The Top 10 Must-Play Games of the Year

As we reflect on the gaming landscape of 2024, it's clear that this year has delivered an impressive array of titles across various genres and platforms. From long-awaited sequels to innovative new IPs, gamers have been treated to experiences that push the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay, and technical achievement. Let's dive into the top 10 must-play games that have defined this extraordinary year in gaming.

1. Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

FromSoftware has once again proven their mastery of the action RPG genre with the highly anticipated expansion to 2022's Game of the Year. "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" takes players on a new journey through the Lands Between, offering a fresh narrative and gameplay experience that builds upon the foundation of the original[1].

The expansion introduces:

• New areas to explore, filled with breathtaking vistas and treacherous dungeons
• Additional bosses that challenge even the most seasoned Tarnished
• Expanded lore that deepens the rich mythology of the Elden Ring universe
• Innovative weapons and spells that add new dimensions to combat

With its unparalleled world design and rewarding gameplay loop, "Shadow of the Erdtree" cements Elden Ring's position as one of the greatest action RPGs of all time.

2. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Square Enix continues to redefine the JRPG genre with "Final Fantasy VII Rebirth," the highly anticipated second installment in the Final Fantasy VII remake project[4]. This standalone adventure expands the story beyond the confines of Midgar, allowing players to explore a vast open world as Cloud and his companions pursue the enigmatic Sephiroth.

Key features include:

• A reimagined and expanded narrative that both honors and reinvents the original story
• Stunning visuals that bring the world of Final Fantasy VII to life like never before
• An evolved combat system that blends real-time action with strategic elements
• A rich cast of characters, each with their own compelling arcs and development

"Final Fantasy VII Rebirth" not only lives up to the legacy of its predecessor but also stands as a testament to the power of modern game design and storytelling.

3. Helldivers 2

Arrowhead Game Studios has delivered a multiplayer phenomenon with "Helldivers 2," a cooperative shooter that has taken the gaming world by storm[4]. Set in a satirical sci-fi universe, players join forces to defend Super Earth from alien threats across the galaxy.

Highlights of the game include:

• Intense, squad-based combat that requires teamwork and strategy
• A variety of missions and objectives that keep gameplay fresh and exciting
• A robust progression system that rewards players with new weapons and abilities
• Regular content updates that expand the game's universe and challenges

With its blend of humor, action, and camaraderie, "Helldivers 2" has quickly become one of the most talked-about multiplayer experiences of the year.

4. Dragon's Dogma 2

Capcom's long-awaited sequel to the cult classic action RPG has finally arrived, and it doesn't disappoint[3]. "Dragon's Dogma 2" builds upon the unique gameplay elements of its predecessor while introducing new features that make the world feel more alive and reactive than ever.

The game offers:

• An expansive open world filled with dynamic encounters and hidden secrets
• The return of the pawn system, now with enhanced AI and more meaningful interactions
• A deep character creation system that allows for truly unique protagonists
• Epic battles against massive creatures that test players' skills and strategy

With its blend of Western and Eastern RPG elements, "Dragon's Dogma 2" offers a singular experience that stands out in the crowded fantasy genre.

5. Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2

Ninja Theory's follow-up to the critically acclaimed "Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice" takes players on another harrowing journey through the mind of its protagonist[7]. "Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2" continues to explore themes of mental health and Norse mythology, now with even more stunning visuals and immersive audio design.

The sequel features:

• A gripping narrative that delves deeper into Senua's psyche and the world around her
• Enhanced combat mechanics that feel more visceral and impactful
• Breathtaking environments that blur the line between reality and hallucination
• Innovative use of binaural audio to create a truly immersive experience

While some may find the gameplay less empowering than its predecessor, "Hellblade 2" remains a powerful and thought-provoking experience that pushes the boundaries of interactive storytelling.

6. Tekken 8

The latest entry in the long-running fighting game series brings the iconic characters of Tekken into the next generation with stunning graphics and refined gameplay[1]. "Tekken 8" builds upon the solid foundation of its predecessors while introducing new mechanics that keep the combat fresh and exciting.

Key features include:

• A roster of both familiar faces and new challengers, each with unique fighting styles
• A cinematic story mode that delves into the complex relationships between characters
• Refined netcode for smooth online matches and competitive play
• New gameplay systems that add depth to the already intricate combat

With its combination of accessibility and depth, "Tekken 8" appeals to both newcomers and veterans of the fighting game genre.

7. Alan Wake 2

Remedy Entertainment's long-awaited sequel to the cult classic psychological thriller finally arrived this year, and it was worth the wait[5]. "Alan Wake 2" expands upon the original's unique blend of supernatural horror and meta-narrative, now with even more mind-bending twists and turns.

The game offers:

• A dual-protagonist structure that allows players to experience the story from multiple perspectives
• Enhanced combat mechanics that make confrontations with the Taken more intense and strategic
• A richly detailed world that's ripe for exploration and filled with secrets to uncover
• A narrative that intertwines with Remedy's larger connected universe of games

With its atmospheric storytelling and improved gameplay, "Alan Wake 2" stands as one of the year's most captivating and unsettling experiences.

8. Frostpunk 2

11 Bit Studios has expanded upon their unique blend of city-building and survival strategy with "Frostpunk 2"[9]. Set 30 years after the events of the original game, players must guide their society through new challenges in a world still gripped by an endless winter.

The sequel introduces:

• A larger, more complex city to manage with expanded political and social systems
• New technologies and resources to discover and exploit
• Moral dilemmas that force players to make difficult decisions for the greater good
• An endless mode available from launch, providing limitless replayability

With its deep systems and thought-provoking themes, "Frostpunk 2" offers a challenging and rewarding experience for strategy fans.

9. Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

Capcom's innovative action-strategy game set in feudal Japan offers a unique twist on the tower defense genre[8]. "Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess" combines fast-paced combat with thoughtful resource management in a beautifully realized world inspired by Japanese mythology.

Key features include:

• A day-night cycle that alternates between exploration and intense defense battles
• A cast of characters with distinct abilities that can be strategically deployed
• Stunning visuals that bring the game's mythological setting to life
• A compelling narrative that unfolds through environmental storytelling and minimal dialogue

With its blend of action and strategy, "Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess" offers a fresh and engaging experience that stands out in a crowded market.

10. Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

The latest entry in the popular first-person shooter franchise continues to dominate the multiplayer scene while offering a compelling single-player campaign[10]. "Call of Duty: Black Ops 6" builds upon the series' strengths while introducing new elements that keep the formula feeling fresh.

The game features:

• A gripping campaign that explores the complexities of modern warfare
• Enhanced multiplayer modes with new maps, weapons, and customization options
• Improved graphics and sound design that immerse players in the action
• Regular content updates that keep the community engaged long after launch

While it may not reinvent the wheel, "Call of Duty: Black Ops 6" delivers the polished, high-octane experience that fans have come to expect from the series.

Honorable Mentions

While these ten games represent the cream of the crop, 2024 has been filled with other notable releases that deserve recognition:

• "UFO 50": A collection of 50 retro-inspired games that offer a nostalgic trip through gaming history[6].
• "Animal Well": A haunting and atmospheric 2D platformer that challenges players with its cryptic world and clever puzzles[6].
• "Satisfactory": A first-person factory building game that combines exploration, combat, and intricate automation[6].
• "Balatro": A unique roguelike deckbuilder that puts an innovative spin on poker mechanics[6].
• "Lorelei and the Laser Eyes": A surreal puzzle adventure that challenges players with its mind-bending mysteries[6].

Conclusion

The gaming landscape of 2024 has been defined by a diverse array of experiences that cater to all tastes and preferences. From epic RPGs to innovative strategy games, this year's releases have pushed the boundaries of what's possible in interactive entertainment. Whether you're a fan of intense multiplayer action or prefer solitary adventures in richly realized worlds, there's something for everyone in this stellar lineup of games.

As we look back on the year, it's clear that the industry continues to evolve and surprise us with new ideas and refinements of classic formulas. The games highlighted here not only represent the best of what 2024 has to offer but also point towards an exciting future for the medium. As technology advances and developers continue to push creative boundaries, we can only imagine what incredible experiences await us in the years to come.

So, whether you're catching up on the year's biggest hits or looking forward to what's next, these ten must-play games serve as a testament to the artistry, innovation, and sheer fun that video games can provide. Here's to another year of unforgettable gaming moments and the countless adventures that lie ahead.

Citations

[1] https://tekken.com

[2] https://www.alanwake.com

[3] https://www.dragonsdogma.com/2/en-us/

[4] https://www.techradar.com/gaming/techradar-gaming-game-of-the-year-2024

[5] https://www.ign.com/articles/the-best-reviewed-games-of-2024

[6] https://www.metacritic.com/browse/game/all/all/current-year/

[7] https://www.reddit.com/r/hellblade/comments/1d6mnst/senuas_saga_hellblade_2_review/

[8] https://www.ign.com/articles/kunitsu-gami-path-of-the-goddess-review

[9] https://www.pcgamesn.com/frostpunk-2/guide

[10] https://www.circana.com/intelligence/entertainment-top-10/2024/top-10-video-games/