Well, we vowed to get this year's Games of the Year article out much earlier than last year and we're actually delivering it even later, incredibly. Let's just say it's been a tough year and leave it at that. At least we've got a pretty decent article for you with some incredibly fantastic picks from 2024. And even though we know you can't really trust us at this point, we do solemnly swear that we will endeavor to have 2025's best-of list out in a much timelier fashion. In the meantime, please enjoy our picks for the 12 best titles that 2024 had to offer:
Viper Phase-1 is pure mid-'90s shmup perfection.
12 Viper Phase-1
Best Shmup, Best Arcade Port
Best Shmup, Best Arcade Port
- Developer: Seibu Kaihatsu
- Platform: Switch
- Number of Players: 1-2
Japanese developer, Seibu Kaihatsu's, Raiden series is one of the longest-running and most-beloved of all the vertical shoot 'em up franchises in the entire history of the genre. However, of this (now) 10+ strong series of titles, the only entry to have never received a console release, was the lesser-known, yet arguably best entry of all - - the 1995 arcade hit, Viper Phase-1. That is to say, it never received a console release until 2024; as that was the year it finally would receive one - - on the Nintendo Switch (in addition to the PlayStation 4, in early 2025), via Hamster's fantastic "Arcade Archives" collection.
As it is technically a spin-off of the series, Viper Phase-1 holds the distinctions of being the only entry (thus far) not to carry the "Raiden" name, as well as being one of the only entries to be primarily set in space. The soundtrack to the title also featured a Slightly different, more synth-heavy sound, but was still fairly popular, particularly in Japan. The arcade original was actually released in two distinct versions with slightly differing mechanics - - the first featured fully-powered secondary weapon pick-ups with limited ammunition, while the later, updated version instead featured the more traditional (Raiden-style) upgradeable primary weapon power-up pick-ups with unlimited ammo.
The Arcade Archives port smartly features both arcade versions, offering the complete Viper Phase-1 experience, thoughtfully catering to the tastes of all of the title's numerous fans. As the arguable pinnacle of the equally arguable greatest "vert shmup" franchise in gaming history, Viper Phase-1 offers up some of the finest, most satisfying, and technically-impressive vertically-scrolling shoot 'em up action to ever grace an arcade machine. Why the game didn't end up on the Saturn or PlayStation, as one of the greatest arcade ports of the mid-'90s, is anyone's guess; however, we'll happily take Viper Phase-1, all these year later, instead, as one of the greatest arcade ports of 2024.
As it is technically a spin-off of the series, Viper Phase-1 holds the distinctions of being the only entry (thus far) not to carry the "Raiden" name, as well as being one of the only entries to be primarily set in space. The soundtrack to the title also featured a Slightly different, more synth-heavy sound, but was still fairly popular, particularly in Japan. The arcade original was actually released in two distinct versions with slightly differing mechanics - - the first featured fully-powered secondary weapon pick-ups with limited ammunition, while the later, updated version instead featured the more traditional (Raiden-style) upgradeable primary weapon power-up pick-ups with unlimited ammo.
The Arcade Archives port smartly features both arcade versions, offering the complete Viper Phase-1 experience, thoughtfully catering to the tastes of all of the title's numerous fans. As the arguable pinnacle of the equally arguable greatest "vert shmup" franchise in gaming history, Viper Phase-1 offers up some of the finest, most satisfying, and technically-impressive vertically-scrolling shoot 'em up action to ever grace an arcade machine. Why the game didn't end up on the Saturn or PlayStation, as one of the greatest arcade ports of the mid-'90s, is anyone's guess; however, we'll happily take Viper Phase-1, all these year later, instead, as one of the greatest arcade ports of 2024.
The gang looks on as boulders literally jump right off of the pages.
11 The Plucky Squire
- Publisher: Devolver
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Switch, Steam
- Number of Players: 1
Though The Plucky Squire is the debut title from indie developer All Possible Futures, the previous experience gained by its co-founders, while they were helping to create various Pokemon titles, as well as the 2018 indie game, The Swords Of Ditto, definitely shines through. The Plucky Squire has to be one of the most incredibly polished indie titles - - debut or otherwise - - that we've ever seen. The titular character, Jot's, storybook adventure - - that takes him and his friends literally off (and back on again) the pages - - is also one of the most delightfully charming in recent memory. In a year that was absolutely stacked with fantastic indie fare, that All Possible Futures still managed to release one of the titles most worthy of jumping into is a pretty impressive feat for a brand new studio - - irrespective of any prior history.
Balatro is every bit as addictive as it is beautiful.
10 Balatro
Best Card Game
Best Card Game
- Publisher: Playstack
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam
- Number of Players: 1
Balatro is a bit of a wild card. Don't get me wrong - - the mechanics of this joker-centric, modifier-enhanced, roguelike deck-building poker variant are ingenious, to be sure. In addition to which, the games various elements, from the wealth of compelling unlockables, to the somehow simultaneously simple, yet slick presentation, are all polished to a mirror-like shine.
After dozens of hours of play, however, with a multitude of different bonus-granting joker combinations, the fact that I still haven't been able to finish a single run, leaves me wondering if this game is intentionally malicious or just ridiculously challenging. Either way, this is one title you'll almost certainly still want to check out. Just consider yourself warned - - Balatro is harder to put down than a hot pair of dice at a Vegas craps table.
After dozens of hours of play, however, with a multitude of different bonus-granting joker combinations, the fact that I still haven't been able to finish a single run, leaves me wondering if this game is intentionally malicious or just ridiculously challenging. Either way, this is one title you'll almost certainly still want to check out. Just consider yourself warned - - Balatro is harder to put down than a hot pair of dice at a Vegas craps table.
It's a shame we could only include one screenshot per title for this list.
09 Neva
- Developer: Nomada
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Switch, PlayStation 4, Steam
- Number of Players: 1
Neva is the sophomore effort from Spanish indie developer, Nomada Studio, following their 2018 hit, Gris. Like Gris, Neva is a platform adventure title featuring a female protagonist, a strong emphasis on puzzles, and a fairly minimalist design philosophy - - as well as a rather ingenious use of colors! Unlike Gris, however, Neva is a much richer, more consistent and satisfying experience - - in terms of its gameplay, story, and most especially, its visuals.
Arguably the main attraction here, the games environments are a constantly changing sight to behold - - a finely-crafted feast of visual splendor. Though the sweet bond between the main character. Alba, and her titular wolf companion, Neva, will certainly tug at your heartstrings, as well. While Gris was certainly worth checking out for fans of that particular genre, Neva is an experience that absolutely shouldn't be missed by anyone.
Arguably the main attraction here, the games environments are a constantly changing sight to behold - - a finely-crafted feast of visual splendor. Though the sweet bond between the main character. Alba, and her titular wolf companion, Neva, will certainly tug at your heartstrings, as well. While Gris was certainly worth checking out for fans of that particular genre, Neva is an experience that absolutely shouldn't be missed by anyone.
"The Hovitos are near..."
08 Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
Best Xbox (Console) Exclusive
Best Xbox (Console) Exclusive
- Developer: MachineGames
- Platforms: Xbox Series X, Steam
- Number of Players: 1
Unlike it's Lucasfilm sibling, Star Wars, the Indiana Jones franchise seldom gets the video game treatment, and the ones it does get are not even always that great. The last decent one that even comes to mind is "The Emperor's Tomb", from way back in 2003! So, it's a relief, then, that not only did we finally get a new Indiana Jones title, in 2024, but that that title also actually managed to rank among the best in the woefully sparse series, so far.
Created by acclaimed Swedish studio - - and recent Wolfenstein developer - MachineGames, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle features cutting edge visuals, incredible audio, movie-caliber action, and one of the best Indy adventures in decades. The game also boasts one of the greatest intros in the entirety of gaming history, and if you're a Raiders of the Lost Ark fan, you are definitely in for a treat. While the game was an Xbox (console) exclusive in 2024, it has since been ported to the PlayStation 5, as well, which is absolutely fantastic, as this game should ideally be made available for as many fans as can get their hands on it.
Created by acclaimed Swedish studio - - and recent Wolfenstein developer - MachineGames, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle features cutting edge visuals, incredible audio, movie-caliber action, and one of the best Indy adventures in decades. The game also boasts one of the greatest intros in the entirety of gaming history, and if you're a Raiders of the Lost Ark fan, you are definitely in for a treat. While the game was an Xbox (console) exclusive in 2024, it has since been ported to the PlayStation 5, as well, which is absolutely fantastic, as this game should ideally be made available for as many fans as can get their hands on it.
The environments in this game look absolutely incredible.
07 Dragon Age: The Veilguard
Best ARPG
Best ARPG
- Developer: BioWare
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X
- Number of Players: 1
While most entries in BioWare's now 15-year-old Dragon Age series have been pretty well-received critically, they have all been subject to at least some criticisms amongst gamers and fans - - and Dragon Age: The Veilguard is no exception. The game included some fairly dramatic changes from previous installments, most notably regarding the combat system and the reduced focus on the choices, events, and characters from those earlier titles. The game also suffered some fairly widespread criticism and review bombing for "being woke", which, while a bit silly, was not entirely unfounded - - particularly in light of the occasional eye-rollingly cringey and glaringly out of place dialogue that was shoehorned in in a pretty clumsy and futile (not to mention patronizingly corporate) attempt to be all things to all people.
But for better and/or worse as far as the changes are concerned, beyond them lies one of BioWare's most incredibly polished, visually-impressive, epic adventures yet. Not to mention one of the greatest fantasy action titles in recent memory. Though bits and pieces almost certainly won't be to everyone's taste, the game as a whole can't honestly be regarded as anything other than an absolute triumph - - one that shouldn't be missed under any circumstances.
But for better and/or worse as far as the changes are concerned, beyond them lies one of BioWare's most incredibly polished, visually-impressive, epic adventures yet. Not to mention one of the greatest fantasy action titles in recent memory. Though bits and pieces almost certainly won't be to everyone's taste, the game as a whole can't honestly be regarded as anything other than an absolute triumph - - one that shouldn't be missed under any circumstances.
The first of many victories to come...
06 Unicorn Overlord
Best Strategy Game
Best Strategy Game
- Publisher: Atlus
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Switch, PlayStation 4
- Number of Players: 1
Another outstanding entry from acclaimed Japanese developer, Vanillaware, Unicorn Overlord is their modern take on the tactical RPG genre - - or more specifically, their version of a Fire Emblem game. As usual, for a Vanillaware title, the art design of the game is the main attraction, and truly a sight to behold. But in Unicorn Overlord's case, those top-notch visuals are also paired to some pretty satisfying and surprisingly deep tactical RPG gameplay - - with a few unique twists to the typical formula thrown in for good measure. As such, Unicorn Overlord isn't just one of Vanillaware's best titles, to date - - out of an already impressive list - - but also effectively gives one of Nintendo's strongest franchises a serious run for its money.
Zelda summons a frienemy.
05 The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Best Action-Adventure Game, Best Switch Exclusive
Best Action-Adventure Game, Best Switch Exclusive
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom is simultaneously Nintendo's 20th and 1st (official) Zelda game. That's because, despite their incredibly famous - - tens of titles strong - - Legend of Zelda series having been around for nearly 40 years now, Echoes of Wisdom represents the first ever adventure to actually star the titular character, herself. But while the gameplay and protagonist are somewhat new and different from the typical Zelda title, the world and its inhabitants will still make players feel right at home.
That being said, even Echoes gameplay isn't really all that far removed from a lot of what Link can do in 2023's Tears of the Kingdom. Though, in addition to being able to copy certain items, Echoes newly-introduced Tri Rod lets your protagonist duplicate enemies as well - -allowing them to literally fight your battles for you. Overall, Echoes of Wisdom is an, at once, comfortably familiar, yet surprisingly fresh take on the Legend of Zelda formula that adds up to another great can't miss entry in Nintendo's incredibly indefatigable series.
That being said, even Echoes gameplay isn't really all that far removed from a lot of what Link can do in 2023's Tears of the Kingdom. Though, in addition to being able to copy certain items, Echoes newly-introduced Tri Rod lets your protagonist duplicate enemies as well - -allowing them to literally fight your battles for you. Overall, Echoes of Wisdom is an, at once, comfortably familiar, yet surprisingly fresh take on the Legend of Zelda formula that adds up to another great can't miss entry in Nintendo's incredibly indefatigable series.
This game looks even more amazing in motion!
04 New Star GP
Best Racing Game, Best Indie Game
Best Racing Game, Best Indie Game
- Developer: New Star Games
- Platforms: Xbox Series X, Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Steam
- Number of Players: 1-2
In the early '90s, legendary video game company, Sega, was blowing up the arcades with incredible hits like Virtua Racing and Virtua Fighter which featured never before seen cutting edge three-dimensional polygonal graphics. While graphics engines have certainly come a long way in the last 30+ years, the style of that primitive, yet polished aesthetic still has a certain undeniably appealing charm, which British indie developer, New Star Games, has most definitely succeeded in
tapping into, with their 2024 racing hit, New Star GP. That being said, New Star GP is actually far more sophisticated than Virtua Racing ever was.
Whereas Virtua Racing was more generic and limited, in terms of its handful of fictional courses (and three different vehicle types, on the 32X home version), New Star GP is much more focused - - on the world of Formula 1 - - and with more courses on offer. Though the game is not officially licensed, everything is still (incredibly) detailed enough just to avoid a lawsuit. The in-game tracks may not be called "Monaco", or "Spa" , or "Gilles Villeneuve" , but they are all rendered
closely enough to be pretty unmistakable - - the same also goes for your on-track rivals, whose names and appearances should largely be similarly obvious nods for anyone who has any familiarity with the past and present stars of the sport.
In addition to the welcome features that Virtua Racing also offered, such as split-screen multiplayer, and the ability to "pit", New Star also offers plenty of additional features that VR didn't, including changing weather patterns, the ability to manage fuel load and tire types, the ability to manage your team, as well as all manner of perks, upgrades, and customization options to play with. The game's sole (nearly) unforgivable omission - - that even Virtua Racing managed to offer, all the way back in 1992 - - is the ability to race with a manual transmission. But in the end, New Star GP offers up so much despite this single glaring oversight that its still an easy game to recommend, as well as the clear winner for greatest racing title of 2024.
tapping into, with their 2024 racing hit, New Star GP. That being said, New Star GP is actually far more sophisticated than Virtua Racing ever was.
Whereas Virtua Racing was more generic and limited, in terms of its handful of fictional courses (and three different vehicle types, on the 32X home version), New Star GP is much more focused - - on the world of Formula 1 - - and with more courses on offer. Though the game is not officially licensed, everything is still (incredibly) detailed enough just to avoid a lawsuit. The in-game tracks may not be called "Monaco", or "Spa" , or "Gilles Villeneuve" , but they are all rendered
closely enough to be pretty unmistakable - - the same also goes for your on-track rivals, whose names and appearances should largely be similarly obvious nods for anyone who has any familiarity with the past and present stars of the sport.
In addition to the welcome features that Virtua Racing also offered, such as split-screen multiplayer, and the ability to "pit", New Star also offers plenty of additional features that VR didn't, including changing weather patterns, the ability to manage fuel load and tire types, the ability to manage your team, as well as all manner of perks, upgrades, and customization options to play with. The game's sole (nearly) unforgivable omission - - that even Virtua Racing managed to offer, all the way back in 1992 - - is the ability to race with a manual transmission. But in the end, New Star GP offers up so much despite this single glaring oversight that its still an easy game to recommend, as well as the clear winner for greatest racing title of 2024.
"Let slip the dogs of war."
03 Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II
Best First/Third-Person Shooter
Best First/Third-Person Shooter
- Developer: Saber
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Steam
- Number of Players: 1 locally or 2-12 online
The original Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine, was a fairly decent 2011 Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 title from former American video game company, THQ. Though it took 13 years to materialize and was released by American developer, Saber Interactive, and French publisher, Focus Entertainment, instead, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X second installment does continue the story of UItramarine Demetrian Titus, while featuring the same type of brutal hack and slash and third-person shooter gameplay. In addition to boasting much better graphics (compliments of the double generational jump in console power) Space Marine II also traded the somewhat sillier "Ork" enemies of the original title for the creepier insect-like Tyranids - - giving a slightly more serious, almost Starship Troopers vibe to the proceedings. Though it may not be the best or most polished title of 2024, Space Marine II easily offers up the most compelling single and multiplayer shooter options - - and gameplay - - of the year and, as such, is a more than worthy follow-up that easily manages to outshine the original.
Astro Bot traverses a wormhole with the help of his trusty DualSense controller.
02 Astro Bot
Best Platformer, Best PlayStation Exclusive
Best Platformer, Best PlayStation Exclusive
- Developer: Team Asobi
- Platform: PlayStation 5
- Number of Players: 1
One of the most welcome surprises from 2020, was the PlayStation 5 title, Astro's Playroom. An incredibly polished and entertaining platformer, the game also served as both an introductory demonstration to - - and technical showcase of - - the capabilities of the console and it's (then) all-new "DualSense" controller. The best part of all, however, was the fact that the title came pre-installed, as a completely free extra - - unlike Nintendo's similar, yet incredibly inferior, sold separately, Switch 2 Welcome Tour title - - on every single PlayStation 5 console sold. Astro's Playroom was such a big hit, in fact, that Sony and the game's developer, Team Asobi - - formerly (Sony) Japan Studio - would follow it up with the 2024 standard retail, full-length sequel, Astro Bot.
While still showcasing the abilities of the DualSense controller, Astro Bot also serves as a celebration of the 30-year history of Sony's PlayStation brand - - with nods, stages, and a multitude of discoverable themed "Bot" characters, peppered throughout the game, referencing the various popular titles that have graced its consoles over the years. Like Astro's Playroom, Astro Bot is an incredibly polished joy to play that more than makes up for the full retail price with a lengthy adventure so compellingly whimsical that it even manages to stand up alongside some of Nintendo's best work. Not only is Astro bot easily one of the best games of 2024, but it might just also be one of Sony's best games ever. Not a bad way to celebrate a 30-year anniversary.
While still showcasing the abilities of the DualSense controller, Astro Bot also serves as a celebration of the 30-year history of Sony's PlayStation brand - - with nods, stages, and a multitude of discoverable themed "Bot" characters, peppered throughout the game, referencing the various popular titles that have graced its consoles over the years. Like Astro's Playroom, Astro Bot is an incredibly polished joy to play that more than makes up for the full retail price with a lengthy adventure so compellingly whimsical that it even manages to stand up alongside some of Nintendo's best work. Not only is Astro bot easily one of the best games of 2024, but it might just also be one of Sony's best games ever. Not a bad way to celebrate a 30-year anniversary.
"KO!"
01 Tekken 8
Best Fighting Game, Best Multi-platform Game, Game of the Year
Best Fighting Game, Best Multi-platform Game, Game of the Year
- Publisher: Bandai Namco
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Steam
- Number of Players: 1-2 locally or 2 online
(Bandai) Namco's Tekken series has been a mainstay of the fighting genre since the mid '90s. As such, the franchise has certainly seen it's fair share of ups and downs, with the last entry, 2015's Tekken 7, arguably being a bit more down than up. Thankfully though, 2024's Tekken 8 constituted a much-needed - - and most welcome - - return to (fighting) form.
Featuring a more cinematic style, and graphics to match - - compliments of the Unreal Engine 5 - - Tekken 8 is easily the best looking Tekken title ever made. Furthermore, the much-needed all-new character models and voice acting, also made it one of the freshest entries in decades. Add in the interesting new modes, thoughtful technical improvements, and fantastic new characters, and its little wonder why Tekken 8 isn't just one of the best Tekken games in decades, but one of the best 3D fighters, as well.
Featuring a more cinematic style, and graphics to match - - compliments of the Unreal Engine 5 - - Tekken 8 is easily the best looking Tekken title ever made. Furthermore, the much-needed all-new character models and voice acting, also made it one of the freshest entries in decades. Add in the interesting new modes, thoughtful technical improvements, and fantastic new characters, and its little wonder why Tekken 8 isn't just one of the best Tekken games in decades, but one of the best 3D fighters, as well.
Dishonorable Mention
The Suicide Squad looks on helpless, hopelessly trapped in a terrible game.
00 Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League
Most Disappointing Game of the Year
Most Disappointing Game of the Year
- Publisher: Warner Bros
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Steam
- Number of Players: 1-4 online
The Rocksteady Arkham titles - - not counting the forgettable 2016 PS4 VR minigame/tech demo - - are three of the greatest video game experiences ever created by any developer, ever. They were so good, in fact, that Rocksteady probably could have just closed up shop and opened a successful technical school training other developers the proper way to make great single-player adventures. If their parent company, Warner Bros, had just let Rocksteady continue to stick to doing what they were good at, the aforementioned VR title would likely have been the only notable spot on their otherwise impeccable resume.
Unfortunately, Warner Bros apparently wanted to cash in on the "games as a service" model, and directed Rocksteady to go well outside of their comfort zone by taking over the development of an online-only multiplayer Suicide Squad title from WB's decidedly less talented Montreal studio. After a lengthy and turbulent seven-year development period, during which time the project would see multiple delays, the departure of the studio's two co-founders, and, sadly, even the death of Kevin Conroy - - the legendary long-time voice actor of the Dark Knight, himself - - it would finally limp across the finish line in February of 2024. In a pretty telling move, however, no gaming publications would be sent early review codes; and to make matters worse, the early release period for Deluxe Edition pre-order purchasers would be hampered by both bugs, and a self-inflicted hours-long server takedown.
Following wide release, the game was almost universally panned by gamers and reviewers, alike, in large part for its required online connection, and live service model, which only seemed to serve to bring down what otherwise might have been another decent, if not spectacular, single-player Rocksteady title. The game would also ultimately prove to be an unmitigated disaster for Warner Bros and Rocksteady, resulting in a $200 million financial loss for the former, massive layoffs for the latter, and a discontinuation of support for the title less than a year after its release. While we can only hope that Warner Bros has learned a valuable lesson, here, and will strive to make less terrible business decisions going forward, it is still regrettable that Rocksteady even had to be involved in this absolute flustercluck of a title, or that this, of all titles, had to be Kevin Conroy's final video game performance. Rocksteady deserves better, and Mr Conroy definitely deserved better.
Unfortunately, Warner Bros apparently wanted to cash in on the "games as a service" model, and directed Rocksteady to go well outside of their comfort zone by taking over the development of an online-only multiplayer Suicide Squad title from WB's decidedly less talented Montreal studio. After a lengthy and turbulent seven-year development period, during which time the project would see multiple delays, the departure of the studio's two co-founders, and, sadly, even the death of Kevin Conroy - - the legendary long-time voice actor of the Dark Knight, himself - - it would finally limp across the finish line in February of 2024. In a pretty telling move, however, no gaming publications would be sent early review codes; and to make matters worse, the early release period for Deluxe Edition pre-order purchasers would be hampered by both bugs, and a self-inflicted hours-long server takedown.
Following wide release, the game was almost universally panned by gamers and reviewers, alike, in large part for its required online connection, and live service model, which only seemed to serve to bring down what otherwise might have been another decent, if not spectacular, single-player Rocksteady title. The game would also ultimately prove to be an unmitigated disaster for Warner Bros and Rocksteady, resulting in a $200 million financial loss for the former, massive layoffs for the latter, and a discontinuation of support for the title less than a year after its release. While we can only hope that Warner Bros has learned a valuable lesson, here, and will strive to make less terrible business decisions going forward, it is still regrettable that Rocksteady even had to be involved in this absolute flustercluck of a title, or that this, of all titles, had to be Kevin Conroy's final video game performance. Rocksteady deserves better, and Mr Conroy definitely deserved better.
So that concludes our 11th hour best of 2024 list. Please accept our sincerest apologies, once again. Here's hoping that next year will go a little smoother. As always, please feel free to share your own picks and/or opinions about ours. Till the next time!
[Images: Team Asobi, Seibu Kaihatsu, Devolver, Playstack, Nomada, MachineGames, BioWare, Atlus, Nintendo, New Star Games, Saber, Bandai Namco, Warner Bros]
 | [AJ Amideo] |