, Xbox Series S
, Xbox One
, PS4
, PS5 - Released
-
February 2, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
P-Studio
- Publisher(s)
-
Atlus
What it’s about: Returning to the city he was born in, Persona 3 Reload’s protagonist transfers to Gekkoukan High School and joins a strange dorm. The game follows a group of high school students who want to uncover the truth behind the mysterious Dark Hour and the concept of Death itself.
Persona 3 Reload may just be another remake from afar, but Atlus reimagined one of the most revered titles in the series with modern visuals, updated gameplay mechanics, and a fully-voiced social links system, unlike the original. There’s no hiding that Persona 3 Reload got the same treatment as Persona 5, with meaningful additions that make the remake a whole new experience for new and returning players.
Having said that, Persona 3 Reload’s fast-paced gameplay, revamped Tartarus, and brand-new social link activities make it one of the best RPGs to release in 2024.
– Written by Akshay Bhalla, Gaming Editor.
17
Stardew Valley 1.6
Not A Full New Game – But May As Well Be!
- Platform(s)
-
PC
, Xbox One
, Android
, iOS
, PS4
, Switch - Released
-
February 26, 2016
- Developer(s)
-
ConcernedApe
- Publisher(s)
-
ConcernedApe
What it’s about: Originally released in 2016, Stardew Valley is a cozy farming simulator in which players take over their grandfather’s farm, building it up to turn a profit while exploring the town and befriending its villagers. Developer ConcernedApe has released several big game updates for Stardew, including 2024’s major 1.6 expansion.
Stardew Valley may not be a “new” game, but 2024’s 1.6 update introduced more than enough new content to justify a place on this list. From the new mastery system to the addition of a new farm type, the sheer breadth of new content that was added in 1.6 was just what I – and lots of players – needed to bring us back to Pelican Town after an extended hiatus from my farm.
ConcernedApe knows exactly how to make an update special, and booting up 1.6 for the first time felt just like playing an all-new Stardew Valley.
– Written by Lara Jackson, Deputy Gaming Editor.
16
Call Of Duty: Black Ops 6
A Return To Form
- Released
-
October 25, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
Treyarch
, Raven Software
What it’s about: The Black Ops 6 campaign follows rogue CIA operatives as they look to uncover the secret behind a mysterious military group with ties to the organization. Meanwhile, the Zombies narrative sees favorites like Edward Richtofen return to further investigate the Dark Aether’s secrets. Then, the classic Call of Duty multiplayer experience is back in full force as BO6 cranks it up a notch with the new Omnimovement system.
Call of Duty swung for the fences with its new Omnimovement system in Black Ops 6 and is reaping the rewards. Movement is smoother than ever and Treyarch’s fine-tuned gunplay is fresh and exciting. Given Warzone‘s recent dominance, I couldn’t imagine Call of Duty Multiplayer and Zombies wrestling back its status as the focal point of the franchise, but we seem to be barreling toward that outcome.
The polished core mechanics on display make Black Ops 6 a worthy entry in the famed saga.
– Written by Luca Di Marzo, Gaming Editor.
Related
How To Level Up Fast In Black Ops 6
With Black Ops 6 re-introducing the classic prestige system, there are still plenty of tricks to progress through the ranks even faster than ever.
15
Crow Country
A New Venture
- Released
-
May 9, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
SFB Games
- Publisher(s)
-
SFB Games
What it’s about: Crow Country is a survival horror game set in the 1990s, players explore an abandoned theme park. The game is heavily inspired by PS1 classic horror games, and has been compared to the original Resident Evil and Silent Hill games.
In a year of spectacular indie games like Lorelei and the Laser Eyes, UFO 50, and Balatro, Crow Country carves out a park-sized niche of its own. I played through the game in one night and found every step of the journey to be almost miraculously assured, smoothing over the erratic frustrations found in its PS1 inspirations without sanding off what made them so interesting.
Throwback stylings are all the rage, but it’s rare for something to understand late ‘90s game design so intimately and update it so effortlessly.
– Written by Ben Brosofsky, Gaming Editor.
14
Star Wars Outlaws
An Immersive Star Wars Experience
Open-World
Action-Adventure
- Franchise
-
Star Wars
- Released
-
August 30, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
Massive Entertainment
- Publisher(s)
-
Ubisoft
, Lucasfilm Games
What it’s about: Set between the events of The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, Star Wars Outlaws is an open-world RPG, where players take on the role of thief Kay Vess. Unlike most Star Wars releases, Outlaws doesn’t focus on the typical Jedi-centric storylines, offering something new to fans.
Star Wars Outlaws is a title I could go back and play over and over, if not only for the nostalgia of the Star Wars franchise. While it may not have many of the characters I came to know and love, Kay made the game engaging, immersive, and just a lot of fun to play.
The different paths to go down cater to the “decision maker” in me, and that makes for even more replayability in my opinion.
– Written by Samantha Giambra-Plaisance, Gaming Editor.
13
Marvel Rivals
A Surprisingly Addictive Game
Third-Person Shooter
Action
Multiplayer
- Released
-
December 6, 2024
What it’s about: A free-to-play hero-shooter that incorporates many iconic characters from the Marvel universe and pits them against each other in team-based battles.
An excellent multiplayer title needs to be fun and easy to pick up, and that’s precisely why Marvel Rivals has been so successful. While Marvel Rivals is heavily inspired by Overwatch, the game keeps things fresh with additional features such as Team-Up moves, interesting map designs, and unique character abilities.
With a diverse roster of iconic characters, chaotic fights, and intense matches, Marvel Rivals is an excellent example of the hero-shooter genre that could leave its contemporaries behind.
– Written by Akshay Bhalla, Gaming Editor.
12
Helldivers 2
Updates Keep It Fresh & Fun
- Franchise
-
Helldivers
- Released
-
February 8, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
Arrowhead Game Studios
- Publisher(s)
-
Sony
What it’s about: As the Helldivers, players battle the enemies of Super Earth in a surprisingly lore-heavy squad-based shooter set in a futuristic dystopian world.
I had all but lost interest in Helldivers 2 after getting more than my fill near the beginning of the year, but the emergence of the hostile Illuminate in the game’s recent update has me once again on the front lines defending Super Earth’s managed democracy. It’s an unadulterated power fantasy where being expendable is a huge part of the appeal.
I still laugh every time a teammate’s orbital barrage sends my character’s limbs flying, or my lightning-shooting gun discharges through a couple enemies and inadvertently into another Helldiver, insta-killing them.
– Written by Kyle Gratton, Gaming Editor.
11
Neva
A Beautiful Adventure
9/10
Neva
Adventure
Platformer
Puzzle
- Released
-
October 15, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
Nomada Studio
What it’s about: A short but sweet adventure, Neva follows Alba and a wolf cub, Neva. Even though it takes just a few hours to beat, the game takes what made 2018’s GRIS so magical and expands it even further in its storytelling and visuals.
Neva was one of my most-anticipated games of 2024, and its beautiful world didn’t disappoint. GRIS is one of my favorite indie games of all time, and the world and story of Neva are just a beautiful, emotionally challenging, and inspiring. As our reviewer Leo Faierman put it in Screen Rant‘s 9/10 review: “It’s no exaggeration to say that nearly any screenshot is worthy of framing.”
If you haven’t played this one yet, it should absolutely be on your radar.
– Written by Lara Jackson, Deputy Gaming Editor.
10
Black Myth: Wukong
Testing Your Skills
- Released
-
August 20, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
Game Science
- Publisher(s)
-
Game Science
What it’s about: Black Myth: Wukong is an action RPG that takes heavy inspiration from Chinese mythology, specifically the 16th century novel Journey to the West. Through trials and tribulations, Sun Wukong learns to shape their own fate and take down powerful bosses that test sheer willpower and strength.
I am a huge fan of the stories that follow Sun Wukong. The extremely brutal fights and gameplay make my blood boil, but you feel so good about yourself once you take down a boss that has taken you days to learn and figure out. It gives me the same feelings Elden Ring did when it was first released: accomplished and proud of how far I made it day by day.
The stunning graphics and whimsical colors and scenery make the title even more immersive, and that is something I won’t soon forget.
– Written by Samantha Giambra-Plaisance, Gaming Editor.
9
STALKER 2: Heart Of Chornobyl
Worth The Wait
- Platform(s)
-
PC
, Xbox Series S
, Xbox Series X - Released
-
November 20, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
GSC Game World
- Publisher(s)
-
GSC Game World
What it’s about: In this horror FPS, Stalkers must do all they can to survive in the wastelands against not only deadly mutants, but warring factions.
STALKER 2 is still overcoming some technical issues, but its eerie atmosphere, intense gameplay, and sheer bizarreness make GSC Game World’s long-awaited sequel one of the year’s more compelling experiences. Trudging through the Zone is a nerve-wracking delight, with inexplicable anomalies, deadly mutants, and heavily armed eccentrics at every turn.
In-universe, the Zone has an allure that compels Stalkers to never leave its otherworldly beauty, and one of STALKER 2‘s great triumphs is that I – even after a thorough playthrough – am similarly compelled to return to it.
– Written by Kyle Gratton, Gaming Editor.
8
Indiana Jones & The Great Circle
Indy’s Best Gaming Adventure Yet
- Platform(s)
-
Xbox Series X
, Xbox Series S
, PC - Released
-
December 9, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
MachineGames
What it’s about: From MachineGames and published by Bethesda, acclaimed video game actor Troy Baker steps into the shoes of the famed Indy for an all-new adventure.
Countless film directors have tried to emulate the magic of Steven Spielberg’s best works, but very few have succeeded. MachineGames, the studio behind Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, may house the very first game developers to accompany those elites. Shooting, whacking, and whipping my way through the game, I found the same joy that comes from watching Raiders of the Lost Ark for the first or fifth time.
I don’t doubt that I’ll likewise end up revisiting The Great Circle again and again.
– Written by Ben Brosofsky, Gaming Editor.
Related
10 Best Indiana Jones Games Of All Time, Ranked
While Indiana Jones And The Great Circle succeeded in capturing the essence of the films, it’s far the only great game in the franchise worth playing.
7
Zelda: Echoes Of Wisdom
Princess Zelda Takes The Stage
- Released
-
September 26, 2024
- Publisher(s)
-
Nintendo
What it’s about: The first Legend of Zelda game to star the Princess herself, Echoes of Wisdom sees Zelda use the power of the Tri-Rod to create echoes in order to solve puzzles, battle enemies, and save the people of Hyrule.
Since I first fell in love with The Minish Cap, some significant part of my Zelda loyalties has always lied with the top-down games. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom is the new adventure I’ve been waiting for.
More lovingly decorated than A Link Between Worlds and more comfortable in its own skin than the Link’s Awakening remake, Echoes of Wisdom bursts with charm and creativity that make its cautious approach to challenges easy to forgive.
– Written by Ben Brosofsky, Gaming Editor.
6
Silent Hill 2
Bloober Proved Everyone Wrong
Survival Horror
Horror
Adventure
Action
- Released
-
October 8, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
Bloober Team
What it’s about: A remake of the classic horror game, James Sunderland returns to the titular town of Silent Hill after receiving a letter from his deceased wife, Mary. As James searches the town for her, he’s faced with horrors that embody his inner traumas.
The original Silent Hill 2 means a huge amount to me, and I was definitely a skeptic of the remake until I played it. Bloober really knocked it out of the park with atmosphere, enemy design, combat, and world, crafting a terrifying SH experience that’s both new and familiar.
The clever approach to revisiting classic moments in expanded ways proved just how much the team really cared about the IP – and we can all learn from Bloober when it comes to not judging a book by its cover!
– Written by Lara Jackson, Deputy Gaming Editor.
5
Elden Ring: Shadow Of The Erdtree
FromSoft Never Misses
9/10
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Players venture into the shadowed realm of the Land of Shadow to confront new biomes, dungeons, and formidable bosses. Guided by the enigmatic Miquella, they face the terrifying Messmer the Impaler and uncover the dark secrets shrouded beneath the Erdtree’s influence, featuring new weapons, magic, and challenges.
What it’s about: FromSoftware’s largest expansion to date, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree takes players back to the world of Elden Ring in the game’s first full-fledged DLC.
Shadow of the Erdtree is a massive addendum to what is arguably one of the best games of all time. It excels in continuing all of Elden Ring‘s myriad achievements, crucially adding a new realm to explore, weapons, spells, and armor to use, and even deepening the ever-fascinating mythology of its world.
I was truly sad to have finished my excursion through Shadow of the Erdtree, because it means I’ll never have another veritably novel experience in Elden Ring.
– Written by Kyle Gratton, Gaming Editor.
4
Astro Bot
GOTY Winner At TGA 2024
- Franchise
-
Astro Bot
- Released
-
September 6, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
Team Asobi
- Publisher(s)
-
Sony Interactive Entertainment
What it’s about: The latest platforming adventure of the beloved PlayStation mascot. After their ship is destroyed, a brave Astro Bot has to find its fellow bots across various worlds and take on Space Bully Nebulax.
Astro Bot is so much more than a nostalgia trip, although it works well as one. Each level feels unique, it makes the most of the PS5’s capabilities, and its music and humor are both standouts. What results is an excellent, family-friendly platformer with great design and hours of content. My kids and I can’t stop playing it together.
It’s not just the best game I’ve played this year – it’s some of the most fun I’ve had in this decade.
– Written by Austin King, Gaming Features & Guides Editor.
Related
Astro Bot’s GOTY Success Should Be A Wake-Up Call For PlayStation
Astro Bot’s success at The Game Awards 2024 (and financially) proves Sony and PlayStation should return to their glory days of platforming exclusives.
3
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
The Saga Continues To Impress
10/10
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
- Released
-
February 29, 2024
What it’s about: In this middle chapter of the FF7 Remake trilogy, Cloud and company pursue Sephiroth and gather new allies as they attempt to save Gaia.
A love triangle. A talking wolf-lion. Mini-games on segways. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth upped the fun in this second entry in the FF7 Remake trilogy while also recreating (and reimagining) some of the most iconic moments from the original 1997 game. With one of the best casts in gaming history – now in high-def and with voice acting – there’s a lot to love.
It also ends at the perfect place, setting up what’s sure to be a great finale.
– Written by Austin King, Gaming Features & Guides Editor.
ATLUS Proves Its Worth
RPG
JRPG
Action
Adventure
- Released
-
October 11, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
Studio Zero
- Publisher(s)
-
Atlus
What it’s about: After the assassination of the king, Will and friends journey across Euchronia in a world that strangely mirrors our own in this new IP from acclaimed developer Atlus.
In an era of RPG remakes, remasters, and sequels, Metaphor: ReFantazio proved that original IPs can be just as exhilarating (if not more so). It’s got a near-perfect blend of turn-based combat and action elements, a great cast of characters, and so, so many customization options. The Archetype system and story are both standouts to me, and the music is also phenomenal.
Atlus proved it’s still got original ideas, and it paid off handsomely.
– Written by Austin King, Gaming Features & Guides Editor.
1
Balatro
An Indie Titan That Deserves All Its Praise
10/10
Balatro
Strategy
Digital Card Game
Roguelike
- Platform(s)
-
PC
, PS4
, PS5
, Switch
, Xbox One
, Xbox Series X
, Xbox Series S - Released
-
February 20, 2024
- Developer(s)
-
LocalThunk
- Publisher(s)
-
Playstack
What it’s about: Balatro takes the classic poker game to new heights by challenging players to defeat blinds with each successful roguelike run. Don’t expect a traditional poker experience, as Balatro throws one curveball after the next by introducing cards with varying special effects.
Balatro succeeds in bringing something wildly new and exciting to the table as a concept. Luckily, developer LocalThunk created a game that shines not only as a concept but in equal parts thanks to its highly addictive and challenging gameplay. Straightforward rules make Balatro easy to pick up, and the thick layer of strategic complexity will keep you coming back for more.
2024 was the year I dove headfirst into an indie roguelike deck-building game and I’m excited to see what’s next for the now deservedly popular franchise.
– Written by Luca Di Marzo, Gaming Editor.
