2024: Ten Underrated Video Games You Might Have Missed
2024 saw a flurry of video game releases, but some gems were overshadowed by bigger titles or launch issues. 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 sets a new standard. As Captain Titus, you fight relentless Tyranids with the Ultramarines' arsenal. Cinematic battles, a grim future setting, and co-op mode 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 unique setting should appeal 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 exciting and varied gameplay.
Why Underrated: Last Epoch gained initial attention 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 touching story of a mother and daughter uncovering family secrets. It focuses on dialogue, emotional scenes, and exploration. The unique visual style—blending drawn characters with 3D environments—is memorable. This is more than an adventure; it's a deep exploration of relationships and the search for truth.
Why Underrated: The game's intimate nature and lack of action may have limited its appeal. However, it showcases the artistic potential of video games, delivering a deeply moving narrative.
Pacific Drive
Image: store.playstation.com
- Release Date: February 22, 2024
- Developer: Ironwood Studios
- Download: Steam
Pacific Drive is a unique survival simulator where your car is your only ally. Explore a forbidden zone filled with anomalies and dangers, repairing your vehicle and avoiding deadly traps. The unique atmosphere and grim world are unforgettable.
Why Underrated: While critically acclaimed (positive Metacritic and OpenCritic scores), controversial elements like controls, interface, and constant repairs challenged some players. Repetitive gameplay and random events can be frustrating. Despite this, its originality and atmosphere deserve recognition.
Rise of the Ronin
Image: deskyou.de
- Release Date: March 22, 2024
- Developer: Team Ninja
- Download: PlayStation
This grand action-RPG transports you to 19th-century Japan. Play as a ronin caught between tradition and progress. It blends samurai combat, open-world exploration, and a compelling story with difficult moral choices. The beautiful visuals capture the spirit of a changing era.
Why Underrated: Rise of the Ronin might have been overshadowed by other releases. It offers a unique atmosphere and historical depth beyond typical samurai games. Its themes of modernization and player choice make it stand out.
Cannibal Abduction
Image: nintendo.com
- Release Date: January 13, 2023
- Developer: Selewi, Tomás Esconjaureguy
- Download: Steam
This tense survival horror returns to the genre's roots. Survive a family of cannibals in a secluded cabin. Scavenge for weapons, hide in shadows, and solve puzzles to uncover a horrifying story. The oppressive atmosphere and limited resources create a constant challenge.
Why Underrated: Cannibal Abduction may have been lost among bigger horror releases. Its low-fi graphics, while contributing to its charm, might deter those seeking graphical sophistication. 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 is set on a North Sea oil platform. Survive and escape an unexplained horror. The tense atmosphere, disturbing 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 likely contributed to its lack of recognition. It's a masterpiece of atmospheric horror, reminiscent of SOMA and Amnesia, but with a unique setting and fresh take on survival.
Indika
Image: store.epicgames.com
- Release Date: May 2, 2024
- Developer: Odd-Meter
- Download: Steam
Indika is a provocative game exploring religion, philosophy, and the search for truth through abstract gameplay. Navigate dark spaces, interacting with cryptic clues. Despite lacking traditional mechanics, it offers a serene atmosphere, deep cutscenes, and mini-games, emphasizing visual richness and a contemplative narrative.
Why Underrated: Despite award nominations, Indika was labeled a "blank slate" due to its lack of direct action-storyline impact 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
This remake of a cult classic survival horror game is reminiscent of Resident Evil and Silent Hill. Explore an abandoned amusement park, solving puzzles and facing monsters. The retro horror visuals and gripping storyline create an unforgettable experience.
Why Underrated: Despite positive reviews, Crow Country was overshadowed by larger releases. Criticisms included simple combat and puzzles, and a lack of deep psychological themes. However, its attention to detail and unique plot 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 is conquered. Detective James Carr investigates murders, uncovering mysteries of transhumanism and immortality. The game blends detective work and sci-fi with photorealistic graphics and unique time-manipulation mechanics.
Why Underrated: Despite ambitious ideas and philosophical questions, Nobody Wants to Die lacks wide recognition. Its blend of genres might deter players, and its visual excellence might be overshadowed by larger projects.
2024 offered many ambitious games, many undeservedly overlooked. These games, from philosophical explorations to tense horror, offer unique and memorable experiences. Remember, not every great game becomes a blockbuster; sometimes, the smaller gems leave the most lasting impression.
