15 Best Video Games to Try Now – 2024 edition

Need a new game to get hooked on? Great timing – 2024 is turning out to be an amazing year for gaming.

The market is buzzing with some of the best video games we’ve seen, ranging from adrenaline-pumping shooters to complex RPGs that mess with your mind. I’ve spent way too many hours playing and reviewing these games, and this year’s lineup stands out.

Gaming in 2024 brings everything to the table. You’ll find reimagined classics and fresh titles that redefine the limits of creativity. Our top 15 picks for 2024 cover all bases – from multiplayer action to rich story-driven adventures. This list will point you toward your next gaming obsession.

Each game made the cut based on its polish, breakthroughs, and what players are saying about it. Now Let me show you the list of Best 2024 Video Games that you should check out.

Astro Bot

Game of the Year, Best Action/Adventure Game, Best Family Game, and Best Game Direction. This is the awards that Astro Bot Acclaimed this year. Developed by Team Asobi and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment.

The latest PS5 platformer Astro Bot has consumed countless hours of my gaming time in 2024. This delightful game offers 90 levels spread through six galaxies, surpassing its previous versions in size and scope.

Astro Bot Gameplay Features

The game’s core gameplay hits a sweet spot. Astro’s moves became second nature as I jumped, hovered, and punched my way through vibrant worlds. The addition of 15 new abilities transformed both movement and ways to curb enemies.

My playthrough revealed these standout features:

• All but one of these difficulty settings cater to every skill level
• Hardcore players can tackle optional challenge stages
• Additional free levels will arrive later
• Players can capture perfect moments with photo mode

Astro Bot Graphics and Sound

The visual quality left me speechless. Crystal clear 4K graphics showcase stunning details in environments ranging from sandy beaches to volcanic zones. Sound design deserves a special mention – the DualSense controller delivers each footstep and action with remarkable precision.

Astro Bot Platform Exclusivity

PS5’s exclusive title showcases the console’s capabilities brilliantly. The DualSense controller’s haptic feedback lets players feel different surface textures, while adaptive triggers provide resistance during special ability use. The PS5’s SSD ensures lightning-fast loading times.

The game’s approach to different play styles impressed me. Players have options to disable motion controls or use a single analog stick. These accessibility options make Astro Bot stand out as one of 2024’s finest games that everyone can enjoy.

Check this article for more: Astro Bot Unleashed: Your Complete Adventure Mastery Guide

Black Myth: Wukong

This Game won Best Action Game award and also won the Player’s Choice award. Black Myth: Wukong distinguishes itself as one of 2024’s finest video game by offering a unique perspective on Chinese mythology. This action RPG amazed players and sold 20 million copies during its first month.

Black Myth: Wukong Combat System

The game’s combat system captivates players with its speed and constant action. Several features make the fights thrilling:

• Quick dodges create phantom copies
• Staff combat with three distinct stances
• Shapeshifting abilities for different combat styles
• Focus points system for powerful attacks

Black Myth: Wukong Visual Design

Unreal Engine 5 delivers breathtaking graphics that exceed expectations.

The game utilizes state-of-the-art features – Nanite creates incredibly detailed environments while Lumen provides dynamic lighting that adapts to the time of day. Mythical creatures display crystal-clear scales, and the lighting brings forests to life.

Black Myth: Wukong Story Elements

The narrative draws inspiration from the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West, yet adds its unique interpretation.

Six chapters unfold across locations like Black Wind Mountain and Flaming Mountains. Players encounter characters from Chinese mythology, each with backstories connected to the original tale.

This game earns its place among 2024’s best titles by combining intense boss fights with spectacular visuals. PS5 and Windows users can enjoy the game in 4K resolution, while Xbox Series X|S players must wait longer for their version.

Check this for more details: Black Myth: Wukong 2024: Overview, Specs, and Gameplay

Another Crab’s Treasure

My gaming journey through 2024’s new releases led me to a hidden gem called Another Crab’s Treasure. This charming adventure puts you in the role of Kril, a tiny hermit crab on a mission to reclaim his shell in an ocean filled with trash.

Another Crab’s Treasure Mechanics

The shell system stands out as the game’s most innovative feature. Players can choose from a wealth of shells – more than 50 different options. Each shell serves double duty as protective armor and a special ability provider. The system shines through several features:

• One-button shell swapping
• Movement speed varies by weight class
• Shell Spells provide unique abilities
• Shells offer different durability levels

Another Crab’s Treasure World Design

The underwater realm unfolds through kelp forests, coral reefs, and sand castle cities. Environmental storytelling reveals the impact of pollution on ocean life effectively. The game cleverly uses microplastics as currency, which works brilliantly both as a gameplay element and an environmental statement.

If you need a guidence for this game, check this: Another Crab’s Treasure Guide

Diablo IV

The wild Nahantu region awaits players in the expansion, and people know it as the Torajan Jungles. The new Seething Realms got me excited because I can battle these twisted creatures called Hollows.

The game has added Torment difficulty levels that players unlock through Pit Tiers, and they provide tougher challenges with better rewards.

Diablo IV Class Updates

A complete makeover changed the power system entirely. These changes caught my attention:

• Paragon level cap increased to 300
• 10 new character levels with fresh skills
• Legendary glyph bonuses with radius increases
• Greater Affixes on Ancestral Items

Diablo IV Multiplayer Features

Finding teammates became much simpler with the new Party Finder. Players can be very specific about their preferred group type.

The game rewards you with a 10% experience bonus when party members stay close. PC, Xbox, and PlayStation players can team up smoothly, so you can play with friends on any platform.

The expansion introduces an end-game dungeon that demands cooperative teamwork. Helltides now run longer at 55 minutes with brief 5-minute breaks. This gives players more opportunities to hunt rare loot with friends.

Continue reading: Diablo IV Season 4: Mastering the Darkest Challenges

Dragon’s Dogma 2

Dragon’s Dogma 2 dominates my gaming sessions these days. The game’s intense battles keep me coming back for more. This masterpiece stands among 2024’s finest games that had me glued to my screen.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 Combat System

The physics-based battles bring a fresh twist to fighting. Here are some amazing combat features that stand out:

• Throwing exploding barrels to break dams
• Climbing on monsters to target weak spots
• Using fallen enemies as bridges across gaps
• Pushing boulders onto enemy camps

The battles flow naturally without dodge rolls or complex combos. My team creates epic moments together, like that time my archer shot down a griffin while I grabbed its tail.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 Open World

The game’s map stretches four times bigger than its predecessor. My journey led me through dense forests and scorching deserts to new islands near active volcanoes. The game encouraged ground exploration, which rewarded me with hidden caves, surprise boss battles, and valuable treasure.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 Pawn System

These AI companions show remarkable intelligence. They learn from each fight, help with translations, and even negotiate with merchants. Players can create one main Pawn and recruit two more from other adventurers.

The Casual Mode update streamlined the experience with cheaper inn stays and reduced stamina drain while running. My Pawns’ combat skills improved steadily. They started warning me about dangers and choosing effective moves without prompting.

If you like this game, read this: Dragon’s Dogma 2: In-Game Secret Tips Wish You Knew Earlier

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail

Final Fantasy XIV continues to evolve, and the Dawntrail expansion stands out as a remarkable addition to the best 2024 video games lineup.

Dawntrail Story Content

The adventure leads players to Tural’s western continent where they become involved in selecting Tuliyollal’s next ruler. Sunny beaches and dense jungles create a stunning backdrop for the journey. The mysterious golden city becomes the most captivating element of the narrative.

Dawntrail Job Changes

Several significant updates enhance the gameplay experience:

• Players can now reach level 100 for the first time
• Two new jobs expand the roster – Viper specializes in close combat while Pictomancer masters ranged magic
• Each job receives new abilities and balance adjustments
• The battle system undergoes substantial improvements

Dawntrail Raid Content

The Arcadion raid series places players in an arena where warriors compete amid cheering crowds. The Echoes of Vana’diel alliance raid captures Final Fantasy XI’s essence perfectly. The challenging Futures Rewritten Ultimate raid pushes players to demonstrate their mastery of game mechanics.

This expansion’s brilliance lies in its ability to blend classic Final Fantasy elements with innovative features.

Play it like a pro with this guide: 10 Tips for Playing Final Fantasy Like a Pro

Frostpunk 2

Frostpunk 2 won the Best Sim/Strategy Game award this year. My experience with Frostpunk 2 shows how it revolutionizes the survival game formula. This sequel takes place 30 years after the first game, and stands out as one of the most unique games of 2024.

Frostpunk 2 City Management

The city building system has evolved significantly. Rather than placing individual buildings, players can now create complete districts with distinct purposes.

My city evolved into a massive operation where industrial, scientific, and housing zones complement each other perfectly. The game allows players to establish multiple colonies, and each colony can specialize in specific types of production.

Frostpunk 2 Resource Systems

The resource management sets this game apart from other 2024 releases. These are the key elements to monitor:

• Heatstamps serve as currency and research points
• Prefabs help with construction
• Materials come from iron ore and forests
• Oil serves as the primary power source

Frostpunk 2 Moral Choices

The political system captivated me completely. Players work alongside 100 council members from various factions. Every vote counts – laws pass only with 51% support.

My tough decisions, such as implementing double work shifts or using local wildlife as food, created divisions within the city. The tension rises rapidly if groups strongly oppose the decisions.

This game’s uniqueness lies in its consequence-driven gameplay. My choice to prioritize merit over equality brought more workers but eroded trust. The game follows three primary paths: Progress vs. Adaptation, Merit vs. Equality, and Tradition vs. Reason.

If you want further details: Frostpunk 2: Comprehensive Guide to Survival in a Frozen World

Metal Slug Tactics

Metal Slug Tactics stands out as one of the best video games of 2024. The game brilliantly combines classic run-and-gun action with strategic gameplay. Players worldwide got their hands on it on November 5, 2024, and it proved instantly addictive.

Metal Slug Tactics Strategy Elements

The gameplay rewards strategic movement and quick decisions. Characters build up both Dodge points and Adrenaline by covering more ground. Mobile units gain better defenses and unlock special abilities compared to stationary ones.

The Sync system emerges as a game-changing mechanic – soldiers within range automatically join in with free attacks when one unit targets an enemy. This creates impressive chain reactions where teams can eliminate entire enemy groups in a single turn.

Metal Slug Tactics Unit Types

Each soldier brings unique abilities to combat:

• Marco enables teammates to fire twice
• Fio controls drones to reposition allies
• Eri launches multiple grenades across obstacles

The roster expands from three to nine soldiers through gameplay progression. Players can customize weapon loadouts before each mission, combining shotguns for close combat with machine guns to handle long-range encounters.

Metal Slug Tactics Mission Structure

Dynamic objectives keep missions fresh and challenging. Players need to clear three levels in each area before confronting the boss. Every mission tracks two elements:

• Main goal – essential to progress
• Extra task – unlocks bonus rewards

The game’s position among 2024’s best titles comes from its diverse mission objectives. Players face various challenges from eliminating specific targets to surviving enemy waves. Combat variety increases with special vehicles that add unique powers to battles.

Do you want an ultimate guide for this game? Here is: Metal Slug Tactics: Ultimate Strategy Guide to Tam-Tam’s War

Silent Hill 2

Silent Hill 2’s remake stands out as a technical showcase among the best 2024 video games. My testing revealed some interesting quirks across different graphics modes.

Silent Hill 2 Graphics Update

Resolution varies based on your settings. The base PS5 Performance Mode reaches between 1154p-864p. The PS5 Pro version still needs improvements because it runs at lower resolutions, with Performance Mode limited to 900p. Recent patches addressed several visual problems:

• Reduced DLSS visual glitches
• Added AMD FSR 3.1.1 support
• Fixed stuttering problems
• Enhanced Steam Deck performance

Silent Hill 2 Gameplay Changes

Combat feels more responsive now with enemies moving faster. James’s imperfect aim adds an extra layer of tension. The puzzles received a complete overhaul while preserving their original concepts. Players can adjust combat difficulty mid-game, though puzzle difficulty remains locked.

Silent Hill 2 Sound Design

The sound design creates an incredible atmosphere. Original composer Akira Yamaoka returned to create fresh versions of classic tracks.

The PS5’s DualSense speaker emits radio static as monsters approach. The haptic feedback delivers an immersive experience – you can feel Pyramid Head’s knife dragging across the floor above.

The game has excellent accessibility features – players can customize subtitle sizes, backgrounds, and select different colorblind modes. The controller speaker’s radio volume runs high, but headphones solve this problem effectively.

Wanna more details about this game? Check this: Silent Hill 2: A Terrifying Journey In An Eerie Town

Balatro

Balatro caught me by surprise as one of 2024’s best card games. This game brilliantly combines poker with roguelike elements, and I lost track of time experimenting with different card combinations.

Balatro Card System

My journey begins with 52 playing cards and eight cards in each hand. The game’s variety comes from several exciting card types:

• Tarot cards that transform deck cards
• Planet cards that enhance scoring
• Spectral cards that earn extra money
• 150 unique joker cards that alter points

Balatro Progression

The game offers two paths to unlock content. New jokers become available when I complete run objectives. Beating tougher challenges rewards me with fresh decks and stakes. My wins with each deck type are tracked, which encourages me to explore different playstyles.

Balatro Game Modes

Reaching Ante 8 completes the main game, but the adventure continues. Endless Mode lets players chase higher scores – reaching Ante 12 demands an incredible 300,000,000 points. Daily runs add excitement with unique rules and a competitive ranking system.

Every run creates a unique experience. My strategy shifts between focusing on straight flushes and building around pairs. The option to bypass fights and gain special bonuses adds meaningful strategic choices to each run.

Win every game with this 5 tips: Balatro: A Complete Deck-Building Guide | 5 tips to win

Helldivers 2

Helldivers 2 has revolutionized the cooperative shooter landscape in 2024. My adventures involved teaming up with three other players to bring democracy to planets overrun by aliens.

Helldivers 2 Multiplayer Features

The game’s Quickplay system made it seamless to join missions with random players. PS5 and PC cross-play support created a massive pool of potential teammates. Tough situations called for backup, and I could summon help by activating an SOS beacon during missions.

Helldivers 2 Weapons System

The arsenal in this game packs a serious punch. Players start with simple weapons and unlock more powerful options through progression:

• Primary weapons like shotguns and assault rifles
• Secondary weapons including three pistol types
• Support weapons delivered through Stratagems

Helldivers 2 Mission Types

Each mission lasted 40 minutes, providing enough time to complete objectives and tackle optional challenges. The game features two enemy factions – the bug-like Terminids and mechanical Automatons. Difficulty settings ranged from Trivial to Impossible, offering increasingly tougher challenges.

The mission variety kept me coming back for more. Each planet offered unique objectives, from destroying bug nests to dismantling robot factories. The Galactic War map showed how our victories helped reclaim territory from enemy forces.

For this game we Created a whole guide: Helldivers 2: The Most Interesting Game of 2024 on PS5, PC

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Metaphor: ReFantazio took home the Best Art Direction, Best Narrative, and Best RPG awards. This innovative RPG emerges from Persona’s creators but carves its own unique identity.

ReFantazio Battle System

The combat system captivated me instantly. Battles alternate between swift action sequences and strategic turn-based encounters. Targeting enemy weaknesses consumed only half a Turn Icon, which enabled additional strikes.

The system became second nature once I mastered these essential techniques:

• Successful dodges restore two Turn Icons
• Tactical switching between front and back rows
• Archetype skill combinations unleash team attacks
• Strategic blocking prevents weakness exploitation

ReFantazio Character Development

The game features 47 Archetypes divided across 14 distinct groups to develop my team. New gameplay elements unfold gradually – a full four-member squad became available after 15 hours.

My Archetypes grew stronger through meaningful connections with followers, which added depth to character progression.

ReFantazio World Building

Euchronia’s rich narrative showcases eight coexisting tribes with underlying tensions. Some tribes thrive in pristine neighborhoods while others struggle in impoverished districts. The game tackles social issues head-on through its unique premise – a magical election determines the next king based on public trust.

If you are interested in this game, check this out: Metaphor ReFantazio | Your Guide to a Mystical Adventure

Alan Wake 2: Lake House

My experience with Alan Wake 2’s second expansion skyrocketed to the top of my 2024 gaming list. The DLC welcomed me into the Federal Bureau of Control’s Lake House facility as Agent Kiran Estevez, who investigates mysterious events at Cauldron Lake.

Lake House Story Content

Agent Estevez’s investigation reveals two failed research projects at the facility. Scientists’ notes detailed their attempts to replicate Alan Wake’s writing style through bizarre experiments. This horror game takes a unique approach to AI versus human creativity, which adds an unexpected depth to the narrative.

Lake House Environment Design

This facility proved more terrifying than the base game. Each level surprised me with unique elements – endless corridors on one floor, mysterious paint splatters on another, and a haunting room filled with typewriters clicking away.

Alan Wake’s signature shadows blended seamlessly with Control’s concrete architecture.

Lake House New Features

The DLC introduced exciting gameplay elements:

• The Black Rock Launcher became my go-to weapon against new threats
• Challenging computer puzzles required creative solutions
• Detailed floor plans revealed themselves as I ventured deeper

The Painted, new nightmare-inducing monsters, emerge from painted walls without warning. Though the main story takes two hours, I discovered countless secrets and fascinating facility records that kept me exploring longer.

Have more detailed overview and read: Unveiling Alan Wake 2: The Lake House DLC Full Guide

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Call of Duty’s latest release captivated me with its innovative approach to the series. The game deserves its place among 2024’s finest titles, and I discovered this after diving deep into every game mode.

Black Ops 6 Campaign

CIA agents Troy Marshall and Frank Woods’ journey through Operation Desert Storm pulled me into their world. The story unfolded into an intense pursuit of Pantheon, a mysterious organization with CIA connections.

Between missions, the safe house became my strategic hub to plan operations and enhance my equipment.

Black Ops 6 Multiplayer

The game launched with an impressive collection of 16 maps. These features stood out:

• 12 maps designed for classic 6v6 combat
• 4 Strike maps that adapt to both 2v2 and 6v6 matches
• Cross-play between PC, Xbox, and PlayStation
• Enhanced movement system that lets players sprint and slide freely

Black Ops 6 Zombies Mode

Three new maps – Terminus, Liberty Falls, and Citadelle des Morts – became my battleground against endless zombie hordes. Players can tackle these challenges alone or team up with three friends.

Each map’s hidden main quest and side missions added layers of excitement. The Directed Mode stepped in as a helpful guide whenever I hit roadblocks.

The game’s progression system tracks both minor and major achievements. Players can create unique combat styles by combining different perks and ammo modifications. This project, which took four years to complete, stands as one of 2024’s gaming masterpieces.

Read this Full guide: Call of Duty Black Ops 6 Updates: What’s New & How to Adapt

Planet Coaster 2

Planet Coaster 2 stands out with its perfect blend of creative freedom and smart management tools. This theme park simulator deserves recognition as one of 2024’s finest games after my extensive hands-on experience.

Planet Coaster 2 Building Tools

A redesigned path tool transformed my park-building approach. My parks now feature expansive plazas where guests gather, and a scenery brush helps me add details efficiently.

The game puts me in complete control – decorations can be scaled to perfectly match small spaces, and I can attach items directly to coaster cars.

Planet Coaster 2 Management Systems

My park operations became more engaging with these features:

• Power generators to keep rides going
• Staff schedules with three pay levels
• Heat maps for tracking guest needs
• Dynamic pricing for rides

The game excels at highlighting issues that need attention. Heat maps help me spot trouble areas quickly whenever guests become dissatisfied.

Planet Coaster 2 Guest AI

Guests feel more lifelike in this version. Each visitor comes with eight distinct needs to monitor – ranging from simple requirements like food and drinks to specific metrics such as pool panic levels.

Visitors make food choices based on their dietary preferences, and some guests even experience sunburns on sunny days. Clear menus track every detail, so my visitors’ needs stay visible.

If you’re interested in this game, check this out: Planet Coaster 2: The Ultimate Theme Park Experience

Conclusion

The gaming landscape in 2024 offers something special for everyone. My extensive testing reveals an impressive variety of titles that range from Astro Bot’s delightful platforming adventures to the harsh survival decisions in Frostpunk 2.

Several titles left a lasting impression. Black Myth: Wukong expands what games can achieve visually with its breathtaking graphics.

Dragon’s Dogma 2’s thrilling combat system made me eager to jump back into the action. Planet Coaster 2 gave me complete creative freedom to design theme parks that matched my vision.

Technical achievements stood out significantly. Games like Silent Hill 2 and Diablo IV demonstrated remarkable improvements in both visuals and gameplay compared to their predecessors.

Smaller titles such as Balatro and Another Crab’s Treasure proved they could deliver entertainment value that rivals major releases.

This collection of 15 games demonstrates how 2024 sets new standards in gaming excellence. The year’s lineup offers something compelling for everyone – from adrenaline-pumping action to strategic challenges and pure entertainment.

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FAQs

Which games won major awards in 2024?

• Astro Bot: Game of the Year, Best Action/Adventure Game, Best Family Game, and Best Game Direction
• Black Myth: Wukong: Best Action Game and Player’s Choice Award
• Metaphor: ReFantazio: Best Art Direction, Best Narrative, and Best RPG
• Frostpunk 2: Best Sim/Strategy Game

Which platforms are these games available on?

• Astro Bot: PS5 exclusive
• Black Myth: Wukong: Available on PS5 and Windows, with Xbox Series X|S version coming later
• Helldivers 2: PS5 and PC with cross-play support
• Most other titles are available across multiple platforms (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC)

Which games offer multiplayer features?

• Helldivers 2: 4-player cooperative gameplay
• Diablo IV: Cross-platform multiplayer with Party Finder system
• Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail: MMO with new raid content
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

What are the most graphically impressive games of 2024?

• Black Myth: Wukong: Utilizing Unreal Engine 5 with Nanite and Lumen technologies
• Silent Hill 2 Remake: Multiple graphics modes with DLSS and FSR support
• Dragon’s Dogma 2: Large open world with detailed environments
• Astro Bot: 4K graphics with advanced haptic feedback implementation

Are there any good games for casual players?

Yes, several games cater to casual players:

• Balatro: Easy to learn card game with roguelike elements
• Astro Bot: Multiple difficulty settings for all skill levels
• Planet Coaster 2: Creative freedom without pressure
• Another Crab’s Treasure: Charming adventure with accessible mechanics

Which games offer the most challenging experience?

• Diablo IV: New Torment difficulty levels
• Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail’s Ultimate raids
• Frostpunk 2: Complex survival management
• Black Myth: Wukong: Intense boss fights and combat system