Ten Underrated Video Games of 2024 You Might Have Missed
2024 saw a flurry of video game releases, but some gems were overshadowed by bigger titles or launch hiccups. This article highlights ten games deserving more recognition. Prepare to discover hidden treasures!
Table of Contents
- Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
- Last Epoch
- Open Roads
- Pacific Drive
- Rise of the Ronin
- Cannibal Abduction
- Still Wakes the Deep
- Indika
- Crow Country
- Nobody Wants to Die
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
Image: bolumsonucanavari.com
- Release Date: September 9, 2024
- Developer: Saber St. Petersburg
- Download: Steam
This action game exemplifies modern action game design. As Captain Titus, you battle relentless Tyranids using the Ultramarines' arsenal. Cinematic combat, a grim future atmosphere, and co-op gameplay create incredibly engaging missions. Stunning graphics bring the Warhammer universe to life.
Why Underrated: Despite its quality, Space Marine 2 surprisingly missed a "Game of the Year" nomination, sparking fan outrage. Its dynamic gameplay, visuals, co-op, and setting should appeal far beyond Warhammer fans.
Last Epoch
Image: store.steampowered.com
- Release Date: February 21, 2024
- Developer: Eleventh Hour Games
- Download: Steam
This action-RPG features time travel and deep character development. Explore Eterra, battling enemies and altering history across different epochs. Five base classes, numerous subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting ensure diverse and exciting gameplay.
Why Underrated: Last Epoch initially gained traction but was quickly forgotten. Its unique time-altering system, balanced gameplay, and accessible tutorials make it a standout action-RPG.
Open Roads
Image: backloggd.com
- Release Date: March 28, 2024
- Developer: Open Roads Team
- Download: Steam
Open Roads tells a poignant story of a mother and daughter uncovering family secrets. Focusing on dialogue, emotional scenes, and exploration, its unique visual style (blending drawn characters with 3D environments) is memorable. It's a deep dive into relationships and the search for truth.
Why Underrated: Its intimate nature and lack of action may have alienated some. However, it's a powerful example of storytelling in video games, showcasing the art form's emotional depth.
Pacific Drive
Image: store.playstation.com
- Release Date: February 22, 2024
- Developer: Ironwood Studios
- Download: Steam
This unique survival simulator features a car as your only ally. Explore a forbidden zone filled with anomalies, repairing your vehicle and avoiding dangers. Every journey is a challenge, requiring careful planning and resource management. The atmosphere and grim world are unforgettable.
Why Underrated: While critically acclaimed (positive Metacritic and OpenCritic scores), controversial controls, interface, and constant repairs proved challenging for some players. Repetitive gameplay and random events also drew criticism. Despite its flaws, its originality and atmosphere deserve recognition.
Rise of the Ronin
Image: deskyou.de
- Release Date: March 22, 2024
- Developer: Team Ninja
- Download: PlayStation
Team Ninja's action-RPG transports you to 19th-century Japan. As a ronin, you navigate the conflict between tradition and progress. It blends samurai combat, open-world exploration, and a compelling story with moral choices. The visuals capture the spirit of the era.
Why Underrated: Rise of the Ronin may have been overshadowed by other major releases. While categorized as "another samurai game," its unique atmosphere and historical depth set it apart.
Cannibal Abduction
Image: nintendo.com
- Release Date: January 13, 2023
- Developer: Selewi, Tomás Esconjaureguy
- Download: Steam
This tense survival horror returns to genre roots. Trapped in a cabin and pursued by cannibals, survival is paramount. You'll scavenge, hide, and solve puzzles while uncovering a horrifying story. The oppressive atmosphere and limited resources create constant tension.
Why Underrated: Cannibal Abduction may have been lost amidst larger horror releases. Its low-fi graphics, while contributing to its unique charm, might deter those seeking high-fidelity visuals. It's a tribute to classic survival horror.
Still Wakes the Deep
Image: pixelrz.com
- Release Date: June 18, 2024
- Developer: The Chinese Room
- Download: Steam
This atmospheric horror game is set on a North Sea oil platform. Survive and escape an unexplained horror lurking in the darkness. The tense atmosphere, sound design, and detailed setting create an immersive and chilling experience. Your wit and instincts are your only allies.
Why Underrated: Modest marketing and its niche genre may have limited its reach. It's a masterclass in atmospheric horror, reminiscent of SOMA and Amnesia, but with a unique setting and survival elements.
Indika
Image: store.epicgames.com
- Release Date: May 2, 2024
- Developer: Odd-Meter
- Download: Steam
Indika is a provocative game blending religion, philosophy, and the search for truth with abstract gameplay. Navigate dark spaces, interacting with clues in a surreal experience. Despite lacking traditional mechanics, its serene atmosphere, cutscenes, and mini-games offer a visually rich and contemplative narrative.
Why Underrated: Despite award nominations, Indika was often criticized for its "blank slate" gameplay and lengthy cutscenes. However, its visual style and philosophical approach make it a unique art project.
Crow Country
Image: store.steampowered.com
- Release Date: May 9, 2024
- Developer: SFB Games
- Download: Steam
A remake of a cult classic, this survival horror game with puzzle elements is reminiscent of PlayStation 1 titles. Explore an abandoned amusement park, facing mysteries, monsters, and dangers. Its retro horror visuals and gripping story create an unforgettable experience.
Why Underrated: Positive reviews notwithstanding, Crow Country was overshadowed by larger releases. While some criticized its simple combat and puzzles, its attention to detail, plot twists, and gameplay make it a worthwhile experience.
Nobody Wants to Die
Image: youtube.com
- Release Date: July 17, 2024
- Developer: Critical Hit Games
- Download: Steam
This dystopian detective game is set in a grim, art-deco New York in 2329, where death has been conquered. Detective James Carr investigates murders, uncovering mysteries related to transhumanism and immortality. It blends detective elements and sci-fi with photorealistic graphics and unique time-manipulation mechanics.
Why Underrated: Despite its ambitious concepts and philosophical questions, Nobody Wants to Die lacks widespread recognition. Its blend of genres and competition from larger titles may have hindered its success.
2024 offered many ambitious games, some of which deserved more attention. From philosophical explorations to tense horror and unique adventures, these games offer something special. Remember, not every excellent game becomes a major hit, and sometimes the smaller gems leave the most lasting impression.
